If you’re getting into sim racing on console, the first big decision is which ecosystem you buy into.
The world of console sim racing has changed a lot in the past couple of years. Direct drive wheelbases are now affordable, load cell pedals are widely available, and every major brand has its own take on how to deliver a realistic driving experience in your living room. But there’s a catch: on consoles, you can’t freely mix and match hardware. Everything has to come from the same brand ecosystem to work together natively.
That means the wheelbase, wheel rim, and pedals you choose on day one will lock you into a path. Get it right, and you’ll have an upgrade path that can last years. Get it wrong, and you may end up replacing everything if you want to switch later.
In this guide, we’ll break down the main ecosystems available now — Logitech, Thrustmaster, Fanatec, MOZA and more recently Asetek — and help you understand which might be the best fit for your console setup.
Understanding Console Compatibility
Why staying inside one brand matters.
Console racing hardware isn’t interchangeable as it is with PC. Pedals must connect to the wheelbase, and that wheelbase (or wheel rim, in Xbox’s case) must contain the correct security chip for your console. This is why ecosystem choice is so important.
PlayStation:
Compatibility comes from the wheelbase. If you want PlayStation support, you must start with a PlayStation-certified base like the Fanatec GT DD Pro or Logitech G Pro.
Xbox:
Compatibility comes from the wheel rim. For example, Fanatec’s CSL DD base becomes Xbox-compatible only when paired with an Xbox-certified wheel like the WRC or McLaren GT3 rim.
Pedals:
Always connect through the wheelbase. On console, you can’t run them via USB as you would on PC.
Adapters like DriveHub and GIMX exist to trick your console into recognising unsupported hardware, but they often limit your ability to fine-tune force feedback or pedal curves. They can work well, but there are clear benefits when it comes to simplicity and complete functionality by sticking to a fully supported ecosystem.
The result: choosing your ecosystem first is the single most important decision you’ll make for console sim racing. Once you’ve picked, everything else flows from there – wheelbase, wheel rims, pedals, and accessories.
LOGITECH
Simple, accessible, and widely available — but limited in depth.
Logitech has long been the default entry point into sim racing. Their G29, G920, and G923 gear-driven wheels are still widely available, easy to set up, and work reliably across both Xbox and PlayStation. For many console racers, they remain the simplest way to get started. The downside is that these older wheels are noisy, use dated gear-driven technology, and don’t offer much of an upgrade path.
At the higher end, Logitech now has the G Pro Racing Wheel, available in PlayStation and Xbox-specific versions. This is a Direct Drive base with up to 11Nm of torque, offering significantly more fidelity and immersion than the G923. It’s paired with the Logitech G Pro Load Cell Pedals, which are console-compatible when plugged into the Pro base. Together, they deliver a serious step up in realism while keeping the ease of use that Logitech is known for.
Where Logitech falls short is ecosystem depth. Beyond the wheel and pedals, options are limited. Unlike Fanatec or MOZA, you don’t have a broad range of rims, shifters, or accessories to expand into. For many players that won’t matter — the G Pro is strong, simple, and self-contained. But if you’re looking to grow your setup over time, Logitech may feel restrictive.
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THRUSTMASTER
Affordable and familiar, now with a Direct Drive option.
Thrustmaster has been a staple of console sim racing for years, with a wide range of belt-driven and gear-driven wheels. Their entry-level TMX (Xbox) and T150 (PlayStation) remain some of the cheapest force feedback wheels available, making them a common first step for beginners. They do the job, but the technology is old and lacks the smoothness and precision of modern alternatives.
Moving up, the T300RS (PlayStation) and TX (Xbox) provide a more refined belt-driven experience. They offer stronger and smoother feedback than gear-driven wheels like the G923, and they can be paired with upgraded pedal sets. Thrustmaster’s T-LCM load cell pedals are the standout option in their older lineup, and a significant improvement over the bundled potentiometer-based sets.
