Top Racing Wheels for All Drivers

As technology continues to advance, the distinction between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's well-known that many successful real-world drivers spend significant time honing their skills in racing simulations, a testament to the ever-improving quality of racing hardware. With an abundance of options on the market, choosing the right racing wheel for your setup can be challenging, whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade.

To help you navigate the crowded marketplace, I've compiled a curated list of 10 racing wheel options tailored for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Depending on your budget and the level of immersion you seek, this list will guide you through the best low-cost, mid-range, and premium options available today. For enthusiasts of racing games, investing in a quality racing wheel can significantly enhance your gaming experience.

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

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

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

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 entry-level racing wheel that offers great value for those on a tight budget. Despite its modest build quality, with its entirely plastic rim and pedals, it provides essential force feedback, setting it apart from cheaper alternatives like the T-80, which lacks this feature. The smaller rim size can be beneficial for low-torque bases, as it makes the wheel feel more responsive. For those looking to expand their setup, the T-128 can be upgraded with accessories like the TH8S shifter and improved pedals. It's available in versions compatible with both Xbox and PC, or PlayStation and PC, with the latter being slightly more expensive.

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

The Logitech G-29 remains a solid choice for PlayStation users looking for an entry-level wheel. Despite its age, it offers durability and value, featuring a metal rim and a superior three-pedal set compared to its entry-level counterparts. The inclusion of a clutch pedal is a bonus for those planning to add a standalone shifter. However, the G-29 can be noisy due to its gear-driven force feedback system. For those considering the newer G-923, the G-29 is a more cost-effective option without the additional noise from Trueforce technology.

3. Moza R3

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

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 an excellent entry-level direct drive wheel for Xbox and PC users. It offers smooth, silent force feedback that significantly enhances the racing experience compared to belt-driven alternatives. The R3 is highly upgradeable, allowing you to expand your setup with more powerful wheel bases and accessories. However, note that some Moza add-ons are not yet compatible with most Xbox 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 is a premium direct drive wheel offering exceptional force feedback and quiet operation. It's an ideal choice for those who want to race across multiple platforms, as it supports both PC and PlayStation, with the option to add Xbox compatibility through additional accessories. The GT DD Pro's torque can be upgraded, enhancing its performance further. However, the bundled pedals may not meet the expectations of those seeking a more realistic braking experience.

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

For Nintendo Switch users, the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is a suitable choice, despite its lack of force feedback. It uses elastic resistance to simulate steering, which may be adequate for casual gamers. The analog pedals are an improvement over the Switch's digital triggers, offering a more nuanced control experience. However, the wheel's suction cup mounts are not ideal for serious racing setups.

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 is a reliable mid-range option for PlayStation users. Its belt-driven force feedback is smoother and quieter than gear-driven alternatives, making it a good choice for those not ready to invest in direct drive technology. However, with the increasing affordability of direct drive wheels, the T300 RS GT may feel somewhat outdated. It's compatible with PC, but better options are available at its price point for PC users.

7. Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

Best Value Premium PC and Console 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 is a premium direct drive wheel that offers an exceptional racing experience. Its 11 Nm of torque provides powerful and nuanced feedback, and the inclusion of Trueforce haptics enhances the feel without added noise. The large rim size and adjustable load cell pedals add to the realism. Although the wheelbase is somewhat bulky, it's a worthwhile investment for serious sim racers.

8. Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

Best Value Direct Drive Plus Load Cell Pedal Bundle

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

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race offers great value for those seeking a direct drive wheel with load cell pedals. It's a complete bundle that includes everything you need to start racing, with a strong integrated table clamp. While the force feedback may not be as refined as some competitors, it's a significant step up from older gear- and belt-driven systems. The button box is a unique feature, though its utility is limited on Xbox.

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

The Moza R12 is an outstanding choice for those seeking a high-end direct drive wheel base. It offers a perfect balance of power and price, delivering strong yet quiet force feedback. However, it requires additional purchases for a complete setup, and there's no native PlayStation compatibility without third-party adaptors. For those already invested in the Moza ecosystem, upgrading to the R12 is a smart move.

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

For fans of truck and bus simulation games, the Moza TSW Truck Wheel offers unparalleled immersion. Its large 400mm diameter closely mimics real truck steering wheels, enhancing the authenticity of the gaming experience. While it requires a separate wheel base and pedals, its integration with Moza's ecosystem makes it an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their heavy vehicle sim experience.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

Before investing in a racing wheel, consider how frequently you plan to use it. Casual gamers may find an entry-level wheel sufficient, while serious sim racers will benefit from a higher-end model with robust 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 drive but less capable of conveying nuanced feedback.
• Direct Drive: The most expensive and advanced, offering the most realistic and responsive feedback.

Racing Wheel FAQ

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

Smaller rim sizes can enhance the responsiveness of low-torque wheel bases, though they may feel less realistic. Larger rims provide a more authentic experience but may require more powerful wheel bases to maintain feedback strength.

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

Racing games are designed to be enjoyable on both controllers and wheels, but the transition can be challenging. Controllers often have built-in dampening to manage the car's handling, whereas wheels require more precise and smooth inputs. Overdriving is common for new wheel users, so practice patience and precision to improve your lap times.

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, Forza Motorsport, and Forza Horizon 5 also support wheels well. For Nintendo Switch, 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 settings in your games and on the wheel itself. Community recommendations can help you fine-tune the experience to your liking.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For occasional players, a cheaper wheel or other gaming accessories might be more cost-effective. However, for frequent racers, a high-quality wheel can enhance immersion and improve your racing skills through realistic force feedback and precise control.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

Racing wheels can replicate the feel of driving a real car through advanced force feedback systems. The realism depends on the wheel's quality and features, with high-end models providing an experience that's close to actual driving. Many professional drivers use sim racing to improve their skills, demonstrating the technology's effectiveness.