What Power Supply Do I Need for Sim Racing?

Fanatec Wheel Bases are compatible with both 110V and 230V power systems, which are standard in different regions around the world. But when it comes to choosing your hardware, what role does the power supply you need play?

Voltage (measured in volts) is the electrical pressure that pushes current through a circuit, while watts (measured in watts) represent the actual power being used or produced by the device. If you want more power, you need to pay attention to the watts, as they determine how much energy a device consumes or outputs. Increasing the voltage can increase power, but the current (amps) also plays a key role in determining the total power. Simply put, watts tell you how much work a device can do, while voltage is the force that makes it happen.

If you're looking for power supply options, wheel bases with a 90-watt power supply are a great starting point, providing enough power for entry-level setups, offering smooth performance with reliable force feedback at lower levels of torque.

However, if you want to see a significant boost in output, increasing your torque from 5 Nm to 8 Nm with a Boost Kit 180 (8 Nm) is a great choice, as it directly enhances the overall performance and force feedback. This increased wattage allows for stronger, more precise forces during operation, creating a more immersive and responsive experience. While the 90-watt supply is still a solid choice for most users, upgrading to 180 watts will provide superior feedback and handling, making it a worthy investment for those looking for a more intense, professional-level simulation experience.

There are sim racing games where the power supply can make a noticeable difference in performance, particularly when it comes to force feedback and overall realism. The power of your force feedback system directly affects how the game feels, as higher Nm values allow for stronger and more detailed feedback from the racing environment.

For games like F1 23, which have a more accessible force feedback system designed for a broader audience, the difference between 5 Nm and 8 Nm might not be as dramatic in terms of detail. However, having a higher Nm will still make a difference in how much feedback you get from the track, especially in terms of curb feel, tire slip, and overall car control during high-speed cornering.

Games focused on GT racing or endurance racing, like Assetto Corsa Competizione, benefit significantly from higher Nm because you can feel more of the weight transfer, understeer, and braking forces with a stronger force feedback system. 8 Nm or higher is ideal for these types of games, allowing you to feel the car’s movements in a way that mimics real-life driving more accurately, especially when pushing the limits on longer stints or more challenging tracks.

For casual or arcade-style games, a lower Nm (around 5 Nm) may still give a satisfactory experience, but it won’t offer the same depth of feedback, particularly in terms of car handling and road sensations. So, if you're aiming for professional-level immersion and realism, opting for a higher Nm (such as 8 Nm) would provide the best experience.