Top Racing Wheels for All Drivers

As technology advances, 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 significant time honing their skills in racing simulations, a testament to the ever-improving quality of racing hardware. With an overwhelming 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 you navigate this market, I've compiled a curated list of 10 racing wheel recommendations suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and even Nintendo Switch. This list is tailored to various budget levels and levels of commitment to sim racing, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each option. A racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most essential accessories for avid racing game enthusiasts, enhancing immersion and performance.

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, ideal for those on a tight budget or newcomers to the hobby. Despite its basic construction with a small, plastic rim and pedals, it offers genuine force feedback, setting it apart from even cheaper alternatives like the T-80, which rely on bungee-style resistance. The T-128's modest 2 Nm of peak torque is sufficient for beginners, and its small rim size helps enhance the feedback sensation. Additionally, the T-128 can be upgraded with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and better pedals, making it a versatile starting point.

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 solid choice for PlayStation users, especially given its longevity and reliability. Its metal rim and three-pedal set offer a step up from entry-level options, providing a more realistic feel. Although it may be noisier and less refined than newer models, the G-29 is a dependable option for those starting their sim racing journey on PlayStation.

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 a game-changer for those seeking a direct drive wheel at a reasonable price. Its silent operation and smooth force feedback set it apart from older, belt-driven options. While the bundled pedals are sturdy, they rely on springs and Hall effect sensors. The R3 is highly upgradable, making it a smart choice for those looking to invest in a long-term sim racing setup.

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

Fanatec's GT DD Pro offers top-notch direct drive technology with quiet operation and excellent force feedback. It's an ideal choice for those who want to race across multiple platforms, thanks to its flexible compatibility options. While the bundled pedals use Hall effect sensors, a load-cell brake pedal can be purchased separately for a more realistic feel.

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 a budget-friendly option for Nintendo Switch users, featuring elastic resistance for a basic steering feel. While it lacks force feedback, it's a fun choice for kids and casual gamers looking to enhance their racing experience on the Switch.

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 remains a reliable choice for PlayStation users, offering belt-driven force feedback that is quieter than gear-driven alternatives. While it may seem outdated with the rise of direct drive wheels, it's still a solid option for those on a budget and looking for a PlayStation-compatible wheel.

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

Logitech's G Pro Racing Wheel offers a premium direct drive experience with excellent force feedback and a realistic rim size. Its 11 Nm of torque and adjustable load-cell pedals provide a high-end sim racing experience, making it a great value for those willing to invest in quality.

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 a complete package with 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 all-in-one solution for those looking to dive into sim racing without additional purchases.

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 a high-end wheel base that offers the perfect balance of power and price. Its 12 Nm of torque provides strong, quiet force feedback, making it an excellent choice for serious sim racers. However, it requires additional purchases for a complete setup and lacks native PlayStation compatibility.

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 simulators, offering a large 400mm rim for a highly immersive experience. While it requires a separate wheel base and pedals, it's an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their heavy vehicle simulation gameplay.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

When selecting a racing wheel, consider how frequently you plan to use it. Casual gamers might be satisfied with an entry-level option, while dedicated sim racers may prefer a more advanced setup with strong force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback systems to consider:

• Gear Drive: The oldest and least refined type, often noisy but cost-effective.
• Belt Drive: Smoother and quieter than gear drive, but may not transmit nuanced feedback as effectively.
• Direct Drive: The most expensive but offers the most realistic and immediate force feedback experience.

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 enhance feedback on low-torque bases.

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

Racing games often have dampening effects on controllers to make them more manageable. Transitioning to a wheel requires adjusting to a more precise and less forgiving input method.

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

Serious sim racing titles like Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0 are ideal. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7, Forza Motorsport, and Forza Horizon 5 also work well with wheels, as do games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Switch.

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

Check settings within your games and on your wheel. Community recommendations can help you find the perfect configuration.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For casual gamers, a budget wheel or other accessories might be more cost-effective. However, for dedicated racers, a quality wheel enhances immersion and performance, making it a worthwhile investment.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

Racing wheels can replicate real driving sensations through force feedback. The realism depends on the wheel's quality and features, but top-tier wheels offer an experience close to actual driving, as evidenced by professional racers using sim racing to train.