Last updated: September 6th, 2023
You may be new to sim racing or looking for a few upgrades to improve your experience. Whatever the reason, updates are always exciting with all of the equipment choices we have today as sim racers. Along the journey, Fanatec has always been there, so in today’s feature-length article we’re going to dissect the Fanatec ecosystem and look at each of their sim racing products in our brand-new buyer’s guide.
Fanatec
You may be astonished to learn that the sim racing industry represents a vast consumer market, with Fanatec, the top equipment manufacturer, (Traded under the stock symbol E2N and owned by Endor) is valued at approximately EUR 82.1 million, operating at a profit margin of 56%. This is despite the onset of competitions from the likes of Simucube, Cube Controls, and new entrants, Moza Racing.
Considering the various participants, software platforms, and the multitude of PC and PlayStation users engaging in racing simulators, it becomes clear that sim racing has established a firm foothold and is not going anywhere. And for now, it’s without a doubt that Fanatec is the biggest sim racing gear manufacturer on the planet.
Today we’re going to look at a little history of the company and then dive deep into their product catalogue. While I’ve made recommendations for our favourite Fanatec steering wheels before, and I’m a big fan of the Fanatec DD2 direct drive wheelbase, there are a huge array of other options. The cool thing about this gear is you can build a really cheap sim racing cockpit (our cheapest build currently features their CSL DD direct drive wheel), but get an experience that can provide enough of everything to put you up against the professional sim racers.
Key milestones and innovations
Throughout its history, Fanatec has been committed to innovation and pushing the boundaries of sim racing technology. In 2007, they released the world’s first multiplatform, high-end force feedback racing wheel, the Porsche 911 Turbo S.
This milestone was followed by the introduction of the ClubSport series in 2009, which brought professional-grade sim racing equipment to the consumer market. In 2015, Fanatec launched the ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula, featuring a carbon fibre construction and an integrated display.
More recently, the company unveiled the Podium series, which represents the pinnacle of sim racing technology.
Global expansion and partnerships
Over the years, Fanatec has expanded its presence globally, establishing subsidiaries in the United States, Australia, and Japan. Additionally, they have formed partnerships with renowned brands and organizations such as SRO, Porsche, BMW, and Formula 1, further solidifying their reputation as a leader in the sim racing industry. Fanatec is the provider of all of the equipment and stewarding at the FIA Motorsport Games, too.
Fanatec, after what I suspect was a bumpy year (owing to stock levels, chip availability, and so on) is probably going to see something of a recovery in 2023. In my humble opinion, the equipment is excellent for beginner to intermediate sim racers because it just works – there’s very little fiddling around with setup compared to the higher-end gear. They also need some product development to fend off the likes of up-and-coming manufacturers.
With all this said, I think behind the scenes that’s exactly what Fanatec is doing. The chances are we’ll see some interesting new equipment appear in Q3 of this year. Take this prototype F1 cockpit for example:
Fanatec seems to be taking things to the next level for sim racers by uniting real-life, professional Motorsport operated by SRO with its virtual counterpart.
Through its sponsorship of the SRO GT3 Series (namely, the Fanatec GT World Challenge Championship and its subdivisions across America, Asia, Australia, and Europe), Fanatec is actively involving sim racing in the European Motorsport championship, potentially acting as a testbed for future worldwide expansion.
Sim Racing gets serious
Televised by Sky for German fans, the first race of the 2021 Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup calendar at Autodromo Nazionale Monza in April was the venue for a revolutionary esports concept.
For the first time in history, alongside the usual 3 Hours of Monza real-life race, entrants to the tournament were asked to select a driver to represent their team in a simulation race that would score them real championship points. Using the Assetto Corsa Competizione simulator, drivers took part in an on-site virtual race at Monza, using identical equipment from Fanatec’s extensive sim racing ecosystem.
Check out the broadcast, including info on the drivers and kit list here:
The inaugural Fanatec Esports GT Pro Series sprint race lasted 60 minutes, and all in attendance noted that the teams and their drivers took this event just as seriously as the real-life equivalent. Arthur Rougier of Emil Frey Racing took first place and scored the most real-world championship points for his team on an occasion that has redefined the way we think about esports.
