Xreal’s new AR glasses are way cheaper and almost just right
Xreal has launched the A01 Plus, a more accessible entry point into its AR glasses lineup priced at $299—undercutting its premium 1S model at $449. The A01 Plus takes a stripped-down approach to AR eyewear, deliberately trading some durability and advanced features for affordability and accessibility.
The standout strength is the A01 Plus’s exceptional lightweight design: at just 62 grams, it’s over 20 grams lighter than the 1S, making it among the lightest AR glasses available. The glasses remain comfortable for extended use and maintain Xreal’s polished aesthetic, suggesting the company successfully preserved the 1S’s core appeal despite cost-cutting measures.
Despite its budget positioning, the A01 Plus delivers impressive display quality. The screens feature bright, contrast-rich visuals that exceed expectations for the price point, offering compelling visual fidelity for AR content consumption.
The compromises are clear: the A01 Plus construction feels noticeably less robust than the 1S, and it includes fewer overall features. This intentional positioning suggests Xreal is targeting newcomers to AR and price-conscious consumers rather than premium users. For those prioritizing portability, comfort, and display quality over build durability and advanced functionality, the A01 Plus appears to deliver an effective value proposition in the still-nascent AR glasses market.