Fanatec
Massive ecosystem with native console support
Fanatec offers the most extensive sim racing ecosystem on the market, with wheelbases, wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes spanning entry-level to high-end. Their tiered product lines—CSL, ClubSport, and Podium—cover a broad range of needs and budgets, though recent hardware like the ClubSport DD and DD+ has started to blur those lines by outperforming older Podium gear in key areas.
Console compatibility is a major strength, Fanatec are a clear stand-out when it comes to native console support for both PlayStation and Xbox. However, their closed ecosystem approach comes with caveats—force feedback is locked unless a Fanatec-branded wheel is attached, adding cost and complexity for those wanting to use third-party wheels.
So is Fanatec the best Sim Racing brand for you? Our detailed reviews and product guides will tell you everything you need to know to find out!
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FANATEC Product Reviews
FANATEC Pros and Cons
Pros
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Extensive ecosystem that covers a variety of needs and budgets -
Natively console compatible (PlayStation & Xbox) -
Ability to tune force feedback and driving settings or switch profiles directly from the wheel -
Excellent game compatibility and game level integration (Many games already have presets baked in, etc) -
Excellent consistency in the driving experience between different games
Cons
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Historically have had customer service issues -
Software on PC is outdated compared to competitors -
Force Feedback locked out unless you use their wheels or hub adaptors -
Uncertainty in product development following acquisition by Corsair -
Not the stand-out value proposition it used to be for entry-level Direct Drive