Top Racing Wheels for All Drivers

As technology continues to evolve, the divide between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's no surprise that many top-tier drivers spend significant time honing their skills on racing simulators, a testament to the advanced nature of modern racing hardware. With an overwhelming array of options available, choosing the right racing wheel for your PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, or Nintendo Switch can be daunting. This guide aims to clarify the best choices across various budget levels, helping you find the perfect racing wheel for your needs.

If you're passionate about racing games, investing in a racing wheel can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Here's a curated list of 10 racing wheel recommendations, tailored to different platforms and budgets.

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 racing wheel designed for those on a tight budget. While it features a small, entirely plastic rim and a basic pedal set, it offers genuine force feedback, a crucial feature that sets it apart from even cheaper alternatives like the T-80. The smaller rim diameter ensures the wheel's modest torque feels stronger, making it a suitable starting point for beginners and young racers. Additionally, the T-128 can be enhanced with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and upgraded pedals, offering room for growth.

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 is a robust choice for PlayStation users, offering a more premium feel than the T-128 with its metal rim and superior three-pedal set. Despite its age, the G-29 remains a reliable option due to its durability and value. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined compared to belt-driven systems.

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 introduces Xbox users to direct drive technology at a competitive price. Its silent and smooth force feedback is a significant upgrade over belt-driven systems. The R3 is highly upgradable, making it a solid investment for those looking to expand their setup in the future.

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 offers top-tier direct drive force feedback, making it an excellent choice for serious sim racers. Its versatility across multiple platforms is a major advantage, although the additional cost for PlayStation compatibility may deter some buyers.

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 tailored for Nintendo Switch users, offering a fun, albeit basic, racing experience. While it lacks force feedback, its analogue pedals provide a slight edge over the standard Joy-Con controls.

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 a reliable choice for PlayStation users seeking a mid-range option. Its belt-driven system offers a balance between cost and performance, although it's less advanced than direct drive alternatives.

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 robust pedals. It's a great value for those willing to invest in a 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 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 comprehensive bundle with direct drive and load cell pedals at a competitive price. While the force feedback may not match some rivals, it's a solid entry point for new racers.

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. It's ideal for enthusiasts looking for a powerful and quiet system, though additional purchases are necessary for a complete setup.

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 enthusiasts, offering a large, authentic-feeling wheel that enhances immersion.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

When selecting a racing wheel, consider your intended usage. For casual gamers, an entry-level wheel may suffice, while serious sim racers should opt for higher-end models with superior force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback systems:

Gear Drive - The oldest and least refined, often noisy but reliable. Belt Drive - Smoother and quieter than gear drive, though less capable of nuanced feedback. Direct Drive - The most advanced and expensive, offering instant and detailed feedback.

Racing Wheel FAQ

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

Smaller rims can feel more toy-like but enhance the effectiveness of low-torque bases.

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

Racing games are designed to be playable on controllers with dampened inputs. Transitioning to a wheel requires adjusting to a more precise and smooth control method.

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

For serious simulation, try Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0. Mainstream games like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport are also excellent, as are more casual options like Forza Horizon 5 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

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

Check game and wheel settings for optimal configuration. Community recommendations can help fine-tune your setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For frequent racing game players, a quality wheel enhances immersion and performance. Casual players may find a cheaper wheel or other accessories more suitable.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

High-end racing wheels can replicate real driving experiences through accurate force feedback, significantly improving realism and skill development for serious racers.