Performance Analysis
AR Glasses Performance Comparison 2025
Optical performances and technology used in three smart glasses equipped with the same microLED microdisplay from JBD
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PIS-CONS-01941System Tracked
- Smart glasses Vuzix Z100
- Smart glasses Even Realities G1
- Smart glasses RayNeo X3 Pro
Key Features
- Maximum angle of TIR with the right wavelength
- Leakage from the front (towards the user’s surrounding)
- Efficiency
- Luminance and luminance non-uniformity
- Transmittance
- Weight
- Heat map: dissipation of the heat coming from the different parts
- Flicker
- Autonomy
Report's objectives
As smart glasses are similar to prescription glasses in design, weight and thinness, they use miniaturized optical components such as micro-displays, meta-surfaces to focus light, and thin films to diffract and guide light along the corrective lens. The way these components are integrated into the glasses is crucial to achieving clear augmented reality information in all environmental conditions. This report discusses the performance achieved by Vuzix, Even Realities and RayNeo, three manufacturers of augmented reality smart glasses, using the same JBD microdisplay, monochrome green for Vuzix and Even Realities, and RGB for RayNeo. Optical performance is therefore linked to the choice of optical chain manufacture.
- What is the angular field of view of the eyepiece display?
- How efficient is the optical chain?
- What is the display quality perceived by the user?
- How is the optical transmission function managed when light passes through the light guide and diffraction gratings?
- Weight and autonomy are measured to complete the daily use characteristics of the glasses.
Augmented reality (AR) headsets and glasses, including smart glasses, are devices that enable users to experience AR, the combination of real-world and computer-generated content, live and in real time.
Until now, the solutions proposed by AR system manufacturers relied on technologies that did not allow for miniaturization. As a result, the use of these glasses was limited to professional or gaming applications, both of which were far removed from everyday activities.
With the arrival of microLED displays, the architecture of AR glasses has been rethought. This has made it possible to design smart glasses with a slim form factor and aesthetics similar to prescription glasses. They can now be worn daily and are well on their way to becoming a true consumer product.
Several manufacturers now offer smart glasses featuring a microLED display coupled with a light-injection grating in a light guide. This directs light to a second diffraction grating that sends the image to the user’s eye, enabling them to view computer-generated information. These optical components, made from thin layers deposited directly on the lenses, allow the user to see through the glasses while maintaining an unchanged perception of the real world.
To gain a deeper understanding of the technology and optical performance of AR smart glasses, PISÉO conducted a series of tests and measurements on devices from VUZIX, EVEN REALITIES, and RAYNEO. The evaluation focused on key performance indicators including brightness, contrast, light leakage, thermal behavior, power consumption, and optical efficiency. The findings from these tests are thoroughly analyzed and presented in this report.
Glossary
Table of contents
General introduction
Objectives of the report
Our approach, how do we operate?
Authors of the report
Companies cited in the report
Executive Summary
Product overview
- VUZIX Z100
- EVEN REALITIES G1
- TCL RAYNEO X3 PRO
Architecture
- Over view
- Requirements for AR displays
- Key Elements: MicroLED, Light Engine, Optical combiner, Waveguide, Exit Pupil Expansion
Optical characteristics measured
- Maximum angle of TIR with the right wavelength
- Leakage from the front (towards the user’s surrounding)
- Efficiency
- Michelson contrast at the center of the screen
- Checkerboard contrast
- Gray level response
- Luminance and luminance non-uniformity
- Transmittance
Other characteristics measured
- Weight
- Heat map: dissipation of the heat coming from the different parts
- Flicker
- Autonomy
How it is built
Conclusion
- General Conclusion
- PISÉO’s Opinion
About PISÉO
Contacts