The big news for 2025 is the release of the Thrustmaster T598 Direct Axial Drive wheelbase. This is Thrustmaster’s first console-compatible Direct Drive system, rated at 5Nm continuous torque with short burst overshoot for extra punch. It ships as a complete bundle including wheel and pedals, and importantly, it’s PlayStation-certified. This finally gives Thrustmaster a Direct Drive option for console racers at a competitive price point, sitting directly against Fanatec’s GT DD Pro.
While the T598 shows clear progress, it isn’t flawless. The axial flux motor design is extremely smooth with no cogging, but some quirks exist — such as a faint vibration when holding the wheel still, and inconsistent force feedback detail depending on the game. There are also concerns around oscillation in PlayStation mode if friction isn’t set carefully. Even so, it’s a huge leap beyond Thrustmaster’s older belt-driven tech and makes the ecosystem far more relevant for PlayStation users in particular.
Overall, Thrustmaster is still attractive for budget buyers and now has a genuine entry-level Direct Drive option in the T598. But compared with Fanatec and MOZA, their wider pedal and accessory ecosystem still lags behind.
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Fanatec
The most complete and mature option for console sim racers.
Fanatec offers the widest range of console-compatible hardware, from entry-level to serious enthusiast gear. The CSL DD (Xbox when paired with an Xbox-certified rim) and the GT DD Pro (PlayStation-certified) are the cornerstones of their lineup. Both deliver true Direct Drive performance, starting at 5Nm and upgradeable to 8Nm with the Boost Kit. The GT DD Pro in particular has become a favourite for Gran Turismo 7 players, thanks to its bundled GT wheel and deep game integration.
Pedals are one of Fanatec’s strongest points, and often the deciding factor when choosing an ecosystem. The CSL Elite V2 Load Cell and ClubSport V3 pedals strike an excellent balance of performance and price, making them some of the best options available for console sim racers.
Fanatec’s biggest advantage is ecosystem depth. With a wide range of rims, shifters, handbrakes, and accessories, you can build out a setup that grows with you over time. No other console-compatible brand offers the same variety, especially for PlayStation.
At the higher end, Fanatec also offers the ClubSport DD and ClubSport DD+. These wheelbases provide much higher torque and a more intense, immersive force feedback experience. They do, however, require very solid mounting solutions to make the most of that extra strength. For most console players they’re niche options, but it’s worth noting that Fanatec is the only brand currently offering this level of Direct Drive performance with official Xbox and PlayStation support.
FANATEC Reviews
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MOZA
Fast-growing and modern, but console support is still limited.
MOZA is a newer player in the console sim racing space, and they’ve made a strong impression with their hardware and software ecosystem. The MOZA R3 Xbox Bundle is currently the main way into their system on console. It includes the R3 3.9Nm Direct Drive wheelbase, the ES Xbox wheel (which carries the compatibility chip), and a basic set of pedals. At the price point, it’s a competitive alternative to Logitech’s G923 and even nudges into Fanatec CSL DD territory.
One important detail: that ES Xbox wheel unlocks Xbox compatibility across MOZA’s wheelbase range, meaning you can technically run a higher-torque R5, R9, or R12 on Xbox. In practice though, the ES rim is an entry-level wheel and not a great match for the more powerful bases. There’s still no PlayStation support in MOZA’s lineup, which limits their appeal compared to Fanatec.
Where MOZA shines is in pedals. The CRP2 Load Cell Pedals are among the best bang-for-buck options available in 2025, and a strong reason to consider their ecosystem over Logitech or Thrustmaster. Combined with their modern software suite, MOZA has quickly earned a reputation for responsive hardware and clean integration.
The limitation today is console maturity. Xbox players can get in with the R3 bundle and expand cautiously, but PlayStation users will need to look elsewhere until MOZA secures certification. For those sticking with Xbox, it’s a promising ecosystem that may expand further in the coming years.
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Pedals: The Deciding Factor
Why your feet matter more than your hands.
If there’s one piece of hardware that makes the biggest difference to consistency and lap times, it’s pedals. A good set of load cell pedals lets you brake by pressure instead of position, giving you far more control and repeatability than basic potentiometer sets. For console players, this is often the deciding factor in which ecosystem to go with, since pedals must plug into the wheelbase.