Sim Racing Hardware
As the largest sim racing equipment manufacturer with an annual turnover of around £39m, Fanatec has become an industry giant in the digital motorsport world, and with its recent success with SRO, Fanatec is one step closer to bridging the gap between virtual and real racing. The best part is that anyone interested in motorsport can buy Fanatec’s equipment and experience the same driving realism as professional racing drivers, without the dangers of racing an actual car.
We can split Fanatec’s success as a sim hardware manufacturer into two notable attributes integrated into all the brand’s products; high-quality, ultra-realistic designs and ease of use. While many other companies manufacture great sim racing gear, what sets Fanatec apart from the crowd is the simplicity of its hardware thanks to its ecosystem, which allows all its products to be compatible with each other. This means you can combine different steering wheels with different wheelbases or pedals and add accessories like a shifter or a handbrake on various platforms – PC, PlayStation 4/5, and Xbox One – without breaking a sweat.
For the 1-hour sim race at Monza, drivers used a Rennsport V2 Cockpit sim rig kitted out with a Fanatec Podium DD2 wheelbase and a brand new 320mm Fanatec wheel rim attached using a Podium Hub. While the new 320mm rim is not available to the public yet – in fact, the Fanatec Esports GT Pro Series race was its debut appearance – the Podium DD2 wheelbase has been on the market now for a couple of years.
To complete the wheel, an Advanced Paddle Module and Button Module Endurance, also available to buy from Fanatec’s Podium line, allowed drivers to change gears and select driving modes as they would in their actual cars.
As for pedals, drivers used Fanatec’s Clubsport V3 set, which is one of the most popular and widely used sim racing pedal sets on the market. With complete metal construction, these pedals are highly durable, and they also have an adjustable load cell feature behind the brake pedal, replicating the way a real brake pedal feels and operates.
Motorsport replica equipment
As well as merging the virtual realm of motorsports with the physical through esports events, Fanatec has been doing its part to provide sim racers with an authentic experience by producing replica equipment. Spread across its product lines – CSL, ClubSport, and Podium – Fanatec has a fantastic selection of fully licensed wheels from the likes of BMW, Porsche, and McLaren.
Those of you looking to invest in the Fanatec ecosystem for its ultra-realistic appeal might find the following information helpful to your decision making.
For the first time in history, alongside the usual 3 Hours of Monza real-life race, entrants to the tournament were asked to select a driver to represent their team in a simulation race that would score them real championship points. Using the Assetto Corsa Competizione simulator, drivers took part in an on-site virtual race at Monza, using identical equipment from Fanatec’s extensive sim racing ecosystem.
Buyer’s Guide: Fanatec Product Series Overview
Fanatec’s extensive product ecosystem is divided into three main categories: CSL, ClubSport, and Podium. The ClubSport series was the initial offering, with the CSL and Podium products expanding the range over time. Below you can find a list of the products Fanatec currently offers to sim racers organised by the range they belong to. Put simply there are budget implications to the CSL range, where a Podium range item would be considered far more expensive. Follow these links if you just want to see Fanatec’s steering wheels or read why we think the DD1/2 is still a very good high-end direct drive wheel choice.
Otherwise – let’s take a detailed look at everything Fanatec are offering at the moment:
CSL Series
The CSL series is designed as entry-level hardware, incorporating features and technologies from both ClubSport and Podium products, and offers an outstanding price-performance ratio. Ideal for those new to sim racing, the CSL series outperforms competitors such as Thrustmaster and Logitech in terms of quality and features.
Fanatec recently introduced the highly anticipated official PlayStation 5 compatible direct drive wheel for Gran Turismo, the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro.
Clubsport Series
The ClubSport series is geared towards more experienced sim racing enthusiasts, featuring advanced sim racing hardware technology and higher-quality materials.
This series provides a solid and reliable choice for those looking to upgrade their sim racing experience.
Podium
As Fanatec’s high-end product category, the Podium series offers the most powerful hardware, including the DD1 and DD2 direct drive wheelbases and top-quality steering wheels with magnetic shifter paddles.
