Racing games have always been a favorite among gamers, and the trend has definitely grown with the introduction of steering wheels. Whether one is playing a simulator likeF1 24, or enjoying anarcade racing gamelikeForza Horizon, a high-quality steering wheel can completely transform the gameplay.
Thrustmaster T128X
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel
Nowadays, steering wheels have become more sophisticated, providing gamers with features like customizable settings, responsive feedback, and durable build quality. All of this ensures that the player feels like they are in the driver’s seat, and feel immersed. Not only that, but a steering wheel also gives the user better control, as opposed to using a keyboard or eventhe best controllers.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best PC steering wheels, catering to a range of budgets, skill levels, and racing preferences. These top picks include features like force feedback, realistic pedal sets, and advanced features to provide a lifelike driving experience.
Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals
The Logitech G923 Racing Wheel is a great wheel for most play styles, be it casual racing or a hardcore sim rig setup. It brings the company’s TRUEFORCE technology that delivers more detailed feedback to the user for an immersive racing experience. The buttons are well laid out and the stainless steel paddle shifters are easy to use as well. The Logitech G923 Racing Wheel comes with a three-set pedal system that includes a progressive brake pedal.
The Logitech G923 is a standout steering wheel, earning its title as the best overall option for PC racing enthusiasts. It’s designed with TrueForce feedback technology, which allows players to feel the vibrations and feedback from the road surface, engine, and other car mechanics. Effectively, this makes the virtual racing experience almost indistinguishable from real-life driving.
As for the pedals, they are quite responsive and include a progressive brake pedal that mimics the feel of a real car. The wheel itself is crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and a comfortable grip for those long gaming sessions. The wheel cover is protected by high-quality leather that’s hand-stitched. On top of that, there’s a solid steel gear shaft coupled with polished metal pedals for an added premium feel.
Additionally, Logitech also offers a shifter bundle, if the player desires to opt for manual shifting. It’s a six-speed shifter, coupled with a push-down reverse gear mode. Since it’s a separate accessory, users can decide whether to place it on their left or right side while driving.
HORI Racing Wheel Apex
The HORI Racing Wheel APEX is a great entry-level racing wheel for PC, PS4, and PS5 users. It does not have force feedback and has a basic steering wheel and pedal combo. It comes with a two-pedal setup that connects to the steering base, which then connects via a single USB connection, and that’s it as far as the setup goes. There are paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.
Despite its lower price point, the HORI Apex doesn’t compromise on essential features. The wheel offers a comfortable and realistic driving experience, making it a great entry-level option for those new to sim racing. Its adjustable sensitivity and vibration feedback provide a good balance of control and realism, allowing players to enjoy their racing games without breaking the bank.
Speaking of customizability, players can adjust settings and select any of the four custom profiles based on pedal sensitivity, dead zone, and more. Additionally, one can download and install the HORI Device Manager App to adjust settings to any of the four profiles.
While it’s not a lot, the 270-degree wheel rotation lets the player navigate corners with ease. In addition, the bungee cord resistance system gives a basic sense of feedback as one turns the wheel. Of course, it’s not as good as force feedback, but there’s still a sense of immersion without spending a fortune.
Thrustmaster T248X
The THRUSTMASTER T248X perfectly balances affordability and features, making it a great choice for aspiring sim racers. It integrates a hybrid drive system that mixes belt and gear mechanisms. As a result, the user can experience a smoother and more responsive feel than gear-only systems.
The Thrustmaster T248X is the perfect choice for racers seeking a significant upgrade from entry-level wheels without venturing into premium space. The highlight of the T248X is its hybrid drive system that combines smooth gear-driven forces with powerful magnetic effects. This hybrid approach delivers a force feedback that’s both powerful and nuanced. Simultaneously, the user will also experience subtle changes in the road surface and tire grip.
Another unique feature of the T248X is its interactive race dashboard. This display allows players to view essential information, such as gear shifts, RPM, and lap times, directly on the wheel. The wheel also boasts an extensive set of customizable controls, including additional buttons and paddles on the wheel. It adds a layer of immersion and helps players stay focused on their race without having to glance at their screen constantly.
It’s worth noting that for an extra $100, one can opt for theThrustmaster T300 RS. It upgrades the wheel with support for 1080-degree rotation, and more importantly, brings about a Dual Belt system.
MOZA R5 Bundle
The MOZA R5 bundle includes a steering wheel, a two-pedal set, and a direct drive wheel base. The wheel base can deliver 5.5 Nm of torque for more accurate simulation. The metal construction makes the package feel premium and there is an app to control the settings on the steering wheel and wheel base.
The MOZA R5 is a fantastic option for racers seeking the benefits of direct drive technology without the hefty price tag. Direct drive systems are known for their superior precision and feedback, as they connect the wheel directly to the motor without any intermediate belts or gears. This translates to feeling every minute detail of the road, from the subtle tire grip to the harsh jolts of a curb, for unmatched realism.
The MOZA R5 excels in its value-for-money quotient too. The R5 bundle includes a steering wheel, a direct drive wheelbase, and a two-pedal set. Starting with the wheelbase, it can deliver 5.5 Nm of torque and has a solid aviation-grade aluminum alloy construction. It allows for infinite rotation and even includes a quick-release mechanism for taking off the steering wheel.
