The Best F1 Wheels for Sim Racing: Buyer’s Guide

Featured image: Cube Controls F-Pro

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Building your sim racing cockpit from scratch means designing it around the driving style you wish to adopt. And in case you’re an F1 or Formula / Open Cockpit enthusiast and want to build something that caters to your needs, it would make a lot of sense to grab an F1 wheel.

There are a lot of F1 racing wheels on the market now, and for someone who recently stepped into the world of building a racing sim cockpit, finding the right wheel can be a bit of a pain.

What are the best sim racing wheels for F1?

We’ve covered our favourite sim racing wheels here, but, if you’re building an F1 cockpit, you may very well be looking for something more specific.

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Games like F1 2021/2 and more complex simulations like the Mercedes W12 and W13 in iRacing require more complicated controllers if you’re going to extract a truly competitive laptime. An F1 driver’s workload during a lap is very, very high. Brake bias, diff entry and exit settings, “strat” mode, engine settings, shift cues – and that’s barely scratching the surface!

This video from Mercedes AMG Petronas is worth a watch if you want to understand just how much an F1 driver is doing during a single lap:

Below, I’ve put together the F1 racing wheels that I think are worth your attention right now – from budget-friendly options through to the serious high-end stuff.

If you’re on a tight budget and running a Logitech G29, G920 or G923, it’s worth knowing that Acelith make some brilliant formula-style rim mods that bolt straight onto your existing base. The Ace Morph G30 (around GBP 148) is a proper modular system, and the F27 formula rim (around GBP 69) is a solid entry point if you just want that open-wheel feel without spending a fortune.

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Cube Controls F-Pro

This is my favourite wheel – it’s so versatile. You can of course use it as a F1 wheel but it knows no bounds when it comes to versatility – yes you can drive GT or classics – it’s just such a good wheel.

On a budget, this is about the best F1 sim racing wheel you can buy, on balance – there’s no DDU which really isn’t necessary (and anyway you can choose your own DDU!) and the switches, rotaries, funky switches – are all of a very high quality.

The wheel build is of a very high standard overall and performed well in the review.

Key features of the Cube Controls F-Pro include:

• 285mm Diameter
• Carbon Fibre face plate
• Dual connections – USB or Bluetooth
• Ball bearing paddle shift mechanism
• Dual-clutch paddles
• Compatible with 70mm PCD QR Hubs
• 1100g weight
• 12 backlit momentary buttons 
• 2 Funky switches, 2 front rotatory encoders and 4 thumb rotary encoders

Cube Controls CSX3

The Cube Controls CSX3 sim racing wheel is the flagship sim racing wheel from our friends at Cube Controls, with the CSX3 built around a glossy carbon fibre faceplate and the signature Cube Controls hand-painted logo.

The grip is sculpted well – feels natural in the hand – and the button layout is positioned so you can hit inputs quickly without losing grip stability mid-corner.

The CSX-3 utilises Cubeset, Cube Controls’ configuration and calibration software, which provides a straightforward setup without requiring installation. Calibration and RGB setting customisation are straightforward, yet attention to paddle calibration is emphasised in CubeSet.

You can update the device firmware and calibrate the paddles in CubeSet and then just add the CSX-3 as a device in SimHub. The SimHub compatibility allows very easy updates for the DDU (dash display unit).

The buttons on the CSX-3 are properly tactile – you get a satisfying click with each press, which is something that’s often missing from F1 racing wheels. You also get rotary encoders, multi-directional encoders, backlit buttons, and RPM lights, all of which come in handy when you’re deep into a race stint.

There are 17 programmable RGB LED rev/flag lights and 12 momentary buttons with backlights for quick access to vital functions during racing. Two toggle switches and multiple rotary encoders give you fine control over in-game settings like brake bias and TC levels.

The CSX-3 was a joy to have at the office, and difficult to return (I didn’t want to remove it from the hub!) – here’s the CSX-3 review; read that and you’ll understand why.

