Transitioning from a standard DualSense controller to a dedicated racing wheel is the single most significant step you can take to enhance your immersion in PS5 racing titles. The tactile feedback, precision control, and authentic ergonomics of a wheel and pedal set can transform the experience, making games like Gran Turismo 7 and Assetto Corsa Competizione feel more realistic and engaging. A quality wheel provides a better understanding of the car’s behavior and road surface details, which can even help you get faster in sim racing.
However, the market is filled with options across various price points and feature sets, from entry-level models with basic resistance to advanced direct-drive systems. This guide offers an objective, purely informational breakdown of some of the most prominent PS5-compatible racing wheels available. We will analyze their technology, construction, and performance to provide a clear picture of what each model offers, helping you make an informed decision for your sim racing setup.
It is important to understand PS5 wheel compatibility. Officially licensed PlayStation 4 racing wheels are compatible with the PS5 console. However, their functionality within native PS5 games is determined by the game developer, while they are expected to work with all PS4 games played on the PS5.
PS5 Racing Wheels: 2025 Comparison Table
This table provides a quick, at-a-glance comparison of the key specifications for each wheel discussed in this guide.
| Feature | Logitech G923 | Thrustmaster T80 | Thrustmaster T150 Pro | Thrustmaster TMX | HORI Racing Wheel Apex |
| Drive System | Gear-Driven | Bungee Cord | Hybrid (Belt + Gear) | Hybrid (Belt + Gear) | Internal Spring/Motor |
| Force Feedback | Yes (TRUEFORCE HD) | No (Linear Resistance) | Yes | Yes | No (Vibration only) |
| Max. Rotation | 900° | 240° | 1080° | 900° | 180° – 270° (Adjustable) |
| PS5 Compatibility | Full Support | PS5/PS4 (Game Dependent) | PS5/PS4 (Game Dependent) | No (Xbox/PC Only) | Full Support |
| Wheel Rim Materials | Hand-Stitched Leather, Metal | Rubber, Plastic | Rubber, Plastic | Rubber, Plastic | Rubber, Plastic |
| Pedal Set | 3-Pedal (Metal) | 2-Pedal (Plastic) | 3-Pedal (Metal) | 2-Pedal or 3-Pedal | 2-Pedal (Plastic) |
| Clutch Pedal | Yes | No | Yes | T3PA Add-on required | No |
| Rim Diameter | 280 mm | 280 mm | 280 mm | 280 mm | 280 mm |
| Shifters | Metal Paddles | Plastic Paddles | Metal Paddles | Metal Paddles | Plastic Paddles |
| Ecosystem | Logitech G | Thrustmaster | Thrustmaster | Thrustmaster | N/A |
| Ideal User | Enthusiast Beginners | Casual/Arcade Racers | Serious Beginners | Xbox/PC Users | Young or Casual Players |
In-Depth Analysis of PS5 Compatible Racing Wheels
Below, we take a closer look at the design, performance, and key features of each model. This objective analysis is based on the latest product specifications and features.
1. Logitech G923 TRUEFORCE Racing Wheel
The Logitech G923 is an evolution of the immensely popular G29 and G920 wheels. It maintains a similar design and core mechanism but introduces TRUEFORCE technology, a proprietary high-definition force feedback system designed to provide a more detailed and realistic experience in supported games. You can find a more detailed look in our Logitech G923 review.
Key Specifications
- Drive System: Gear-Driven with TRUEFORCE HD Feedback
- Max Rotation: 900 degrees
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PC
- Pedals: 3-pedal set (throttle, brake, clutch)
- Materials: Brushed metal wheel face, automotive-style leather stitching, steel pedals
Design and Build Quality
The G923 presents a premium feel for its price point. The hand-stitched leather on the wheel provides excellent grip and comfort during long sessions, a noticeable step up from the rubber and plastic found on more budget-oriented wheels. The inclusion of brushed metal on the wheel spokes and polished metal on the pedal faces adds to its robust and durable aesthetic. All essential PS5 controls are integrated directly onto the wheel hub for easy access.
