As technology continues to advance, the boundary between real-world motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's no secret that many top-tier racing drivers spend a significant amount of their free time honing their skills in racing simulators, a testament to the ever-improving quality of racing hardware. With an abundance of options available, choosing the right racing wheel can be a daunting task.

To help you navigate this decision, I've compiled a list of 10 racing wheel recommendations suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end setup, this guide will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of various low-price, mid-range, and premium racing wheels. For avid racing game enthusiasts, investing in a quality racing wheel can significantly enhance your gaming experience.

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 excellent entry-level racing wheel, ideal for those on a tight budget or just starting out. While it features a smaller, entirely plastic rim and pedals that feel somewhat toy-like, it offers genuine force feedback, setting it apart from even cheaper options like the T-80, which relies on bungee-style resistance. The T-128's modest 2 Nm of peak torque still provides enough feedback to help you feel the car's behavior on the track. For those looking to expand, the T-128 is compatible with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and can be upgraded with better pedals. It's available in versions for Xbox and PC, or PlayStation and PC, with PlayStation compatibility typically adding a slight premium to the price.

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, even after a decade on the market. Its metal rim and three-pedal set, which includes a clutch pedal, offer a more premium feel compared to the T-128. The G-29's pedals are notably superior, featuring metal construction and a rubber stopper for a more realistic braking feel. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined than Thrustmaster's hybrid belt system. If you're considering the newer G-923, keep in mind it offers similar performance with added Trueforce technology, but at a higher price point that may not justify the upgrade unless it's significantly discounted.

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

The Moza R3 is an excellent entry into the world of direct drive racing wheels, offering superior force feedback and quiet operation at a price point just above older belt-driven models. Its brushed metal rim and all-metal pedals provide durability, and the entire setup is highly upgradable. The R3's direct drive technology delivers smooth, instantaneous feedback, making it a significant step up from gear- or belt-driven alternatives. However, note that the bundled pedals use spring resistance and Hall effect sensors, and Moza's add-ons are not yet fully compatible with Xbox racing games.

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 a high-quality direct drive experience, providing excellent force feedback and quiet operation. It's a bit pricier than the Moza R3, largely due to PlayStation compatibility. The GT DD Pro comes with a default torque of 5 Nm, which can be boosted to 8 Nm with an additional kit. Its all-metal pedals use Hall effect sensors, but for a more realistic braking feel, consider upgrading to a load-cell brake pedal. The GT DD Pro is particularly appealing for those looking to race across multiple consoles, as it can be adapted for Xbox compatibility with the right wheel rim.

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, utilizing elastic resistance for a toy-like steering feel. While it lacks force feedback, it's a fun choice for kids and beginners, especially for games like Grid Autosport. The analog pedals are an improvement over the Switch's digital triggers, and the wheel is larger than the Hori Mario Kart Mini. However, its suction cup mounts are impractical, and the lack of force feedback limits its realism.

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, despite its age, remains a reliable choice for PlayStation users seeking a mid-range racing wheel. Its belt-driven force feedback is quieter and more refined than gear-driven options, and the wheel's metal construction and removable rim offer versatility. However, as direct drive technology becomes more affordable, the T300 RS GT's belt-driven system may seem outdated. It's a solid choice for PlayStation but less ideal for PC at this price point, where direct drive options are more competitive.

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, delivering 11 Nm of torque and superior force feedback. It's a significant upgrade from Logitech's older gear-driven models, featuring a larger rim and adjustable pedals with a 100kg load cell brake. While the wheelbase is bulkier than some competitors, its performance and value are undeniable, especially with the inclusion of Trueforce haptics technology in supported games. This wheel is a great choice for serious sim racers looking for a complete, high-end 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 are cool novelties 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 is a comprehensive bundle that includes a direct drive wheel, load cell pedals, and a button box. While it may not offer the best driving feel in its price range, it's an excellent value for those looking for a complete setup without additional purchases. The integrated table clamp is robust, and the bundle's price is competitive compared to building a similar setup with individual components. However, the force feedback is not as refined as some competitors, and the button box's utility is limited on Xbox.

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 direct drive wheel base that offers a perfect balance of power and price. With 12 Nm of torque, it delivers strong, nuanced force feedback while remaining quiet during operation. While it's a significant investment, the R12 is ideal for those looking to upgrade their existing Moza setup or build a top-tier sim racing rig. Keep in mind that you'll need to purchase a rim and pedals separately, and there's no native PlayStation compatibility without third-party adaptors.

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 enthusiasts of heavy vehicle simulators, offering a 400mm rim that closely mimics real truck steering wheels. Its aluminum frame and leather wrapping provide an authentic feel, though its large size may reduce the effectiveness of force feedback on lower-torque wheel bases. When paired with Moza's truck wheelbase mount, it enhances immersion for truck and bus simulation games. Note that you'll need to purchase a compatible wheel base and pedals separately.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

Before investing in a racing wheel, consider how frequently you plan to use it. Casual gamers might find an entry-level option sufficient, while dedicated sim racers may benefit from a more advanced setup with robust force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback to consider:

• Gear Drive: The oldest and least refined type, found in wheels like the Logitech G29/G920 and G923. It's noisy and can feel clunky but is cost-effective.
• Belt Drive: A smoother and quieter alternative to gear drive, though it may not transmit very fine feedback as effectively. Examples include the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT.
• Direct Drive: The most advanced and expensive type, offering the most realistic and nuanced feedback. Direct drive wheels, such as the Moza R3 and Logitech G Pro, have become more affordable in recent years.

Racing Wheel FAQ

What impact do rim sizes have on the feel of a sim racing wheel?

Smaller rim sizes can contribute to a toy-like feel, but they can make low-torque bases feel more responsive. Larger rims offer a more realistic experience but may require more powerful wheel bases for effective force feedback.

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 dampening to reduce twitchiness, which can make the transition to a wheel feel challenging at first. Practice smooth and precise inputs to improve your performance over time.

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

For serious motorsport simulation, consider Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0. Other great options include EA Sports WRC, Project CARS 2, Gran Turismo 7, Forza Motorsport, Forza Horizon 5, The Crew 2, Wreckfest, 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 the wheel itself. Community recommendations can help you find the perfect configuration for your setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For occasional players, a budget wheel or other gaming accessories might be more cost-effective. However, for avid racing game enthusiasts, a quality racing wheel can enhance immersion and precision, making it a worthwhile investment.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

Racing wheels can provide a highly realistic driving experience, replicating the force feedback of real cars. The level of realism depends on the wheel's quality and features, but top-tier options can closely mimic real-world driving, explaining their popularity among professional racers and gamers alike.

The influence of sim racing extends beyond gaming, as it has been instrumental in the careers of professional drivers like Max Verstappen and Brodie Kostecki. Moreover, programs like the Gran Turismo Academy have transformed gamers into successful racing drivers, highlighting the bridge between virtual and real-world racing.