Choosing the best racing wheel for PS5 means focusing on key factors to ensure an immersive, high-performance experience. This guide spotlights top picks, emphasizing crucial elements like price, user feedback, and standout features such as force feedback and direct drive technology for unmatched realism. We've also prioritized durable, high-quality materials to ensure these wheels can withstand hours of intense racing.
Whether you're aiming to dominate in Gran Turismo 7 or seeking budget-friendly options like the Hori Racing Wheel Apex, our curated list has something for every need. With the PS5 Pro on the horizon too, upgrading your sim racing setup has never been more accessible. And while PlayStation has its own recommendations, this list takes into account our team's experiences and expertise to give the most comprehensive selection possible. With that in mind, check out the quick list below, or scroll on further to read our full analysis of each racing wheel.
Best racing wheels for PS5 - Quick list
- Logitech G923 - a great all-rounder for any platform
- Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals - best pick for pro racers
- Hori Racing Wheel Apex - an excellent budget choice
- Thrustmaster T-GT II - a superb midrange option
- Fanatec DD Extreme - top premium pick
- Thrustmaster EVO Racing 32R Leather - the best choice for rally games
Logitech G923
Best wheel for PS5 overall
* prices are accurate at the time of our last check
Why we chose the Logitech G923
As we highlighted in our list of the best wheels for Xbox, the Logitech G923 can deliver exceptional realism from the comfort of your own home thanks to TRUEFORCE feedback technology, designed to emulate the feeling of racing in real life through your fingertips.
Moreover, it comes with additional buttons that can be mapped to racing handicaps like traction control or some of your most commonly used controls like the rearview to make sure your competition stays behind you.
It's also worth noting that you get the accompanying pedals in this bundle, so if you're looking for the complete sim set, we believe this Logitech collection is well worth considering.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- The most well-rounded wheel in terms of features and price.
- TRUEFORCE feedback helps add realism to your sim experience.
Read More: Best racing game deals
Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals
Best pro wheel for PS5
- Amazon - $1,148.99 / £1,349.98 (wheel and pedals)
- Logitech - $999.99 / £999.99 (wheel only)
- Best Buy - $799.99 (wheel only)
* prices are accurate at the time of our last check
Why we chose the Logitech G PRO
Logitech does have a step above the G923, that being its G PRO wheel and pedals, which offer a top-tier setup designed for seasoned enthusiasts of racing games. We say this because the wheel offers 11Nm of torque and 1080 degrees of rotation through its wheelbase, which means it can deliver unparalleled direct drive and TRUEFORCE feedback for an incredibly immersive racing experience. The wheel is equipped with magnetic hall effect paddle shifters, dual-clutch paddles, and a PRO thumb sweep button layout that’s been strategically placed for quick access, reducing response time during intense races.
The pedals are equally impressive, featuring a 100kg load cell brake, Hall Effect Accelerator, and clutch, all with a modular design that allows for easy adjustments to stiffness and arrangement without the need for tools. This innovation and versatility make the Logitech G PRO wheel and pedals the complete package for any racing enthusiast, delivering a premium experience that’s hard to beat, something we highlight in more detail in our review.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Its TRUEFORCE direct drive system takes feedback to the next level.
- The accompanying pedals are powerful, weighty, and adjustable.
Read More: Best wheel bases
Hori Racing Wheel Apex
Best budget wheel for PS5
* prices are accurate at the time of our last check
Why we chose the Hori Racing Wheel Apex
Like the previous entry, the Hori RW Apex wheel is a slightly older model built for PS4. However, this now also makes it a relatively inexpensive bit of kit to complete your budget racing setup.
Despite its lower price tag, the wheel still features a 270° rotation angle that can be adjusted and programmed to whichever game you're playing.
Another feature we particularly like is that the wheel size is said to be identical to most racing cars. So, if you're looking for an authentic experience from a Sony-licensed wheel, then this is one of the best budget racing wheels you can buy.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Far cheaper than rival racing wheels.
- Adjustable rotation angles, and an official Sony license.
