Xbox Mid-Range
8Nm Direct Drive With a Proper Load Cell Brake for Xbox
The Xbox Mid-Range build centres around the Logitech RS50, delivering 8Nm of direct drive torque paired with a load cell brake — a clear step up from our entry-level Xbox build. This brings stronger, more immersive and more detailed force feedback, along with proper pressure-based braking, without pushing into high-end pricing or requiring a fully dedicated sim racing cockpit. On Xbox, compatibility is handled through the wheel rather than the base. In reality, there are very few Xbox wheel options available across any ecosystem — including Fanatec — which limits long-term wheel expansion regardless of brand. That limitation is part of the reason this build leans toward Logitech. If ecosystem growth is restricted either way, it makes more sense to prioritise overall performance, simplicity and value. Judged purely on driving experience and out-of-the-box refinement, the RS50 package represents strong value in the Xbox mid-range bracket.wheelbase:
Logitech RS50
The RS50 is rated at 8Nm peak torque, but the bigger takeaway from our testing was how clean and well-refined the force feedback feels for this price point. It avoids a lot of the graininess common in similarly priced bases, and it also seems to hold its torque more consistently than most, which can make it feel more stable under sustained load than the numbers alone suggest.
What separates it from other bases in this bracket is TrueForce. In supported titles, it adds a high-frequency layer of detail (road texture, vibration and engine-related cues) that you simply don’t get elsewhere at this price on console.
The compromise is in tuning depth. Software flexibility is quite limited compared to ecosystems like Fanatec or MOZA, but the upside is the RS50 provides a strong out-of-the-box experience without needing much fiddling. Build quality is also a strong point, with a cast aluminium outer housing and thoughtful practical design touches.
Logitech RS50
Complete Bundle Price
- 8Nm Direct Drive Wheelbase
- 290mm round wheel
- RS 2 Pedal set
- PC and Xbox Compatibility
Pedals:
Logitech G RS Pedals
The Logitech RS pedals are a simple two-pedal set (with optional clutch) built around a load cell brake, which is the key mid-range upgrade over entry-level pedal bundles. Braking shifts from travel-based to pressure-based input, making it easier to build consistent muscle memory for threshold and trail braking.
In our testing, they’ve proven to be one of the stronger value options currently available across any platform. The design isn’t heavy-duty or industrial, but that’s clearly a cost decision rather than a performance limitation. The focus is on delivering solid braking performance at a competitive price rather than premium aesthetics.
With a 75kg-rated load cell on the brake, they offer enough resistance for most users but will still operate reasonably well on carpet and tiles, but a solid mounting is highly recommended. Drivers running very rigid cockpits and seeking extremely high brake forces will eventually look toward heavier-duty options, but for casual and competitive console racing alike, there’s nothing here that meaningfully limits performance.
A clutch pedal is available separately for US$44.99 for those wanting a three-pedal setup.
Logitech RS Pedals (Bundled)
Current Price
- Load Cell Brake
- Optional Clutch Pedal available
Steering Wheel:
Logitech RS Round Wheel (Bundled)
The RS Round Wheel is the rim and Xbox-compatible button box in this package and is what enables native Xbox functionality within the Logitech ecosystem. The compatibility chip sits in the wheel itself, meaning this component determines console support rather than the base.
In our testing, the RS wheel stood out for its magnetic shifters, which deliver a sharp, positive engagement that feels more premium than most bundled wheels in this price bracket. The rim itself is a practical 290mm round design that works well across a broad range of driving styles — from F1, GT and road cars to rally and drifting — rather than being specialised for a single discipline. A perfect choice to be your only wheel.
The button layout is console-friendly and straightforward, providing easy access to in-game adjustments without feeling cluttered. It avoids excessive rotary encoders or complex display integration, instead focusing on usability and solid execution.
For another wheel option, the RS Track Wheel Rim can be fitted to the included RS Wheel Hub, replacing the round rim, or you can purchase an additional RS Wheel Hub to keep multiple wheel configurations ready to swap between.
COCKPIT Considerations:
The Logitech bundle is suitable for use with anything from a desk or table with the optional table clamp, to a fold-out wheel stand, or a purpose-built cockpit.
Which cockpit or mounting solution you go for will depend on your personal situation significantly, and the best value option for you could be heavily influenced by shipping costs. So with that in mind, here are some consideration for making the decision.
Desk Mounting:
The included table clamp is rigid enough for the RS50 wheelbase, but be aware that any shaking or wobbling of your desk is directly proportional to the loss of energy and detail coming through to your hands. This wheelbase is right on the limit of what you can use clamped to a desk, and there are significant benefits from an upgrade to a wheel stand or cockpit.
It is also very important for your pedals to be still. With the standard bundles pedals, you can drive with pedals on carpet or tiles, but will want to at least have your pedals up against a wall or some bricks to stop them sliding. Similarly, you will want to ensure your seat is not rolling away when you brake. Putting an office chair’s wheels inside a shoe is the quickest solution for this, but you may find a chair without wheels or a tilting function is better suited until you can upgrade to a cockpit.
COUCH / WHEELSTAND:
A sturdy wheel stand is a solid middle ground between desk mounting and a full cockpit and the most likely practical solution for casual console users racing in their lounge.
For the lower end of Direct Drive Wheelbases, most quality wheel stands will handle the torque levels without issue, but rigidity is still key. Any flex in the stand will reduce detail and overall feel, especially if you upgrade to a load cell brake or stronger wheelbase.
If you are racing from a couch, pay attention to seating position and pedal support. You want your pedals secured firmly so they cannot slide under heavy braking. Consistent pedal position is critical once you start building muscle memory.
A good wheel stand is a practical steppingstone, but if you plan to stay in the hobby long term, a full cockpit will always deliver the best overall experience at the cost of a much bigger footprint. But there should be other upgrades on your whish list first.
At the end of the day, the best option is the one you are most likely to get out and use often, without having to jump through hoops to set it up for a quick drive.
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COCKPIT:
If you are serious about getting the most out of your gear, a proper cockpit is the single biggest upgrade you can make. Stability, seating position, and overall rigidity all directly affect how much detail you actually feel from your wheelbase and pedals.
There are three main categories to consider: fold-out rigs, tubular steel cockpits, and aluminium profile cockpits.
Fold-Out Cockpits
Fold-out cockpits are designed around convenience. They are ideal if space is limited and you need something that can be packed away when not in use. For lower torque wheelbases, they can work well, but once you move into stronger Direct Drive systems and load cell pedals, flex can become noticeable.
They are a clear step up from a desk or basic wheel stand in terms of driving position, but they are still a compromise. The main advantage is practicality. If it folds away easily and gets used more often, that matters.
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