Finding the best wheel base for your sim racing setup can be a daunting task if you're unsure where to start. To simplify your search, we've put together a selection of top-tier options that excel in terms of price, reviews, and features.
Our focus is on bases that complement some of the best racing wheels by offering substantial torque, aiming for 8Nm or higher to enhance realism through robust feedback. Moreover, we've prioritised compatibility, ensuring these bases work seamlessly with various racing peripherals, including leading wheels for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.
Bases like the MOZA R9 V2 fit the bill here as it's an excellent choice tailored for PC gaming, while the Fanatec CSL DD and GT DD Pro are versatile options compatible across all consoles. By covering bases like these, our list caters to a diverse range of preferences and platforms, helping you find a suitable device that can bring direct drive to your home sim setup.
Whatever you're looking for, our list is the ideal place to start. Let's get into our top picks...
Best wheel bases
- MOZA R9 V2 - best option for PC
- Fanatec CSL DD / GT DD Pro - a great choice for consoles
- Fanatec Podium DD2 - top-tier midrange alternative
- Simucube 2 Ultimate - a superb choice if money is no object
1. MOZA R9 V2
Best wheel base for PC
Compatibility: PC
The MOZA R9 V2, with its impressive 9Nm of torque, truly stands out for those seeking an authentic direct-drive experience, especially if they are considering transitioning from gear or belt-driven sim racing alternatives.
Remarkably compact in design, this wheelbase is versatile enough to be effortlessly mounted on a variety of rigs. For added stability, it even offers the option of securing it with a table clamp if you're at a desk sitting in one of the best gaming chairs for racing.
It's important to note that the MOZA R9 is exclusively compatible with PC, which may disappoint console players. However, if you're a PC user and in search of your first great direct drive wheel, few alternatives can rival its performance and value.
Reasons to buy:
- Provides a powerful but not earth-shattering amount of torque
- Ideal for PC racers seeking a top-tier wheel base
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2. Fanatec CSL DD / GT DD Pro
Best wheel base for consoles
Compatibility: PC, Xbox, PlayStation
Fanatec's "baby DD" wheel base offers an accessible gateway for at-home racing enthusiasts to experience the advantages of direct drive technology.
This compact wheel base provides a torque output of up to 5Nm, which can be upped to 8Nm by adding the optional Boost Kit. It's designed to be easily mounted on any wheel stand or racing rig as well, and for those without a permanent setup, it includes a convenient table clamp.
The CSL DD is compatible with both PC and Xbox platforms, while the GT DD Pro, as highlighted in our review, is primarily designed for PlayStation and PC, though it's also versatile enough to work with Xbox when paired with a compatible steering wheel.
Reasons to buy:
- Two versions to cover compatibility across Xbox and PlayStation
- You can upgrade the power to 8Nm with the Boost kit
- Read More: Best sim racing pedals
3. Fanatec Podium DD2
Best midrange wheel base
Compatibility: PC, Xbox
The DD2 stands as Fanatec's flagship wheel base, widely recognised in official esports competitions like F1 Esports.
This impressive base generates a remarkable 25Nm of torque, on par with the power steering in most actual race cars. Additionally, it features a built-in OLED display for real-time performance monitoring. However, it's important to note that the Podium DD2 is compatible exclusively with PC and Xbox, so if you're a PlayStation racing enthusiast, you'll need to explore other options.
Given its substantial power, it's ideal to pair it with a more robust rig equipped with one of the finest racing seats. However, it's versatile enough to mount on a wheel stand if desired.
Reasons to buy:
- One of the most powerful wheel bases you can buy, and yet it's not ridiculously expensive
- Features a built-in OLED display to monitor its performance
Read More: Best sim racing shifters
4. Simucube 2 Ultimate
Best premium wheel base
Compatibility: PC
The Simucube 2 Ultimate distinguishes itself as a premier wheel base in the realm of sim racing, boasting a construction of premium quality that helps it deliver outstanding performance.
This device sets the benchmark with its capacity to generate 32Nm of torque, elevating force feedback to levels of realism beyond anything else we've mentioned. Its responsiveness is unparalleled, and you'll experience smoothness like no other thanks to things like friction filters and its ultra-low latency mode.
However, it is important to highlight that it is tailored specifically for PC users. If you're on console, Fanatec's range has you covered, but if you're a PC user, you won't find many better wheel bases than this.
Reasons to buy:
- Perhaps the most powerful wheel base on the market, although it's expensive
- Features like friction filters and the ultra-low latency mode ensure smooth feedback
Read More: Best budget racing wheels
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Finding the right wheel base usually brings up a few questions. Don't worry though because we've answered some of the more common queries below.
What is a wheel base?
At the core of a sim racing setup, the wheel base serves as a crucial component, supplying power and drive to the steering wheel, along with delivering the force feedback sensation.
Force feedback, a simulation technique employed by racing wheels, aims to provide an authentic representation of the real-life racing experience based on the in-game conditions. To achieve this, the wheel base utilises motors to generate resistance, mirroring the events depicted on your screen.
However, as shown by this list, there is also the option of direct drive, which shares similarities with force feedback. However, in direct drive setups, the motor is directly connected to the wheel, enabling a more direct transmission of feedback from the motor to the user. This design minimises the number of components involved, creating a more immediate and immersive connection between you, the wheel, and the mechanism compared to some of the best force feedback wheels.
What should you look for from a wheel base?
Before looking into some of the finer technical details, you should first check that the wheel base you're looking to buy is compatible with your console and racing wheel. This information can usually be found in the product description.
From there, we'd recommend checking out what kind of feedback the device in question offers, plus how much torque it can deliver to your steering wheel. The higher the torque, the more intense and powerful the feedback should be.
However, a good wheel base should also offer smooth and responsive steering input, even if it can deliver unparalleled levels of torque. This ensures precise control and a more realistic driving experience.
Finally, opt for a wheel base with a sturdy construction made from durable materials. This ensures longevity and reliability, especially during intense gaming sessions.
How much should you spend on a wheel base?
If you're considering purchasing a wheel base, chances are you're aiming to enhance your current racing setup and may be willing to invest more to elevate your gaming experience.
Quality wheel bases typically come with a higher price tag, and those priced lower often include a fixed wheel, limiting flexibility. The Fanatec CSL DD, while relatively affordable compared to others, still commands a significant investment.
Therefore, we advise opting for a wheel base only if you're committed to sim racing and have the financial means to make the most of it. After all, there's no point investing in a cheap one that won't bring a realistic feeling to your setup.
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