Top Racing Wheels for All Drivers

As technology continues to advance, the line between real-life motorsport and the racing simulations that replicate them is becoming increasingly blurred. It's well-known that many top-tier professional drivers spend significant time honing their skills in racing simulations, a testament to the ever-improving quality of racing hardware. With a vast array of options available, choosing the right racing wheel can be daunting, whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade your setup.

To help guide you, I've compiled a list of 10 racing wheel recommendations suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and even Nintendo Switch. Depending on your budget and how seriously you take your sim racing, this list will shed light on the pros and cons of the best low-price, mid-range, and high-end options available today. If you're passionate about racing games, a racing wheel is undoubtedly 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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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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1. 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 entry-level sim racing product that offers great value for those on a tight budget. While its entirely plastic rim and pedals may feel somewhat toy-like, it provides genuine force feedback, setting it apart from even cheaper options like the T-80, which lack this feature. The T-128's smaller rim diameter can be advantageous on lower-torque bases, as it helps the wheel feel more responsive. If you enjoy using the T-128, you can enhance your setup with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and upgraded pedals. It comes in versions compatible with Xbox and PC, or PlayStation and PC, with the latter being slightly more expensive.

2. 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 remains a reliable choice for PlayStation users, especially given its age and continued availability. Its metal rim and three-pedal set, including a clutch pedal, offer a more premium feel compared to the T-128. However, the gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined than Thrustmaster's hybrid system. The G-29 is a cost-effective choice for those not wanting to invest in the newer G-923, which adds Trueforce technology but at a higher price point.

3. 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 games

Moza's R3 is an excellent entry into direct drive racing wheels, offering high-quality force feedback at a price point that competes with older, non-direct drive options. Its brushed metal rim and all-metal pedals are sturdy and upgradable, making it a versatile choice for those starting their sim racing journey. The direct drive technology ensures smooth and instant feedback, a significant improvement over gear- or belt-driven alternatives.

4. 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 is a premium choice for those seeking direct drive technology with PlayStation compatibility. It offers superior force feedback and quiet operation, with the ability to boost torque from 5 Nm to 8 Nm. The GT DD Pro is especially appealing for gamers looking to race across multiple consoles, as it can be adapted for Xbox with an additional compatible wheel rim. However, its higher price point reflects the added PlayStation compatibility.

5. 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 an entry-level option for Nintendo Switch users. It uses elastic resistance to simulate steering, which can feel toy-like but is suitable for beginners and younger players. The analog pedals offer a better experience than the Switch's digital triggers, making it a solid choice for casual racing on the Switch, despite its lack of force feedback.

6. 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 is an aging but reliable choice for PlayStation users. Its belt-driven force feedback is less noisy than gear-driven alternatives and offers good performance for the price. While it may not match the nuance of direct drive systems, it remains a solid mid-range option for PlayStation users, particularly as direct drive wheels become more affordable.

7. 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 install

The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel offers a premium direct drive experience with excellent force feedback and a realistic rim size. Its 11 Nm of torque is suitable for serious sim racing, and the included Trueforce technology enhances the experience without adding noise. The adjustable pedals, including a 100kg load cell brake, provide a high level of customization and realism, making it a great value for those looking to invest in a premium setup.

8. 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 range

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race offers an all-inclusive direct drive and load cell pedal bundle at a competitive price. While its force feedback may not match some competitors, it's a solid choice for those looking for a complete setup without additional purchases. The integrated table clamp and three-pedal set with load cell brake add to its appeal, particularly for those on a budget.

9. 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 is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-end direct drive wheel base. It offers a balance of power and price, delivering 12 Nm of torque with quiet operation. While it requires additional purchases for rims and pedals, it's a solid investment for those looking to upgrade their sim racing setup. It's compatible with Xbox when paired with the Moza ESX wheel, but PlayStation users will need a third-party adapter.

10. 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 separately

The Moza TSW Truck Wheel is designed for truck and bus simulation games, offering a large 400mm rim that closely mimics real truck steering wheels. It adds significant immersion to these types of games and is compatible with Moza's ecosystem. However, its size may reduce the effectiveness of force feedback on lower-torque bases, and you'll need to purchase a wheel base and pedals separately.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

Before investing in a racing wheel, consider how frequently you'll use it. If you're looking for occasional fun, an entry-level option may suffice. For serious sim racing enthusiasts, a more advanced wheel with stronger force feedback is worth the investment. When choosing a wheel, consider the type of force feedback:

• Gear Drive: The oldest and least refined type, known for being noisy and clunky but reliable.
• Belt Drive: Smoother and quieter than gear drive, though not as nuanced as direct drive.
• Direct Drive: The most expensive but also the most realistic, with no loss of feedback nuance.

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 help low-torque bases feel more responsive.

Why am I now slower on a racing wheel than a controller?

Racing games are designed to be playable on controllers, which often have dampening effects to manage aggressive movements. Adjusting to a wheel requires precision and smooth inputs, which can take time.

What are the best games to play with a racing wheel?

Top choices include Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, Dirt Rally 2.0, EA Sports WRC, and mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport. For Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a great option.

This doesn’t feel quite right. Is my wheel a dud?

Before concluding your wheel is faulty, explore settings adjustments within your games and on the wheel itself. Community recommendations can help you find the perfect setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For casual players, a cheaper wheel or other gaming accessories might be more suitable. For avid racing gamers, 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 realism depends on the wheel's quality and features, but top-tier options provide an experience that even professional drivers utilize for training.