Performance and Force Feedback
The main feature of the G923 is its TRUEFORCE system. This technology connects directly to a game’s physics and audio engines to generate high-definition, real-time feedback. Beyond the standard forces you feel from the gear-driven motor, TRUEFORCE adds another layer of tactile information, such as road surface texture, tire slip, and engine vibrations. While the underlying gear drive can feel slightly notchy compared to belt-driven systems, the added detail from TRUEFORCE creates a uniquely immersive experience in compatible titles.
Pedal Set
Included with the G923 is a three-pedal unit featuring a progressive brake spring. This design aims to mimic the feel of a pressure-sensitive braking system, offering increasing resistance as more force is applied. This allows for more precise trail-braking and better muscle memory development compared to linear brake pedals.
Ideal User Profile
The Logitech G923 is an excellent starting point for enthusiasts looking for a complete, all-in-one package with modern feedback technology. It is for the user who wants a plug-and-play experience with a premium feel without delving into the complexities of a modular ecosystem.
2. Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB Edition
The Thrustmaster T80 is an officially licensed entry-level wheel aimed at casual players or those on a strict budget. It’s crucial to understand that this wheel does not feature force feedback. Instead, it uses a bungee cord system to provide resistance and self-centering.
Key Specifications
- Drive System: Bungee Cord Resistance System
- Max Rotation: 240 degrees
- Compatibility: PS5 (for PS4 games), PS4
- Pedals: 2-pedal set (throttle, brake)
- Materials: Rubber textured grip, plastic construction
Design and Build Quality
As a budget model, the T80 is constructed primarily of plastic. However, the wheel itself features a rubberized texture for improved grip. It’s an 8:10 scale replica of the Ferrari 488 GTB wheel, offering an authentic look. The unit includes all standard PlayStation buttons for easy menu navigation. The wheel is lightweight and designed to be mounted via a central clamp system, which is suitable for desks and tables but might not be ideal for a more permanent racing wheel stand.
Performance and Resistance System
The core of the T80 experience is its bungee cord mechanism. This system provides linear resistance, meaning the wheel will pull back to the center with consistent force regardless of what is happening in the game. It provides a more engaging experience than a controller but lacks the nuanced communication of a true force feedback system. You will not feel details like loss of traction or road texture.
Pedal Set
The included pedal set is a basic two-pedal unit made of plastic. It features an adjustable angle of inclination and a brake pedal with slightly more resistance than the throttle to provide some level of differentiation.
Ideal User Profile
The Thrustmaster T80 is suited for young gamers, casual arcade racing fans, or anyone wanting to try a wheel without a significant financial commitment. It’s a solid step up from a gamepad for playing PS4 steering wheel games on the PS5.
3. Thrustmaster T150 Pro Force Feedback
The Thrustmaster T150 is widely regarded as one of the best entry-points into the world of true force feedback. It utilizes a hybrid drive system that offers a smoother experience than gear-only systems and provides genuine feedback from the game’s physics engine. The “Pro” version is notable for including the superior T3PA 3-pedal set.
Key Specifications
- Drive System: Hybrid Belt-Pulley and Gear System
- Max Rotation: 1080 degrees
- Compatibility: PS5 (for PS4 games), PS4, PC
- Pedals: T3PA 3-pedal set (Pro version)
- Materials: Reinforced rubber grips, plastic construction, metal sequential paddle shifters
Design and Build Quality
The T150’s construction is primarily plastic, but it feels sturdy and well-assembled. The wheel grips are coated in reinforced rubber for comfort and control. A key feature is the set of large, wheel-mounted sequential paddle shifters, which are made of 100% metal, providing a satisfying and tactile click with each gear change.
Performance and Force Feedback
The T150’s hybrid belt and gear system is its main strength. This system balances the power and detail of a geared motor with the smoothness of a belt drive, minimizing the notchy or cogging feeling often associated with pure gear-driven wheels in this price bracket. The force feedback is communicative, allowing the driver to feel weight transfer, tire grip limits, and road surface changes. The 1080 degrees of rotation allows for realistic steering inputs across all types of motorsport simulations.
