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Do you know you can enjoy the thrill and the adrenaline of racing without getting into an actual car? This is possible thanks to modern technology. All you need is a racing wheel to immerse yourself in a racing game. The real challenge, however, is choosing the right racing wheel, since there are so many available. In the buying guide below, we have compiled the best three to help you make an informed buying decision about the best racing wheels.
Summary List
- Best Overall: Logitech G920 Racing Wheel
- Best Value: Thrustmaster T80 Racing Wheel
- Honorable Mention: Thrustmaster TMX Racing Wheel
Best Racing Wheels: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Logitech G920 Racing Wheel
Best Value
Thrustmaster T80 Racing Wheel
Honorable Mention
Thrustmaster TMX Racing Wheel
Our Verdict on Racing Wheels
For a realistic racing feeling and experience, we recommend the Logitech G920. It is comfortable and features feedback technology for extreme racing realism. However, if you are on a budget, the Thrustmaster T80 is the gadget for you. It still works great at bringing the experience of racing indoors.
Benefits
- More realistic, immersive experience. Racing wheels provide positive feedback during operation. They simulate the same real-world experiences you would expect from a real steering wheel when you’re actually driving a car.
- Precision control. Compared to using a joystick or a keyboard, a racing wheel offers more precise game play control within a racing simulator.
- Competitive gaming. If you’re playing in a racing game tournament, a racing wheel is one of the best tools you can use to get a competitive edge.
Types of Racing Wheels
One of the biggest differentiators between racing wheels has to do with the “Force Feedback” system (FFB) that they use. FFB refers to how effectively a racing wheel can simulate that “real world” feeling of driving a car since you aren’t actually in a car. There are three main types of force feedback systems.
Gear Drive
This is the oldest FFB option on the market and is a motor that’s connected to the steering wheel’s shaft by way of gears. These models tend to be the noisiest and often are not very precise. Compared to the other FFB systems available, this type is viewed by the gaming industry as the least ideal option.
Belt Drive
Belt drive force feedback racing wheels rely on a belt to simulate a racing experience. These models are quieter and are far more precise than gear drive racing wheels. However, because this style typically relies on a rubber belt, with extended use the belt can stretch or wear out easily. And often the belt can absorb the force, creating a loss in accuracy.
Direct Drive
This is considered the best option, especially for competitive gaming racers. The steering wheel is directly mounted on to the motor, reducing any risk of losing force or creating inaccuracies in communication. However, these higher-end models are also the priciest, often starting at $1,000, so you may not have the budget to buy one.
Top Brands
Thrustmaster
Founded in 1984, Thrustmaster is a U.S.-based brand that focuses almost exclusively on creating accessories for the interactive entertainment market. It specifically creates aftermarket gaming accessories for PC and consoles. In addition to our Best Value Thrustmaster T80 and Honorable Mention Thrustmaster TMX choices, Thrustmaster also creates a range of popular PC flight sticks.
Logitech
Logitech is a multinational firm that began in Switzerland in 1981. But thanks to cross-border collaboration, the brand has expanded into the Silicon Valley to focus on innovation. Logitech is a robust computer accessories brand that also creates solid gaming accessories. Along with our Best Overall choice, the Logitech G920, Logitech is best known for traditional computer accessories like wireless mice and keyboards.
Racing Wheels Pricing
- Up to $100: Within this budget, you’ll find entry-level gear-driven racing wheels with realistic resistance, 180-degree steering rotation, and the ability to auto-adjust vibration levels.
- $101 to $400: In this median range, you’ll easily find belt-driven force feedback racing wheels that are designed with the ability to swap out steering rims.
- $401 and up: At this high-end range, these models are also belt-driven force feedback racing wheels but with better quality components.
Key Features
Size
Size is an important consideration because it can impact game play. While a smaller wheel can be ideal for use in a smaller space, these options might be made from inferior materials. For example, if the wheel is made from plastic, it can feel more like a toy instead of giving you the realistic experience you were hoping to feel.
Customization
Next, focus on how much customization you can control with your racing wheel. A quality racing wheel will give you the freedom to independently program all of the face buttons as well as the pedals. And it will feature a wheel where you can customize the degrees of rotation between 180 and 270 degrees. This is important as some games offer a better experience, depending on the degree rotation you select.
Pedals
Your pedals are important as they’ll help to create that immersive experience you need for more authentic gameplay. Good pedals should offer resistance, but you should also focus on options featuring triggers that act like paddles on racing cars to help you brake or accelerate.
Leather Grips
If you’re attempting to create the most authentic racing experience, your racing wheel should come with leather grips. Just like with a real steering wheel, leather grips help you hold the wheel more securely. As for gaming, this added feature—as opposed to rubber grips—helps to make the entire experience feel more realistic as opposed to simply using a basic plastic model.
Other Considerations
- LED Indicators: Some models come with LED indicators at the top of the wheel’s central column. These lights help to signal when you should shift gears and can be helpful when playing harder racing games or if you’re just starting out in this gaming genre.
- Price: While you might occasionally find an outlier that’s the exception to the rule, with gaming racing wheels you tend to get what you pay for. If you’re looking for a racing wheel that gives you the ultimate immersive experience and is extremely responsive, you should be prepared to pay more.
Tips
- When buying a racing wheel, the first thing to consider is the compatibility with your system. Whether you are using a PlayStation, PC, or Xbox, there is a wheel out there just for you. Some wheels are compatible with all three, while others may fit just one of them.
- For you to be a master with a racing wheel and in the games, you have to practice consistently. Try to learn the ins, outs, and controls of the game. Start with the basics, with low powered cars for example, before moving to more complex ones.
FAQs
A: A racing wheel is a device consisting of a physical steering wheel and pedals. This set connects to your PC or Xbox via an input, and it helps you to easily control the game so long as it is compatible with your device and its operating system.
A: Compatibility depends on the wheel make and the operating system of your devices. Some wheels are cross-compatible, while others are compatible with just one device. Ensure you buy a wheel that fits your device specifications.
A: A racing wheel is meant to make the game feel real while still ensuring you can control it easily. However, it does not necessarily improve your gaming skills. To be more skilled, you have to practice.
