Samsung Galaxy XR Review: Samsung’s $1,800 Mixed Reality Headset Explained

Galaxy XR introduces Samsung’s vision of spatial computing with impressive design, lightweight comfort, and powerful performance.

Hardware by Katmin on Oct 26, 2025

The Galaxy XR is now available, making Samsung's concept of spatial computing more common. The headgear costs $1,800 and comes in only one configuration: a sleek dark gray hue with 256GB of storage.

Samsung has also released corresponding accessories for the main unit, such as the Galaxy XR controllers and a high-end carrying case. The packaging offers a presentation similar to Apple's Vision Pro, with the headset prominently displayed inside the box.

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First Impressions

Inside the box, the Galaxy XR comes with a variety of accessories. There are two pamphlets, a power bank with engraved Samsung branding, and a plastic finish. The power bank houses a 36Wh battery, which equates to a 10,000mAh capacity.

Also included is a 45W charger, which feels lighter and more compact than Samsung's other fast chargers, and a long Type-C-to-Type-C charging cable. Additionally, there's a microfiber cleaning cloth, paperwork, extra cushions, and light seals.

Hidden beneath one of the pamphlets is the power cable that connects the battery bank to the headset—a gray braided cable with a chunky Type-C connector and a proprietary plug.

Design and Build Quality

Taking the headset out of the box for the first time, the immediate impression is how lightweight it feels compared to Apple's Vision Pro. Weighing 528g, the Galaxy XR is noticeably lighter than the Vision Pro's 750g.

It features a silicone-rubberized cover, a microfiber interior, and flexible side panels. The front of the headset houses multiple cameras and microphones for mixed reality functions, as well as ventilation at the top, speaker cutouts on the sides, and control buttons. The adjustable headrest and twist dial on the back make it easy to find a comfortable fit.

Setup and Comfort

After charging the battery pack and attaching the headrest and magnetic light seals, we can easily put the headset on by retracting the back section and tightening it. The fit feels snug, though some light still leaks in through the bottom seals. It's more comfortable for longer sessions than heavier ones because it's lighter. But using it for a long time could still make your forehead tired.

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User Interface and Spatial Experience

The Galaxy XR's ability to do spatial computing is very impressive right away as you turn it on. It lets people put and move windows around in their environment, giving them a real mixed-reality experience.

The shadows cast by the virtual windows make them feel truly present in the room. Opening apps such as Samsung Internet or Gallery is straightforward, and navigation is smooth. While the window manipulation isn't quite as refined as the Apple Vision Pro, the overall experience is intuitive and engaging.

Typing and Navigation Experience

The virtual keyboard on the Galaxy XR has well-spaced keys, making typing reasonably accurate. Eye-tracking works impressively well, allowing users to look at a key and tap below it with a finger.

Although the typing experience isn't flawless, it's functional and surprisingly responsive. Eye and hand tracking work together for intuitive control, enabling you to point, tap, and perform in-app tasks with precision. Dual-hand functionality also enables gestures such as zooming in and out, enhancing the overall interactivity.

Gaming and Performance

Playing games like Stardew Valley on the Galaxy XR is both fun and fascinating. Using hand input or eye tracking, we can perform actions such as cutting trees and moving objects with precision. The experience feels fresh and immersive, though it demands concentration to avoid misclicks.

The headset also generates digital hands for visual feedback, allowing pinch gestures for navigation and multitasking.

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Controllers and Enhanced Navigation

Galaxy XR controllers, which cost $250 (but were on sale for $175 at launch), make the experience even better. The controllers all have curves that fit the hand, buttons that feel good, joysticks that respond quickly, and grips that are easy to hold.

The controllers run on AA batteries and make it more easier and more accurate to navigate menus, arrange windows, and play games. You may use them with one hand or two hands, making them useful for both casual use and gaming.

Virtual Environment Experience

Switching to the virtual environment reveals a more digital space than the Apple Vision Pro's lifelike visuals. While it may lack realism, it offers vast flexibility in window arrangement and multitasking.

Windows can be resized, moved, and even positioned above you, allowing for a highly creative workspace. It's easy to transition between the virtual and real environment, and your window setup remains intact when switching views.

Battery Life and Comfort Over Time

After a few hours of use, the headset's 36Wh battery dropped to 23%. While the internal fans occasionally activate, they remain fairly quiet. Extended sessions can cause forehead discomfort because the headset lacks a top strap to evenly distribute pressure. However, its lightweight design remains a major advantage over heavier headsets.

Checking Out the Accessories

Samsung's Galaxy XR travel case, priced the same as the controllers at $250 (or $175 during launch), offers excellent protection. With a soft, puffy texture, metal accents, and engraved branding, it exudes a premium feel.

The interior features cable guidance and compartments for the headset, charger, and battery pack. Though a bit bulky, it's highly functional, keeping everything organized and secure.

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Final Thoughts

After a lot of use, the Galaxy XR stands out as a great and easy-to-use alternative to the Apple Vision Pro. It costs $1,800 and has a great spatial computing experience with many of apps that work with Android.

Despite minor comfort issues and occasional light bleed, the performance, usability, and smooth software experience make it a solid option for both productivity and entertainment. Watching content, browsing the web, and playing games are all enjoyable on this device.

With the potential for future accessories like improved head straps, the Galaxy XR could become an even better experience over time.

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