Pedal Set
The Pro version includes the Thrustmaster T3PA pedal set. This is a significant upgrade over the standard 2-pedal set, as it includes a clutch pedal and features all-metal pedal heads and internal structure. It is a durable and versatile set that provides a solid foundation for learning advanced driving techniques.
Ideal User Profile
The Thrustmaster T150 Pro is for the serious beginner who wants authentic force feedback and a 3-pedal setup without a high initial investment. Its performance and upgrade path within the Thrustmaster ecosystem make it a long-lasting and valuable choice. For those considering an upgrade path, the Thrustmaster T300RS offers a more powerful, fully belt-driven experience.
4. Thrustmaster TMX Force Feedback (Important Compatibility Note)
The Thrustmaster TMX is the direct counterpart to the T150 but is designed exclusively for the Xbox and PC ecosystems. It is often mistakenly included in lists for PlayStation users due to its similar appearance and market position to the T150.
Key Specifications
- Drive System: Hybrid Belt-Pulley and Gear System
- Max Rotation: 900 degrees
- Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
- Pedals: Standard 2-pedal set (upgradeable to T3PA)
- Materials: Rubber grips, plastic construction, metal paddle shifters
Design and Build Quality
The design of the TMX is nearly identical to the T150, featuring the same 28 cm diameter wheel, plastic body, and rubberized grips. The key difference is the button layout, which features Xbox-specific buttons (A, B, X, Y, and the Xbox guide button).
Performance and Force Feedback
Functionally, the force feedback system in the TMX is very similar to the T150, offering a great combination of smoothness and detail for its class. It provides an immersive and responsive driving experience on its intended platforms, making it one of the best Xbox One steering wheels (and by extension, Series X|S).
Pedal Set
The standard TMX comes with a basic 2-pedal plastic set. While functional, it lacks the clutch and robust build of the T3PA pedals that come with the T150 Pro. Users can purchase the T3PA set separately as an upgrade.
Important Note for PlayStation Users
The Thrustmaster TMX is not compatible with the PlayStation 5 or PlayStation 4. Users looking for a wheel with these features for a PS5 should select the Thrustmaster T150 instead. This entry is included for clarification due to common confusion between the two models.
5. HORI Racing Wheel Apex (RWA)
The HORI Racing Wheel Apex (RWA) is another popular budget option that is officially licensed for the PlayStation 5. Like the Thrustmaster T80, it does not have force feedback, but it uses a rumble motor to provide vibration, similar to a standard gamepad.
Key Specifications
- Drive System: Gear and Spring Mechanism with Rumble
- Max Rotation: 270 degrees (can be switched to 180 degrees)
- Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PC
- Pedals: 2-pedal set
- Materials: High-quality plastic with rubberized grip
Design and Build Quality
For a budget wheel, the HORI RWA has a solid build quality. It features a full-size wheel with a comfortable rubber grip and has all the necessary PS5 buttons, including L2/R2 and a directional pad that can be programmed to emulate the right or left stick of a DualSense controller. It can be mounted with either suction cups or a desk clamp.
Performance and Vibration Feedback
The RWA offers a step up from a simple spring-based system by incorporating vibration feedback. Its internal motor will rumble to simulate road texture, collisions, and acceleration, much like the haptics in a standard controller. While this enhances immersion compared to a non-feedback wheel, it does not provide the directional force and resistance of a true force feedback system. The wheel offers adjustable sensitivity and dead-zone settings, allowing for a degree of personalization.
Pedal Set
The included two-pedal set is lightweight and made of plastic. It features a unique retractable footrest that helps to add stability and prevent the unit from sliding away during use, which is a thoughtful feature for a unit likely to be used without a dedicated sim racing cockpit.
Ideal User Profile
The HORI Racing Wheel Apex is an excellent choice for casual players, families, and those who primarily play arcade-style racing games. It offers an official license and a more interactive experience than a standard controller without the cost and complexity of a force feedback wheel.
