As technology continues to advance, the distinction between real-life motorsports and their virtual counterparts in racing simulations is becoming increasingly blurred. It's well-known that many top-tier real-world drivers frequently engage with racing simulations, underscoring the sophistication and realism of today's racing hardware. With an ever-growing array of options on the market, selecting the perfect racing wheel can be daunting, whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade your setup.

To help navigate this crowded field, I've curated a list of 10 recommended racing wheels for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and even Nintendo Switch. This selection caters to various budgets and levels of commitment to sim racing, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of budget-friendly, mid-range, and premium options. For enthusiasts of racing games, a quality racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most impactful gaming accessories you can invest in.

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

The Thrustmaster T-128 stands out as a solid entry-level option for sim racing enthusiasts on a budget. While its plastic construction and smaller rim might feel somewhat toy-like, it delivers essential force feedback, distinguishing it from lower-priced models like the T-80, which lack this feature. This wheel's 2 Nm of peak torque, though modest, is adequate for beginners, providing enough feedback to help you feel the car's behavior and react accordingly.

The T-128's design allows for future upgrades, including the TH8S shifter and enhanced pedals, making it a versatile choice for those looking to expand their setup over time. It's available in versions compatible with Xbox and PC, as well as PlayStation and PC, with the latter often commanding a higher price.

2. Logitech G-29

Best Budget Wheel for PlayStation

Logitech G-29

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

The Logitech G-29, despite its age, remains a robust choice for PlayStation users. Its metal rim and three-pedal set, including a clutch, provide a more substantial feel compared to entry-level Thrustmaster options. While it can be noisy due to its gear-driven force feedback, it offers excellent value and reliability for those starting their sim racing journey.

The G-29 is a preferable choice over the newer G-923 for many, as the added Trueforce technology in the G-923 introduces additional noise without significantly enhancing the experience, especially at its higher price point.

3. Moza R3

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

1See it at Amazon

The Moza R3 is an excellent introduction to direct drive technology for Xbox Series X|S and PC users. Its quiet operation and smooth force feedback provide a significant step up from belt-driven alternatives. The R3 is fully upgradable, with a sturdy, all-metal pedal set that can be enhanced further.

While the bundled brake pedal may feel simplistic, the overall package is impressive, particularly given its competitive pricing against older, non-direct drive options.

4. Fanatec GT DD Pro

Best Direct Drive Wheel

Fanatec GT DD Pro

0See it at eBay

Fanatec's GT DD Pro offers superior force feedback and quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-end direct drive experience. With a torque range of 5 to 8 Nm, it's well-suited for both PC and console gaming, especially with additional purchases for multi-console compatibility.

The GT DD Pro's flexibility to switch between PlayStation and Xbox, with the right accessories, makes it a versatile option for gamers with multiple platforms.

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

The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is tailored for Nintendo Switch users, offering a fun, if somewhat toy-like, experience. Its elastic resistance and analog pedals provide a step up from the Switch's digital triggers, making it suitable for casual racing games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Grid Autosport.

While it lacks force feedback, it's the best option for Switch enthusiasts looking to enhance their racing game experience.

6. Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

Best Mid-Price PlayStation Racing Wheel

Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

0See it at AmazonSee it at B&H

The Thrustmaster T300 RS GT remains a reliable choice for PlayStation users, offering a belt-driven force feedback system that's quieter than gear-driven competitors. While its technology may be aging, it's still a cost-effective option for those not ready to invest in direct drive systems.

The T300 RS GT's compatibility with PC makes it a versatile choice, though it's less competitive in the PC market at this price point.

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

The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel offers a premium direct drive experience at a competitive price. Its 11 Nm of torque and Trueforce haptics technology deliver a high-end simulation experience, complemented by a realistic rim size and robust pedals, including a load cell brake.

While it may lack some accessories compared to other high-end options, its performance and value make it an excellent choice 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

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race offers an attractive package for those seeking a direct drive wheel with load cell pedals. While its force feedback may not be as refined as some competitors, it's a comprehensive bundle that includes everything needed to start sim racing without additional purchases.

The integrated table clamp and the included button box add convenience, though the latter's functionality is limited on Xbox.

9. Moza R12

Best Direct Drive Wheel Base

Moza R12

0See it at Amazon

The Moza R12 is a high-end wheel base that strikes a perfect balance between power and price. Its 12 Nm of torque provides a strong yet quiet experience, ideal for those seeking the best in sim racing technology without breaking the bank on professional-grade equipment.

While it requires additional purchases for rims and pedals, the R12 is an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their existing Moza setup or start fresh with a high-performance base.

10. Moza TSW Truck Wheel

Best Non-Traditional Wheel Rim

Moza TSW Truck Wheel

0See it at Walmart

The Moza TSW Truck Wheel is designed specifically for truck and bus simulations, offering an immersive experience with its large, 400mm diameter. Its compatibility with Moza's ecosystem makes it an excellent choice for enthusiasts of heavy vehicle simulations.

While it may feel light on low-torque wheel bases, its authenticity and specialized design make it a standout option for truck sim gamers.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

When choosing 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 want to invest in more advanced options with superior force feedback.

Force feedback comes in three main types:

Gear Drive - The oldest and least refined type, found in wheels like the Logitech G29/G920 and G923. It's cost-effective but can be noisy and clunky.

Belt Drive - Smoother and quieter than gear drive, but may not convey the finest feedback nuances. Examples include the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT.

Direct Drive - The most advanced and expensive type, offering the most realistic and nuanced feedback. Entry-level direct drive wheels are now more affordable, making them a worthwhile investment for serious sim racers.

Racing Wheel FAQ

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

Smaller rim sizes can contribute to a more toy-like feel but help low-torque bases maintain a sense of responsiveness.

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

Racing games are often optimized for controllers with dampening effects to make them playable. Transitioning to a wheel requires adapting to a more precise and realistic driving model, which can take time to master.

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 and Forza Motorsport also benefit from wheel use, as do more casual games like Forza Horizon 5 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Switch.

This doesn’t feel quite right. Is my wheel a dud?

Before concluding your wheel is faulty, explore the extensive settings available in your games and on the wheel itself. Community recommendations can help you find the perfect setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For casual gamers, a budget wheel or other gaming accessories might suffice. However, for frequent players, a quality racing wheel enhances immersion and precision, making it a worthwhile investment despite the learning curve.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

High-quality racing wheels offer a realistic experience through accurate force feedback. The realism depends on the wheel's features, but top-tier options provide an experience so close to real-life driving that professional racers use them for training. Examples include Max Verstappen's success in both sim and real-world races, and the transformation of gamers into professional drivers through programs like the Gran Turismo Academy.