Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
Games get better with each passing year, but it’s the best time ever to be a racing fan. Simulators and artificial reality have finally caught up to the concept racing games have been clawing towards for decades.
Our software and technology are finally good enough to provide a lifelike racing experience, and a huge part of that success is our designated racing gear. As you get ready to race in 20024, we’ve put together a list of the best sim-steering wheels you can buy.
Table of contents
Thrustmaster T248
The Thrustmaster T248 stands out in the realm of gaming peripherals, offering an impressive array of features, convenient button placement, and exceptional force feedback. Initially tailored for PC and PlayStation, the T248 has extended its reach by introducing a dedicated Xbox model.
When it comes to design, the spec sheet is a testament to how much time the team put in. Boasting dual encoder controls, magnetic paddle gear changers, and a versatile LED telemetry display, the T248 gives you the ability to customize like no other wheel on the market. The brake pedal, configurable to four pressure modes, offers a nuanced experience, although some users may find certain settings on the stiffer side during regular play.
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With 25 remappable buttons and a central LED display offering a range of in-game stats, from race position to lap time, the T248 ensures a tailored gaming experience. Additionally, its 900 degrees of rotation and well-calibrated feedback contribute to an immersive and realistic feel across various virtual terrains.
Performance-wise, the Thrustmaster T248 delivers a heightened sense of realism thanks to its powerful motor and adjustable resistance settings. While some advanced features may not be universally supported across all titles, the T248 provides a comprehensive and sophisticated option for racing enthusiasts willing to invest in a superior gaming experience.
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel
When a real F1 driver like Lando Norris (someone who loves racing simulators as well) backs a racing wheel, you know it’s going to be good. Logitech introduced the G Pro, their inaugural high-performance racing wheel, with the promise of an exceptionally smooth and high-torque driving experience. When you couple it with the G Pro Pedals, the combo becomes the optimal choice for home sim racing.
In terms of design, Logitech maintains the DNA of the past wheels that made them the industry giants they are, but they give it some premium upgrades. The leather-wrapped steering wheel provides a remarkably soft touch, accompanied by a brushed metal faceplate and magnetic gear shift paddles that make sure you feel how good the quality is.
With 11 nm of torque housed within the wheelbase, Logitech’s inaugural direct drive motor delivers realistic and consistent force feedback, a notable advancement from more budget-friendly options. The small OLED screen facilitates onboard configuration adjustments, offering flexibility in torque settings and profile switching. The wheelbase is equipped with a near-silent active cooling fan and an integrated USB hub for seamless connectivity with pedals and other accessories.
Performance-wise, the Logitech G Pro brings a transformative experience in the world of sim racing. The direct-drive motor ensures detailed and immersive feedback, creating a heightened connection with the digital car. If you doubt how much these upgrades really matter, just try it out. You’ll notice a definite improvement in your lap times and a more comfortable racing experience.
Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback Racing Wheel
Navigating the world of racing wheels on a tight budget can be challenging, but the Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback is a budget-friendly solution. Despite the plasticky feel and limited resistance of the included pedals typical of budget options, they offer the flexibility of being swapped out for a more compatible set in potential upgrades. It’s also a much more affordable piece of gaming tech to maintain since the parts are cheaper. It lacks the deluxe touch of some of the higher-end wteering wheels on this list, but it lets a lot more people get into sim racing.
It’s a great budget option not just because it’s cheap; it’s also no slouch when it comes to features, the force feedback. It may not be as robust as premium alternatives, but it holds its ground against anything on the market. The Thrustmaster TMX provides a true-force feedback wheel boasting 900 degrees of rotation. If that wasn’t enough, you also get a complementary set of pedals, making it an even more enticing option for the budget-gamer.
There’s no argument that force feedback plays a pivotal role in elevating the racing game experience. The sensation of the wheel pushing against your hands, adjusting resistance with crashes or varying road surfaces, adds a realistic dimension to virtual vehicle control. Thrustmaster successfully delivers an entry-level force feedback wheel at an affordable price that just so happens to work with PC, Xbox, and Playstation.
