The cost of quality displays that slip into eyeglass frames continues to drop, even if everyday use cases remain limited for many. Display glasses such as those from Xreal differ from Meta smart glasses since they connect via cable to serve as portable monitors for phones or laptops and lack AI integration. Most models also skip onboard cameras entirely.

The newly released X By Xreal A01 Plus glasses, which I tested over the past week, carry a lower price tag than prior Xreal offerings at 299 dollars compared to 449 dollars and up for other versions. To achieve this reduced cost the new model omits several useful additions found on higher end Xreal units that I often rely upon. Missing elements include adjustable screen size options variable tint lenses for light control fixed position anchors widescreen formats and automatic transparency modes.

These glasses function as straightforward plug and play USB C micro OLED displays offering 1080p resolution inside a lightweight frame. In terms of core capabilities they align closely with the similarly priced TCL RayNeo Air 4 Pro model I reviewed recently.

Yet the Xreal version performs better for my needs. The fixed display delivers a wider virtual field of view at 50 degrees versus 47 degrees along with higher peak brightness reaching 1600 nits compared to 1200 nits. The frames weigh just 62 grams versus 76 grams allowing comfortable wear even when using prescription inserts. Adjustable nose pads provide solid support and the arms feature three click positions for fine tuning screen placement much like the TCL design.

An appealing extra on the Xreal glasses involves interchangeable face plates that allow different styles. The mirrored sunglass cover on my unit detached quickly letting me swap in a solid black visor that fully blocks external light during film viewing.

One drawback is that the face plates feel somewhat thin and less durable though they perform adequately when needed. Light control without the darkest visor option also varies in effectiveness. On the positive side these Xreal glasses produce notably higher brightness than comparable models helping them overcome typical room lighting.

The angled birdbath style lenses similar to those in the Xreal 1S create more noticeable glare from bright clothing compared to flatter lens designs on other units. A handful of built in display modes mirror those on the TCL glasses including cinema and warmer eye care presets. The integrated speakers fall short of other Xreal models but remain usable when required.

The included anti shake feature stands out as it mirrors an option on pricier Xreal glasses by gently smoothing display motion during head turns. This reduces jitter without fully pinning the image in space as higher models allow and the feature is absent from the TCL glasses.

Video playback appears strong with vivid results in bright scenes though some darker sequences can look less defined. Gaming sessions on a Steam Deck deliver bold colors and strong contrast in titles like Sektori and Baby Steps. An HDR setting exists like on the TCL unit but it lowers overall brightness so I rarely activate it.

These Xreal glasses feel playful and target casual buyers with their rocket themed packaging that includes a snap shut case USB C cable and extra nose pads. Note that prescription insert users will encounter a different mounting system than on other Xreal products.

At 299 dollars the glasses deliver strong value. Still I frequently depend on the advanced customization tools available in the Xreal 1S and One Pro so those remain my top choices. For anyone seeking an entry level option these A01 models already deliver impressive results.