Read More: Best racing seats
Thrustmaster T-GT II
Best midrange wheel for PS5
- Amazon - $799.99 / £688.34
- Thrustmaster - $799.99 / £699.99
- CCL - £649.99
* prices are accurate at the time of our last check
Why we chose the Thrustmaster T-GT II
The Thrustmaster T-GT II is a meticulously designed racing wheel offering a seriously realistic racing experience. Its 40-watt brushless motor delivers high-velocity force feedback, complemented by Thrustmaster's patented H.E.A.R.T innovation, ensuring consistent, top-tier performance over time. With over 23,000 hours of research and development invested, this wheel stands as a testament to precision and innovation from one of the leading brands in sim racing.
Crafted with premium leather, the wheel's build exudes quality and comfort too, housing 25 action buttons on the console, including four rotary selectors seamlessly integrated into GT Sport.
Beyond its impressive construction and functionality, the T-GT II is officially licensed for the PS5, making it a prime choice for those seeking an upgrade to their sim setup. It's essentially a game-changer, promising a level of immersion and performance that's hard to match for the midrange price.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Thousands of hours of research poured into its development.
- H.E.A.R.T making sure it performs at its best for years to come.
Read More: Best sim racing pedals
Fanatec DD Extreme
Best premium racing wheel for PS5
- Fanatec - $1,299.95 / €1,299.95
* prices are accurate at the time of our last check
Why we chose the Fanatec DD Extreme
If budget is no concern, the Fanatec DD Extreme is a standout choice, especially for enthusiasts of the iconic PS5 racing game, Gran Turismo.
This formidable device generates a remarkable 15 Nm of torque with its ClubSport DD+ Wheel Base, setting it apart from most competitors and justifying its "Extreme" moniker.
The design exudes luxury, with a vegan leather rim spanning 300mm, equipped with 19 programmable LEDs, and an OLED display to deliver real-time vehicle stats during gameplay. Additionally, its official PS5 license seals its reputation as an essential investment for serious racing gamers seeking the ultimate direct drive experience.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- Produces an insane 15 Nm of torque for unrivalled feedback.
- A heads-up OLED display keeps vital info right in front of you.
Read More: Best sim racing handbrakes
Thrustmaster EVO Racing 32R Leather
Best rallying racing wheel for PS5
- Amazon - $299.99 / £195.20
- Thrustmaster - $349.99 / £269.99
- Currys - £224.00
* prices are accurate at the time of our last check
Why we chose the Thrustmaster EVO Racing 32R Leather
The Thrustmaster EVO Racing 32R, with its 12.6-inch diameter, delivers an authentic rally wheel experience, perfect for tackling the toughest tracks across various racing disciplines. The wheel features curved paddle shifters equipped with magnetic sensors, ensuring precise responsiveness and easy accessibility, so you can maintain top speed with confidence. Its high-quality construction includes a brushed aluminum central faceplate for added rigidity without compromising on weight, while the leather wrapping offers both durability and a touch of style.
Customization is key with the EVO Racing 32R, thanks to its detachable central hub system that allows you to switch out different wheel rims and paddle shifters to suit your racing needs. The hub itself is packed with 25 action buttons, four rotary encoders, an ergonomic D-pad, and seven LEDs that display crucial racing data like RPMs, giving you a competitive edge. Just remember, you’ll need a Thrustmaster base to use this wheel, but it’s compatible with almost all of their bases, offering plenty of options for your setup.
TL;DR - Reasons to buy
- It's a realistic size for rallying
- Its magnetic curved paddles make changing gears quick and responsive
- You get LEDs that provide critical racing information on the go
Read More: Best gaming chairs for racing games
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to finding the right racing wheel, there are usually a few questions that pop up, we're here to answer some of the more common queries.
What is force feedback?
Force feedback is a simulation technique employed in racing wheels to create a realistic racing experience. It aims to mimic the sensations that a driver would feel if they were actually driving under identical conditions in real life.