Key features of the Cube Controls CSX3 include:

• 282mm diameter
• 4-inch LED touchscreen
• Carbon fibre face plate
• Customisable LED Buttons
• Up to 6 paddles 
• 1143g weight
• 12 momentary buttons
• 2 on/off toggle switches
• 8 rotary encoders
• 2 funky switches

Cube Controls F-Core

The F-Core is Cube Controls’ entry-level formula wheel, and honestly it punches well above its weight. If you want the Cube Controls build quality but can’t stretch to the F-Pro or CSX3, this is where to look.

The die-cast aluminium body doesn’t flex. I’ve had it on an Alpha Mini pushing 10Nm and it stayed completely solid. The carbon fibre reinforced front plate looks right, and the magnetic paddle shifters click properly – none of that mushy feel you get on cheaper wheels.

You get 10 precision-click buttons, 2 rotary encoders, and 2 multi-directional joysticks for menu navigation. It’s a stripped-back approach compared to the CSX3’s feature overload, but that’s the point – everything on the F-Core serves a purpose and nothing feels like filler.

You can connect via Q-CONN magnetic mount, USB, or Bluetooth – your call. There’s a 2000mAh LiPo battery inside that Cube Controls say lasts 40 hours on wireless. I haven’t tested that claim but it certainly doesn’t run out quickly. At around $499, it’s in a really competitive spot against the Moza FSR2.

Key features of the Cube Controls F-Core include:

• Die-cast aluminium body with carbon fibre front plate
• Magnetic paddle shifters (optional clutch paddles)
• 10 precision-click buttons
• 2 rotary encoders
• 2 multi-directional joysticks
• Q-CONN magnetic connection
• USB / Bluetooth dual mode
• 2000mAh LiPo battery (up to 40 hours)
• 6x70mm bolt pattern
• SimHub compatible

Grid Engineering MPX

The GRID MPX Sim Racing Steering Wheel is a strong option in this category – proper craftsmanship combined with modern features at a price that won’t make your eyes water (compared to some of the wheels on this page, anyway). I also like having the option of a no-display (DDU) wheel so that I can choose my own.

The wheel is crafted with a durable 5mm carbon fibre front and complemented by uniquely designed PU, anti-static grips, Grid’s MPX offers a comfortable grip for those marathon racing sessions.

As you chase the leaderboards, the feedback from the paddle shifters – augmented by extra magnets – makes every shift feel impeccably timed.

A major highlight of the MPX is its carefully crafted design features. Many, including me, are blown away by the 87 telemetry-driven RGB LEDs. They’re not just for show; they deliver crucial real-time data, ensuring you’re always in tune with the race. The wheel’s array of controls, from the responsive APEM buttons to the precise ELMA encoders, are ergonomically placed, making every interaction instinctual.

Setting up the GRID MPX is straightforward – universal PC compatibility via USB, and it plays nicely with SimHub or GRID’s own RaceDirector software for LED and display customisation.

The GRID MPX is genuinely one of the better F1 wheels I’ve used. The build quality, the feedback through the paddles, the attention to detail across the whole thing – it all adds up.

Grid Engineering seriously upped their game after being acquired by Sim-Lab, and the MPX is a good example of that – read the Grid MPX review here.

Key features of the Grid Engineering MPX include:

• 295mm diameter
• Carbon Fibre face plate
• Back-lit buttons and encoders
• 87 telemetry controllable RGB LEDs
• Full aluminium construction
• Rear Otto P9 Buttons
• 4 paddles
• 2 x 7-way Funky switches
• Support RaceDirector Software
• Custom over-molded PU grips with an anti-static mixture
• 2 x 7-way Funky switches

Moza FSR2 Formula Wheel

The Moza FSR2 is a seriously capable formula wheel that goes toe-to-toe with offerings from Fanatec and Cube Controls at a lower price point. At around $649, you’re getting a 5mm carbon fibre faceplate, a 4.3-inch touchscreen (480p), and a level of build quality that had me doing a double-take when I first picked it up.

