As technology continues to advance, the distinction between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's no secret that many top-tier real-world drivers spend considerable time honing their skills on racing simulators, a testament to the ever-improving quality of racing hardware. With an overwhelming array of options on the market, selecting the right racing wheel for your setup can be daunting.
To help you navigate this, I've compiled a curated list of 10 top racing wheels suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and even Nintendo Switch. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for a high-end solution, this list will illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of various budget, mid-range, and premium options available today. For racing game enthusiasts, a quality racing wheel is one of the most essential gaming accessories you can invest in.
TL;DR: The Best Racing Wheels
### Thrustmaster T-128
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### Logitech G-29
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### Moza R3
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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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### Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel
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### Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set
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### Moza R12
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### Moza TSW Truck Wheel
0See it at Walmart1. 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 poor
The Thrustmaster T-128 is an excellent entry-level racing wheel that offers great value for those on a tight budget. While its entirely plastic construction may feel toy-like, it includes real force feedback, a key feature distinguishing it from even more budget-friendly options like the T-80, which rely on bungee-style resistance. The T-128's smaller rim diameter enhances the feel of its modest 2 Nm peak torque, making it suitable for beginners and those looking for a cost-effective introduction to sim racing. Additionally, the T-128 can be upgraded with accessories like the TH8S shifter and enhanced pedals, offering a pathway for growth as your racing passion deepens.
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 system
The Logitech G-29 stands out as a robust and reliable choice for PlayStation users seeking a budget-friendly racing wheel. Despite its age, the G-29's metal rim and superior three-pedal set elevate it above entry-level competitors. The inclusion of a clutch pedal and the ability to pair it with Logitech's standalone shifter make it a versatile option for those looking to expand their setup. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined than belt-driven systems, making it less ideal for those sensitive to noise or seeking smoother feedback.
Moza R3
Best Starter Direct Drive Wheel for Xbox Series X|S and PC
### Moza R3
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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 games
Moza's R3 is a remarkable entry into direct drive technology, offering a quiet and smooth force feedback experience at a competitive price point. Its brushed metal rim and all-metal pedals are durable and suitable for beginners, with the added benefit of being highly upgradeable. While the bundled brake pedal might feel simplistic, the R3's direct drive system provides a significant step up in feedback quality compared to belt-driven alternatives. However, Xbox users should note that certain Moza add-ons are not yet compatible with most racing games on the platform.
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 compatibility
The Fanatec GT DD Pro offers a premium direct drive experience with excellent force feedback and quiet operation. While its base torque of 5 Nm can be boosted to 8 Nm, the bundled pedals use Hall effect sensors for position detection, which might not provide the same level of realism as load-cell pedals. However, the GT DD Pro shines as a versatile option for those wanting to race across multiple platforms, as adding an Xbox-compatible rim allows for seamless transitions between consoles. This makes it a top choice for racing enthusiasts seeking an all-in-one solution.
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 whatsoever
The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is the top choice for Nintendo Switch players seeking a racing wheel. Its elastic resistance system adds a playful element to gameplay, though it lacks the realism of force feedback. The analog pedals offer a significant improvement over the Switch's digital triggers, enhancing the gaming experience for titles like Grid Autosport. While not ideal for serious racing sim enthusiasts, it's a fun option for casual players and younger audiences.
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 point
The Thrustmaster T300 RS GT offers a reliable and quieter alternative to gear-driven wheels at a mid-range price point. Its belt-driven force feedback, while not as nuanced as direct drive systems, provides a solid experience for PlayStation users. The 280mm metal wheel and three-pedal set, complete with a rubber stopper mod for the brake, make it a versatile option. However, with the decreasing prices of direct drive wheels, the T300 RS GT is becoming less competitive, particularly for PC users where more advanced options are available at similar price points.
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel
Best Value Premium PC and Console Racing Wheel
### Logitech G Pro 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 install
The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel represents a significant leap forward for Logitech, offering a premium direct drive experience. Its 11 Nm of torque provides powerful and detailed force feedback, complemented by Logitech's Trueforce haptics technology. The larger rim size and adjustable pedals, including a 100kg load cell brake, enhance the realism and immersion of your racing experience. While the wheelbase is bulkier than some competitors, its performance and value make it a standout choice for those seeking a high-end racing wheel without breaking the bank.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set
Best Value Direct Drive Plus Load Cell Pedal Bundle
### Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set
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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 range
The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set offers a comprehensive direct drive and load cell pedal bundle at a competitive price. While it may not match the force feedback quality of some rivals, the inclusion of a button box and integrated table clamp adds value for those starting their sim racing journey. For Xbox users, the bundle provides a complete setup without the need for additional purchases, making it an appealing option for those on a budget.
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 functional
The Moza R12 stands out as a top-tier direct drive wheel base, offering a perfect balance of power and price. With 12 Nm of torque, it delivers strong yet quiet force feedback, making it an excellent choice for serious sim racers. However, it requires additional purchases for a complete setup, and while it lacks native PlayStation compatibility, third-party adaptors can bridge this gap. For those already invested in the Moza ecosystem, the R12 is an ideal upgrade for enhanced performance.
Moza TSW Truck Wheel
Best Non-Traditional Wheel Rim
### Moza TSW Truck Wheel
0See it at Walmart
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 separately
The Moza TSW Truck Wheel is designed for enthusiasts of truck and bus simulators, offering a highly immersive experience with its large 400mm diameter. Its aluminum frame and stitched leather wrapping provide a realistic feel, enhancing the authenticity of heavy vehicle simulations. While it requires a separate wheel base and pedals, its compatibility with Moza's ecosystem makes it a valuable addition for those dedicated to this niche genre.
How to Choose a Racing Wheel
When selecting a racing wheel, consider how frequently you plan to use it. Casual gamers may find an entry-level option sufficient, while dedicated sim racers might justify investing in a more advanced setup with robust force feedback. Force feedback comes in three main types:
Gear Drive - The oldest and least refined type, using gears connected to the force feedback motor. It's cost-effective but can be noisy and clunky.
Belt Drive - A step up from gear drive, using a belt to connect the motor to the wheel. It's smoother and quieter but may not convey nuanced feedback as well as direct drive.
Direct Drive - The most advanced and expensive type, where the wheel is mounted directly to the motor. It provides the most realistic and detailed feedback, with prices becoming more accessible in recent years.
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 can enhance the effectiveness of low-torque bases by making the force feedback feel more pronounced.
Why am I now slower on a racing wheel than a controller?
Racing games are designed to be enjoyable on both controllers and wheels. Controllers often have built-in dampening to make the game less twitchy. Transitioning to a wheel requires adjusting to its precision and learning to drive more smoothly to improve lap times.
What are the best games to play with a racing wheel?
Top racing simulations for wheels include Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, Dirt Rally 2.0, and EA Sports WRC. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7, Forza Motorsport, and Forza Horizon 5 also work well with wheels, as do more casual options like The Crew 2 and Wreckfest. For Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a great choice.
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 the wheel itself. Community recommendations can help you fine-tune your setup for an optimal experience.
Are racing wheels worth the investment?
For occasional players, a basic wheel or sticking with a controller might be more cost-effective. However, for avid racing game enthusiasts, a quality wheel enhances immersion and precision, making it a worthwhile investment despite the learning curve.
How realistic is a racing wheel?
Racing wheels can replicate the feel of driving a real car through accurate force feedback. The level of realism depends on the wheel's quality and features, with top-tier models offering experiences so authentic that they're used by professional racers for training.
