As an avid fan of Goovis devices, I’ve had the opportunity to test several of their products over the years. In fact, I’ve already reviewed two Goovis products in depth in my previous videos. If you’re curious about them, I encourage you to check out those reviews. But today, I’m diving into something new—the Goovis Art, a compact and versatile head-mounted display that brings a new dimension to on-the-go media consumption.
A Quick Overview of Previous Goovis Devices
Before jumping into the specifics of the Goovis Art, let me provide a quick refresh on two items I’ve already reviewed: the Goovis Media Player (Emia Model D4 H1) and the Goovis HDMI to Type-C Adapter.
The HDMI to Type-C Adapter is essentially a power injector. It takes output from HDMI and connects to a power source, either a power brick or a power bank, via a Type-C port. It combines video signals with added power, which, while less essential for modern devices, is still useful in certain situations.
The Goovis Media Player, on the other hand, is a small Android TV box. It connects to a display via HDMI and offers features like internal memory, a microSD slot, Wi-Fi capabilities, and access to apps from the Google Play Store. It turns any non-smart TV or computer display into an Android-powered one. Plus, it comes with a Bluetooth remote for easy control. While this has been covered in previous videos, it’s worth mentioning again because it’s a great addition to any Goovis setup.
Introducing the Goovis Art: A New and Compact Display Experience
Now, let’s talk about the Goovis Art. The first thing you’ll notice is its portability. It’s incredibly small compared to other Goovis headsets, and it comes in a well-made hard shell fabric carrying case. The device itself is designed for ease of use and portability, and it’s a notable step forward in Goovis’ line of stereoscopic 3D head-mounted displays.
Unlike Goovis’ previous models, the Art is a more compact, open-display headset that offers a unique experience. It projects a virtual screen, which feels like watching a 50-60 inch display from about 2 meters away—right in your pocket. This portable screen supports both 2D and stereoscopic 3D content.
A Comfortable and Adjustable Fit
One of the standout features of the Goovis Art is its comfort. The device straps onto your head with a band, but the only pressure point is on your forehead. The goggles themselves don’t touch your face, which makes them feel much lighter and more comfortable than other headsets. The forehead pad is magnetic and removable for easy cleaning, and the device offers adjustable goggles to fit a wide range of users.
Additionally, the Goovis Art supports diopter correction, allowing you to adjust the lenses to suit your eyesight (from -3.5 to +0.5) and adjust the inter-pupillary distance (from 58mm to 64mm). It even works with prescription glasses, although you don’t need to wear them thanks to the built-in adjustments.
Display Quality and Features
The Goovis Art features two micro full-HD screens inside the goggles. These OLED displays are bright, with a wide brightness range, and produce clear images with vivid colors. However, it’s important to note that this device does not support HDR, and its maximum refresh rate is 60Hz. The field of view is about 40°, providing a wide enough viewing area for most content.
The device also has a sensor that detects when you remove the goggles from your face, automatically turning off the screens to save battery life. Unlike previous Goovis headsets, the Art does not have a cooling fan, which could impact the screen’s longevity over time due to potential overheating.
Side-by-Side 3D: A Unique Viewing Experience
The Goovis Art is capable of displaying stereoscopic 3D content, but it only supports the side-by-side method. Unlike full Blu-ray 3D, which provides two separate streams for each eye at full resolution, side-by-side 3D divides a single image into two parts. The downside is that the resolution for each eye is halved, but this format is much easier to play back and requires less storage space.
If you’re used to watching 3D Blu-rays with full resolution for each eye, this limitation might be a dealbreaker. But if you’re fine with side-by-side 3D, the Goovis Art does a great job providing a decent 3D experience with effects like flyouts and popouts.
Easy Connectivity with Modern Devices
Connecting the Goovis Art to your device is straightforward, especially with modern gadgets that support video-out via Type-C. A single Type-C cable handles the power, video, and audio connections. The Art also features onboard speakers that provide stereo sound, and you can connect headphones through the 3.5mm jack.
For older devices that don’t offer Type-C video-out, you’ll need the included HDMI adapter to connect your source. The adapter provides power to the goggles via a power bank, which comes with the Goovis Media Player.
Expanding the Ecosystem: Goovis Power Bank
To enhance portability, Goovis also offers a special power bank that adds the necessary power to run the Goovis Art headset without draining your device’s battery. This is especially useful for portable consoles, like the Nintendo Switch, that may not supply enough power on their own. The power bank comes with a Type-C pass-through and is designed for use on the go, so you can enjoy extended usage without being tethered to a wall.
Potential Use Cases for the Goovis Art
The Goovis Art isn’t a mainstream device, but it offers unique use cases for those who need a portable display. Here are some interesting applications:
Portable Monitor Replacement: The Goovis Art is an excellent alternative to a large monitor. It acts as a 50-60 inch virtual screen and is perfect for work, especially for those on the move. I’ve used it for hours without experiencing any fatigue, and text remains crisp and clear, even across the entire screen.
FPV (First-Person View) for Drones: The Goovis Art can be used with drone controllers that have a Type-C connection, offering an immersive FPV experience. Since the Art doesn’t have a shroud, you can still see your surroundings, unlike traditional FPV goggles.
Camera Viewfinder: The Goovis Art is great for camera operators who need to monitor their shots in bright daylight. Its open design allows for easy monitoring of your gear without missing any important details.
Conclusion: A Niche Device with Big Potential
While the Goovis Art might not be for everyone, it certainly shines for those who need a compact, portable display. Whether you’re using it as a monitor replacement, for FPV drone flying, or simply to watch content in 2D or 3D on the go, it offers a great experience in a small, lightweight package. If you’re intrigued by the Goovis Art, check out the links in the description for more details.
It’s a unique gadget that fills a specific niche, but it’s well worth exploring if you’re looking for a portable, high-quality display solution.