If you own an Xbox Series X|S and you’re a racing fan, it’s about time to consider a racing wheel for your console. Sure, you can use a controller on any racing game, but jumping into the driver’s seat and having a physical wheel to grab hold of and pedals to use can feel much more exhilarating. Not to mention, a more immersive experience.
Check out the best racing wheels for PS5
TL;DR Best Racing Wheels for Xbox Series X|S At a Glance:
Thrustmaster TMX Racing WheelThrustmaster Ferrari 458 SpiderLogitech G923Logitech G Pro Racing WheelThrustmaster T128
Whether you’re a racing sim beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got a great selection of racing wheels for you to choose from. Perhaps you’re looking for a racing wheel with force feedback that gives you a real feel for the road, or maybe you just want a casual, budget-friendly option for all the family. Buckle up and let’s take you for a spin!
The Best Racing Wheels for Xbox Series X|S
1. Thrustmaster TMX Racing Wheel
Best Xbox Series X|S racing wheel
The Thrustmaster TMX Racing Wheel is a great all-around entry-level wheel that comes in a convenient Xbox-friendly package. You can set up your kit and get to business quickly thanks to its system-recognised buttons and easy-to-use mount. Plus, the TMX also comes with a two-pedal set for no additional cost, giving you all the tools you need to start competing in your favorite racing games.
When it comes to getting a feel for the road, the TMX Racing Wheel uses a force feedback system that delivers a host of intense vibrations as you burn rubber across the biomes in Forza Horizon 5. Crossing intricate terrain will alter the reactive rumble, allowing you to react precisely as race environments shift.
2. Thrustmaster Ferrari 458 Spider
Best racing wheel for casual drivers on Xbox Series X|S
If you’re a motorhead with a penchant for Charles Leclerc or Carlos Sainz, the Thrustmaster Ferrari 458 Spider might be the perfect match for you. With some glorious red rubber paneling and the iconic Ferrari logo at the center of the wheel, the Ferrari 458 Spider is nothing if not stylish. Designed with Xbox in mind, the 458 Spider has system-aligning buttons embedded in the wheel face. So, you won’t need to relearn any of the controls before you hit the road.
Unlike the force feedback system in other wheels, the 458 Spider uses a bungee cord system to fight against when driving. This form of linear resistance offers tension to turns, as the wheel will automatically correct itself if you lose your grip. It may not offer the most realistic experience on this list, but it does have plenty of compelling features that work perfectly for casual players or first-time racing wheel users who don’t want to break the bank.
3. Logitech G923
The best mid-range racing wheel for Xbox Series X|S
Competitive Xbox racing sim players who want to upgrade their kit will find everything they’re looking for in the Logitech G923. With pleasantly textured leather grips and a 10.24-inch wheel, the G923 delivers a deluxe but grounded feeling within a more approachable price range.
The G923 also features Logitech’s Trueforce feedback tech. Which reads specific information in the game, like road surface texture, weather and tyres, and furnishes appropriate haptic feedback through the wheel. The G923 conjures an immersive drive as a result and delivers tangible grit when making decisions in intense driving scenarios. One caveat to consider, however, is that Trueforce isn’t available for all games. If you have a specific game you like to play, we recommend checking the specs on the official store page so you won’t be let down.
4. Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel
Best premium racing wheel for Xbox Series X|S
For those wanting a more deluxe wheel, the Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel has all the bells and whistles you want in a lavish, comfortable frame. The size of the wheel itself is true to life, with robust grips and a metal plate at its center. When paired with the wheel’s responsive controls and force feedback, staying to the course on straights or tilting into turns is a lifelike experience – adding palpable tension whether you’re coasting ahead of competitors or fighting to get back to the front of the pack.
Like the Logitech G923, the G Pro Racing Wheel amps realism with Trueforce technology to test your mettle across various weather and track conditions. If this feature is your main selling point, make sure to check that your best-loved games are compatible to avoid disappointment down the line.