Fanatec: The CSL Elite V2 Load Cell and ClubSport V3 pedals are excellent value and a big reason many console racers choose Fanatec.
MOZA: The CRP2 Load Cell Pedals offer a strong alternative, with robust build quality and precision that easily beats Logitech and Thrustmaster’s options but at a higher cost.
Logitech & Thrustmaster: Both offer functional pedals, but they lag behind in adjustability, feel, and long-term potential compared to Fanatec and MOZA. The exception is the Logitech G Pro Load Cell Pedals, which offer excellent feel and accuracy with their load cell brake, but come at a significant cost when paired with the G Pro wheelbase.
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Living Room-Friendly Cockpits
Practical solutions for console racers who need to pack away their setup.
What matters most: stability (so your muscle memory isn’t fighting flex) and how fast you can go from “packed away” to “driving”. Here’s the living-room-friendly landscape, from truly foldable through to “leave it built” rigs.
Quick-fold lounge rigs (fast setup, small footprint)
Next Level Racing GT Lite Pro
A foldable seat-style cockpit designed for drivers who need to set up and pack away quickly. It’s genuinely practical for living-room use, assembles fast, and is officially rated up to around 13 Nm of direct drive torque.
The key trade-off is rigidity. Compared to bulkier fixed cockpits, you’ll notice some flex under heavy braking or when pushing a high-torque wheelbase. It’s not enough to ruin the experience on lower strength setups — the GT Lite Pro still performs impressively with mid-level direct drive — but it’s part of the compromise that comes with the convenience of a folding design.
For racers who want a lounge-friendly solution without committing to a permanent rig, it’s one of the best-balanced options out there.
Coffee Racer (Go / Living / Play)
A clever design that disguises your sim rig as a coffee table when not in use. Flip it open, drop your hardware in place, and you’re racing. The three models are rated for different torque levels: Go ~8 Nm, Living ~12 Nm, Play ~20 Nm. Add the optional chair-anchor bracket if you’re running a load cell brake with an office chair. Ideal for players who want a setup that completely blends into their living space. Not the easiest setup to quickly jump in with a spare half hour, but it is a well executed cockpit with real benefits.
Coffee Racer Sim Racing Cockpit – Review
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Compact Permanent Options
Playseat Trophy
The Playseat Trophy comes with an integrated seat and sleek design, giving it a clean look that works well in living rooms. It’s far more rigid than foldable cockpits like the GT Lite Pro, though you’ll still find far more adjustability and rigidity in aluminium profile rigs.
Comfort is the main trade-off: the seat feels a bit like a camping chair, which some may find tiring in long sessions. While marketed as adjustable between GT and Formula positions, in practice it’s not as versatile as advertised. Still, for console racers wanting a permanent rig that looks tidy without going full aluminium profile, it’s a strong option.
Next Level Racing GT Racer
The GT Racer sits between foldable rigs and heavy-duty cockpits. It’s a fixed tubular frame with an included seat, making it sturdier than foldable designs like the GT Lite Pro while still being relatively compact.
In testing it held up well to mid-torque direct drive wheelbases — around 12 Nm — without feeling like it was at its limit. It doesn’t match the rigidity of an aluminium profile cockpit, but that’s reflected in the price and footprint.
For console racers who can leave a rig set up in the living room, the GT Racer offers strong value: more stable than foldables, but without the cost and bulk of a full-blown profile chassis.
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Heavy Duty – All out
When you step up to higher-torque wheelbases — like the Fanatec ClubSport DD+ or MOZA R16 — you need a cockpit that can handle the extra forces without flexing and absorbing all that force feedback fidelity. Similarly with high-end load cell pedal, you are missing out if your pedal deck has significant flex. This is where heavy-duty cockpits come in.
The most common design is the aluminium profile rig (often called 80/20), built from industrial extrusion beams. These rigs are extremely rigid, endlessly adjustable, and highly expandable with mounts for shifters, handbrakes, button boxes, and even motion platforms. They aren’t the most living-room friendly, but they’re the gold standard if you want stability and future-proofing.
