Choosing the best wheel for Xbox Series X goes beyond selecting the first option you see. Compatibility can be an issue, which is why we've streamlined the buying process by putting together a list of the best compatible racing wheels, taking into account factors such as price, user feedback, and features they offer.
When looking for a top racing wheel, no matter what platform you're on, it's important to prioritize models that offer precise, responsive feedback during gameplay, which we've of course taken into account here. In this context, wheels featuring advanced force feedback and direct drive technology stand out, as they can provide the most realistic racing feel possible.
Choosing wheels made from high-quality materials is important too, as these factors ensure both durability and comfort. Components like a robust metal core and coverings in leather or Alcantara can significantly improve both the wheel's lifespan and its tactile experience, thus adding to a wheel's appeal.
As mentioned already, we've considered all that for this list to ensure whatever it is you're after, we've got you covered. Let's get into our top picks...
Best wheels for Xbox Series X
- Logitech G923 - an excellent, well-rounded racing wheel
- Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals - top pick for pro racers
- Thrustmaster TS-XW - best premium option
- Hori Overdrive - a great budget alternative
- PXN V10 - top mid-range option
1. Logitech G923
Best wheel for Xbox Series X overall
The Logitech G923 stands out as a stellar, all-encompassing package, combining a premium racing design with cutting-edge TRUEFORCE feedback technology. It houses one of the best wheel bases in the industry as well, dedicated to providing an unparalleled, lifelike racing experience.
In addition to its state-of-the-art feedback system, the G923 is equipped with an array of customizable buttons. These buttons can be assigned to various racing features, such as traction control and gear shifts, allowing you to enhance your on-track reactions for a more consistent and impressive podium performance.
Furthermore, this bundle also includes the accompanying pedals, making it a comprehensive simulation setup. If you're in the market for a complete racing simulator experience, the Logitech G923 is a compelling choice that deserves your consideration.
Reasons to buy:
- Plenty of features at a reasonable price
- Lots of buttons to assign to commonly used controls
Read More: Best deals on sim racing equipment
2. Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals
Best direct drive wheel for Xbox Series X
The Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and its accompanying pedals are truly exceptional pieces of equipment that can seriously elevate your racing setup.
Let's begin with the wheel base, which is a powerhouse of performance. It offers an impressive 11Nm of torque along with a wide 1080 degrees of rotation. This combination allows you to experience in-game physics, road conditions, and motor vibrations with near-instant precision for a complete direct drive and TRUEFORCE feedback experience.
Moving on to the wheel itself, you'll find magnetic hall effect paddle shifters with a dual-clutch design. These provide a responsive and authentic shifting experience, ensuring that every gear change feels just right. Additionally, the PRO thumb sweep button layout has undergone extensive testing to make sure all essential controls are within easy reach. This design philosophy keeps you focused on the road, where your attention should be.
The pedals are equally impressive. They are equipped with a formidable 100kg load cell brake, making sure you have maximum control over your braking inputs. The swappable springs and contactless hall effect sensors allow for personalized adjustments, ensuring the pedals feel exactly the way you want them to. Moreover, the removable pedal modules give you the freedom to tailor your setup to your preferences, making it the ideal choice for experienced racers.
In short, the Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel and pedals are the complete package for discerning racers who demand nothing but the best. Whether you're chasing the checkered flag in a virtual world or honing your skills for the track, this setup will take your racing experience to a whole new level.
Reasons to buy:
- Provides powerful and intense direct drive feedback
- The PRO pedals match the power of the wheel
Read More: Best racing game deals
3. Thrustmaster TS-XW
Best force feedback wheel for Xbox Series X
For truly passionate fans of racing games, the Thrustmaster TS-XW stands as a premium investment worth considering. Its top-tier features cater to dedicated gamers seeking an unparalleled racing experience.
At its core, it features a 40-watt brushless servomotor force feedback system. This technology ensures consistent and reliable performance, even during extensive gaming sessions. Moreover, the wheel is powered by a toroidal-shaped Turbo Power supply designed for efficiency, boasting an impressive 86% power efficiency without the hindrance of fins.
Complementing the high-grade wheel are sturdy, adjustable metal pedals strategically placed by Thrustmaster to simulate an authentic racing feel. The thoughtful design further elevates the immersive experience, offering precise control and responsiveness.
As far as high-end racing wheels go, the Thrustmaster TS-XW distinguishes itself as a formidable contender. Its promise lies in delivering an exceptional gaming adventure, catering specifically to passionate racing enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of immersion and performance.
Reasons to buy:
- Its 40-watt brushless motor provides reliable force feedback
- Turbo Power is incredibly power-efficient
Read More: Best sim racing shifters
4. Hori Overdrive
Best budget wheel for Xbox Series X
The Hori Overdrive impressively captures all the essential features of a racing wheel, offering tremendous value at a fraction of the cost when compared to higher-end alternatives.
The main highlight is its 270-degree turn radius complemented by customizable output settings, granting drivers the agility to navigate through challenging hairpin turns effortlessly.
Adding to its appeal, the Hori Overdrive includes mountable clamps, simplifying attachment to desks or racing rigs, ensuring you're geared up for podium-worthy performance.
