With its core values of “Passion, Quality, and Innovation,” it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Thrustmaster is the first choice for most virtual racing game players. Thrustmaster sim racing gear includes everything you need for an enjoyable virtual racing experience.
What sets the company apart from others is its mission to improve immenseness and realism in racing games.
Thrustmaster’s expertise lies in racing game devices and controllers. You can use the company’s products on three platforms, namely Xbox, PS, and PC.
Below, we do a thorough round-up of Thrustmaster sim racing gear. You can choose the products you believe will amp up your racing setup.
An Overview of Thrustmaster’s Sim Racing Technology
Like other sim gear, Thrustmaster’s products also keep up with innovative trends in the gaming industry. Here are some examples of the technology used in Thrustmaster’s sim racing gear:
- Contactless Magnetic Sensors: The use of contactless technology in all Thrustmaster sim products ensures precision and longevity.
- Hybrid Drive Force Feedback: Just because you aren’t in a real racing car doesn’t mean you should be devoid of the sensational feel of one. The Hybrid Drive Force Feedback lets you feel the thrill of the game in real-time.
- Partnerships: Thrustmaster continually improves its tech by partnering with companies like Ferrari, Boeing, Alcantara, and Airbus.
- Magnetic Paddle Shifters: When you’re playing a competitive game, you want to be as responsive as possible. The magnetic paddle shifters allow this to happen.
Thrustmaster Sim Gear Compatibility
As mentioned, the Thrustmaster sim hub is compatible with all major platforms, including Xbox, PS4, and PC. However, some products may require additional software or adapters to work correctly.
Here are some games you can play with the sim gear on your PC:
- Project Cars 2
- F1 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
- Assetto Corsa
- Iracing
- Nascar 21
- Forza Motorsport 5
- Forza Motorsport 6
- Forza Motorsport 7
As for PS4, here are some titles to play:
- Grid 2
- WRC 6
- GRID Autosport
- F1 2016
- Dirt 3
- Forza Horizon 2
- Driveclub
- WRC 5
- The Crew: Wild Run
If you want to play games on Xbox One, we recommend getting the Ferrari 458 Spider Racing Wheel. You can play the following games on it:
- F1® 2015
- F1® 2016
- F1® 2017
- F1® 2018
- Nascar Heat 4
- NEED FOR SPEED™ PAYBACK
- OVERPASS
- Nascar Heat 5
Thrustmaster Sim Racing Gear Products Overview
Thrustmaster has a selection of more than 50 sim racing products to choose from. For the scope of this guide, we won’t be going through all of them.
But we’ll touch on each category individually to give you an idea of what to expect from your Thrustmaster gear.
1. Thrustmaster Steering Wheels
A reliable steering wheel is the most integral component of any sim racing setup. Thrustmaster offers a range of steering wheels to cater to different levels of sim racers. The ones made in collaboration with Ferrari or other renowned companies tend to be pricier. So, keep that in mind when shopping.
If you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, the T128 racing wheel will be right for you. Pair it with its accompanying T2PM pedal set for an ultra-precise and smooth steering experience. The immersive force feedback is the highlighting feature of this wheel. It also has engine speed LEDs to optimize gear shifting.
Plus, the angle of rotation goes up to 900 degrees, making the wheel suitable for all games and vehicles. As for accessibility, the handbrake button is easy to reach. The wheel comes with a quick attachment system for easy mounting on any gaming desk.
If you’re in the mood to splurge, your eyes should be on the T818 Ferrari SF1000 Simulator. It’s an expert-level device best for esports. The angular acceleration on this wheel has been specifically designed for turbocharged Force Feedback to give you the response time you need to win any game or level.
Furthermore, its Direct Drive Technology gives you a torque of up to 10 Nm without any saturation. Also, the wheel is a 1:1 scale replica of the Ferrari SF1000, so you can have an authentic racing experience.
Since the simulator is compatible with Thrustmaster pedal sets and wheel rims, you can easily incorporate it into your existing Thrustmaster gaming setup.
What if you don’t have a grand to spend but want the Ferrari-esque experience in sim racing? Well, then, you can opt for the Ferrari F1 Wheel. Like the SF1000 Simulator, this wheel has also been made in partnership with Ferrari.
