Top Racing Wheels for Every Driver

As technology rapidly advances, the distinction between real-life motorsport and racing simulations continues to blur. It's no secret that many successful real-world drivers spend considerable time honing their skills in racing simulations, which underscores the growing sophistication and realism of racing hardware. With the market now flooded with options, selecting the perfect racing wheel can be daunting.

To help you navigate this crowded field, I've curated a list of 10 top racing wheels suitable for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking to invest in high-end gear, this guide will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of various options across the price spectrum. For avid racing game enthusiasts, a quality racing wheel is an indispensable accessory that 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### Moza R3

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### Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Logitech### Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

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 Walmart1. Thrustmaster T-128

Best Budget Wheel for PC and Xbox

### Thrustmaster T-128

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct 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 that reflects its budget-friendly price with its build, yet it offers a solid starting point for newcomers and budget-conscious racers. While the small, entirely plastic rim and two-pedal set may feel somewhat toy-like, the inclusion of real force feedback sets it apart from even cheaper alternatives like the T-80, which rely on bungee-style resistance. The T-128's 2 Nm peak torque is modest but sufficient to convey essential on-track feedback. If you enjoy your time with this wheel, you can expand your setup with add-ons like the TH8S shifter or upgraded pedals, making it a versatile choice for those on a budget.

2. Logitech G-29

Best Budget Wheel for PlayStation

### Logitech G-29

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at LogitechProduct 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 stands out as a robust alternative for PlayStation users, especially given the higher cost of the Thrustmaster T-128 on this platform. Despite its age, the G-29 offers a metal rim and a superior three-pedal set, providing a more professional feel. The inclusion of a clutch pedal is a significant advantage, making it a great choice if you plan to add a shifter later. However, the gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined than belt-driven systems.

3. Moza R3

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

### Moza R3

1See it at AmazonProduct 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 a game-changer as the company's first Xbox-compatible direct drive wheel, offering a complete and ready-to-race set that outperforms older, non-direct drive alternatives. The direct drive technology provides smooth, silent, and instant force feedback, a significant upgrade over belt-driven systems. The R3's upgradeable nature allows you to enhance your setup over time, though note that some add-ons may not be fully compatible with Xbox games.

4. Fanatec GT DD Pro

Best Direct Drive Wheel

### Fanatec GT DD Pro

0See it at eBayProduct 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 is a premium direct drive wheel that excels in force feedback quality and quiet operation. With a base torque of 5 Nm, upgradable to 8 Nm, it offers a robust experience for both PC and PlayStation users. Its versatility allows for seamless transitions between different consoles, making it an ideal choice for racing enthusiasts who enjoy playing across 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 BuyProduct 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, featuring elastic resistance for a toy-like feel that can still be fun for beginners. Its analogue pedals offer an upgrade over the Switch's digital triggers, making it a good choice for casual gaming, though it lacks the force feedback found in more advanced wheels.

6. Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

Best Mid-Price PlayStation Racing Wheel

### Thrustmaster T300 RS GT

0See it at AmazonSee it at B&HProduct 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 remains a solid choice for PlayStation users despite its age, offering reliable belt-driven force feedback that is quieter than gear-driven alternatives. While it may not match the nuance of direct drive systems, it provides a good balance of performance and price for PlayStation enthusiasts.

7. Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

Best Value Premium PC and Console Racing Wheel

### Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at LogitechProduct 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, delivering exceptional force feedback and a realistic driving feel. The bundle includes high-quality pedals with a 100kg load cell brake, making it a top choice for serious sim racers looking for value and performance.

8. Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

Best Value Direct Drive Plus Load Cell Pedal Bundle

### Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Turtle BeachProduct 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 including a direct drive wheel and load cell pedals, making it an attractive option for those seeking an all-in-one solution. While the force feedback may not match some competitors, it still provides a significant upgrade over older gear- and belt-driven systems.

9. Moza R12

Best Direct Drive Wheel Base

### Moza R12

0See it at AmazonProduct 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 that offers a perfect balance of power and price. With 12 Nm of torque, it provides strong and quiet force feedback, ideal for serious sim racers. However, it requires additional purchases for rims and pedals, and lacks native PlayStation compatibility.

10. Moza TSW Truck Wheel

Best Non-Traditional Wheel Rim

### Moza TSW Truck Wheel

0See it at WalmartProduct 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 simulations, offering an immersive experience with its large 400mm diameter. It's compatible with Moza's ecosystem, enhancing the realism of heavy vehicle sims. However, its size may reduce the effectiveness of force feedback on lower-torque bases, and it requires separate purchases of a wheel base and pedals.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

Before investing in a racing wheel, consider how frequently you plan to use it. Casual gamers may be satisfied with an entry-level option, while dedicated sim racers might prefer a more advanced system with robust force feedback. There are three main types of force feedback to consider:

Gear Drive - The oldest and least refined, often noisy and clunky, but reliable and affordable.
Belt Drive - Smoother and quieter than gear-driven wheels, though they may not convey the most nuanced feedback.
Direct Drive - The most expensive but also the most realistic, with no loss of feedback nuance, providing an unmatched driving experience.

Racing Wheel FAQ

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

Smaller rim sizes can feel more toy-like but are beneficial for lower torque bases, as they enhance the perceived strength of the force feedback.

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

Racing games are designed to be fun on controllers, often incorporating dampening effects to make them less twitchy. Transitioning to a wheel requires adjusting to more precise and smooth inputs to avoid overdriving.

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

Serious motorsport simulations like Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0 are top choices. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Motorsport also work well, as do more casual options like Forza Horizon 5 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 game and wheel settings. Community recommendations can help you find the perfect configuration for your setup.

Are racing wheels worth the investment?

For occasional gamers, a budget wheel or other gaming accessories might suffice. However, avid racing enthusiasts will find that a high-quality wheel offers deeper immersion and improved performance, justifying the investment despite the learning curve.

How realistic is a racing wheel?

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-tier options provide an experience that even professional drivers use for training.