There are lots of profile rig options on the market — from brands like Sim-Lab, Trak Racer, Next Level Racing, and many others — and most deliver the same core benefits of strength and modularity. The main differences come down to finishing quality, accessories, and assembly details, but more important is the different costs associated with each brand when it comes to shipping and taxes depending on where you live.
With that context in mind, here are two examples at different ends of the heavy-duty spectrum:
Sim-Lab P1X Pro (80/20 profile rig)
The P1X Pro is a true endgame cockpit. Built from 80/20 aluminium extrusion, it’s exceptionally rigid and can comfortably handle the most powerful direct drive wheelbases without any noticeable flex. Compared to older profile rigs, it uses a cleaner design with fewer corner brackets, making assembly more straightforward.
One standout feature is the integrated monitor mount, which proved impressively stable even with very large displays. The modular nature of the rig also means you can expand it over time — adding shifters, handbrakes, button boxes, or even motion platforms.
This isn’t a living-room-friendly option, but for console racers with the space and budget, it’s the most future-proof and upgradeable solution available.
Fanatec ClubSport Cockpit
Fanatec’s ClubSport cockpit is aimed at racers who want a sturdier, more permanent setup without stepping into full aluminium profile rigs. It’s built from steel tubing and includes an integrated monitor stand as standard — a nice value add compared to most competitors.
Rigidity is solid for mid to high-torque direct drive wheelbases, though not quite on the level of profile rigs. Adjustability is good thanks to sliding seat and pedal mounts, but assembly can be a bit frustrating — things like painted threads and welded nut alignment issues can make the process slower than it should be.
Once built, it’s a versatile cockpit with enough strength to handle stronger wheelbases and accessories like shifters and handbrakes, while still being more living-room friendly in appearance than an industrial 80/20 rig.
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Final THoughts
Console sim racing has never been more exciting, but remains dependent on making the right choice up front. Unlike PC, you can’t freely mix and match gear. Your wheelbase, pedals, and wheel rims all need to live within the same ecosystem, and that decision shapes everything that follows.
The real deciding factor is often pedals. A good set of load cells will make more difference to your lap times than chasing higher force feedback numbers, and right now Fanatec and MOZA lead the way here. Fanatec’s CSL Elite V2 and ClubSport V3 pedals, and MOZA’s CRP2s, are clear standouts — and for many racers, that alone makes the ecosystem choice. Logitech’s G Pro pedals are also excellent, but they’re tied to a premium base, while Thrustmaster lags behind with fewer compelling options.
Cockpits are the other half of the equation. Living-room racers are best served by foldable or disguised rigs like the GT Lite Pro or Coffee Racer, while permanent setups benefit from sturdier frames like the Playseat Trophy or GT Racer. Step into higher-torque wheelbases, and a heavy-duty cockpit — whether Fanatec’s ClubSport or a profile rig like the Sim-Lab P1X Pro — becomes essential.
So where does that leave each brand
- Fanatec remains the most complete ecosystem, particularly strong on PlayStation thanks to the GT DD Pro and accessories tailored for Gran Turismo 7. With everything from entry-level direct drive to the ClubSport DD+, they cover the widest ground.
- Logitech keeps things simple and accessible. The G923 is still an easy entry point, while the G Pro wheel and pedals deliver excellent performance if you’re happy with a very limited ecosystem.
- Thrustmaster continues to be a budget-friendly option, and the new T598 finally gives them a direct drive entry on PlayStation, but their wider ecosystem is showing its age.
- MOZA is the ambitious newcomer. Their CRP2 pedals are good for when you feel the need to upgrade, and the R3 bundle is a promising start on Xbox, but until PlayStation support arrives, they remain a limited option for console players.
The bottom line: pick your ecosystem with care. For most, Fanatec will be the safest long-term path. If you want plug-and-play simplicity, Logitech makes sense. Thrustmaster still works for tighter budgets, and MOZA is an exciting bet for Xbox racers. Once you commit, you’ll be able to build a setup that lasts — and more importantly, lets you focus on racing, not worrying about gear.
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