Owning some of the best sim racing pedals can seriously enhance your performance on the track. That's why we've curated a list of top-tier pedal sets that excel in price, reviews, and features, perfectly complementing your racing wheel and elevating your setup to new heights.
To narrow things down, we've prioritized pedals made from durable metals to withstand the rigors of intense racing. Stability and adaptability are also key, so our selections include pedals that ensure comfort and prevent slippage during critical moments. From budget-friendly options like the Thrustmaster T-3PM or slightly more premium picks such as Fanatec's ClubSport Pedals, our list covers all bases.
Best Sim Racing Pedals - Quick List
- Thrustmaster T-LCM - a great choice overall
- Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3 - a high-end choice for pro racers
- Thrustmaster T-3PM - best budget-friendly alternative
- Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3 Inverted - an excellent inverted set
- Logitech G923 Wheel and Pedal Set - best wheel and pedal package
Thrustmaster T-LCM
Best sim racing pedals overall
- Amazon - $249.50 / £357.50
- Thrustmaster - £189.99 (£10 off) / $249.99
- Currys - £169.00 (£30 off)
* prices are subject to change
Why we chose the Thrustmaster T-LCM
Thrustmaster's T-LCM pedals are a versatile option for racing setups, compatible with PlayStation, Xbox, and PC racing games, all at an affordable price. These pedals boast 100kg load cell technology, offering exceptional in-game precision by simulating real-life pedal forces. This increased immersion helps improve driving technique, allowing you to find those extra tenths during your laps.
Designed with durability and accuracy in mind, the T-LCM pedals feature HallEffect AccuRate Technology (H.E.A.R.T), providing 16-bit resolution and a contactless design to reduce wear. With six customizable springs too, you can adjust the resistance for a tailored experience, especially when paired with a top VR headset for racing for maximum immersion.
TL;DR - Reasons to Buy
- It's compatible with a range of different gaming platforms
- Boasts 100kg load cell technology
- Utilises Thrustmaster's H.E.A.R.T innovation for improved longevity
Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3
Best premium sim racing pedals
* prices are subject to change
Why we chose the Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3
Fanatec's ClubSport Pedals are a premium choice for those looking to build out a top-tier racing setup to compete at the highest level. Built from durable metal, they feature a 90kg load cell and magnetic, contactless sensors for the gas and clutch, helping them deliver long-lasting performance and precision.
Another standout feature is the built-in vibration motor, designed to produce real-time feedback on wheel spin, oversteer, ABS engagement, and tire lockups, greatly enhancing immersion, particularly when paired with a top-tier wheel for PS5 or an excellent pick for Xbox. Plus, the D-shaped design with extensions allows for extensive customization, ensuring maximum comfort during intense races.
TL;DR - Reasons to Buy
- It features a vibration motor to provide real-time feedback
- You can customise it with added extensions available for the pedals
Thrustmaster T-3PM
Best budget sim racing pedals
- Amazon - $129.99 / £84.99 (21% off)
- Thrustmaster - £109.99 / $129.99
- Walmart - $129.99
* prices are subject to change
Why we chose the Thrustmaster T-3PM
The Thrustmaster T-3PM pedal set offers impressive performance at a budget-friendly price, making it a solid option for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC gamers. Despite its affordability, it still packs 200kg pressure resistance and H.E.A.R.T technology, delivering 12-bit resolution for reliable precision during extended gaming sessions.
A key highlight is the four pressure modes on the central pedal, allowing for fine-tuned braking adjustments based on your setup, whether at a desk or in a cockpit. The set's increased weight, 20% heavier than its predecessor, also adds stability for a more immersive racing experience on a budget, especially if you catch these pedals while they're on sale.
TL;DR - Reasons to Buy
- It's much cheaper than some of its rivals
- It also boasts Thrustmaster's H.E.A.R.T system
- It's weightier than the previous model
Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3 Inverted
Best inverted sim racing pedals
* prices are subject to change
Why we chose the Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3 Inverted
Switching perspective, Fanatec's inverted ClubSport Pedals V3 brings a unique twist to your racing setup by flipping the clutch and brake pivots upside down. Like the standard V3 model, they feature a 90kg load cell and magnetic, contactless Hall sensors, but the inverted design mimics certain real-life cars, providing longer travel distances for greater precision in pedal management.
These pedals also come with an adjustable ClubSport Damper Kit, allowing for tool-less customization of the brake pedal, making it easy to fine-tune your setup. With these added features, these inverted pedals can bring more customization and immersion to any racing experience alongside a top-tier shifter and other sim gear.