Within the realm of budget-friendly wheels, the Hori Overdrive stands out as a strong option worthy of serious consideration.
Reasons to buy:
- Much cheaper than some of its competitors
- Adjustable 270-degree turn radius
Read More: Best sim racing pedals
5. PXN V10
Best mid-range wheel for Xbox Series X
The PXN V10 presents an excellent option for enhancing your Xbox Series X racing experience.
One standout feature of this device is the convenient switch that enables you to seamlessly switch between 270° and 900° steering with just a press of a button. This adaptability ensures that the wheel performs optimally in various racing environments, while it provides an accurate response to what's happening on screen through force feedback technology as well.
What's more, the bundle includes a manual shifter, which adds a touch of realism to older GT and racing cars, plus heavyweight A3 pedals that weigh 3kg in total and can be adjusted in four stages to suit your preference. This added authenticity and customization make the PXN V10 an ideal choice for those seeking a truly immersive racing setup.
Reasons to buy:
- Relatively cheap, but still high-quality
- It comes with a manual shifter
Read More: Best sim racing handbrakes
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.
Are all racing wheels compatible with Xbox Series X?
No, not all racing wheels are compatible with the Xbox Series X. While the Xbox Series X is backward compatible with many Xbox One accessories, it is important to check the compatibility of specific racing wheels with the new console.
Microsoft has officially licensed a ton of racing wheels that are compatible with the Xbox Series X, including the aforementioned Hori Overdrive, so checking the licensed list is a good place to start when it comes to finding a compatible device.
However, it's important to note that even if a racing wheel is not officially licensed, it may still work with the Xbox Series X. That said, there is no guarantee of compatibility, and users may need to adjust settings or use additional software to get the wheel to work properly. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or do some research before purchasing a racing wheel for use with the Xbox Series X.
What does force feedback mean?
Force feedback is a simulation method utilized in racing wheels to enhance the authenticity of the driving experience.
In essence, it aims to mirror the sensations a driver would encounter when racing under identical real-world conditions at the same location.
As implied by its name, force feedback delivers substantial feedback through the wheel. This feedback is generated by motors or actuators within the wheel base that reacts to in-game physics and telemetry data.
In turn, force feedback enhances the immersion and realism of the racing experience by providing nuanced tactile cues, allowing drivers to better understand and control their virtual vehicles.
What does direct drive mean?
Direct drive technology elevates force feedback to the next level by removing the belt or gear system typically used with the motor to simulate resistance.
With direct drive, the wheel connects directly to the feedback motor, delivering full resistance with fewer intermediary components between the wheel, motor, and user. However, direct drive devices often come with a higher price tag compared to standard force feedback systems due to their utilization of larger, more robust motors that require additional materials.
Moreover, only a select few motors possess the requisite precision for direct drive technology, such as stepper motors or AC servo motors. These motors necessitate intricate control systems and separate drivers to operate effectively.
How much should you spend on a wheel for Xbox Series X?
This would really depend on your available budget and how seriously you invest in racing games.
If you're willing to spend a little extra, you may find you're able to pick up a wheel that has a few additional features compared to some of the more budget options, for example, sequential paddles.
Moreover, more premium devices tend to be made from slightly more expensive and durable materials like plush Alcantara on the grip and stainless steel motors.
However, there are some wheels out there, like the Hori Overdrive, which seem to cover the basics pretty well for just a fraction of the cost compared to some of the more expensive alternatives.
Do you need a dedicated stand or mount for a racing wheel?
Whether or not you require a dedicated stand or mount for your sim racing wheel is subjective and depends on your personal preferences and setup. However, investing in a dedicated stand or mount can offer several advantages, particularly in terms of enhancing stability for your sim racing wheel.
This is notably the case during intense gameplay or when your wheel delivers some extreme force feedback effects. By preventing excessive movement or vibrations, a stand or mount contributes to a more immersive and lifelike experience.
Furthermore, a stand or mount enables you to position the wheel at a comfortable height and angle, reducing strain on your arms and wrists during long gaming sessions. Adjustable mounts provide the flexibility to customize the positioning according to your preferences.
Nevertheless, it is important to consider that purchasing a wheel stand or mount incurs additional costs and takes up space. Consequently, many individuals choose to mount their wheel to a desk instead, while others may opt to create their own wheel mount if they prefer not to buy a pre-made one.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to purchase a stand or mount depends on your preferences, budget, and the level of immersion and stability you wish to achieve.
Are racing wheels adjustable?
You can usually adjust various aspects of a racing wheel. For example, you can usually customize the steering sensitivity to determine how much your in-game wheel responds to the physical movements you're making. Also, some wheels allow you to adjust the rotation angles too, influencing the degree of physical wheel turn required for a complete full turn in-game.
Models equipped with feedback settings typically allow for adjustments in feedback effects such as vibration, resistance, and movement intensity. By allowing you to alter them yourself, you can create a more authentic and immersive experience to your liking.
Adding to this, most racing wheels come with buttons and controls that can be customized to align with your preferences and help you access commonly-used in-game commands. However, the range of adjustability may vary among different models, so make sure you double-check what can be adjusted with the wheel you're eyeing before you buy.
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