As you might expect from a sim racing manufacturer, their flagship, the Podium range offers higher-end equipment at a higher-end price.
A note on Fanatec PC, Playstation 4/5 and XBOX compatibility
Your sim racing PC serves as the most adaptable and accessible gaming platform for sim racing, which means that every Fanatec product is designed to work seamlessly with Windows PCs.
You have the freedom to mix and match almost any contemporary Fanatec hardware for use on a PC. With that said, always check the product page for the compatibility logos (pictured above), of course.
XBOX Compatibility
Fanatec’s Xbox-licensed products are all Steering Wheels. The Xbox security chip is located inside the steering wheel itself. By connecting an Xbox-licensed Steering Wheel to any Fanatec Wheel Base, the entire set of connected Fanatec hardware becomes Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S compatible. As I mentioned above, make sure you check the individual product pages for more details.
Sony PS4/PS5 Compatibility
In collaboration with Sony Interactive Entertainment, Fanatec’s officially-licensed PS4 products are designed to operate smoothly with all PS4 systems.
Specialty peripherals, including all Fanatec officially-licensed PS4 products, are compatible with both PS5 and supported PS4 games, as verified by Sony.
The PlayStation security chip is always integrated within the wheelbase, making any Fanatec product connected to a PlayStation-licensed wheelbase compatible as well.
In summary, for Fanatec compatibility there are currently five variations:
PC: This product is PC compatible.
Xbox: This product is compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.
Xbox Ready: This product becomes compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S systems when combined with an Xbox-licensed Steering Wheel.
PS: This product is compatible with PlayStation systems.
PS Ready: This product becomes compatible with PlayStation systems when combined with a PlayStation-licensed Wheel Base.
Fanatec Wheelbases
Without a wheelbase, you’re going nowhere! Incredibly, only two years ago there wouldn’t have been a chance that you could buy a direct drive wheelbase for less than $1000/€1000. Thanks to the CSL DD, that has changed. But let’s take a look at the full range of Fanatec wheelbases – which I’ve ordered in terms of their popularity (according to the Fanatec website)
Podium Wheel Base DD2
My first direct-drive wheelbase, the Fanatec DD2 is probably responsible for the proliferation of direct-drive wheels at scale across the globe (OK – I know about Granite devices, but Fanatec achieved a far larger scale in that time).
This is a high-performance direct-drive wheelbase with impressive force feedback detail. It offers good build quality, sturdiness, and durability, and overall the DD2 is capable of providing a realistic and immersive sim racing experience. I still love the setup I have for the Ferrari 488 in iRacing with this wheelbase. It’s excellent.
In terms of torque, the DD2 has plenty of power and personally, I think 25Nm is the most sim racers will ever need. The force feedback is smooth and accurate, with no discernable latency. Customizing the FFB (Force Feedback) options either via Fanalab or via a Fanatec steering wheel is still a really handy thing, making the DD2 today still very much a contender despite the likes of Simucube, Moza, VRS, and Fanatec’s own, newer products challenging the DD2’s dominance.
Price: €1,499.95 (Please note that the price may change or vary by region; always check the Fanatec website for the most up-to-date pricing)
Torque: Up to 25 Nm of torque, with peak torque available across the entire usable RPM range
Direct Drive technology: Outrunner-type motor engineered for sim racing, offering exceptional efficiency, dynamics, and detail
Data and Power: Seamless connection to compatible Fanatec steering wheels vis the Fanatec QR hub.
Quick Release System: Automotive-grade quick release system that remains compatible with ClubSport and CSL Elite wheelbases
OLED Display: Adjustable display for tuning settings, game telemetry, and more
Multi-platform compatibility: Compatible with PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S (depending on the steering wheel used)
Mounting options: Support for various mounting solutions, including table clamps, wheel stands, and side mounts for 8020 cockpits.
Fanatec ecosystem compatibility: Fully compatible with Fanatec’s range of steering wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes
Podium Wheel Base DD1
The DD1 is fundamentally very similar to the DD2 with the exception of the peak torque available, which is slightly lower than the DD2.
