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Top Racing Wheels for Every Driver

by Hazel May 25,2025

As technology continues to advance, the boundary between real-life motorsport and racing simulations becomes increasingly blurred. It's no secret that many top-tier drivers spend significant time honing their skills in racing simulations, which is a testament to how advanced and realistic the hardware has become. With an ever-growing market of racing peripherals, choosing the right gear for your first or next racing sim setup can be daunting.

To help you navigate this landscape, I've compiled a list of 10 racing wheel recommendations tailored for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch users. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking to invest in a high-end setup, this list will guide you through the best options across various price points. For avid racing game enthusiasts, a racing wheel is undoubtedly one of the most essential gaming accessories you can own.

TL;DR: The Best Racing Wheels

Thrustmaster T-128

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Logitech G-29

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8

Moza R3

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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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8.9

Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

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7

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

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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 excellent entry-level racing wheel, ideal for those on a tight budget or beginners, including kids. Its compact, all-plastic design might feel a bit toy-like, but it offers genuine force feedback, a crucial feature that sets it apart from even cheaper options like the T-80, which rely on bungee-style resistance without force feedback. The T-128's small rim diameter enhances the feel of its modest 2 Nm torque, making it responsive enough for beginners. Additionally, the wheel is upgradeable with accessories like the TH8S shifter and enhanced pedals, ensuring you can improve your setup as you grow more serious about sim racing. The T-128 is available in versions compatible with Xbox and PC, or PlayStation and PC, with the latter typically costing more.

  1. 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 later

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 robust choice, especially for PlayStation users looking for a budget-friendly option. Its metal, stitched rim offers a more premium feel than the T-128, and the included three-pedal set, complete with a rubber stopper for the brake, provides a solid foundation for sim racing. The G-29's durability and value make it a reliable entry point into the world of sim racing. However, its gear-driven force feedback can be noisy and less refined compared to newer technologies. While the newer G-923 offers additional features like Trueforce technology, the G-29 remains a better value unless you can find the G-923 at a significant discount.

  1. Moza R3

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

8

Moza R3

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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

The Moza R3 is an impressive entry into the direct drive market, offering superior force feedback at a price point just above older, belt-driven options. Its brushed metal rim, though wrapped in a slightly less premium polyurethane, provides a sturdy grip. The direct drive technology delivers smooth, instant feedback that's far superior to belt or gear-driven systems. The R3 is also highly upgradeable, with the wheel base compatible with future Moza products, and the pedals, while basic, are durable and can be upgraded. Note that some Moza add-ons, like shifters and handbrakes, may not be fully compatible with Xbox games.

  1. 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

The Fanatec GT DD Pro offers a premium direct drive experience, suitable for those looking to invest in a high-quality wheel. Its force feedback is top-notch and operates quietly, making it a significant upgrade over belt-driven alternatives. The GT DD Pro's 5 Nm torque can be boosted to 8 Nm, enhancing the realism further. It's an excellent choice for multi-console gamers, as it can be adapted for Xbox with the right accessories. However, the base model's brake pedal uses Hall effect sensors, which may not provide the same feel as a load-cell pedal without an additional purchase.

  1. 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 designed for casual gamers, particularly those on the Nintendo Switch. It uses elastic resistance, providing a toy-like feel that can be challenging to master but enjoyable once you get the hang of it. The analog pedals are a significant improvement over the Switch's digital triggers, enhancing gameplay in titles like Grid Autosport. While it lacks force feedback and has limited mounting options, it's the best choice for Switch users looking to add a racing wheel to their setup.

  1. 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 noise than gear-driven wheels

CONS

  • Belt drive is quickly becoming outdated as direct drive prices drop
  • Not the best PC option at this price point

The Thrustmaster T300 RS GT, though released in 2016, remains a solid mid-range option for PlayStation users. Its belt-driven system provides reliable force feedback without the noise of gear-driven alternatives. The metal wheel and three-pedal set, with a rubber stopper for the brake, offer a good starting point for those looking to upgrade their sim racing setup. While direct drive wheels are becoming more affordable, the T300 RS GT is still a serviceable choice for PlayStation users, though less ideal for PC setups at this price point.

  1. Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel

Best Value Premium PC and Console Racing Wheel

8.9

Logitech G Pro 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

The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel marks Logitech's entry into the high-end direct drive market. Its 11 Nm torque offers a powerful simulation experience, complemented by Trueforce haptics technology without the additional noise found in the G923. The larger rim size and adjustable, load-cell equipped pedals enhance realism, making this a top choice for serious sim racers. Despite its bulkier wheelbase and limited accessory options, the G Pro provides excellent value for a premium setup.

  1. Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

Best Value Direct Drive Plus Load Cell Pedal Bundle

7

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Wheel and Pedal Set

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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

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race is a comprehensive bundle that includes a direct drive wheel, load cell pedals, and a button box, all at a competitive price. While its force feedback may not match some competitors, it's a significant upgrade over older gear- and belt-driven systems. The integrated table clamp adds to its appeal, making it a practical choice for new racers. However, the button box's utility is limited on Xbox, and the overall force feedback quality could be better.

  1. 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 a high-end direct drive wheel base that offers a balance of power and price. Its 12 Nm torque provides a powerful yet nuanced driving experience, and it operates quietly. While it requires additional purchases like a rim and pedals, it's an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their existing Moza setup. For those committed to the Thrustmaster ecosystem, the T818 is a comparable alternative.

  1. 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

The Moza TSW Truck Wheel is designed for enthusiasts of heavy vehicle simulations, offering a large, 400mm diameter rim that closely mimics real truck steering wheels. While it requires a separate wheel base and pedals, it provides an immersive experience for games like Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator. Its size may reduce the effectiveness of low-torque bases, but it's a fantastic addition for dedicated truck sim gamers.

How to Choose a Racing Wheel

Before investing in 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 benefit from higher-end models with advanced force feedback.

There are three main types of force feedback systems:

  • Gear Drive: The oldest type, found in wheels like the Logitech G29/G920 and G923. It's cost-effective but noisy and less refined.
  • Belt Drive: Smoother and quieter than gear drive, but less capable of conveying nuanced feedback. Examples include the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT.
  • Direct Drive: The most expensive but offers the most realistic feedback by directly connecting the wheel to the motor. Entry-level direct drive wheels are becoming more affordable, making them a worthwhile investment for those serious about sim racing.

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 can enhance the responsiveness of low-torque bases.

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

Racing games are designed to be playable on controllers with dampening effects to manage twitchiness. 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 simulation fans might enjoy Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 24, and Dirt Rally 2.0. Mainstream titles like Gran Turismo 7, Forza Motorsport, and Forza Horizon 5 are also well-suited, as are more accessible games like The Crew 2 and Wreckfest. For Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a great choice.

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

Before concluding your wheel is faulty, explore the numerous settings available in 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 be more suitable. However, for those deeply invested in racing games, a high-quality wheel can significantly enhance immersion and performance, despite a learning curve.

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-tier options offer experiences that even professional drivers use for training.