The Covid-19 pandemic brought Formula 1 to a stand still in 2020. The Covid-19 pandemic brought formula 1 to a standstill in 2020. Many racing enthusiasts turned to an alternative to satisfy their need for speed (pun intended): sim racing. Short for simulated racing, sim racing has been around for a while. Titles like Street Racer and Indy 500 on the 1977 Atari are a good example of short simulating racing. Sound familiar, Gen Xers?
Best Sim Racing Brands for Beginners in 2024
However, modern sim racing is much more sophisticated. It features advanced graphics and realistic physics machines. These features give players the feeling of being behind a real wheel. When eNASCAR and Formula One sim races aired on TV in 2022, they attracted 910,000 viewers. That’s way more than the usual 400,000 viewers that virtual races typically get Best Sim Racing Brands for Beginners in 2024.
As a beginner in sim racing, it can be difficult to find the right equipment and simulators. Don’t worry; We’ve sorted you out. Here’s our list of the best brands for beginner sim racing setups. Let us explore.
1. Fanatec. What is fanatec?
Fanatec claims to make “excitement-grade” gear, and rightfully so. You can get your complete sim racing setup from the company. Options include gaming seats, table clamps, pedals, racing hardware, cockpits, simulators, shifters, hand brakes and more Best Sim Racing Brands for Beginners in 2024.
CSL DD F1 ESports Premium Bundle is the best option for beginners. This includes Fanatec’s ClubSport steering wheel, a pair of CSL pedals, a CSL pedal load cell kit, and a CSL DD with 8nm force feedback. The ClubSport Steering Wheel F1® Esports V2 has been designed in partnership with Formula 1. Thus, you can expect it to be highly authentic in terms of looks and feel. It also features custom RGB LEDs and magnetic shifters.
A recent Fanatec product that has fans excited is the Podium Steering Wheel Porsche 911 GT3 R. A complete replica of the widely loved Porsche 991 GT3 R wheel delivers automotive grade performance and quality. It also has Intelligent Telemetry Mode (ITM), which unlocks additional features in compatible games Best Sim Racing Brands for Beginners in 2024.
What are the Features of Fanatec?
Some exclusive features of Fanatec products include:
- Some of the special features of Fanatec products include:
- Association with top motorsports brands such as BMW and Porsche.
- Compatibility with multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4
- Modularity for customization and upgrade options.
What are the advantages of Fanatec?
- Extensive range of sim racing equipment
- Officially licensed products for a more authentic experience
- Innovative features like ITM for an immersive gaming experience
- Highly customizable gaming experience
- Ease of profile switching
What are the disadvantages of Fanatec?
- Insufficient power in the base form in various products
- Clutch pedals lacked in cheaper bundles
- Compatibility mode needed for various games
2. Thrustmaster
The T128 racing wheel is one of the most popular products from Thrustmaster. It features Hybrid Drive Force Feedback for a completely immersive gaming experience. Combine it with the T2PM pedal set to get the most out of your racing simulator.
Some of the key features of the racing wheel are up to 900 degree rotation angle and engine speed LED. The steering wheel also has accessible handbrake buttons and a quick-release system.
If you want to level up, the T818 Ferrari SF1000 simulator is the right choice. Although more expensive, the simulator provides a complete package for professional-level racing. Their Force Feedback is at the same level as eSports. Additionally, you get a 1:1 scale replica of the Ferrari SF1000 steering wheel.
Moza Racing
Moza Racing has recently gained a lot of attention for its sim racing rigs and accessories. The company’s sim racing ecosystem includes steering wheels, pedals, accessories, and wheel bases.
Moza Racing’s KS steering wheel is one of the most popular products. The 300mm butterfly-style wheel features carbon fiber composites for lightweight performance. It is also compatible with third-party wheel bases. You can connect them via the MOZA Universal Hub Kit PC adapter.
If you prefer a more sporty design, the ES steering wheel should be your choice. Its features include:
- Hand-stitched leather.
- RGB shifter light indicator.
- Aluminum alloy frame.
- 22 programmable buttons.
Some of the accessories you can purchase from the company are its 12-inch wheel mod for the ES and HGP shifters. Other options are extension rods, shifter table clamps, and HBP hand brakes.
Next Level Racing
As the name implies, the goal of Next Level Racing’s products is to advance racing simulation. The company aims to bring you professional-grade simulators and accessories.
As a beginner, the GTLITE Pro Sim Racing Cockpit is a good fit for you. It’s a budget-friendly cockpit with padded seats.
What’s more, it features a foldable design, easy assembly, and tool-free adjustments. The cockpit is also compatible with handbrake and shifters.
If you don’t mind spending a grand, the F-GT Elite 160 Scuderia Ferrari Edition could be your pick. Its universal compatibility and unmatched adjustability make it a great choice for pro racers.
Next Level Racing also makes racing stands. One example is the Wheel Stand 2.0.Its collapsible shape makes storing simple.. Plus, it’s compatible with the company’s GTSEAT to create a complete sim racing cockpit. The height adjustment feature makes it suitable for people of different heights.
Track Racer
Whether you need your first sim racing wheel or a full sim racing setup, Track Racer fits the bill. The company proudly partners with Airbus Aircraft and the BWT Alpine F1 Team.
Their TR8 Pro Racing Simulator comes with seven seats and six monitor stand options. In addition, add-ons include pedal mounts and gear shifter mounts. You can also add larger seat brackets and seat slider rails.
The Alpine Racing TRX is another high-end product from Track Racer. Alpine F1 engineers collaborated with Track Racer to create this product. The simulator lets you switch between GT and Formula seating positions in minutes. It is also compatible with Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.
- Track Racer’s unique features include:
- Integrated audio options in the simulators
Compatibility with both GT and Formula seating positions
Collaboration with top racing teams for cutting-edge technology
Wide range of customization options for a personalized experience
Tips for Choosing the Best Sim Racing Brand
So, you want to buy your own sim racing rig. Where do you get it from? Your individual needs and budget will ultimately determine which brand is the best fit for you. Here are some factors to consider.
Skill level
As a beginner, you may not need a high-end setup with all the fancy features. You can opt for a simpler, more affordable option. Fanatec bundles are a good starting point for most beginning sim racers.
Budget
How much can you spend? If you have the funds, you can get the Thrustmaster T818 Ferrari SF1000 simulator. But it’s not necessary.
Many other brands, such as Moza Racing and Next Level Racing, offer affordable options. You can scale your setup as your skills improve.
Compatibility
Make sure the brand you choose is compatible with your preferred gaming platform. Not all brands offer support for consoles and PC platforms. Logitech is a good brand to consider if you want cross-platform compatibility.
Final Thoughts:
Did you meet our selection criteria? Now you’re ready to make a decision. If performance is your top priority, go for Thrustmaster, Logitech, or Fanatec. But if you’re on a tight budget, Moza Racing has some good options.
For a beginner-friendly option, pick something from Track Racer or Moza Racing. Looking for a cockpit? Next Level Racing and Logitech are your choices.