The rear paddle setup is where it gets interesting – six paddles in total, with magnetic shifters that have a crisp, predictable action. You also get 10 backlit buttons, 5 rotary encoders, and 2 thumb encoders, which gives you more than enough inputs to map everything you need for an F1 car without hunting through menus mid-race.

If you’re already in the Moza ecosystem with an R9, R12, or R16 base, the FSR2 is a natural upgrade path. I covered it in detail in the FSR2 review – well worth a read if you’re considering it.

Key features of the Moza FSR2 include:

• 5mm carbon fibre faceplate
• 4.3-inch touchscreen display (480p)
• 6-paddle rear configuration
• Magnetic shifters
• 10 backlit buttons
• 5 rotary encoders
• 2 thumb encoders
• Compatible with Moza wheelbases

Ascher Racing McLaren Artura Pro

The McLaren Artura Pro USB represents Ascher Racing’s collaboration with McLaren and Renvale, bringing genuine motorsport DNA to sim racing. This wheel shares actual components with the real McLaren Artura GT4 racing wheel, making it a compelling choice for those seeking authentic track-inspired hardware.

At 300mm diameter, it strikes a balance between GT and formula-style wheels, lending itself to both aggressive sprint racing and smoother endurance driving styles. The build quality is excellent – solid aluminium chassis with machined textures and proper motorsport-grade construction throughout.

Here it is:

What sets this wheel apart is the sheer level of customisation and control. The 14 RGB-illuminated push buttons feature automotive-grade quality with 16 million colour options, individually adjustable and focused through custom caps that prevent any light bleed. The Gen 6 magnetic shifters are sublime – silky smooth with predictable action and quiet operation.

Here’s the rear:

Key features of the McLaren Artura Pro USB include:

• 300mm diameter with 6x70mm PCD mounting
• Over 100 programmable inputs total
• 14 RGB illuminated push buttons (16 million colours)
• 4 thumb encoders
• 2 multifunctional 7-way joysticks (4 directions plus rotate CW/CCW)
• Gen 6 magnetic paddle shifters with clutch paddles
• Multiple rotary encoders
• Bite point calibration in 0.1% and 1.0% steps
• USB-C pass-through for compatible wheelbases
• Freely configurable button mapping
• Low power consumption (max 500mA)
• 1.5m coiled USB cable (extends to 2m)

Precision Sim Engineering GPX

The GPX by Precision Sim Engineering is a 290mm F1 / Formula wheel that was actually developed with input from real Formula One drivers. That pedigree shows in the layout and the control placement – it feels like it was designed by someone who’s had to use these controls at 200mph.

You get 9 rotary dials and 12 push buttons – more than enough to map every setting you’d need mid-race. There’s a full-colour LCD display too, and the polyurethane grips hold up well over long stints.

If you want dual-clutch paddles with an adjustable bite point, that’s an option here too. They pair with PSE’s magnetic gear shifters and carbon fibre paddles – the shift feel is very satisfying.

The GPX Steering Wheel by Precision Sim Engineering is for “high-end enthusiasts” looking to get an F1 racing experience without leaving their homes. Overall, a pretty decent F1 wheel, and if you don’t mind spending a whopping $3699 for an F1 wheel, this is a mighty good option.

Key features of the GPX Steering Wheel include:

• 290mm diameter
• Injection moulded polyurethane grips
• 9 rotary dial controls
• 12 high-quality push buttons
• PSE magnetic gear shifters with carbon fibre paddles
• Optional dual-clutch paddles with adjustable bite-point
• Full-colour LCD data display
• Replaceable industrial-grade coiled USB cable

GOMEZ SIM INDUSTRIES: Formula Pro Elite

The Formula Pro Elite by Gomez Sim Industries sits firmly in the premium bracket. The build is very solid – zero flex in the chassis, which is exactly what you want when you’re pushing hard through fast corners.

