Top Racing Wheels for Every Driver Type

As technology continues to advance, the distinction between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's no secret that many top-tier drivers spend significant time honing their skills on racing simulators, a testament to how closely these virtual experiences now mirror real-world racing. With the market flooded with more options than ever, choosing the right racing wheel can be daunting, especially for those new to the scene or looking to upgrade their setup.

To help navigate this decision, I've put together a curated list of 10 racing wheels tailored for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and even Nintendo Switch. Whether you're on a tight budget or ready to invest in a high-end setup, this guide will shed light on the strengths and weaknesses of various options across different price ranges. For avid racing game enthusiasts, a racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most impactful gaming accessories you can add to your arsenal.

TL;DR: The Best Racing Wheels

### Thrustmaster T-128

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Logitech G-29

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Logitech### Moza R3

1See it at Amazon### Fanatec GT DD Pro

0See it at eBay### Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

0See it at AmazonSee it at B&H### Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Logitech### Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Turtle Beach### Moza R12

0See it at Amazon### Moza TSW Truck Wheel

0See it at Walmart

1. Thrustmaster T-128

Best Budget Wheel for PC and Xbox

### Thrustmaster T-128

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

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 point into the world of sim racing for those on a tight budget or beginners, particularly for kids. While the wheel and its accompanying plastic two-pedal set may feel somewhat toy-like, it offers genuine force feedback, setting it apart from budget alternatives like the T-80, which lack this feature. The smaller rim diameter enhances the feel of the modest 2 Nm peak torque, making the wheel responsive despite its low power. For those who find themselves enjoying the sim racing experience, the T-128 can be upgraded with add-ons like the TH8S shifter or better pedals. It's available in versions compatible with Xbox and PC, or PlayStation and PC, with PlayStation models typically costing more.

2. Logitech G-29

Best Budget Wheel for PlayStation

### Logitech G-29

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Logitech

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

For PlayStation users looking for an affordable yet reliable racing wheel, the Logitech G-29 is a solid choice, especially given the higher price of the Thrustmaster T-128 on PlayStation. Despite its age, the G-29 remains a robust option, offering great value with its metal-wrapped rim and superior three-pedal set, which includes a clutch pedal and a rubber stopper to enhance braking feel. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less smooth than some competitors. While the newer G-923 offers additional features like Trueforce technology, the G-29's price-to-performance ratio makes it a compelling choice unless the G-923 is significantly discounted.

3. Moza R3

Best Starter Direct Drive Wheel for Xbox Series X|S and PC

### Moza R3

1See it at Amazon

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 the company's first Xbox-compatible racing wheel, offering a direct drive experience at a price point just above older, belt-driven models. The wheel delivers smooth, instant force feedback thanks to its direct drive technology, a significant upgrade over gear- or belt-driven alternatives. While the bundled pedals are sturdy, they rely on springs for resistance, which may feel less realistic. The R3 is highly upgradable, with the wheel base compatible with future Moza products, making it a wise investment for those looking to expand their setup over time. Note that Moza's add-ons for Xbox are currently limited in compatibility with racing games.

4. Fanatec GT DD Pro

Best Direct Drive Wheel

### Fanatec GT DD Pro

0See it at eBay

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 a top-tier direct drive experience, with excellent force feedback and quiet operation. It's an ideal choice for those looking to race across multiple platforms, as its wheelbase can be paired with different rims to switch between PlayStation and Xbox compatibility. The GT DD Pro comes with a default torque of 5 Nm, which can be boosted to 8 Nm with an additional kit. While the bundled pedals use Hall effect sensors for position detection, a load-cell brake pedal can be purchased separately for a more realistic braking feel. The GT DD Pro is a premium option, particularly for PlayStation users, but its versatility and performance justify the cost.

5. Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

Best Nintendo Switch Racing Wheel

### Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

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 designed for Nintendo Switch users and offers a basic racing wheel experience. It uses elastic resistance to simulate steering, which can feel toy-like but is suitable for beginners and kids. The wheel's analogue pedals are a significant improvement over the Switch's digital triggers, enhancing the gaming experience. While it lacks force feedback, it's a decent option for casual play on the Switch, particularly for games like Grid Autosport. For those seeking a Nintendo Switch wheel, this model is preferable over the smaller Hori Mario Kart Mini.

6. Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

Best Mid-Price PlayStation Racing Wheel

### Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

0See it at AmazonSee it at B&H

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 system provides a solid experience without the noise associated with gear-driven wheels. The included metal wheel and three-pedal set enhance the feel, though it lacks the nuance of direct drive systems. While direct drive wheels are becoming more affordable, the T300 RS GT still offers good value for PlayStation users, although it's less competitive on PC at its price point.

7. Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

Best Value Premium PC and Console Racing Wheel

### Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Logitech

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 marks a significant step up for Logitech, offering a direct drive system with 11 Nm of torque. This wheel provides a high-end simulation experience with its realistic rim size and excellent pedals, including a 100kg load cell brake. The inclusion of Logitech's Trueforce haptics technology enhances the driving feel without adding noise, making it a valuable feature in supported games. While the wheelbase is larger than some competitors, its performance and build quality make it a top choice for serious sim racers looking for a complete package.

8. Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

Best Value Direct Drive Plus Load Cell Pedal Bundle

### Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Turtle Beach

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 wheel and pedal set is an all-inclusive bundle that offers a direct drive wheel and load cell pedals at a competitive price. While it may not match the force feedback quality of some rivals, it's an excellent option for those looking to get started with a complete setup without additional purchases. The integrated table clamp and three-pedal set add to its appeal, though the button box's functionality is limited on Xbox. For those on a budget, the VelocityOne Race provides a compelling entry into high-quality sim racing.

9. Moza R12

Best Direct Drive Wheel Base

### Moza R12

0See it at Amazon

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

For those seeking the ultimate in sim racing performance, the Moza R12 wheel base offers 12 Nm of torque at a price point that balances power and cost. It's a top choice for enthusiasts who want to upgrade their setup without spending excessively on professional-grade equipment. The R12 delivers powerful yet nuanced force feedback and operates quietly, making it ideal for long racing sessions. However, it requires additional purchases for a complete setup, and while it lacks native PlayStation compatibility, third-party adaptors can bridge this gap.

10. Moza TSW Truck Wheel

Best Non-Traditional Wheel Rim

### Moza TSW Truck Wheel

0See it at Walmart

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 specifically for truck and bus simulation games, offering a large 400mm rim for an authentic driving experience. Its size and design enhance immersion, making it ideal for games like Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator. While it requires a compatible wheel base and pedals, its integration within Moza's ecosystem ensures seamless compatibility. The wheel's size may reduce the force feedback on lower torque bases, but this is less of an issue for the slower-paced nature of truck simulations.

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 wheel sufficient, while dedicated sim racers may benefit from a more advanced model with stronger force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback systems:

• Gear Drive: The oldest and most affordable type, found in wheels like the Logitech G29/G920 and G923. It's reliable but can be noisy and less refined.
• Belt Drive: Offers smoother and quieter feedback than gear drive, but may not convey very subtle sensations. Examples include the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT.
• Direct Drive: The most expensive but also the most realistic, providing instant and nuanced feedback. Entry-level direct drive wheels are increasingly affordable, making them a worthwhile investment for those with the budget.

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 lower torque bases, making them more responsive despite their limited power. However, they may contribute to a more toy-like experience in some setups.

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 prevent overly twitchy gameplay. Switching to a wheel requires adapting to a more precise and less forgiving control method, which can initially slow you down. With practice, you'll improve your lap times by mastering smooth and precise inputs.

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

For serious simulation, consider games like Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0. Mainstream titles such as Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport are also excellent with a wheel, as are more casual options like Forza Horizon 5, The Crew 2, and Wreckfest. For Nintendo Switch users, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a fun choice.

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 fine-tune your setup for an optimal driving experience.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For casual players, a basic wheel or other gaming accessories might be more cost-effective. However, for dedicated racing enthusiasts, a high-quality wheel offers deeper immersion and improved performance through realistic force feedback, making it a worthwhile investment despite the learning curve.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

Racing wheels can replicate the feel of driving a real car through accurate force feedback, with the realism varying based on the wheel's quality and features. Top-tier wheels provide experiences so realistic that they are used by professional racers like Max Verstappen and have even turned gamers into successful racing drivers.