Logitech G923 steering wheel & pedals
The Logitech G923 isn’t your run-of-the-mill upgrade; it’s the G29’s snazzier sibling, bringing the game-changing TrueForce tech into the mix. It might resemble the G29 and G920 from the outside with the familiar leather-trimmed wheel we know and love, but it comes with some snazzy upgrades.
The magic happens with TrueForce, Logitech’s ace in the hole for mind-blowing force feedback. It syncs up with the game engine and cranks the realism up a notch with instant, detailed responses. If you went for the spruced-up 2.1nm torque dual motor, you’re in for a seriously immersive racing experience. Additionally, the three-pedal set is a breeze to set up with single cable simplicity, whether you’re rolling on PC or PlayStation. It’s a great option for those who love designs with their slick onboard rev lights.
Performance-wise, the G923 hits the sweet spot in its price range. The force feedback might not have Hulk-level strength, but it’s that Goldilocks zone—impactful for gameplay without demanding a full-blown racing rig. For games running with TrueForce, it’s a total game-changer, turning the G923 into more than just a gaming wheel—it’s a legit simulation tool. To put it plainly, it’s the real deal, serving up an unbeatable combo of feel and function, especially if you’re juggling between PC and PlayStation gaming.
Thrustmaster T300 RS
For the hardcore racing game enthusiast on PC, the Thrustmaster T300 RS stands out as one of the top choices if you crave exceptional force feedback without breaking the bank. Design-wise, the wheel delivers intense force feedback that’s so potent, a collision at the wrong angle might make you feel it in your thumbs. However, the trade-off is a built-in fan ejecting hot air from the unit, creating a slightly off-putting smell after extended use. But hey, it can get pretty hot in the cockpit, so you can just pretend it’s a feature to make your race feel more realistic.
You aren’t being blindsided by a lack of features for the lower price point. The T300 RS directly syncs with popular games like Project CARS 2, Gran Turismo, and F1. The motorized feedback is stellar, providing a tangible sensation of grip, and the responsiveness to your inputs is rapid. Its precision, weightiness, and immersive shakes, especially in games like WRC 6, enhance the overall gaming experience.
The only hiccup in the performance is the handbrake being mapped to a button accessible with your thumb, making it a bit tricky for rally games. While you can purchase a separate stick shift to use as a handbrake, it’s not an ideal solution, adding extra cost to your setup. Despite this, the Thrustmaster T300 RS is arguably the perfect wheel for the serious gamer, earning our wholehearted recommendation.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a veteran of sim racing or if you’re just trying to get into it after watching Grand Turismo. This list has something for everyone—from premium, professional options to budget-friendly wheels anybody can buy with a month’s saving.
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FAQs
1. What is the difference between direct drive and belt-driven racing wheels?
Direct drive wheels connect the motor directly to the wheel, providing precise and strong force feedback. They are typically more expensive but offer the most realistic racing experience.
Belt-driven wheels use belts to transfer force from the motor to the wheel. They tend to be more affordable and quieter but don’t deliver the same level of precision and power as direct drive wheels.
2. Do racing wheels work with all racing games?
Most racing wheels are compatible with a wide range of racing games, but not all games support every feature of the wheel (like force feedback). Be sure to check the game’s compatibility with the wheel before purchasing, especially for specific settings like force feedback, rotation, and button mapping.
3. How do I adjust force feedback settings on my racing wheel?
Most racing wheels allow you to adjust force feedback settings either through the software that comes with the wheel or in-game settings. Look for options such as force strength, dampening, and effects. You can fine-tune these settings to match your preferences for more comfort or realism in your racing experience.
4. What should I consider when choosing a racing wheel for PC or console?
Key factors to consider include compatibility (PC, Xbox, PlayStation), force feedback type (direct drive, belt, or gear), wheel rotation range, pedal quality, and whether you want a simple setup or a more professional, adjustable experience. Budget is also important, as higher-end wheels can get quite expensive.
5. Can I use a racing wheel for games other than racing simulators?
While racing wheels are primarily designed for racing games, they can also work for certain non-racing games that support steering wheel controls, such as some simulation games. However, they might not offer the same functionality in non-racing games as they do in racing titles. Always check compatibility before using in non-racing games.
