As technology continues to advance, the distinction between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's no secret that many successful professional drivers spend a significant amount of their free time honing their skills in racing simulators, which underscores the remarkable quality of today's racing hardware. However, with the vast array of options now available, selecting the right racing wheel for your setup can be daunting.
To help you navigate this choice, I've compiled a list of 10 top racing wheels suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking to invest in a high-end setup, this list will guide you through the best low-cost, mid-range, and premium options on the market. For avid racing game enthusiasts, a racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most impactful gaming accessories you can own.
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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- 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 that offers a cost-effective introduction to sim racing. It may feel somewhat toy-like due to its plastic construction, but it includes genuine force feedback, a critical feature distinguishing it from even cheaper models like the T-80, which use bungee-style resistance. The T-128's 2 Nm peak torque is modest but sufficient for beginners to feel the car's behavior. Additionally, it's upgradable with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and improved pedals, making it a flexible choice for those on a budget.
- 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, despite its age, remains a robust and cost-effective choice for PlayStation users. With a metal rim and superior three-pedal set, it offers a more premium feel compared to entry-level competitors. The gear-driven force feedback, while noisier and less refined than belt-driven systems, still provides a reliable sim racing experience.
- 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 offers an entry into direct drive technology at a price point that's competitive with older, non-direct drive models. The smooth, silent force feedback it provides is a significant step up from belt-driven alternatives. Its upgrade-friendly design makes it a smart investment for those looking to grow their setup over time.
- 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 direct drive wheel that offers superior force feedback and quiet operation. Its versatility across multiple platforms, including PlayStation, makes it a top choice for serious racers, though it comes at a higher cost.
- 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 basic option for Nintendo Switch users, featuring elastic resistance rather than force feedback. While not ideal for serious sim racing, it's a fun entry point for casual gamers and children.
- 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 mid-range option for PlayStation users. Its belt-driven system offers a smoother and quieter experience than gear-driven wheels, though it's less advanced than direct drive options.
- 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 is a premium direct drive option that offers a high-end simulation experience. With 11 Nm of torque and Logitech's Trueforce haptics, it provides a realistic and immersive racing experience, making it a great value for serious sim racers.
- 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
Turtle Beach's VelocityOne Race offers a complete direct drive and load cell pedal set at a competitive price. While not the best in terms of force feedback quality, it's a solid entry-level bundle for those looking to get started with serious sim racing.
- 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 strikes a balance between power and price. With 12 Nm of torque, it offers powerful and granular force feedback, though it requires additional purchases for a complete setup.
- 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, realistic wheel that enhances immersion. Its compatibility with Moza's ecosystem makes it a great choice for those already invested in Moza products.
How to Choose a Racing Wheel
Before investing in a racing wheel, consider how often you plan to use it. Casual gamers might find an entry-level wheel sufficient, while serious sim racers may need a more advanced model 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-driven wheels but less capable of nuanced feedback.
- Direct Drive: The most expensive but offers the most realistic and nuanced force feedback.
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 force feedback on low-torque bases.
Why am I now slower on a racing wheel than a controller?
Racing games on controllers often have dampening to reduce twitchiness, which isn't needed on a wheel. It takes time to adjust to the precision required with a wheel.
What are the best games to play with a racing wheel?
Serious simulations like Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0 are ideal, as well as mainstream games like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport.
This doesn’t feel quite right. Is my wheel a dud?
Check your game and wheel settings, as there are many options to tweak for the perfect driving feel.
Are racing wheels worth the investment?
For frequent players, a racing wheel enhances immersion and precision, making it a worthwhile investment.
How realistic is a racing wheel?
High-quality racing wheels can replicate the feel of driving a real car, with the best options providing an experience close to actual racing.