XBX A01 Plus Review: A Lightweight AR Display for Handheld Gaming

Introduction

AR glasses have come a long way in the last few years, and the XBX A01 Plus represents a new sub-brand from Xreal that aims to deliver a premium experience at an accessible price. Priced at $299, these glasses are designed to turn any compatible device into a personal big-screen entertainment system. After spending about a week using them with handhelds like the Steam Deck, the Switch, the Claw, and Android handhelds like the Ayaneo DS, they have proven to be a compelling option for portable gaming and media consumption.

The XBX A01 Plus projects a 147-inch virtual display, supports up to 120Hz refresh rates, and includes stereo sound. They also support HDR10 and can convert SDR content to HDR using AI, a feature that often produces visuals that look just as good as true HDR. With a lightweight 62g frame, these glasses are designed to be comfortable enough for extended sessions.

Who the XBX A01 Plus Is For

These glasses are aimed at anyone who spends significant time gaming on handheld devices or wants a private, large-screen viewing experience without carrying a physical monitor. If you own a Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Switch 2, or an Android handheld with video output over USB-C, the XBX A01 Plus can turn that small built-in screen into a 147-inch virtual display.

They are also a great fit for people who want to watch movies or shows in bed or on a couch without disturbing others. The ability to plug into a phone and stream services like Netflix or HBO Max makes them a versatile media companion. For those new to AR glasses, the $299 price point makes this a reasonable starting point.

Design and Comfort

The XBX A01 Plus has a sleek, modern look that feels premium for the price. The glasses are constructed from a new composite material that keeps them incredibly light at just 62g. This is a significant advantage over other AR glasses that can feel heavy on the face after a short time. With these, you barely notice you are wearing them.

The front of the glasses features polarized shades that can be swapped out. The front piece snaps off, and Xreal offers different color variants and shapes on their website. They also provide 3D print files on MakerWorld, so you can create your own custom frames. This level of customization is a standout feature.

Comfort is further enhanced by the included nose pads. The glasses come with a standard set installed, but the box includes a few extra sizes. Swapping to the small pads made everything line up perfectly and improved the overall fit. The included hard carrying case protects the glasses when they are not in use, and a blinder attachment can black out the front completely for a more immersive experience.

Display Quality and Performance

The display is the core of the XBX A01 Plus experience. It delivers a 147-inch virtual screen with a 50-degree field of view. The image is sharp and clear, running at 1080p resolution. Brightness reaches up to 1,600 nits, which makes the display usable even in well-lit environments. The polarized front shades are dark enough to block out studio lights, and the optional blackout shades provide an even more immersive experience.

The glasses support up to 120Hz refresh rates, which is excellent for gaming. They also feature 1,000Hz head tracking with up to 120 FPS and built-in stabilization. The stabilization can be enabled or disabled depending on your preference. When sitting down, it is not necessary, but when standing and moving around, it works well to keep the image steady.

The AI-powered SDR to HDR conversion is a notable feature. In some cases, the converted image looks better than true HDR content. The stereo speakers built into the glasses also deliver impressive sound, with four different modes to choose from. The surround sound mode is a personal favorite for its immersive quality.

Everyday Use and Media Consumption

Beyond gaming, the XBX A01 Plus excels as a personal media viewer. Plugging the glasses into an iPhone via the USB-C port allows you to stream shows from services like Netflix or HBO Max. This is a great way to watch your favorite content in your own space while someone else uses the TV.

The included USB-C video cable sends both video and power to the glasses. It has a slight curve on one end that makes it easy to route over your shoulder, keeping it out of the way during use. The glasses work with any device that supports video over USB-C, or with a compatible converter.

Buying Advice

At $299, the XBX A01 Plus offers a class-leading experience in its price bracket. The combination of a lightweight design, high brightness, and a large virtual display makes them a strong choice for handheld gamers and media enthusiasts. The customizable front frames and 3D-printable options add a layer of personalization that is rare at this price point.

If you have been curious about AR glasses or want a portable way to enjoy a big screen, the XBX A01 Plus is a great starting point. They are comfortable, perform well, and deliver a premium feel without the premium price tag.

Conclusion

The XBX A01 Plus is an impressive entry into the AR glasses market. They combine a featherlight frame with a bright, sharp 147-inch virtual display, making them ideal for handheld gaming and private media viewing. The $299 price makes them accessible, and the customizable design adds a fun, personal touch. For anyone looking to step into the world of AR glasses, this is a compelling option.