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Augmented reality (AR) glasses are making waves as both gaming enhancers and productivity tools, and the market is expanding with impressive options.
However, ASUS’s entry into this arena with the AirVision M1 glasses doesn’t seem to stack up against strong contenders like XREAL and VITURE. Despite being a decent piece of tech, its $700 price tag feels unjustified, as cheaper options offer similar capabilities.
While I’ll go into detail about what these glasses do right and wrong, here’s the bottom line: I don’t recommend them unless ASUS significantly drops the price. There are far better choices out there for your money.
Let me introduce myself—I’m Zachary Boddy, and I’m passionate about cutting-edge personal technology, particularly AR wearables. I’ve tried various AR glasses, including those from top names like XREAL, so I know what to look for to ensure you’re getting value for your money.
This review is based on a sample provided by ASUS, and they had no influence over the content before it was published.
### AirVision M1 Overview
These AR glasses promise a large, private display when connected to nearly any device. While they’re ideal for portable work or gaming, the $699 price at ASUS—and elsewhere—feels steep, especially with the better-priced XREAL One available on Amazon for $549.
In the box, you get the AirVision M1 glasses, a light shield, nose pads, detachable lenses, a USB Type-C cable, a cleaning cloth, and a sturdy case.
### What Works
Design-wise, the AirVision M1 is basic yet functional, with interchangeable nosepads and software-controlled adjustments making it adaptable to different users. Despite being a bit heavier, its sleek look mimics regular eyewear.
The connection is straightforward, thanks to an angled Type-C cable, and the audio plays directly into your ears. Notably, these glasses boast clearer lenses than many competitors, allowing you to see the real world well while using the display.
The dual micro-OLED displays provide vibrant and sharp visuals suitable for various activities. The optional AirVision app adds features such as display adjustments and 3D gesture controls, enhancing usability.
### What Falls Short
Despite some strengths, I can’t recommend the AirVision M1. The 38-degree field of view and 72Hz refresh rate are unimpressive compared to other models. Also, it lacks dimming features for bright environments and requires additional software for many functions, limiting compatibility outside of Windows.
The touchpad controls are unreliable, often failing to register inputs accurately. Worse still, for $700, the overall experience doesn’t match up with cheaper, more capable alternatives like the XREAL One.
### Final Thoughts
Unless you find a huge discount on the AirVision M1, steer clear. There’s no compelling reason to pay more for less. Instead, consider superior options like the XREAL One, which offers better features and a more reasonable price.
Overall, AR glasses offer exciting possibilities, but the ASUS AirVision M1 doesn’t quite hit the mark in today’s market. For a worthwhile investment, look elsewhere.