What’s the difference between a Fanatec DD1 and DD2?
Fanatec suggests that the DD2 has faster acceleration than the DD1 (slew rate), providing a sharper response when fighting against the car. However, this difference may not necessarily make you a faster or more consistent driver. Both wheelbases have built-in cooling and use the same, outrunner-type motor, so the cooling fan operation (which is pretty quiet by the way, you don’t notice it!) is similar at the same force levels. However, the DD2’s cooling fans work harder when pushed to their limits due to operating closer to the motor’s physical boundaries.
In summary, the DD1 is a fantastic wheelbase that won’t disappoint. It’s perfectly capable of providing desired strength with some room to spare. The DD2, on the other hand, offers a greater dynamic range, which might be beneficial if you love aggressive driving, off-road experiences, or require more force. While the DD1 might provide better value for money for most drivers, the DD2 is justified for those seeking upgraded performance.
If you’re debating between the DD1 and DD2, know that the DD1 is sufficient for most needs, and you’re not missing out on anything crucial if you choose it over the DD2. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and individual driving requirements.
Price: €1,199.95 (Please note that the price may change or vary by region; always check the Fanatec website for the most up-to-date pricing)
Torque: Up to 20 Nm of torque, with peak torque available across the entire usable RPM range
Direct Drive technology: Outrunner-type motor engineered for sim racing, offering exceptional efficiency, dynamics, and detail
Data and Power: Seamless connection to compatible Fanatec steering wheels vis the Fanatec QR hub.
Quick Release System: Automotive-grade quick release system that remains compatible with ClubSport and CSL Elite wheelbases
OLED Display: Adjustable display for tuning settings, game telemetry, and more
Multi-platform compatibility: Compatible with PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 (depending on the steering wheel used)
Mounting options: Support for various mounting solutions, including table clamps, wheel stands, and side mounts for 8020 cockpits
Fanatec ecosystem compatibility: Fully compatible with Fanatec’s range of steering wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes
Gran Turismo DD Pro (5 Nm) Bundle
The Gran Turismo DD Pro (5 Nm) is a bundle that includes both the wheelbase and the steering wheel.
The Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro is the force feedback racing wheel that enthusiasts should strive for, showcasing more significant innovation in the field than its competitors, Logitech or Thrustmaster.
As the most affordable direct drive wheel on the market, the Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro delivers smoother, higher-fidelity, and more realistic force feedback than lower budget (“affordable”) PS5 wheels such as the Thrustmaster T248, Thrustmaster T-GT, or Logitech G923.
Fanatec has managed to pack this technology into a package geared towards mainstream consumers rather than solely sim racing aficionados, although there are some compromises. The construction of the steering wheel itself isn’t overly luxurious, and it comes with Fanatec’s entry-level CSL pedal board.
However, this reflects why Fanatec is considered the top all-around racing wheel manufacturer: it continually prioritizes enhancing the core aspect of these wheels, force feedback. Its competitors have made less progress in this area. Moreover, if you desire upgrades in specific areas, Fanatec provides a vast array of options that don’t require starting from scratch.
Price: €840.90 (Please note that the price may change or vary by region; always check the Fanatec website for the most up-to-date pricing)
Bundle includes: CSL DD Wheel Base, GT DD Pro Steering Wheel, CSL pedals
Wheelbase torque: 5 Nm (upgradable to 8 Nm with the Boost Kit 180, which is included in the bundle)
Direct Drive technology: Compact, high-performance direct drive system for accurate force feedback and enhanced immersion
Fanatec Podium software: Advanced software for fine-tuning force feedback settings and motor parameters via Fanalab
Quick Release System: ClubSport Quick Release Adapter, which is compatible with all Fanatec wheel rims
Multi-platform compatibility: Compatible with PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5
Mounting options: Support for various mounting solutions, including table clamps, wheel stands, and cockpits
Fanatec ecosystem compatibility: Fully compatible with Fanatec’s range of steering wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes
Gran Turismo DD Pro Wheel Base (8 Nm)
When properly configured, the GT DD Pro truly shines. The expertly calibrated vibration and rotation through the wheel convey an abundance of information from the game’s engine to your hands. With the right simulation-grade racing game, it’s an absolute delight to maneuver the GT DD around the track. Although designed for Gran Turismo 7, it performs just as well on a PC with various sim racing and sim-light games, such as Assetto Corsa and F1 2021.
