As technology continues to evolve, the divide between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's well-known that many top-tier professional drivers utilize racing simulations in their training, a testament to the remarkable advancements in racing hardware. With an ever-growing array of options, selecting the right racing wheel can be daunting, especially for newcomers or those looking to upgrade their setup.
To help you navigate this landscape, I've compiled a curated list of 10 racing wheel recommendations suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and even the Nintendo Switch. This guide aims to clarify the strengths and weaknesses of various options across different price points, catering to casual gamers and serious sim racers alike. A racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most essential accessories for enhancing your racing game experience.
TL;DR: The Best Racing Wheels
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Thrustmaster T-128
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Logitech G-29
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Fanatec GT DD Pro
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Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
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Thrustmaster T300 RS GT
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Moza R12
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Moza TSW Truck Wheel
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Thrustmaster T-128
Best Budget Wheel for PC and Xbox
Thrustmaster T-128
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 260mm, not removable - Motor: Belt + gear hybrid - Peak torque: 2 Nm - Compatibility: PC, Xbox, PlayStation - Rotation range: 900 degrees**Pros**
- Less noisy than similar entry-level Logitech wheels - Pedals are upgradeable**Cons**
- Small rim size - Bundled pedals are poorThe Thrustmaster T-128 is an entry-level sim racing product, reflecting its affordable price and build quality. However, it offers substantial value for beginners and those on a tight budget. While the small, plastic rim and pedals may feel toy-like, the T-128 provides genuine force feedback, setting it apart from cheaper options like the T-80, which rely on bungee-style resistance. The compact rim size can actually enhance the feel of its modest 2 Nm peak torque. If you enjoy the experience, you can upgrade with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and better pedals, making it a versatile starter wheel.
Logitech G-29
Best Budget Wheel for PlayStation
Logitech G-29
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 270mm, not removable - Motor: Gear - Peak torque: 2.1 Nm - Compatibility: PC, PlayStation - Rotation range: 900 degrees**Pros**
- Much better pedals than entry-level Thrustmaster bundles - Sturdy and still a great option a decade down the track**Cons**
- Clunky and noisy at times - Gear-driven force feedback not as refined as Thrustmaster’s hybrid belt systemThe Logitech G-29 remains a robust choice, especially for PlayStation users, despite its age. Its metal rim and superior three-pedal set, which includes a clutch pedal, provide a more premium feel compared to the Thrustmaster T-128. While it can be noisy and less refined than newer models, its durability and value make it a dependable option for starting your sim racing journey.
Moza R3
Best Starter Direct Drive Wheel for Xbox Series X|S and PC
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 280mm, removable - Motor: Direct drive - Peak torque: 3.9 Nm - Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, PC - Rotation range: Unlimited**Pros**
- High quality force feedback in a whisper quiet package - Every part of the bundle is upgrade friendly**Cons**
- Bundled brake pedal feels simplistic - Xbox compatibility still lacking for shifter and handbrake add-ons for most gamesMoza's R3 is a significant entry into the sim racing world, offering direct drive technology at a competitive price. The smooth, silent force feedback it provides is a step above belt-driven wheels, and its modular design allows for easy upgrades. While the bundled pedals use springs and Hall effect sensors, the overall package offers a strong foundation for Xbox and PC users.
Fanatec GT DD Pro
Best Direct Drive Wheel
Fanatec GT DD Pro
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 280mm, removable - Motor: Direct drive - Peak torque: 5 Nm - 8 Nm - Compatibility: PC, PlayStation - Rotation range: Unlimited**Pros**
- Excellent force feedback, quiet operation - Perfect for PC and multi-console owners (with additional purchases)**Cons**
- Bundled brake pedal feels simplistic - Paying a high premium over the CSL DD for PlayStation compatibilityFanatec's GT DD Pro is a premium choice for those seeking top-tier direct drive performance. With its quiet operation and high-quality force feedback, it's a versatile option for multi-console gamers. The ability to switch between PlayStation and Xbox compatibility with the right add-ons makes it a flexible solution for serious sim racers.
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
Best Nintendo Switch Racing Wheel
Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 280mm, not removable - Motor: N/A - Peak torque: N/A - Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, PC - Rotation range: 270 degrees**Pros**
- Analogue pedals are a step up from the Switch’s digital triggers - Bigger than the tiny Hori Mario Kart Mini**Cons**
- Suction cup mounts are pointless - No force feedback whatsoeverThe Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is a fun option for Nintendo Switch users, particularly for casual gamers. While it lacks force feedback, its analogue pedals offer a more engaging experience than the Switch's digital triggers. It's perfect for games like Grid Autosport on the Switch.
Thrustmaster T300 RS GT
Best Mid-Price PlayStation Racing Wheel
Thrustmaster T300 RS GT
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 280mm, removable - Motor: Belt - Peak torque: 3.9 Nm - Compatibility: PlayStation, PC - Rotation range: 1,080 degrees**Pros**
- Cheaper than entry-level PlayStation direct drive options - Reliable and makes less ruckus than gear-drive wheels**Cons**
- Belt drive is quickly becoming outmoded as direct drive prices drop - Not the best PC option at this price pointThe Thrustmaster T300 RS GT is a reliable choice for PlayStation users looking for a mid-range wheel. Its belt-driven force feedback is quieter and smoother than gear-driven alternatives, and the removable rim and upgradeable pedals offer flexibility. Though it's aging, it remains a solid choice for PlayStation sim racing.
