Best Entry Level Sim Racing Wheels: Top Affordable Picks for Beginners
Getting started in sim racing doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some of the best entry level sim racing wheels. . Explore affordable options with features like 900° steering, force feedback, and multi-platform compatibility to start your racing journey.
What Can You Expect from an Entry Level Wheel?
Entry level racing wheels have come a long way in recent years, with many offering impressive features for their price points. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- Force Feedback: Most beginner wheels feature gear-driven or hybrid systems that deliver realistic feedback, simulating road textures, collisions, and turns. While not as refined as direct drive systems, they offer excellent immersion for the price.
- Durability: While entry level wheels are made with more plastic components than their premium counterparts, they’re built to last for casual use.
- Basic Pedals: Many beginner wheels include a set of pedals, often with adjustable resistance or progressive braking to help you develop your skills.
- Rotation Angles: Entry level wheels often offer 900° of rotation, which is more than enough for most sim racing games.
- Wide Compatibility: Whether you’re racing on a PC, PlayStation, or Xbox, most entry-level wheels are designed to work across multiple platforms.
How to Choose the Right Entry Level Wheel
Before jumping into our top recommendations, it’s important to know what to look for when choosing your first racing wheel. Here are a few key factors to consider:
- Your Platform: Make sure the wheel you choose is compatible with your gaming setup, whether it’s a PC, PlayStation, or Xbox. Some wheels, like the Logitech G29 and G920, offer console-specific versions.
- Force Feedback vs. Non-Force Feedback: Force feedback adds a layer of realism, simulating the feel of the road and car. If immersion is important to you, prioritize a wheel with force feedback over cheaper, non-feedback models.
- Build Quality: Check for materials like metal or leather for added durability and comfort. Plastic wheels may feel less premium but can still provide a solid experience.
- Budget: Entry-level wheels range from $100 to $300. Set a budget and choose the wheel that offers the best features within your price range.
- Ecosystem Support: If you think you’ll upgrade in the future, consider wheels from brands that offer modular systems with compatible pedals, shifters, and accessories.
Our Top 5 Entry Level Sim Racing Wheels
Last updated: January 2025
1
PXN V10 Racing Wheel (PC, PlayStation, Xbox)
Features:
- Dual-Motor Force Feedback: Provides immersive and realistic driving sensations by simulating road conditions, collisions, and weight transfer.
- 900° Adjustable Rotation: Allows smooth steering with a wide range of motion, adjustable to 270° for arcade-style racing.
- Three-Pedal Set: Includes a metal accelerator, brake, and clutch pedal for enhanced realism and durability.
- 6-Speed H-Pattern Shifter: Comes with a detachable shifter, perfect for games requiring manual shifting like Euro Truck Simulator or rally games.
Based on (150 Reviews)
PROS
- Offers excellent value for beginners who want both a wheel and shifter at an affordable price.
- Wide compatibility with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles.
- Adjustable rotation makes it versatile for different game types, from arcade racers to simulators.
- Sturdy pedals with a clutch are a great feature at this price point.
CONS
- Force feedback isn’t as refined or strong as higher-end models like Logitech or Thrustmaster.
- Plastic construction of the wheel feels less premium compared to competitors.
- The shifter, while functional, lacks the solid build quality of standalone options.
2
Logitech G29 (PlayStation/PC)
Features:
- Dual-Motor Force Feedback: Offers immersive feedback, simulating road textures and driving conditions.
- 900° Rotation: Provides a full range of motion, delivering realistic steering input.
- Leather-Wrapped Wheel: Comfortable and durable grip for extended play sessions.
- Three-Pedal Set: Includes accelerator, brake, and clutch pedals with progressive braking resistance.
Based on (19,657 Reviews)
PROS
- Premium materials and solid build quality.
- Good balance of price, quality, and performance.
- Excellent compatibility with PlayStation and PC.
- Adjustable settings via Logitech G Hub software.
CONS
- Gear-driven force feedback lacks the smoothness of higher-end models.
- Pedals are basic and might need an upgrade as you advance.
- No included shifter (sold separately).
3
Logitech G920 (Xbox/PC)
Features:
- Dual-Motor Force Feedback: Provides realistic road feel, feedback, and vibrations during racing.
- 900° Rotation: Realistic rotation for various racing game styles.
- Leather-Wrapped Wheel: Soft and comfortable grip, ideal for longer gaming sessions.
- Three-Pedal Set: Accelerator, brake, and clutch pedals with progressive resistance.
Based on (21,079 Reviews)
PROS
- Great build quality for its price.
- Excellent force feedback performance for an entry-level wheel.
- Fully compatible with Xbox and PC.
- Easy customization with Logitech G Hub software.
CONS
- Gear-driven feedback can be noisy and less refined than higher-end models.
- Pedals are not as adjustable as those in premium setups.
- The shifter is not included, and purchasing it separately adds to the cost.
4
Thrustmaster TMX (Xbox/PC)
Features:
- Hybrid Belt and Gear System: Smoother and quieter force feedback system for an enhanced racing experience.
- 900° Rotation: Provides a wide range of rotation for various racing styles, giving you precise control over your steering.
- Rubber-Coated Grips: Comfortable, firm grip for extended play sessions.
- Two-Pedal Set: Includes an accelerator and brake pedal with adjustable resistance for better control.
Based on (2,729 Reviews)
PROS
- Excellent force feedback for an entry-level price range.
- Adjustable steering rotation up to 900° for a versatile experience.
- Works well on both Xbox and PC, making it highly compatible.
- Quiet operation compared to other entry-level wheels with gear-driven feedback.
CONS
- No clutch pedal, which limits the realism in manual shifting games.
- Build quality is not as durable as higher-end models.
- Force feedback lacks the power of more premium wheels, especially in terms of precision.
5
PXN V99 (PC, PS4, Xbox, Switch)
Features:
- Multi-Platform Compatibility: Works with PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch.
- 270°/900° Steering Modes: Switch between arcade-style 270° steering and realistic 900° rotation.
- Force Feedback: Provides basic force feedback to simulate road conditions and collisions.
- Pedal Set: Includes a two-pedal system (accelerator and brake) for casual gameplay.
Based on (51 Reviews)
PROS
- The PXN V99 is budget-friendly, making it a great choice for beginners or casual players.
- It offers wide compatibility with various platforms, so you don’t need multiple wheels for different systems.
- Adjustable steering modes provide flexibility for arcade and simulation-style gameplay.
- Easy to set up and use, even for those new to sim racing equipment.
CONS
- The force feedback is limited and lacks the precision of higher-end models.
- The included pedals feel basic, with minimal resistance and no clutch.
- The plastic build feels less durable and premium compared to more expensive options.