The versatility of this kit is impressive. I transitioned from Forza Horizon 5 to F1 2021 with tighter force feedback settings and felt equally at ease using the wheel in both games. This level of comfort isn’t always found in more affordable models, and while the direct-drive technology at the core of the GT DD Pro plays a significant role, the wheel’s ease of setup for each game—including those it might not be fully compatible with—also contributes to the enjoyable experience.
Price: €599.95 (Please note that the price may change or vary by region; always check the Fanatec website for the most up-to-date pricing)
Torque: 8 Nm of torque for an immersive force feedback experience
Direct Drive technology: Compact, high-performance direct drive system for accurate force feedback and enhanced immersion
Fanatec Podium software: Advanced software for fine-tuning force feedback settings and motor parameters via Fanalab
Quick Release System: ClubSport Quick Release Adapter, which is compatible with all Fanatec wheel rims
Multi-platform compatibility: Compatible with PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5
Mounting options: Support for various mounting solutions, including table clamps, wheel stands, and cockpits
Fanatec ecosystem compatibility: Fully compatible with Fanatec’s range of steering wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes
Fanatec CSL DD Racing Wheel WRC for Xbox & PC (8 Nm) Bundle
Introducing the Fanatec CSL Elite Steering Wheel WRC bundle, a perfect solution for rally racing enthusiasts and officially licensed by the World Rally Championship (WRC). This bundle features seamless compatibility with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, thanks to the integration of Xbox-specific electronics into the wheel. The plug & play design ensures that it’s ready to use right away without any assembly required.
The wheelbase sports a realistic 300 mm diameter and an ultra-low weight of 1092 g (with QR1 Lite Wheel-Side) for quick acceleration and fidelity. The tool-free QR1 Lite Wheel-Side design makes it easy to use and enhances durability. The wheel rim is covered with genuine Alcantara® and features an eye-catching orange cross-stitched seam. The bundle also includes the CSL DD, Fanatec’s Direct-Drive system that delivers instant, detailed force feedback and linear, consistent performance with 8 Nm peak torque thanks to the boost kit supplied.
The CSL DD is designed to optimize motor efficiency and smoothness with patented FluxBarrier technology. It also supports full Fanatec SDK compatibility, ensuring game compatibility for all major racing games. The steering axis is made from carbon fibre-enhanced composite, and the wheelbase housing is constructed from aluminium, providing passive heat dissipation. The rotation is electronically limited to 2520 degrees and adjustable.
The CSL Elite Steering Wheel WRC comes equipped with a variety of features, including an integrated RevStripe™, a three-digit LED display for telemetry data, orange shifter paddles made from durable metal, and a tuning function with LED display. The CSL DD also offers ports for power supply, USB-C to PC/console, Fanatec DataPort-C, shifter inputs, pedals, and a handbrake. Optional accessories like table clamps and ClubSport Static Shifter Paddles can be purchased separately.
Price: €699.90 (Please note that the price may change or vary by region; always check the Fanatec website for the most up-to-date pricing)
Bundle includes: CSL DD Wheel Base, CSL Steering Wheel WRC, and Boost Kit 180 (power supply upgrade)
Wheelbase torque: 8 Nm (supplied with the Boost Kit 180)
Direct Drive technology: Compact, high-performance direct drive system for accurate force feedback and enhanced immersion
Fanatec Podium software: Advanced software for fine-tuning force feedback settings and motor parameters via Fanalab
Quick Release System: Standard CSL Quick Release Adapter, which is compatible with all Fanatec wheel rims
Multi-platform compatibility: Compatible with PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S
Mounting options: Support for various mounting solutions, including table clamps, wheel stands, and cockpits
Fanatec ecosystem compatibility: Fully compatible with Fanatec’s range of steering wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes
CSL DD (5Nm or 8Nm with Boost Kit)
The CSL DD, which comes with the standard power supply, offers a peak torque of 5Nm and is priced at around 499.95 EUR / 499.95 USD (excluding taxes).