Key Factors When Choosing a PS5 Racing Wheel
Making the right choice involves understanding the core technologies that differentiate these products.
Force Feedback: The Core of Immersion
This is the single most important feature for a realistic driving experience. Force feedback uses a motor to generate forces that you feel through the wheel, simulating what a real driver would experience. This includes the weight of the car as you turn, the jolt of hitting a curb, and the subtle feeling of tires losing grip. Wheels without it, like the T80 and HORI Apex, use springs or bungee cords for simple resistance.
Drive System: Gear vs. Belt vs. Direct Drive
Force feedback is delivered through a drive system.
- Gear Drive (Logitech G923): Uses gears to connect the motor to the wheel. It’s powerful and detailed but can sometimes feel “notchy” or “clunky.”
- Belt Drive (Found in higher-end Thrustmaster wheels like the T300RS): Uses a belt and pulley system. This provides a much smoother, quieter, and often more realistic feeling than gears.
- Hybrid (Thrustmaster T150/TMX): A combination of gears and a belt pulley to offer a smoother feel than a pure gear system at a lower cost than a pure belt system.
- Direct Drive (Found in high-end Fanatec or Simucube models): The wheel is mounted directly to the motor shaft. This is the most premium option, offering the strongest, most detailed, and most responsive feedback. You can learn more about them from our guide to direct drive wheels.
Rotation Angle
The maximum angle the wheel can turn. A higher rotation (900°-1080°) allows for more precise steering and is more realistic for most road and rally cars. Lower rotation (240°-270°) is better suited for F1-style or fast-paced arcade racing.
Build Materials and Quality
Premium wheels use metal and leather, which offer better durability and comfort over long sessions. Budget wheels primarily use plastic and rubber. Consider investing in a pair of sim racing gloves for added comfort and wheel preservation.
Pedals and Modularity
A 3-pedal set with a clutch allows for the most realistic experience, especially when paired with an H-pattern shifter. Some ecosystems, like Thrustmaster’s, allow you to upgrade pedals, shifters, and even the wheel rim itself over time.
Console and Game Compatibility
Always double-check that the wheel is officially licensed and compatible with your console. Remember that for the PS5, native game support for older peripherals is not guaranteed and is left to the discretion of each game’s developer. Before making a choice, it is wise to consult a list of Thrustmaster compatible games or the equivalent for other brands if you have specific titles in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a PS4 racing wheel on the PS5?
Yes, officially licensed PS4 specialty peripherals, including racing wheels, will work with PS4 games played on a PS5. Their compatibility with native PS5 games is on a game-by-game basis and must be enabled by the developer.
Do I need a racing wheel stand or cockpit?
While not strictly necessary, as most wheels come with desk clamps, a dedicated stand or cockpit provides a much more stable and ergonomic experience. It prevents the wheel and pedals from moving during intense moments and allows you to maintain a consistent seating position, which is crucial for performance.
What is the main difference between a cheap wheel and an expensive wheel?
The primary difference is the force feedback system. Cheaper wheels use basic springs or vibration, while more expensive wheels use sophisticated gear, belt, or direct drive motors to realistically simulate the forces of driving. Build materials and pedal quality are also significant differentiators.
Is a direct drive wheel worth it for a PS5?
Direct drive wheels offer the highest level of realism and immersion. While they are a significant investment, for dedicated sim racing enthusiasts, the quality and detail of the force feedback are unmatched. Fanatec offers PS5-compatible direct drive bases that are a popular choice for those seeking the ultimate experience.
How do I connect my racing wheel to my PS5?
The process is generally straightforward. Most wheels connect via a single USB cable to the front or back of the PS5. The pedals then connect directly to the wheelbase. For a detailed guide, you can review our article on how to connect a racing wheel to PlayStation.
As our senior Console Gaming Specialist, Mack explores the entire console ecosystem, from hardware nuances to first-party exclusives. With over 20 years of gaming experience, his reviews and guides focus on game design, narrative impact, and the overall player experience. He aims to help readers discover which games will truly resonate with them.