Finding the right wheel to fit your needs is one of the toughest things to breaking into sim racing. With wheels ranging from $200 to $1,799, the possibilities for racers are close to endless. This list of sim racing wheels has a device for everyone, including some wheels to have pedals included in the bundle.
Degrees of rotation: 2520°Compatibility: PC, Playstation, and XboxOn-Wheel Adjusters: 25 Buttons and SwitchesDiameter: 27cmDirect Drive: Yes
This officially licensed Formula 1 wheel is the most realistic sim racing wheel you will buy. With four paddles on the back of the wheel for shifting and adjustments, the experience you will get will be unmatched by their competitors. The direct-drive wheels give users an authentic experience with realistic force feedback. Additionally, the grips on the wheel are integrated with vibration motors which further enhances the experience. Lastly, this wheel contains wireless QR technology meaning the detachable wheel doesn’t need additional wires between the wheelbase and the steering wheel. If you’re willing to fork up the extra money, this wheel is worth every penny. Pros
Perfect for road-racersOfficially licensed by F1 and PS4Various accessories available
Cons
Most expensive steering wheel on the marketPedals aren’t included
Degrees of rotation: 900°Compatibility: Playstation or XboxOn-Wheel Adjusters: 22 Buttons and SwitchesDiameter: 28cmDirect Drive: No
If you’re just getting started in the sim-racing realm, you don’t want to buy the most expensive wheel out there. The Logitech G923, essentially the more advanced version of the Logitech G29, is just under $400 and a great option for beginners. Also included with the wheel is a three-pedal set with a progressive brake pedal. With most Fanatec and Thrustmaster wheels, pedals are not included. We get it, sim racing can be expensive, but with the durability and reliability Logitech has instilled in their products, this wheel will enjoy a long life. Pros
TRUEFORCE force feedbackDual clutch launch assistanceRugged look comprised of aluminum, steel, and leather
Cons
Almost exactly the same as both the Logitech G29 and G920 but more expensiveLoud
Degrees of rotation: 1080°Compatibility: PC, Playstation, and XboxOn-Wheel Adjusters: 25 Buttons and SwitchesDiameter: 28cmDirect Drive: No
The next step up from Logitech is Thrustmaster. This wheel and pedal combo is nothing short of impressive. From magnetic paddle shifters to the futuristic design of the wheel, this product is fantastic for the price. To start, there is a built-in dashboard display on the wheel which features over 20 displays including force feedback type, RPM, best lap, and much more. You’re probably thinking, “There’s an option to switch force feedback types?” – yes. There are three force feedback presets on the wheel and adjustable based on user preference. Lastly, the magnetic pedal set allows racers to adjust their brake pedal with four different brake pressure modes. Pros
Various different brake pressure and force feedback modesBuilt-in, customizable display on the wheelHas the new Hybrid Drive Force Feedback System
Cons
Fully plastic basePaddle shifters are loud
Degrees of rotation: 1080°Compatibility: PC and PlaystationOn-Wheel Adjusters: 13 Buttons and SwitchesDiameter: 28cmDirect Drive: No
Much like a real race car, you can change your wheel if you think a different one will benefit you with this product. While this face of this wheel is less busy than the other options, the force feedback and capabilities make up for the lack of buttons and adjustments. With this wheel’s dual-belt system, you won’t hear the loud noises coming from the Logitech wheels and you will receive smoother feedback when racing around the virtual track. Pros
Easy to change wheels depending on what form of racing you are doingCompatible with PS5 gamesAdjustable pedals included in the bundle
Cons
Wheel included isn’t the greatest, but other options are available to replace it on this baseHeavy wheel and base
Degrees of rotation: 900°Compatibility: PC and PlaystationOn-Wheel Adjusters: 20 Buttons and SwitchesDiameter: 27cmDirect Drive: No
As someone who bought this wheel due to its popularity, I can vouch that this wheel and pedal set is perfect for sim racers of any budget. Much like the Thrustmaster T248, this steering wheel has a digital display as well, just less complex. With ten lights atop the face of the wheel, drivers can tell their RPM and learn where to shift. The pedals for this set are practically identical to those of the Logitech G923. They feature full aluminum pedals with a stainless steel frame. The brake pedal on this set is non-linear, meaning the brake is harder to push as you apply more pressure to the pedal. Look out for ZDNet’s full coverage of this wheel shortly. Read our review on the Logitech G29. Pros
Pedals included in the bundleClamps on the underside of the base work greatDurable and made with leather, steel, and aluminum
Cons
Obnoxiously loud when force feedback gets violentNot good for dirt racing
Having a wheel like the Fanatec Podium Racing Wheel F1 can be incredibly overwhelming for new sim racers. Additionally, the price tag attached to that wheel can also be overwhelming. We sorted these in a way that there is a wheel for everyone regardless of experience level. Second, the create a great experience on the sim, you need a wheel with good force feedback. These wheels were selected by their realistic capabilities on the virtual racetrack. Lastly, in both asphalt road and oval racing, in-car adjustments are so important. So, having a wheel that has buttons available for adjustments is crucial depending on what type of racing you plan on doing. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your preference and needs while sim racing.