For those who want to unlock the full 8 Nm of peak torque, the CSL DD can be purchased with the Boost Kit 180 which I strongly recommend. 5Nm, when you know you could have 8Nm – I think it’s best just to get the 8Nm and move on!
Sold separately, CSL DD can be clamped to a table with Fanatec’s table clamp. Personally, I’ve never raced at a desk (opting for my favourite sim rig) For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Boost Kit 180 and a proper sim racing cockpit are very much recommended.
Fanatec’s FluxBarrier technology smoothes and quiets the wheelbase in operation. The CSL DD is nearly silent and considerably quieter than the CSL Elite and CSW2.5. Even after hours of driving at max torque, the device remains cool, indicating that cooling is not a concern.
Price: €499.95 (Please note that the price may change or vary by region; always check the Fanatec website for the most up-to-date pricing)
Torque: 8 Nm with the optional Boost Kit 180 – which we just think it’s worth going for and ignoring the 5Nm version.
Direct Drive technology: Compact, high-performance direct drive system for accurate force feedback and enhanced immersion
Fanatec Podium software: Advanced software for fine-tuning force feedback settings and motor parameters with Fanalab.
Quick Release System: Standard CSL Quick Release Adapter, which is compatible with all Fanatec wheel rims
Multi-platform compatibility: Compatible with PC and Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S when used with an Xbox-licensed steering wheel
Mounting options: Support for various mounting solutions, including table clamps, wheel stands, and cockpits
Fanatec ecosystem compatibility: Fully compatible with Fanatec’s range of steering wheels, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes
Fanatec Steering Wheels
Fanatec have so many steering wheel options it’s very difficult to pick one. Broadly, there are formula-style and GT wheels. There are also a few wheels affiliated with racing championships, such as the WRC and NASCAR.
This list is in order of popularity, according to the Fanatec website – we have also compiled a list of (in our opinion) the best Fanatec wheels picked from this list:
ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5
The ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5 is a high-quality formula-style steering wheel designed for fast movements and reactions with a compact diameter of 270 mm. It features a durable construction made of metal and carbon fibre, with a 5 mm solid carbon fibre front plate made of approximately 30 layers of unidirectional carbon cloth. The grips are made of genuine smooth leather, perforated for improved breathability, and rubber-coated surfaces provide comfort and grip.
This wheel comes pre-installed with the ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module, featuring 3 mm-thick, black anodized aluminium paddle plates, and a CNC machined aluminium cage. The module is upgradable to the optional Podium Advanced Paddle Module. The steering wheel weighs approximately 1250 g.
In terms of controls, the Formula V2.5 boasts 11 buttons and four paddles with ultra-reliable switches, two 2-way toggle switches, two 12-way multi-position switches with encoder functionality, a 7-way FunkySwitch™, and an analogue joystick. Two thumb encoders are easily reachable without releasing the grips, and two vibration motors integrated into the grips offer an immersive experience.
The wheel features RevLEDs with nine multi-colour LEDs to display motor RPM and optimal shifting points, and two FlagLEDs with three multi-colour LEDs each to indicate tyre slip, flag warnings, pit limiters, and more. A 1″ 128×64 white OLED display provides telemetry data, and the wheel supports user-defined LED and display behaviour via FanaLab. The Tuning Menu allows for the adjustment of settings independent from the game and during gameplay. Racing-style button caps are included, and the wheel is equipped with an exchangeable aluminium quick-release system.
ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5 X
The ClubSport Steering Wheel Drift V2 for Xbox features an aluminum wheel rim with a diameter of 32 cm, wrapped in genuine smooth leather, and weighs 929 g. The wheel comes with the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox, ensuring compatibility with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S on all connected Fanatec hardware. The hub is suitable for all Fanatec wheel rims and third-party rims using 6 x 70 mm or 3 x 50 mm bolt patterns, such as Sparco, MOMO, or OMP.