Adding on to the customizability factor, the MOZA R5 includes a comprehensive software suite that allows players to fine-tune the force feedback settings to perfectly match their racing style and game preferences. In terms of build quality, the pedals are made from high-strength steel and are fully adjustable. Further, the metal construction ensures a sturdy and reliable build quality, perfect for intense racing sessions.
The Thrustmaster T128X offers players immersive force feedback, delivering realistic sensations of racing. This stylish wheel also includes engine speed LEDs for optimized gear shifting and an angle of rotation up to 900°. Plus, there are magnetic paddle shifters (patented H.E.A.R.T technology) providing instant responsiveness. The handbrake buttons are easily accessible on the wheel, for controlled skids, while a quick attachment system makes the wheel suitable for desks and tables up to 2.2 inches / 5.5 cm thick.
The Thrustmaster T128X is the ideal training ground for aspiring sim racers. It features a straightforward setup process and intuitive controls, making it easy for new players to get started. Unlike the HORI Apex, the T128X provides a decent level of force feedback, helping newcomers get a feel for the road and improve their racing skills.
The T128 also does not limit the rotating angle like other wheels in this budget range, and it offers 900 degrees of freedom. It uses magnetic paddle shifters that have a clicky sound and are designed with Thrustmaster’s patented H.E.A.R.T technology. It also includes a set of programmable buttons, allowing beginners to customize their controls and adapt their setup to their preferences. This feature is particularly useful for those who are still figuring out their ideal racing configuration.
The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel is a premium offering from Logitech, and it brings the latest and greatest technologies that the company has to offer. The design for the steering wheel has been developed in collaboration with pro sim drivers. It brings TRUEFORCE force feedback through its direct drive system with 11 Nm of torque. It uses a thumb sweep orientation for the buttons and dials, making them easily accessible without having to take the hands off the wheel.
The Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel offers top-of-the-line performance and features, making it the undeniable choice for serious sim racers. The spotlight is the powerful direct drive force feedback motor, that delivers an incredibly precise and immediate connection to the car. This ensures that the player feels every turn and bump. Even the gear shifts feel authentic, providing an unparalleled level of immersion.
The G PRO is also highly customizable, with adjustable settings that allow gamers to fine-tune their driving experience. It is compatible with a wide range of games and platforms, making it a versatile choice for serious gamers. Additionally, the wheel includes advanced features like dual-clutch paddles and a customizable LED display, adding to its premium appeal.
Speaking of premium, another impressive aspect of the G PRO is its high-quality construction. The wheel is made with durable materials, including a brushed metal finish and a leather-wrapped rim, offering both comfort and longevity. The G PRO also includes an onboard OLED display that lets one configure settings on the fly, or switch to any of the five different racing profiles.
How to Choose the Best Steering Wheel for PC
Choosing the right steering wheel can make all the difference. Before splurging on a new steering wheel for racing games on PC, it’s important to identify the various factors to keep in mind.
Wheel Rotation and Feedback
Force feedback is crucial for a realistic driving experience. High-quality force feedback allows players to feel the car’s movements, road textures, and impacts, enhancing immersion. As such, it’s important to consider the level of detail and power that suits the player’s needs. Essentially, belt-driven wheels offer a good balance, while direct drive delivers unmatched realism.
Additionally, depending on the game, it’s important to factor in the rotation angle of the steering wheel. Most wheels mimic real cars with a 900-degree rotation. That said, budget options might have a lower range, impacting the realistic steering feel.
Pedal Set
What most gamers don’t realize is that not all steering wheels include a pedal set. For gamers who want a realistic and immersive gaming session, look for wheels that include a responsive and sturdy pedal set. Further, pedals made from durable materials and featuring adjustable resistance can provide a more authentic and customizable driving experience.
Features and Budget
Customization can significantly improve one’s racing setup. Steering wheels with programmable buttons, adjustable force feedback settings, and interchangeable parts allow players to tailor the wheel to their preferences. Further, there are features like magnetic shifters, swappable wheel rims, and button layouts that might appeal to certain gamers.
However, it’s important to first understand one’s budget, and then prioritize the features. While premium models offer advanced features and superior build quality, there are excellent mid-range and budget options that provide good value.
FAQ
Q: Are racing wheels worth it for PC gaming?
Absolutely! Racing wheels provide immersive force feedback, a realistic steering feel, and more precise control. From beginners to experienced gamers, a steering wheel can take the racing experience from good to great, while also making it a lot more authentic.
Q: Are all steering wheels compatible with PC?
Not all wheels are fully compatible with a PC. Additionally, just because a steering wheel is compatible with a PC doesn’t mean your game will support it. As such, it’s important to check the specific product details to ensure compatibility with your operating system and preferred racing games. However, some wheels also work with consoles, offering more versatility.
Q: What’s the difference between belt-driven and direct drive force feedback?
Belt-driven wheels use a belt system to translate in-game forces into resistance on the wheel. They offer a good balance of affordability and performance. On the other hand, direct-drive wheels eliminate the belt and connect the motor directly to the wheel shaft. This results in a more immediate and powerful force feedback experience with unmatched detail. That said, direct drive is also expensive compared to belt-driven feedback systems.
