Under extreme operating conditions like vacuum or high temperature, lubrication of rolling bearings is unwanted or even impossible. As a result of dry running conditions bearing components are exposed to high tribological stress. Thus, alternative material solutions are necessary to achieve acceptable lifetimes under these conditions. Using hybrid rolling bearings with PVD coated races might be a possible solution. Therefore, PVD coated bearings were analyzed under different test conditions to assess their characteristics. Potentials of dry running PVD coated hybrid roller bearings regarding wear and friction reduction are shown. Additionally, main damage characteristics are analyzed.