Racing simulation has hit new levels in 2025, and to truly feel the roar of the engine and the grip of every corner, you need more than a keyboard or a controller. A great racing wheel can transform your driving experience — and if you’re building a sim rig, it’s the heart of your setup.
Here are the best racing wheels for PC in 2025, including direct drive monsters, budget-friendly champs, and everything in between.
Best overall: The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel is our pick for the best PC racing wheel, thanks to its ferocious direct drive torque, detailed feedback, and ease of use. Offers 11 Nm of direct drive torque for detailed steering feedback, an easy-to-use interface, and a fantastic pedal set (sold separately).
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation
Price: $899
Ultra-precise direct drive force feedback
Excellent build quality
Clean software interface
Quiet and powerful
Pedals sold separately
High price point
Best budget: Looking to race without breaking the bank? The T128 is a solid entry-level choice. It uses a hybrid system (gears and belt) for a more realistic feel than most budget options. It comes with paddle shifters, customisable buttons, and a simplified pedal set — perfect for casual racers or first-time buyers.
Compatibility: PC, Xbox, or PlayStation
Price: $199
Affordable and responsive
Compact and beginner-friendly
Solid paddle shifters
Lacks realism of direct drive
Limited upgrade path
Best Mid-Range Pick: Sitting comfortably between budget and pro-level gear, the T248 strikes a nice balance. It boasts hybrid force feedback, strong magnetic pedals, and even a small digital display for RPM and speed data.
Crisp force feedback with multiple levels
Built-in display for telemetry
Great magnetic pedal set included
Paddle shifters are loud
No handbrake input port
Most Upgradeable System: The GT DD Pro is built for flexibility and longevity. With its direct drive base, this setup can be scaled up over time — you can add stronger torque kits, switch wheel rims, or upgrade to load cell pedals.
Exceptional force feedback
Compact and modular
Deep upgrade ecosystem (pedals, wheels, etc.)
Fanatec’s ordering and support can be clunky
Boost Kit sold separately
Best Sim Racing Cockpit: The Playseat Trophy is a racing cockpit that offers exceptional comfort and adjustability. It’s designed with a breathable mesh seat and a durable steel frame — perfect for long racing sessions.
Weight: 16 kg / 35.2 1lb Width: 110 cm / 43.3 inches Depth: 138 cm / 54.3 inches Compatibility: Most wheels and pedals Force Feedback: Yes Drive: DirectSuper comfortable for long sessions
Excellent adjustability
Strong and stable build
No wheels or pedals included
Bulky for small spaces
2nd Best Budget: If you want the power of direct drive without the premium price tag, the Moza R5 is your best bet. It includes everything you need to race right away: a sturdy wheel, a direct drive motor base, and a two-pedal set.
Compatibility: PC only
Maximum rotation angle: 2000 degreesSmooth direct drive experience at a lower price
Responsive and customizable
Great value as a full bundle
PC only
Limited ecosystem compared to Logitech/Fanatec
A solid step up from beginner gear
Drive Type: Gear-driven with TrueForce force feedback
Compatibility: PC, PlayStation, Xbox (versions available)
Price: ~$399
Why it’s notable: A popular mid-tier option, the G923 features Logitech’s TrueForce tech for extra vibration realism. It’s a great pick for casual racers who want a simple setup that just works.
Direct drive at a modular level
Drive Type: Direct Drive (5Nm or 8Nm with Boost Kit)
Compatibility: PC only
Price: $599+
Why it’s notable: The CSL DD offers similar performance to the GT DD Pro but is only compatible with PC. It’s a solid foundation for anyone building a Fanatec-based rig.
Pro-level realism for sim veterans
Drive Type: High-torque direct drive
Torque: Up to 13Nm
Price: $1,100+
Why it’s notable: This is for serious sim racing enthusiasts. The AccuForce Pro delivers incredible feedback and adjustability but requires advanced setup knowledge. For more gaming gear recommendations, check out Total Apex Gaming!
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