Fully assembled and pre-configured to mount the Fanatec Wheel Rim GT or similar, the hub features improved electronics for firmware updates. The ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module is preinstalled, offering 3 mm-thick black anodized aluminium paddle plates, a CNC-machined aluminium cage, and neodymium magnets. The paddle module is easily upgradable to the optional Podium Advanced Paddle Module.
The hub includes 16 integrated buttons, four button clusters with three buttons each, and a 7-way FunkySwitch™ for various inputs. A tuning Menu button provides instant access to force feedback and other Fanatec hardware adjustments. The hub also features a three-digit LED display for Tuning Menu functions and telemetry data, which can be installed in two positions: upright or flat. Shifter paddle units, button clusters, and the FunkySwitch™ can be removed to save weight.
A DataPort-C connector allows for the optional Podium Button Module Endurance, and the hub enables the use of third-party USB steering wheels on compatible Fanatec bases. An additional fifth button cluster can be attached (not included). The ClubSport Steering Wheel Drift V2 for Xbox comes with an exchangeable aluminium quick release, and the out-of-the-box configuration weighs approximately 705 g (1000 g with QR1 Wheel-Side) plus the wheel rim.
ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox
The ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 for Xbox features an aluminium wheel rim with a diameter of 330 mm, wrapped in genuine suede leather, and weighs 979 g. The wheel comes with the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox, making it compatible with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S on all connected Fanatec hardware. This hub can be used with all Fanatec wheel rims and third-party rims with 6 x 70 mm or 3 x 50 mm bolt patterns, such as Sparco, MOMO, or OMP.
The hub is fully assembled and pre-configured to mount the Fanatec Wheel Rim GT, and its improved electronics allow for firmware updates. The ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module is preinstalled, featuring 3 mm-thick, black anodized aluminium paddle plates, a CNC machined aluminium cage, and neodymium magnets. The paddle module is upgradable to the optional Podium Advanced Paddle Module.
The hub includes 16 integrated buttons, four button clusters with three buttons each, and a 7-way FunkySwitch™ for various inputs. A tuning Menu button provides instant access to force feedback and other Fanatec hardware adjustments. The hub also has a three-digit LED display for Tuning Menu functions and telemetry data, which can be installed in two positions: upright or flat. Shifter paddle units, button clusters, and the FunkySwitch™ can be removed to save weight.
This wheel is the successor to the Clubsport GT Alcantara Wheel V2 (as listed on our best Fanatec wheels page). I’ve always really liked the convenience of the Funkyswitch, and, provided you’re wearing gloves in the sim, these wheels last a long time in my experience.
If you’re not an XBOX owner and just want PC compatibility, the ClubSport Steering Wheel GT V2 is available here.
ClubSport Steering Wheel Drift V2 for Xbox
Version 2 of this popular wheel preferred by the drifting community comes with a Clubsport Universal Hub. It’s refreshingly minimal and has quite a cult following!
The ClubSport Steering Wheel Drift V2 for Xbox features an aluminum wheel rim with a diameter of 32 cm, wrapped in genuine smooth leather, and weighs 929 g. The wheel comes with the ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox, ensuring compatibility with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S on all connected Fanatec hardware. The hub is suitable for all Fanatec wheel rims and third-party rims using 6 x 70 mm or 3 x 50 mm bolt patterns, such as Sparco, MOMO, or OMP.
Fully assembled and pre-configured to mount the Fanatec Wheel Rim GT or similar, the hub features improved electronics for firmware updates. The ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module is preinstalled, offering 3 mm-thick black anodised aluminium paddle plates, a CNC machined aluminium cage, and neodymium magnets. The paddle module is easily upgradable to the optional Podium Advanced Paddle Module.
The hub includes 16 integrated buttons, four button clusters with three buttons each, and a 7-way FunkySwitch™ for various inputs. A tuning Menu button provides instant access to force feedback and other Fanatec hardware adjustments. The hub also features a three-digit LED display for Tuning Menu functions and telemetry data, which can be installed in two positions: upright or flat. Shifter paddle units, button clusters, and the FunkySwitch™ can be removed to save weight.
