There are many sim racing wheels to choose from when it comes to sim racing for pc or console. From gears or belt driven to direct drive, the options are seemingly limitless. But for anyone just getting started and looking for something that doesn’t break the bank, I have compiled a top 5 list of the best racing wheels for pc and the most budget friendly options. This list is not comprehensive but includes the top brands that most of us started out with. Be sure to check out my list of the best sim racing rigs under $1000 for the best racing experience.
What Are the Best Racing Wheels for Beginners?
1. Thrustmaster T150 (Best Budget Racing Wheel)
Racing sim fans will love the wheel’s responsive and silent Force Feedback, for enhanced immersion in games — with sensations incredibly close to real-world conditions. The T150 has been created with different types of drivers in mind: its ergonomic design and the range of technologies incorporated into the wheel make it totally adaptable to all racing game styles (Rally, F1, NASCAR and even GT). The racing wheel comes with a 2-pedal pedal set that works efficiently in all circumstances.
- 11″ wheel diameter
- 1080° wheel rotation
- Silent belt-pulley system
- Compatible with additional products (sold separately)
- TH8A shifter
- T3PA pedals (and Pro model)
- Metal sequential paddle shifters
Price: $229.99
Conclusion: Of all of the racing wheels, the T150 is an excellent choice as a budget friendly racing wheel. The pedal set is a little flimsy and doesn’t include a clutch. However, this is sure to get the job done until you are ready to upgrade. I recommend upgrading the pedals as soon as you can.
2. Logitech G920 (Best Value)
The G920 racing wheel is engineered for the perfect driving experience with dual-motor force feedback, stainless steel paddle shifters and hand stitched leather wheel. Adjustable floor pedals let you accelerate, brake and change gears with the feel of an actual car.
- Rotation: 900 degrees lock-to-lock
- Dual-Motor Force Feedback
- Wheel cover Hand-stitched leather
- Patented carpet grip system for pedals
- 10.63″ diameter
- Solid steel ball bearings in the wheel shaft give weight and durability
Price: $299.99
Conclusion: The G920 racing wheel offers the best bang for your buck. It has an overall better feel. The pedal set includes the clutch and a nonlinear brake pedal for a more responsive, accurate feel. The perfect starter wheel and pedal set.
The Thrustmaster T248 racing wheel provides a substantial upgrade from the T150 with an up to 70% more powerful hybrid drive system. There is also a major upgrade in the pedal set for a much higher level of in-game responsiveness.
- Dashboard display with more than 20 different displays
- Dynamic FFB – 3 presets
- 25 action buttons
- Magnetic shifter paddles
- Magnetic pedals including 4 brake pressure modes
- 11″ wheel diameter
Price: $399.99
Conclusion: This racing wheel is an overall upgrade to the T150. The dashboard display is probably the coolest thing about the T248. The options in force feedback are good for quick adjustments for a better feel on track.
This Logitech G923 racing wheel includes an exclusive TRUEFORCE feedback that connects directly to in-game physics for unprecedented realism. This is the latest upgrade to the G920.
- Rotation: 900 degrees lock-to-lock
- Dual-Motor Force Feedback with TRUEFORCE
- Closed loop motor control to match output from game physics
- Programmable dual clutch launch assist (in supported games)
- 24-point selection dial
Price: $399.99
Conclusion: While very similar to the G920, this G923 racing wheel does offer some upgrades. Made with the same quality and durability, the added TRUEFORCE feedback and voltage control improves the realistic feel on the track. This wheel is a great initial investment to last you for years.
The T300 RS is easily the best performing racing wheel in this list. It utilizes a dual belt system for a smooth feel with no dead zones. This package also includes the GT Edition three pedal set over the two pedal set. And with the brushless motor, the performance is stable and dynamic throughout an entire race.
- 1080° wheel rotation
- Brushless Servomotor with 25W of power
- Dual belt system
- Swappable wheel with quick and easy wheel change system
- Thrustmaster’s patented contactless H.E.A.R.T (HallEffect AccuRate Technology) system
Price: $449.99
Conclusion: Highly recommend! With this racing wheel, you are getting into much higher quality technology. The brushless motor and dual belt system does, indeed, provide a smooth and realistic experience. There is also the option to swap the wheel with just about any from the Thrustmaster ecosystem such as the Sparco R383 Rally Wheel or the Ferrari F1 Racing Wheel.
This list is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to wheels, wheelbases, pedals and other peripherals. However, if you are new to sim racing and on a budget, then this is a great starting point to find the best system for you. Any of these racing wheels will do the job. When you start getting into higher quality gear, the pedals will be the biggest and most important purchase that will affect your on-track performance. Thinking of getting started in iRacing? For the best experience, check out the system requirements to be sure you have what you need. Stay tuned for a list of pedal sets in a future post. Good luck on the track!
