With the market offering numerous options, finding the best budget wheels for Gran Turismo 7 can be challenging. However, we've compiled a list of top-tier, budget-friendly devices that excel in delivering true-to-life force feedback and precise control, enhancing your gameplay without breaking the bank.
Focusing on some of the best racing wheels on a budget from renowned sim racing brands, our carefully selected picks offer exceptional performance and immersion. These budget-friendly options not only provide a realistic racing feel but can also help improve your lap times with superior precision and control. Fasten your seatbelt, then, as we run through what we believe are the best budget wheels for Gran Turismo 7.
Quick List: Best Budget Wheels for Gran Turismo 7
- Best budget wheel for Gran Turismo 7 overall - Logitech G29
- Best budget Thrustmaster wheel for Gran Turismo 7 - Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB Edition
- Best budget Hori wheel for Gran Turismo 7 - Hori Racing Wheel Apex
- Best budget direct drive wheel for Gran Turismo 7 - MOZA R5 Bundle
Why we chose the Logitech G29
The Logitech G29 may not be the cheapest option out there, but when it comes to sim racing gear, it offers excellent value for its price. Compared to some of the more expensive racing wheels on the market, the G29 stands out as one of the best budget-friendly choices.
Key Features:
- Wide Compatibility: Works with PlayStation, PC, and select Xbox models, ideal for Gran Turismo 7 and other major racing titles.
- Dual-Motor Force Feedback: Replicates real driving conditions for a more immersive and responsive experience.
- 900-Degree Rotation: Provides realistic steering control, allowing for two and a half turns lock-to-lock—perfect for wide, sweeping corners.
- High-Quality Build: Features durable components with a leather-wrapped wheel and stainless steel pedals for a premium feel.
- Responsive Pedal Set: Includes gas, brake, and clutch pedals for a complete driving setup.
Overall, the Logitech G29 is a well-rounded racing wheel that punches above its weight. If you catch it on sale, it becomes an even more compelling deal for sim racers looking to level up their setup without breaking the bank.
Why we chose the Thrustmaster T80
The Thrustmaster T80, an 8:10 scale replica of the Ferrari 488 GTB wheel, offers an affordable yet authentic experience for Gran Turismo enthusiasts. Officially licensed by Ferrari and PlayStation, it’s a great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality.
Key Features:
- Ferrari 488 GTB Replica: 8:10 scale design with 28cm diameter and textured rubber cladding for comfortable, realistic grip.
- Official PlayStation Support: Integrated PS4/PS5 buttons for easy in-game navigation and menu control.
- Adjustable Pedal Set: Responsive, customizable pedals for more accurate braking and acceleration.
- Bungee Cord Resistance: Delivers consistent linear tension for a smooth, immersive experience without traditional force feedback.
- Rotation & Controls: 240° rotation angle, 11 action buttons, D-pad, and automatic recentering for versatile gameplay.
While it lacks true force feedback, the Thrustmaster T80 still offers solid realism and impressive build quality for the price. It’s an excellent starter wheel for Gran Turismo players who want a taste of sim racing without committing to higher-end gear.
Why we chose the Hori Racing Wheel Apex
The Hori Racing Wheel Apex is a standout budget-friendly option for PS5 and PS4 Gran Turismo 7 players looking for solid performance without a hefty price tag.
Key Features:
- 270-Degree Rotation: Smooth steering range ideal for tight corners and precise control.
- Customizable Profiles: The companion app lets you adjust steering dead zones and save up to four personalized setups for easy switching.
- Paddle Shifters & D-Pad: Responsive paddles and a dedicated D-pad provide intuitive control and quick access to in-game commands.
- Full-Size Pedals: Durable pedal set ensures accurate braking and acceleration.
- Robust Clamping System: Easy to install and secure on various desk setups for stability during intense gameplay.
Despite its affordable price, the Hori Racing Wheel Apex offers versatility and customization that rival more expensive models. For Gran Turismo fans seeking a reliable and adjustable wheel to enhance their racing sessions, it’s definitely a smart and budget-conscious choice.
Why we chose the MOZA R5 Bundle
Direct drive wheels are usually out of reach for budget-conscious sim racers, but the MOZA R5 Bundle offers a surprisingly cheap entry point into this high-end technology.
Key Features:
- 5.5 Nm Torque Direct Drive Base: Provides precise force feedback that captures every detail of the road for realistic handling.
- Premium Wheel: Aluminum and steel construction wrapped in leather for durability and comfort, featuring multiple buttons on the center console for quick access.
- MOZA Pit House Software: Enables detailed customization and easy switching between game presets to tailor your setup perfectly.
- Complete Bundle: Includes pedals and a sturdy table clamp, so you have everything needed to start direct drive racing right out of the box.
