If you're searching for the best wheel for iRacing, you've landed in the right spot. iRacing, known for its intense realism, pairs best with a dedicated racing wheel rather than a standard controller, especially for those who take their sim racing seriously.
The thing is, selecting the ideal wheel for iRacing can seem daunting due to the wide variety of exceptional options. However, we've compiled a refined list of the best wheels that shine in terms of their price, user feedback, and high-tech features, all designed to upgrade your racing setup.
Our picks include some of the best direct drive wheels and force feedback options, known for their precise feedback that mirrors real-life racing dynamics accurately. That's what a wheel is all about at the end of the day, so make sure you're strapped in as we run through our top picks.
Best wheels for iRacing
- Fanatec Podium Racing Wheel F1 - best sim racing wheel
- Logitech G923 - a great alternative that's a little cheaper
- MOZA RS V2 - top mid-range option
- Fanatec Clubsport Steering Wheel Formula v2.5 - best customizable wheel
1. Fanatec Podium Racing Wheel F1
Best sim racing wheel for iRacing
Today's best deals *
- Fanatec - $1,299.95 / €1,299.95
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Fanatec Podium Racing Wheel F1
While you may associate this Fanatec device as being one of the best wheels for F1, we'd argue it would actually make for a great pick for iRacing as well, especially following the 2023 Season 1 update.
In the said update, iRacing has added the 2022 Mercedes-AMG W13 E Performance F1 car. Therefore, to get the most out of the vehicle, plus all the other open-wheel cars in the game, opting for something that's designed to replicate an F1 car's wheel should pay dividends.
Technology-wise, it comes equipped with direct drive from one of the best wheel bases in the game. Fanatec also boasts the endless rotation of its motor inspired by the creation of the unique wireless data transfer and power system - no USB cables getting in the way of your racing here.
On the wheel itself, you get 11 buttons, 12-way multi-position switches, RevLEDs, plus two magnetic shifters on the back for quick, seamless shifts in-game, forgoing the need to add a top sim racing shifter to your setup. All in all, plenty to like with this Fanatec wheel.
Reasons to buy:
- Comes with a direct drive wheel base
- Plenty of additional buttons and multi-position switches
Read More: Best sim racing equipment deals
2. Logitech G923
Best budget wheel for iRacing
Today's best deals *
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Logitech G923
When it comes to the inexpensive end of the scale, we'd say it's hard to beat this Logitech G923 bit of kit.
Firstly, it features TRUEFORCE feedback technology which, according to Logitech, is designed to plug directly into in-game physics for unparalleled levels of realism thanks to its real-time haptics software.
Moreover, it comes with a 24-point selection dial unit, allowing you to adjust the likes of your traction, torque, and brake force from the wheel itself - no need to dive deep into the settings to optimize your setup.
You should also find this wheel withstands the test of time as it's made from high-end materials such as aluminum, steel, and leather. So, even with the wear and tear of racing to compete with, this Logitech device should last.
Reasons to buy:
- Relatively inexpensive considering its features
- Provides realistic force feedback
Read More: Best racing game deals
3. MOZA RS V2
Best mid-range wheel for iRacing
Today's best deals *
- MOZA Racing - £439.00
- eBay - $490.21
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the MOZA RS V2
Looking for something in between the inexpensive and premium price range? This MOZA RS V2 could be your answer.
This 13" genuine leather, carbon fiber, and the aluminum device is compatible with a range of direct drive and force feedback wheel bases from MOZA to deliver exceptional realism and immersion from the track.
On the wheel, you get a ton of buttons and an LED Rev counter to help you time your gear shifts to perfection. When it comes to switching gears, the carbon fiber magnetic shifters on the back should have you covered.
To top it all off, it comes with a quick-release system to ensure a solid, stable connection, even when you want to swap between devices. Ultimately, this looks to be another great option to consider.
Reasons to buy:
- Good size for PC racing
- LED rev counter will help you time your gear shifts to perfection
Read More: Best sim racing pedals
4. Fanatec Clubsport Steering Wheel Formula v2.5
Best customizable wheel for iRacing
Today's best deals *
* prices are accurate at the time of the last update
Why we chose the Fanatec Clubsport Steering Wheel Formula v2.5
If you're looking for something compatible with a wide range of wheel bases, then this Clubsport Steering Wheel Formula v2.5 may be worth checking out.
The Formula-style wheel is made from leather, metal, and carbon fiber, with several rubber-coated surfaces for added grip. Thanks to its compact 270mm build though, the wheel weighs just 1250g, so should work well during fast movements and reactions.
Similar to the aforementioned Podium Racing device, the wheel also has 11 buttons, 12-way multi-position switches, and RevLEDs to indicate the optimum time to shift. All in all, Fanatec states up to 67 functions can be adjusted directly from this wheel.
Interestingly, the wheel is said to be highly customizable as well. So, if you're looking to add F1-style clutch paddles or upgrade to Fanatec's QR2 system, this wheel has you covered.
Reasons to buy:
- Its premium metal and carbon fiber build is durable
- 67 functions can be adjusted directly from this wheel
Read More: Best racing seats
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Sim racing wheels can be tricky to find at times and may lead to a ton of questions. Don't worry though, we've answered some of the most commonly asked queries right here.
Can you use any wheel on iRacing?
In short, no. iRacing is a PC game and, therefore, only PC-compatible wheels will work with the game.
However, as touched on in the introduction, most wheels from some of the major sim racing manufacturers are said to be compatible with the game according to iRacing themselves.
You can find a list of compatible wheels, as well as controllers and joysticks, on the iRacing website if you want to find out more.
How much should you spend on a wheel for iRacing?
iRacing is a fairly hardcore sim racing title. Therefore, we'd recommend spending a little extra to ensure you're getting features like direct drive from your wheel to get the most out of your iRacing experience.
While you can spend thousands on a top-of-the-range bit of kit, you don't necessarily have to break the bank to pick up a great wheel packed with technology. For instance, the Logitech G923 is relatively inexpensive compared to some of the other options featured in our list. However, it still comes with TRUEFORCE feedback technology to deliver higher fidelity, real-time responses.
That said, choosing how much you spend will come down to your own personal preference and available budget. Our main suggestion will be to only pick up a wheel that you're able to afford as you can always upgrade later down the line.
Is iRacing easier with a racing wheel?
A sim title like iRacing is really designed with racing wheels in mind. Therefore, you should find you'll get the most out of the game whilst using one.
This, of course, depends on whether or not you're used to using a racing wheel over the likes of a controller as transitioning from one to the other can take some time to adjust.
That said, once you've made the switch, you should find features like force feedback can help improve your driving as you gain a better understanding of the track in-game through the sensations felt through your steering wheel.
However, a controller does offer greater versatility away from racing games. So, if you're a more casual sim racer, then you may find picking up one of the best controllers for racing more beneficial to your setup.