Top Racing Wheels for All Drivers

As technology advances, the boundary between real-world motorsport and racing simulations continues to blur, becoming increasingly indistinguishable. It's well-known that many top-tier racing drivers spend significant time honing their skills on racing simulators, a testament to the quality and realism of today's racing hardware. With an ever-growing array of options, selecting the right racing wheel for your setup can be daunting, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned sim racer.

To help you navigate this crowded market, I've curated a list of 10 racing wheels tailored for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch users. These recommendations cover a range of budgets and commitment levels, from budget-friendly options to high-end setups, ensuring you can find the perfect wheel to elevate your racing game experience. A racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most essential accessories for any racing enthusiast.

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 to be an affordable entry point into sim racing, especially for those on a tight budget or younger racers. While its plastic construction might feel a bit toy-like, it offers genuine force feedback, a crucial feature that sets it apart from even cheaper options like the T-80, which rely on bungee-style resistance. The T-128's smaller rim size can actually enhance the force feedback feel on a lower torque base. For those looking to upgrade, the T-128 supports add-ons like the TH8S shifter and improved pedals, making it a versatile choice for beginners. It's available in versions compatible with Xbox and PC, or PlayStation and PC, with the latter typically carrying a slight price premium.

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 solid alternative for PlayStation users, particularly when the Thrustmaster T-128 is more expensive on this platform. Despite being on the market for over a decade, the G-29 remains a reliable choice due to its durability and value. The metal-wrapped rim and included three-pedal set offer a more premium feel than entry-level Thrustmaster options. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined compared to Thrustmaster's hybrid belt systems. The G-29 is preferred over the newer G-923 due to its lower cost and similar performance, minus the G-923's Trueforce technology, which adds noise and a modest price bump.

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 Xbox and PC racers, offering direct drive technology at a price point just above older, non-direct drive options. The R3's force feedback is smooth, silent, and instantaneous, providing a significant upgrade over belt-driven wheels. Its modular design allows for easy upgrades, although the bundled pedals use spring resistance and Hall effect sensors. Note that Moza's additional accessories like shifters and handbrakes currently lack full Xbox compatibility.

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 is a premium direct drive wheel that offers superior force feedback and quiet operation. With a base torque of 5 Nm, upgradable to 8 Nm, it's ideal for serious sim racers. The GT DD Pro's versatility shines with its ability to work across multiple consoles with the right add-ons, making it a top choice for those who want flexibility. However, the bundled pedals use Hall effect sensors, which might not satisfy those seeking the most realistic braking experience without additional purchases.

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 players. While it lacks force feedback and uses elastic resistance, it's suitable for casual gamers or kids. The analog pedals are an improvement over the Switch's digital triggers, but the wheel's suction cup mounts are less than ideal. For those serious about racing on the Switch, this is the best available option, especially compared to the smaller Hori Mario Kart Mini.

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. Its belt-driven force feedback is smoother and quieter than gear-driven alternatives, though it lacks the nuance of direct drive systems. The wheel's design and included pedals are solid, but with direct drive wheels becoming more affordable, the T300 RS GT feels somewhat dated. It's still a good choice for PlayStation users but less competitive for PC setups at its price point.

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 is a premium direct drive system that offers a high-end racing experience. With 11 Nm of torque and Logitech's Trueforce haptics technology, it provides a realistic and immersive drive. The larger rim size and adjustable pedals, including a 100kg load cell brake, enhance the simulation further. Despite its bulkier design, the G Pro is an excellent value for those looking to invest in top-tier racing hardware.

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

Turtle Beach's VelocityOne Race is an all-in-one direct drive bundle that includes a load cell brake, making it an attractive option for those new to sim racing. While its force feedback may not match some competitors, it's a comprehensive package at a competitive price. The integrated table clamp is a notable feature, though the button box is more useful on PC than 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 and nuanced force feedback, making it ideal for serious sim racers. However, it requires additional purchases for rims and pedals, 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 enthusiasts of truck and bus simulators, offering an authentic experience with its large, 400mm rim. Its compatibility with Moza's ecosystem makes it a great choice for those already invested in Moza hardware. However, its size may reduce the effectiveness of force feedback on lower torque bases, and it requires separate purchases for a complete setup.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

When selecting a racing wheel, consider how frequently you plan to use it. Casual gamers might find an entry-level wheel sufficient, while dedicated sim racers may prefer a higher-end model with robust force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback systems to consider:

• Gear Drive: The oldest type, known for being noisy and less refined, found in budget options like the Logitech G29.
• Belt Drive: Smoother and quieter than gear drive, but can lose nuanced feedback. Common in mid-range wheels like the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT.
• Direct Drive: The most advanced, offering the most realistic and immediate feedback. Prices have dropped, making entry-level direct drive wheels like the Moza R3 more accessible.

Racing Wheel FAQ

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

Smaller rim sizes can enhance the feel of force feedback on lower torque bases, though they may feel more toy-like. Larger rims offer a more realistic experience but may require more powerful bases.

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

Racing games are designed to be playable on controllers, which often include dampening to make the game less twitchy. Transitioning to a wheel requires adapting to a more precise and direct control method, which can initially slow you down. Smooth and precise inputs are key to improving your performance.

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

For serious simulation, consider Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport are also excellent, as are more casual games like Forza Horizon 5 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 extensive settings available in your games and on your wheel. Community recommendations can help you find the right configuration for your setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For occasional gamers, a cheap wheel or other gaming accessories might be more cost-effective. However, for avid racers, a quality wheel enhances immersion and precision, making it a worthwhile investment.

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 models can offer an experience that professional drivers use to train, demonstrating their effectiveness in bridging the gap between virtual and real racing.