Being a replica of the Ferrari 2011 formula racing cars, the wheel boasts a brushed metal finish and professional quality rotary knobs. It also has the F1-style push-pull shifters made of scratched-brushed metal. The rubber texture keeps your grip on the wheel comfortable and secure.
2. Thrustmaster Sim Wheelbases
Our top pick for sim wheelbases is the TS-PC Racer Servo Base. Its notable features include a dual belt system, brushless motor with 40 W of power, magnetic technology, optimal precision, and ecosystem readiness. All you have to do is attach it to your racing cockpit and connect it directly to your computer.
Like the Servo Base, the Thrustmaster T818 racing wheelbase also provides a lifelike response, thanks to its Direct Drive technology. It also comes with optimized angular acceleration and a fast-release wheel attachment system, which lets you swap rims on the racing wheel in just a few seconds.
3. Thrustmaster Shifters
One thing that stood out to us when looking at Thrustmaster shifters was their wide compatibility range. For instance, the TH8S shifter is compatible with PC, PS5, and Xbox. Even better, it comes under a hundred bucks. It has an H-pattern shift plate and 7-gear + reverse gear. The direct gear shifting further lets it adapt to different vehicles, such as trucks, rallies, GTs, NASCAR, etc.
Another good shifter option from Thrustmaster is the TH8A. It features contactless magnetic sensors, a fully metal internal mechanism, and 360-degree adjustable rotation. Plus, you can choose between H-pattern mode or sequential mode, depending on your preferences.
4. Thrustmaster Pedals
If you want to add pedals to your Thrustmaster hub, the T3PA add-ons are a good option. You get three pedals, each with adjustable settings. The pedals are made of 100% metal for high durability. Opt for these pedals if you have a base from the Thrustmaster T series since they are ecosystem-ready for those devices.
Alternatively, you can try the T3PM pedals. They are compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS4, and PC. Like the T3PA, they are also metal pedals. They have four pressure modes to suit your racing needs and setups. Each pedal features a pressure resistance of up to 200 kg and is ready for use on Thrustmaster T series products.
If you’ve bought the Ferrari SF1000 Simulator, the T-Chrono paddles will go with it. They have push-pull shifters just like the wheel on the Ferrari SF1000. Plus, the contactless switches on the pedals offer fast transmission.
And did we mention the switches are made of gold-plated silver? The T-Chrono paddles are an official Ferrari product and have been licensed by the company. So, you can count on them to make your racing experience grand.
Who Is Thrustmaster Sim Racing Gear For?
One thing is clear: the product selection and price range on the gear are sufficient for pro racers and sim racing enthusiasts alike. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced racer, Thrustmaster has something to offer.
But if we’re a bit more specific, we’d say that Thrustmaster sim setup will be better for people who play PC games. Most wheels from Thrustmaster are PC-compatible. You can also find their complementary add-ons, such as shifters and pedals, through the company easily.
The price point for most Thrustmaster products is pretty decent compared to other brands like Logitech and Fanatec. But we’d still say you should avoid going for partnership products, such as those with Ferrari, since they’re a bit more expensive than Thrustmaster’s own branded products.
Pros of Thrustmaster Sim Racing Gear
- Good range of products for both beginners and experienced racers
- Wide compatibility options
- Reasonable price point compared to other brands
- Wide selection of add-ons
Cons of Thrustmaster Sim Racing Gear
- Limited compatibility with consoles such as PlayStation 5
- Shifters not at par with higher-end brands
Final Verdict on Thrustmaster
If you’re planning to put together a Thrustmaster sim setup, we’d say, by all means, go for it. You can’t go wrong with their products, especially if you’re a PC gamer.
The range of products is extensive, and the quality is quite good for the price point. We’d recommend choosing a steering wheel first. At the bottom of the product page, you’ll see options for additional add-ons, such as shifters and pedals. These are typically compatible with the wheel you’re viewing. That’s how you put the whole setup together.
Some older Thrustmaster products may not be compatible with the PS5. So, you can either opt for newer products from the company or buy a separate adapter to make them work.