TL;DR - Reasons to Buy
- Provides an alternative, and arguably more realistic, pedal setup
- It boasts a very solid base to stop it from moving under pressure
- You can adjust the resistance with ease
Logitech G923 Wheel and Pedal Set
Best sim racing pedals and wheel bundle
- Amazon - $276.99 (21% off) / £269.00 (29% off)
- Logitech - $279.99 ($70 off) / £379.99
- Currys - £309.00
* prices are subject to change
Why we chose the Logitech G923 Wheel and Pedal Set
For a more complete setup, the Logitech G923 is a great choice to consider for those new to sim racing. Featuring a TRUEFORCE feedback wheel and nonlinear brake pedals, this combo helps provide an immersive and realistic racing experience at an affordable price.
The nonlinear brake pedals are a key highlight for this guide, in particular. They offer the ability to replicate a pressure-sensitive brake system, offering a more authentic feel. The pedals are also fully adjustable, allowing for customization to suit your preferences, ensuring both comfort and control during intense races.
Versatility is another major advantage, with interchangeable rubber feet for hard surfaces and a retractable carpet grip system to prevent slipping on soft floors. This aids stability at your setup regardless of the surface, making the entire set a reliable choice at a great value.
TL;DR - Reasons to Buy
- You get a set of pedals and a very well-rounded racing wheel
- The pedals are completely adjustable
- The system is compatible with all the major gaming platforms
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Figuring out what makes sim racing pedals good can be a little tricky at times. Don't worry though, we've answered some of the most commonly asked questions right here.
What should you look for from sim racing pedals?
As touched on, one of the most important aspects to look out for when selecting a set of pedals is their build quality, specifically the type of materials they're made out of.
Although plastic is cheaper, it's unlikely to last as long as metal pedals, and you may even find them to be a bit too flimsy to work effectively in your setup.
You'll also want to look for something stable. The last thing you want is for your pedals to slip away out of reach during crucial overtaking opportunities.
Again, going for something made of metal should also mean they're heavier and less likely to slip. Alternatively, keep an eye out for pedals that have specific non-slip material underneath.
Finally, we'd recommend opting for an adjustable set of pedals. To get the most out of your ability and to remain comfortable, you don't really want pedals that are just slightly out of reach to the point where you can't use them to their full effect.
Do sim racing pedals make a difference?
While sim racing pedals may improve your performance, where they really shine is through increasing your immersion in the action on screen.
For example, pedals that come with load cell technology are designed to deliver more resistance that mimics the kind of brakes you’d come across in real-world driving and racing.
As a result, you should find adding pedals to your setup adds realism. That said, the familiarity of using pedals, like in real life, may also give you a competitive edge on the track.
You may also get a little more control, especially over braking, using a set of pedals as there's a wider range of brake force to play with compared to the back bumpers on some of the best controllers for racing.
All in all, we'd argue that pedals can definitely make a difference to your racing performance once you're used to them.
How much should you spend on sim racing pedals?
The answer to this question all depends on your available budget and the type of pedals you're looking for as the cost of pedals can vary depending on the materials used, such as plastic or magnetic metal.
Generally, magnetic metal pedals tend to be more expensive due to their superior build quality. Then, if you are willing to spend a bit more, you may have access to additional features like adjustable springs that allow you to customize the brake force and overall setup according to your liking.
However, it's worth noting that you don't necessarily have to spend a fortune to get high-quality metal pedals. Take, for example, the Thrustmaster T-3PM pedals. These pedals are constructed entirely from metal, providing excellent durability, and they offer 200kg of pressure resistance and feature four distinct pressure modes. Additionally, they come with H.E.A.R.T technology, ensuring precise input that remains consistent over time. The best part is that they are available at a relatively affordable price.
Ultimately, the decision of how much to spend on sim racing pedals is up to you. It's important to consider your budget and only invest an amount that you can comfortably afford.
Can sim racing pedals be used without a racing wheel?
Technically, sim racing pedals can be used without a racing wheel in certain scenarios. Some racing simulators and games on PC allow for standalone pedal use, where the pedals can be connected directly to the PC via USB. This setup is particularly useful for players who may prefer using alternative controllers, like a gamepad or keyboard, for steering while still enjoying the realistic throttle and braking control that pedals provide.
However, using sim racing pedals without a racing wheel may limit the overall immersive experience that sim racing enthusiasts seek. A racing wheel complements the pedals by providing precise steering inputs and force feedback, which enhances the realism of driving simulators. Without a wheel, the player might miss out on the tactile feedback and nuanced control that a complete sim racing setup offers. So, for those looking to get the most out of their sim racing experience, pairing high-quality pedals with a compatible racing wheel is generally recommended.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a beginner building your first racing setup or a seasoned pro seeking peak performance, investing in the right sim racing pedals can transform your driving experience. Choose the set that suits your needs and budget, and get ready to leave your competitors in the dust!