The LCD touchscreen is a nice touch for telemetry, and the carbon fibre faceplate gives it a proper race-car feel. The 6061 aluminium chassis paired with direct-injection silicone rubber handles works well – the grip is genuinely comfortable over longer sessions.

You get customisable RGB LED rev lights that work with all the popular sim software. There’s a decent spread of buttons, knobs, and rotary encoders on the face, plus paddle shifters on the rear.

The price? You’re looking at around €1,473 for the standard version, which is steep but not unreasonable for what you get. GSI also offers a V2 Blackout edition with a darker colour scheme if you prefer the murdered-out look. If you’re building a proper F1 rig and want a wheel that matches, this fits the bill.

Key features of the Formula Pro Elite include:

• High-resolution 4.3″ LCD touchscreen
• 7-way multi-switch
• RGB LED rev lights
• “CEMS N52” V2 shifters
• 5mm carbon fiber faceplate
• Optional dual clutches
• Direct-injection silicone handles
• “Spec 3” coiled cable
• 6061 aluminium components
• 310mm diameter
• 10 momentary buttons
• 70mm threaded bolt pattern
• 5 push-button rotary encoders
• Extra label sheets

Simagic FX Pro Formula Wheel

Simagic’s FX Pro is the mid-range formula wheel that the Simagic ecosystem has been missing. At $549, it sits between the budget GT NEO and the pricier options further up this list, and the spec sheet reads like something that should cost more. The 290mm carbon fibre body keeps weight down to 1700g, and the grips feel properly considered rather than an afterthought.

Controls-wise, it’s packed. 12 RGB buttons, 5 rotary encoders, 4 thumb knobs, a 7-way switch. For under $550 that’s genuinely hard to fault. The 6 paddles mix standard and Hall Effect sensors, so you get proper analogue clutch control out of the box – no separate paddle kit needed.

The Sumo S-ray RGB strip that wraps around the rim is the bit that catches your eye first. Rev lights, flag warnings, status feedback – it does all of it depending on which sim you’re running. Looks great and it’s actually functional, which is rare for RGB stuff. One caveat though: Simagic bases only. No USB mode, no third-party compatibility.

Key features of the Simagic FX Pro include:

• 290mm diameter, carbon fibre construction
• 12 RGB buttons with short travel
• 5 rotary encoders + 4 thumb knobs
• 7-way multi-directional switch
• 6 paddles (Standard + Hall Effect)
• Sumo S-ray RGB light strip
• 1700g total weight
• Simagic wheelbase compatible only

Simagic GT NEO

The Simagic GT NEO is genuinely the best budget F1 wheel I’ve used. Not even close. $269 / GBP 246 gets you a 300mm formula wheel that feels like it should cost twice that. It’s one of the bigger formula rims on this list, so if you’ve got larger hands or just prefer more leverage, it works well.

Carbon fibre body, rubberised grips that don’t get slippery after an hour. Bigger hands? You’ll like the extra room. I’ve done 90-minute stints without cramping, which is more than I can say for some 280mm wheels.

10 RGB-lit buttons with short travel, funky switches, rotaries, knobs. More inputs than the price suggests. RevLEDs and QR kit are pre-installed – no extras to buy. I did a full review of the GT NEO and came away properly impressed.

Key features of the Simagic GT NEO include:

• 300mm diameter
• Carbon fibre build
• 10 buttons – tactile and clicky
• RGB-lit buttons
• RevLEDs
• QR kit
• Joystick (Funky-switch)
• Wide compatibility
• Easy configuration with SIMPRO Manager
• 4x paddle shifters

That’s the lot. The GT NEO is still the one I’d point people to on a budget, and the F-Pro remains my personal favourite for sheer versatility. Got questions about any of these? Comments are open below.

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Topic: Sim Racing Wheels