By delivering advanced direct drive technology at a relatively affordable price, the MOZA R5 Bundle stands out as a fantastic gateway for serious sim racers looking to level up their Gran Turismo 7 racing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Buying a racing wheel can often lead to a ton of questions, especially if it is your first time. Don't worry, we've answered some of the most commonly asked queries below.
What is force feedback?
Force Feedback is a simulation technique employed in racing wheels to deliver a highly immersive racing experience. This sensation of Force Feedback is brought to life through a synergy of in-game coding tailored to the specific racing title, a configuration of the settings, and the deployment of multiple electric motors housed within the wheel itself.
These electric motors function in harmony with the on-screen visuals, making dynamic adjustments in real-time to faithfully replicate the driving conditions. They generate resistance, adding depth and realism to the gameplay experience, much in the same way some of the best direct drive wheels can.
It's important to mention that not all racing wheels are equipped with force feedback capabilities. However, for those seeking an enhanced and more realistic gaming experience, you can buy wheel base upgrades. This upgrade isn't always readily available for every racing wheel, but the investment can significantly enhance your immersion and enjoyment while gaming.
What is direct drive?
Direct drive refers to a configuration where the steering wheel is mounted directly onto the motor. This design contrasts with traditional force feedback systems that utilize belts or gears alongside the motor to augment the realism of the driving simulation.
The primary advantage of this direct drive setup is the delivery of unadulterated feedback from the motor. This ensures a more immediate and pure connection between you, the steering wheel, and the simulator's mechanical framework, with minimal loss of fidelity due to the absence of intermediary mechanical components.
It's more expensive in most cases, though, so you're unlikely to find a budget-friendly racing wheel with this kind of technology built into it.
Are racing wheels adjustable?
Racing wheels often come with a range of adjustable settings that let you tailor your gaming experience. For instance, you can tweak the steering sensitivity, dictating how much your in-game wheel turns in response to your physical movements on the racing wheel.
Moreover, some wheels allow you to modify the virtual steering wheel's rotation angle, affecting how much you need to turn the physical wheel for a full turn in the game.
Models with feedback settings enable adjustments to feedback effects like vibration, resistance, and movement intensity. These settings are customizable more often than not, allowing you to fine-tune them for a more realistic and immersive experience.
Additionally, most racing wheels feature buttons and controls that can be altered to suit your preferences or match the controls of the game you're playing. However, the adjustability options might differ across various models, so checking the product specifications and user manuals is wise to understand the specific adjustable features of the model you're interested in.
Is playing Gran Turismo 7 easier with a racing wheel?
Although both a wheel and a controller can achieve identical lap times in Gran Turismo, a wheel holds distinct advantages worth considering.
Firstly, the inclusion of force feedback or direct drive provides enhanced feedback, aiding in subtle adjustments to your racing line. Additionally, racing with a wheel often instills more confidence as it allows for easier corrections to steering, encouraging a more aggressive driving style that might just push you into first place.
However, for a more casual Gran Turismo player seeking versatility beyond racing, a top gamepad might be a more suitable choice. For serious racers, though, a wheel is almost a must-have.
Is a racing wheel suitable for beginners in Gran Turismo 7?
Yes, sim racing wheels are ideal for beginners and may enhance your skills playing Gran Turismo once you've adjusted to the switch.
The main advantage of a sim racing wheel is its ability to provide a more intuitive and immersive control system compared to traditional gamepads or keyboards. The setup, which includes a steering wheel and pedals, closely mimics the layout of real car controls, which is familiar to anyone who can drive and relatively easy to get the hang of.
As touched on before, racing wheels usually incorporate feedback technology, which plays a crucial role in simulating real driving conditions. This technology delivers physical feedback through the wheel, allowing players to feel the car's responses, such as traction loss or the onset of understeer or oversteer. This tactile response is invaluable for beginners as it helps them develop a nuanced understanding of vehicle dynamics.
Having transitioned from using a traditional controller to a wheel in the past, I've noticed a marked improvement in precision. Adjusting steering inputs is smoother and more natural with a wheel than with the thumbsticks of a gamepad. This makes the sim racing wheel a superior choice for newcomers aiming to refine their driving technique.
Can a racing wheel be used without a dedicated racing seat or stand?
A racing wheel can be used without a dedicated racing seat or stand. Many racing wheels come with desk or table clamps, offering a stable and secure setup for gaming. This approach is particularly suitable for casual gamers or those with limited space, providing an immersive racing experience without the need for additional furniture. By mounting the wheel on a desk, players can enjoy the thrill of racing games with minimal setup and expense.
However, using a dedicated racing seat or stand significantly enhances both stability and comfort, particularly during extended gaming sessions. These setups prevent the wheel from moving during intense gameplay and often provide a more realistic driving position.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a seasoned sim racer or just starting out, a budget-friendly racing wheel can significantly enhance your Gran Turismo 7 experience without breaking the bank. With options catering to different needs and budgets, there's never been a better time to upgrade your setup and hit the track.