Want to get into sim racing, but don’t know where to start? Don’t panic! Between steering wheels, pedals, and cockpits, it’s easy to get lost. So, what’s the best gear to get started without breaking the bank? We’ll guide you step by step to choose the ideal equipment, so you can have maximum fun from your first laps!
What equipment should you choose to get started in sim racing?
The essential equipment for getting started in sim racing consists of a steering wheel, pedals, and a suitable mount. These three elements are the foundation for enjoying a realistic and immersive experience. But be careful, not all equipment is created equal, and it’s important to choose according to your budget and expectations.
A good steering wheel will allow you to feel the road thanks to force feedback. The pedals are essential for properly adjusting acceleration and braking, two crucial points for improving your driving skills. Finally, the support or cockpit ensures good comfort and better stability.
What is the best PC steering wheel for beginners?
The steering wheel is the central element of sim racing, and the choice of model directly impacts the driving experience. A good steering wheel must offer precise and fluid force feedback to faithfully transmit the sensations of the road.
Entry-level steering wheels use a belt or gear system, while more advanced models adopt Direct Drive technology, offering even more realistic immersion. Among the accessible references, we find the Thrustmaster as well as the Moza Racing, perfect for getting started without breaking the bank.
The steering wheel diameter, coating, and control buttons are also important to consider. A good grip and well-designed ergonomics will make all the difference in racing. Finally, if you’re aiming for ultimate realism, some steering wheels are specific to certain disciplines (F1, rally, GT), but they’re generally more expensive.
Which Simracing pedal set should you choose for a good driving experience?
A good pedal set is essential for precisely adjusting acceleration and braking. High-end models use load cells for a more realistic feel, unlike basic pedal sets with potentiometers, which are less precise.
2 or 3 pedal pedal sets are the most common. A model with a clutch can be interesting if you plan to use a manual gearbox. To get started, the Thrustmaster T-LCM is an excellent option with its load cell sensor, while on the Moza Racing side , the Moza SR-P – RS11 is a powerful and accessible choice. If you want even more realism, the Moza Racing CRP2 – RS066 is a high-end pedal set designed to offer excellent feedback.
Finally, for those who want to customize their setup, additional pedals like the Moza Racing SR-P Lite – Clutch allow you to add a clutch to an existing pedal set.
One of the often overlooked criteria is brake resistance . The more realistic it is, the easier it will be to improve your riding. Some models also allow you to adjust the pedal travel or spring force, which can be a real plus for personalizing your experience.
Which support or cockpit should you choose for your sim racing setup?
Investing in a stand or cockpit depends on your budget and commitment level. A rigid cockpit provides more comfort and stability, but it’s not a must-have for a good start.
Foldable stands like the Wheel Stand PRO Deluxe V2 are ideal for smaller spaces. If you want a more realistic setup, a fixed cockpit like the Diablo Chairs X-Drive or the OPLITE Wheel Stand GTR is a good starting point.
If your goal is to progress in sim racing, then investing in a more robust cockpit, a bucket seat, and mounts is a good idea. Models like the OPLITE GTR S8 Infinity Force or the Cooler Master Dyn X are very popular among enthusiasts.
A good cockpit not only improves immersion, but also driving precision, providing a more natural posture and better stability.
What accessories can enhance the sim racing experience?
Certain accessories can greatly enhance immersion and comfort in sim racing. Ultra-wide screens, virtual reality, gearboxes, handbrakes… There are many options to make the experience even more realistic.
However, not all of them are essential from the start. The screen and sound play a major role in immersion, while the gearboxes and handbrakes are more useful for specific disciplines like rallying. Let’s now take a closer look at these accessories.
Screens, VR, sound: should we invest in immersion?
Display is one of the most important elements for an immersive experience. There are three main options: a traditional screen, a triple-screen setup, or VR.
An ultra-wide screen (21:9 or 32:9) improves peripheral vision, while a triple screen offers even greater immersion. Virtual reality (VR) is an alternative that fully immerses you in the race, with a unique sense of depth and speed.
On the sound side, a good gaming headset or surround sound system allows you to hear engine, tire, and environmental sounds, thus enhancing immersion.
Which PC gearbox and simracing handbrake should I choose?
A manual gearbox and a handbrake aren’t essential for beginners. But they quickly become essential for certain disciplines like rallying or H-pattern driving.
The ThrustMaster TH8A Shifter and the Moza Racing HGP – RS039 are among the best, offering smooth and precise gear changes. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the ThrustMaster TH8S Add-On is a good compromise for getting started with an H-shifter.
When it comes to handbrakes, the ThrustMaster TSS Handbrake is a safe bet. If you prefer a high-performance and affordable alternative, the Moza Racing HBP – RS31 is an excellent choice with good value for money.
If you plan to play mainly in GT or F1, these accessories are not necessarily useful. On the other hand, for rally or drift, they add a real plus in terms of control and realism. The little extras that make all the difference (gloves, mats, etc.)
Sim racing gloves help prevent sweating and improve your grip on the steering wheel. Models like those from Sparco or Mechanix are popular. A floor mat prevents the pedals from slipping and protects the floor from sudden movements.
Finally, a simple fan positioned in front of you can simulate wind and add a very immersive feeling of speed.
The Best Gear to Get Started in Simracing
Getting started with sim racing can seem complicated, but with the right equipment, everything becomes easier. A responsive steering wheel, precise pedals, and a stable platform are all you need to start having fun.
If you want to take it further, you can always upgrade your setup with a more robust cockpit, an immersive screen, or accessories like a gearbox and a handbrake .It all depends on your preferences and budget.
The key is to find the right equipment for you and get the most out of each race.
