As technology continues to advance, the line between real-life motorsport and racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's no secret that many successful real-world drivers spend considerable time honing their skills on racing simulations, a testament to the remarkable quality of today's racing hardware. With an abundance of options on the market, selecting the perfect racing wheel for your setup can be a challenging task.

To help you navigate this landscape, I've curated a list of 10 top racing wheels compatible with PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for a high-end experience, this list will guide you through the best low-price, mid-range, and premium options available. If you're passionate about racing games, a racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most essential gaming accessories you can invest in.

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 sim racing product, reflecting its affordable price and build. It's an excellent starting point for kids and racing enthusiasts on a tight budget. While the small, entirely plastic rim and two-pedal set may feel toy-like, the inclusion of real force feedback sets it apart from lower-priced options like the T-80, which lack this feature. The T-128's smaller rim diameter compensates for its modest 2 Nm peak torque, enhancing the feedback you feel. Additionally, the T-128 can be upgraded with add-ons like the TH8S shifter and better pedals, and it's available in versions compatible with Xbox and PC or PlayStation and PC.

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, despite being a decade old, remains a solid choice for PlayStation users, especially when the Thrustmaster T-128 is pricier for this platform. The G-29 features a metal rim and a superior three-pedal set with a rubber stopper that simulates hydraulic braking force. Its durability and value make it a reliable entry into sim racing. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined compared to Thrustmaster's hybrid belt system.

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 the latest addition to their sim racing ecosystem, offering a complete, ready-to-race set with direct drive technology. This wheel provides smooth, silent, and instant force feedback, a significant upgrade over belt-driven alternatives. The R3 is highly upgradable, with the Moza ESX wheel compatible with Xbox and PC. However, its bundled pedals use springs and Hall effect sensors, and Moza add-ons like shifters and handbrakes are not yet fully compatible with Xbox racing games.

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 bundles offer a premium direct drive experience, albeit at a higher cost than the Moza R3. The GT DD Pro's force feedback is exceptionally quiet and nuanced, with a default torque of 5 Nm, upgradable to 8 Nm. It's an ideal choice for multi-console users, as the wheelbase itself is PlayStation compatible, and with an Xbox-compatible rim, it can be used across platforms. However, the bundled pedals use Hall effect sensors rather than load-cell technology.

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 users, utilizing elastic resistance for a toy-like feel. It's suitable for beginners and kids, offering analog pedals as an upgrade over the Switch's digital triggers. While not ideal for serious racing simulations, it's a fun addition for games like Grid Autosport on the Switch.

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 is a reliable mid-price option for PlayStation users, offering a belt-driven force feedback system that's quieter than gear-driven alternatives. Despite its age, it remains a solid choice for PlayStation, with a sturdy metal wheel and a three-pedal set. However, as direct drive technology becomes more affordable, the T300 RS GT's belt drive feels somewhat outdated.

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

Logitech's G Pro Racing Wheel offers a premium direct drive experience with 11 Nm of torque, ideal for serious sim racing. It includes Trueforce haptics technology for enhanced feedback, and its larger rim size adds to the authenticity. The pedals are highly adjustable and feature a 100kg load cell brake, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-end racing setup.

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 offers a comprehensive bundle with direct drive technology and load cell pedals at a competitive price. While its force feedback may not be the best in its class, it's a solid option for those looking for an all-in-one solution without additional purchases.

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 offering 12 Nm of torque, striking a balance between power and price. It's an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their sim racing setup, though it requires additional purchases for a complete system. Its compatibility extends to Xbox when paired with the Moza ESX wheel.

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 specifically for truck and bus simulation games, offering a large 400mm rim for an authentic feel. While it requires a separate wheel base and pedals, it's an excellent choice for enthusiasts of heavy vehicle simulators.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

When choosing 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 investing in a high-end model with superior force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback:

• Gear Drive: The oldest and least refined type, known for being noisy and clunky.
• Belt Drive: Smoother and quieter than gear drive, though less capable of nuanced feedback.
• Direct Drive: The most expensive but also the most realistic, providing direct and nuanced feedback.

Racing Wheel FAQ

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

Smaller rim sizes can make low torque bases feel more responsive, though they may also contribute to a more toy-like feel.

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

Racing games often include dampening effects on controllers to make them more manageable. When switching to a wheel, you may need to adjust your driving style to be more precise and smooth, as the wheel provides a more direct connection to the game's physics.

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

Top racing simulations for wheels include Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, Dirt Rally 2.0, EA Sports WRC, and Project CARS 2. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7, Forza Motorsport, and Forza Horizon 5 also benefit greatly from wheel use, as do The Crew 2, Wreckfest, 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 numerous settings available in your games and on your wheel. Community recommendations can help you find the perfect configuration for your setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For casual gamers, a cheaper wheel or other gaming accessories might be more suitable. However, for avid racing game players, a high-quality racing wheel can significantly enhance immersion and performance, making it a worthwhile investment.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

High-end 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 offer an experience that's close to real-world driving, as evidenced by professional drivers using them for practice.