A DataPort-C connector allows for the optional Podium Button Module Endurance, and the hub enables the use of third-party USB steering wheels on compatible Fanatec bases. An additional fifth button cluster can be attached (not included). The ClubSport Steering Wheel Drift V2 for Xbox comes with an exchangeable aluminium quick release, and the out-of-the-box configuration weighs approximately 705 g (1000 g with QR1 Wheel-Side) plus the wheel rim.
ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 for Xbox
Available as an XBOX version or PC-only version, the ClubSport Steering Wheel NASCAR V2 for Xbox is an officially licensed NASCAR product, featuring a three-spoke aluminium wheel rim with a 350 mm diameter. The wheel is covered with a genuine Alcantara© grip and an Alcantara© hub cover that showcases an embroidered NASCAR logo. The wheel’s weight is 1009 g.
The ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox enables Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S compatibility on all connected Fanatec hardware. The hub can be used with all Fanatec wheel rims and third-party rims using the 6 x 70 mm or 3 x 50 mm bolt pattern, such as Sparco, MOMO, or OMP. Fully assembled and pre-configured to mount the Fanatec Wheel Rim GT or similar, the hub features improved electronics for firmware updates.
The ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module comes preinstalled, offering 3 mm-thick black anodised aluminium paddle plates, a CNC machined aluminium cage, and neodymium magnets. The paddle module is easily upgradable to the optional Podium Advanced Paddle Module.
The hub includes 16 integrated buttons, four button clusters with three buttons each, and a 7-way FunkySwitch™ for various inputs. An LED display and tuning menu button provides instant access to force feedback and other Fanatec hardware adjustments. The hub also features a three-digit LED display for Tuning Menu functions and telemetry data, which can be installed in two positions: upright or flat. Shifter paddle units, button clusters, and the FunkySwitch™ can be removed to save weight.
ClubSport Steering Wheel Flat 2 V2 for Xbox
The ClubSport Steering Wheel Flat 2 V2 for Xbox features a three-spoke aluminium wheel rim with a 275 mm diameter, polished and anodised in silver. The wheel is wrapped in red synthetic suede, and it weighs 692 g. It also comes in a PC only version which you can find here.
The ClubSport Universal Hub V2 for Xbox ensures compatibility with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S on all connected Fanatec hardware. The hub is compatible with all Fanatec wheel rims and third-party rims using the 6 x 70 mm or 3 x 50 mm bolt pattern, such as Sparco, MOMO, or OMP. Fully assembled and pre-configured to mount the Fanatec Wheel Rim GT or similar, the hub features improved electronics that allow firmware updates.
The ClubSport Magnetic Paddle Module comes preinstalled, offering 3 mm-thick black anodised aluminium paddle plates, a CNC machined aluminium cage, and neodymium magnets. The paddle module is easily upgradable to the optional Podium Advanced Paddle Module.
Fanatec Pedals
We’ve covered the industry’s huge range of pedals in our pedals buyer’s guide, but of course, Fanatec builds pedals too! They have a very budget CSL range that comes bundled with their CSL DD starter kits, however, I’m only going to make one Fanatec pedal recommendation, and that’s the CSL Elite Pedals V2, the successor to the excellent CSL Elite pedals:
The original pedals were actually my very first set of sim racing pedals. I liked them (and still do) becuase despite the price, Fanatec have placed the emphasis on the metalwork – these things are incredibly solid, forged items. Mechanically (and mounted properly) they’re capable of some heavy duty racing. For the money, the CSL Elite V2 pedals are absolutely unbeatable in Fanatec’s ecosystem.
Fanatec Sim Racing Setup – what next?
I haven’t listed every Fanatec wheel thanks to our list of all-time favourite Fanatec wheels here. Once you’ve chosen your wheelbase and your wheel, you’ll need to choose a pedal set, unless, of course, your Fanatec setup came with pedals in the bundle.
Next, you’ll need to take a look at your options for a decent sim racing rig or a more F1-style cockpit. Finally, look at our monitors guide and gaming PC selection and you’re ready to race – enjoy!