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel
Best Value Premium PC and Console Racing Wheel
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 300mm, removable - Motor: Direct drive - Peak torque: 11 Nm - Compatibility: PC, Xbox/PC, PlayStation/PC - Rotation range: Unlimited**Pros**
- A high-end simulation experience in a neat bundle - Realistic rim size, great pedals, fantastic feedback**Cons**
- Not a ton of other accessories to date - Large wheelbase makes for a bulky installLogitech's G Pro Racing Wheel offers a premium direct drive experience at a competitive price. Its 11 Nm of torque and Trueforce haptics technology deliver a realistic and immersive driving feel. With a large, adjustable rim and robust pedals, including a load cell brake, it's a comprehensive solution for serious sim racers across multiple platforms.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set
Best Value Direct Drive Plus Load Cell Pedal Bundle
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 300mm, removable - Motor: Direct drive - Peak torque: 7.2 Nm - Compatibility: Xbox/PC - Rotation range: Unlimited**Pros**
- Attractively priced for a direct drive wheel with a load cell, three-pedal set - Integrated table clamp is strong and far better than bulky standalone clamps**Cons**
- Button box and telemetry is a cool novelty but mostly pointless/not compatible on Xbox - Poorer force feedback than competing wheel bases in this price rangeTurtle Beach's VelocityOne Race is an all-inclusive bundle that offers a direct drive wheel and load cell pedals at a competitive price. While its force feedback may not match some competitors, it's a great value option for those looking to get started with serious sim racing without breaking the bank.
Moza R12
Best Direct Drive Wheel Base
Moza R12
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: N/A - Motor: Direct drive - Peak torque: 12 Nm - Compatibility: PC, Xbox (when paired with Moza ESX wheel) - Rotation range: Unlimited**Pros**
- Right at the sweet spot of price versus power - Strong yet quiet**Cons**
- Requires additional purchases - No native PlayStation compatibility, although third-party adaptors will make them functionalThe Moza R12 is a high-end wheel base that offers the perfect balance of power and price. Its 12 Nm of torque and quiet operation make it an excellent choice for serious sim racers. While it requires additional purchases for a complete setup, it's a worthwhile investment for those looking to upgrade their racing experience.
Moza TSW Truck Wheel
Best Non-Traditional Wheel Rim
Moza TSW Truck Wheel
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Product Specifications
- Rim size: 400mm, removable - Motor: N/A - Peak torque: N/A - Compatibility: PC - Rotation range: N/A**Pros**
- The most immersive way to play truck and bus simulations - Instant compatibility across Moza’s ecosystem**Cons**
- Wheel diameter will make force feedback seem light on low-torque wheel bases - Wheel base and pedals must be purchased separatelyMoza's TSW Truck Wheel is designed for truck and bus simulation enthusiasts, offering an immersive experience with its large, 400mm rim. While it requires a separate wheel base and pedals, it's a fantastic addition for those looking to enhance their heavy vehicle simulation gameplay.
How to Choose a Racing Wheel
When considering a racing wheel purchase, first assess your intended usage. For casual gaming, an entry-level wheel may suffice, but for dedicated sim racers, investing in a higher-end model with superior force feedback can significantly enhance your experience.
Force feedback comes in three main types:
- Gear Drive: The oldest and most affordable, but also the noisiest and least refined. Found in models like Logitech's G29/G920 and G923.
- Belt Drive: Offers smoother feedback than gear-driven wheels and is quieter, though it may not transmit the finest details. Common in Thrustmaster's T300 series.
- Direct Drive: The most expensive but also the most realistic, providing instant and nuanced feedback. Entry-level direct drive wheels are becoming more accessible and are recommended if budget allows.
Racing Wheel FAQ
What impact do rim sizes have on the feel of a sim racing wheel?
Smaller rim sizes can feel more toy-like but enhance the torque feel on low-power bases, making them suitable for entry-level setups.
Why am I now slower on a racing wheel than a controller?
Racing games are designed to be enjoyable on both controllers and wheels, but controllers often use dampening to make the game less twitchy. Transitioning to a wheel can be challenging initially due to the increased precision and lack of dampening. Practice smooth inputs to improve your lap times.
What are the best games to play with a racing wheel?
Serious sim racers might enjoy Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport are also excellent choices, as are more casual options like Forza Horizon 5 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch.
This doesn’t feel quite right. Is my wheel a dud?
Before concluding your wheel is faulty, explore the numerous settings available in your games and on your wheel. Community recommendations can help you fine-tune your setup for a better driving experience.
Are racing wheels worth the investment?
For casual gamers, a cheaper wheel or other gaming accessories might be more cost-effective. However, for avid racers, a high-quality wheel offers enhanced immersion and precision, making it a worthwhile investment despite the learning curve.
How realistic is a racing wheel?
Racing wheels can provide a highly realistic driving experience through accurate force feedback, which is why many professional drivers use them for training. The realism depends on the wheel's quality and features, but top-tier options offer experiences that closely mimic real-world driving.
The integration of sim racing into professional training and even career paths is evident with examples like Max Verstappen winning both virtual and real races, and gamers transitioning to professional racing through programs like the Gran Turismo Academy. This showcases the profound impact of racing wheels on both gaming and real-world motorsport.