5. Thrustmaster T128
Best beginner racing wheel for Xbox Series X|S
When it comes to entry-level racing wheels that will last, you can’t do much better than the Thrustmaster T128, which pairs ample force feedback with reactive controls. Using the wheel is convenient, with an Xbox controller mirrored almost exactly in the wheel’s face. Shifting gears with the responsive magnetic paddle shifts is a haptic experience, with the LED rev indicator on the wheel face providing a useful visual reminder of how hard you’re gunning through a circuit.
While there’s a lot to love about this beginner-friendly option, it’s important to note that the wheel doesn’t have grips, which can lead to discomfort over long periods, or, worse still, a loss of grip leading to botched maneuvers. Even so, the Thrustmaster T128 would be a fantastic addition to a budding sim racer, or for someone simply looking to scale up from the traditional controller.
Upcoming Racing Wheels For Xbox Series X|S
Turtle Beach has joined the racing wheel market with the VelocityOn Race Wheel & Pedal System, which launched on February 26th, 2024. Coming in at $649.99, this new wheel boasts a 7.2Nm direct drive force feedback motor and dashboard race telemetry window to help players maximize their racing skills. This new wheel has been designed with Xbox Series X/S consoles in mind alongside PC and PS5, though its features may not be compatible with all driving games.
The VelocityOn Race Wheel & Pedal system also features a modular control box for quick access to vehicle settings and mid-race toggles.
How To Choose a Racing Wheel for Xbox Series X|S
Choosing a racing wheel for your Xbox Series X|S can make your gaming experience way more immersive and fun. But there are a few factors and features to consider before making your final decision.
Although racing wheels come with various different features, not all of them work with every racing game. If a specific feature has caught your eye, it’s worth checking whether it’s going to make a difference across your favorite racing games.
One of the most important features you’ll want to pay attention to is force feedback. This gives you a realistic feel of the road, simulating bumps, turns, and the resistance of the car. If you want the most lifelike racing sim experience, your chosen racing wheel should include force feedback.
Similarly, a good racing wheel setup usually comes with pedals for acceleration, braking, and sometimes even a clutch. Some also include a shifter for manual gear changes. Decide if you want a basic two-pedal setup or a more advanced three-pedal system with a separate shifter. Again, this offers a more immersive and realistic feel, if that’s what you’re going for.
Durability matters, especially if you’re a hardcore racer. When you’re purchasing a racing wheel for your Xbox Series X|S, look for wheels made of high-quality materials like metal and leather, which not only last longer but also feel better during those intense racing sessions. For longer gaming sessions, consider how comfortable the racing wheel is going to be. You might want to be able to adjust features like tilt and height. Also, check if the pedals’ resistance can be adjusted to mimic real-life driving conditions.
As you’ve seen, there are great options available at various price points. Sometimes, spending a bit more can get you a wheel with better features and longevity, but there are also budget-friendly options that offer a solid racing experience.
FAQ
How do you connect the racing wheel to the Xbox Series X|S?
Each wheel may have a different method of pairing, though it’s easiest to consider this process similar to connecting a secondary controller. Typically, pairing will involve connecting the wheel via a USB cable to the console, turning on the console, and navigating to the Devices & Accessories submenu to set up your new wheel. We recommend following the guide the brand outlines to ensure you don’t run into any issues.
Which racing wheel brand is better – Logitech or Thrustmaster?
Both brands offer a variety of experiences that suit players, and it ultimately comes down to use preferences and needs. For example, while Logitech offers TrueForce technology, it may not be eligible for your favorite game. Alternatively, the Thrustmaster T128 may have great haptic feedback for beginners, but the lack of comfort on the wheel might put you off. When choosing between brands, it’s best to look specifically at the specs and materials rather than the brand as a whole.
Sarah Thwaites is a freelance tech writer at IGN, with bylines at GameInformer, TrustedReviews, NME and more.