Essentially, force feedback is designed to provide you with an abundance of feedback from the wheel, allowing you to make subtle adjustments to your driving technique for improved performance. This feedback is intended to be as accurate and precise as possible, giving you a more immersive and engaging racing experience.
What is direct drive?
Direct drive is a term used in the context of racing wheels that describes a setup where the wheel is directly attached to the motor through a quick-release hub. This design allows the user to experience the full range of feedback from the motor, as there are fewer components between the wheel and the mechanism.
In contrast, a force feedback device typically incorporates a belt or gear system to supplement the motor and provide additional simulation feedback. The use of these additional components can affect the fidelity of the feedback, making direct drive a popular choice for users who prioritize an authentic racing experience.
Are all racing wheels compatible with PS5?
The quick response is no, but make sure you check the product's specifications and description if you're uncertain. For example, some steering wheels feature an Xbox button layout, and older models might not support next-generation technology. It varies from model to model.
Nevertheless, since most steering wheels connect using a USB cable, the majority should be compatible with the PS5. Just make sure you do your research before you buy.
How much should you spend on a wheel for PS5?
If you're asking this question, then your choice of racing wheel will likely largely depend on your budget and how committed you are to racing games.
If you're open to spending more, you might find wheels with additional features that budget models lack, such as aluminum paddles. Higher-end wheels also typically use more durable and premium materials, such as plush Alcantara for the grip and stainless steel in the motors.
On the other hand, several budget-friendly wheels effectively meet the basic requirements without breaking the bank. Additionally, looking for the best sim racing deals could help you secure higher-end models at a lower price, allowing you to allocate your budget elsewhere more effectively.
Are sim racing wheels suitable for beginners?
Sim racing wheels serve as an ideal starting point for beginners venturing into the world of racing simulations. They offer an immersive and intuitive introduction that can only serve to improve your skills on track.
Unlike conventional gamepads or keyboards, sim racing wheels closely replicate the control mechanisms of actual vehicles, providing newcomers with a familiar setup. This familiarity facilitates an easier learning curve, allowing beginners to grasp the nuances of virtual driving more quickly.
Moreover, sim racing wheels often incorporate feedback technology, replicating the tactile sensations of real driving. This feedback is instrumental in honing car control skills, enabling beginners to recognize and respond to factors like traction loss, understeer, and oversteer.
Having transitioned from using a controller myself, I can attest to the superior precision offered by a sim racing wheel too. The ability to make subtle steering adjustments with ease translates to a more fluid and responsive driving experience, making it an optimal choice for beginners seeking to enhance their skills.
Are racing wheels adjustable?
Yes is the simple answer. Many racing wheels are adjustable to enhance your gaming experience to suit different preferences. For instance, you can typically modify the sensitivity of the steering input on most racing wheels, dictating how much the virtual steering wheel in the game rotates in response to your movements on the physical one.
Additionally, most racing wheels let you alter the rotation angle of the virtual steering wheel, affecting how much you need to turn the physical wheel to complete a full lock-to-lock turn in the game.
For those equipped with feedback features, you have the option to adjust the strength and intensity of feedback effects such as vibration, resistance, and movement. This allows you to fine-tune these settings for a more tailored level of realism and immersion.
Racing wheels usually come with various buttons and controls, and most models offer the flexibility to customize these button assignments. This is particularly useful for matching the control schemes of different racing games.
Keep in mind, however, that the degree of adjustability can vary across different models of racing wheels, so make sure you check out the description of the wheel you're looking to buy to figure out exactly what can be adjusted before you invest.
Can a racing wheel be used without a dedicated racing seat or stand?
Yes, you can use a racing wheel without a dedicated racing seat or stand. Many racing wheels are designed to be securely mounted on a desk or table using clamps, providing a stable platform for gaming. This setup is ideal for casual gamers or those with limited space, offering an immersive racing experience without the need for additional furniture.
However, a dedicated racing seat or stand is highly recommended for stability. Using either a stand or seat can prevent the wheel from moving during intense gameplay, and offer a more realistic driving position. They are particularly beneficial for longer gaming sessions, making them a great investment for serious racing enthusiasts.
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