For some racing disciplines, a handbrake like the ClubSport Handbrake V2 is a must have for a sim setup. Especially Rally and Drift benefit tremendously from having the analogue input that a handbrake can provide compared to the simple on/off action of just a simple button press.
With a handbrake, you will be able to finely modulate your braking force on a constant level from 0% to 100% activation. This will give you full control in tight hairpins and while drifting, adding even more to the immersion.
Using your handbrake with a console
You can use peripherals like a handbrake with consoles, provided your Fanatec ecosystem includes the right hardware.
PlayStation 4 / 5 - If you want to use a handbrake on PS4 or PS5, you will need a PlayStation compatible wheel base like the GT DD Pro or ClubSport DD+. As long as your wheel base contains a Sony license chip, all your Fanatec equipment will work perfectly with the console, as the chip is built into the base. Note: not all wheel bases are Sony-licensed.
Xbox Series X|S - For use on Xbox Series consoles, you will need an Xbox-compatible steering wheel, since the license chip for Xbox is located in the steering wheel. On Fanatec’s website, all steering wheels that will work with Xbox are labelled as such. You can also filter your search to get a quick overview of your options. Note: not all steering wheels are sold with a Microsoft license.
How do I connect my handbrake to console?
Connecting your handbrake is the same for both PlayStation and Xbox. The easiest way is to simply connect the handbrake directly to the back of your wheel base. Every Fanatec base has a dedicated port for this.
If for example your sim rig won’t allow to plug the handbrake into the base, you can also connect it to your CSL Elite Pedals V2 or ClubSport Pedals V3 (Inverted). Both pedal sets feature a dedicated handbrake port. Next, simply connect the pedals to your wheel base and you’re ready to race! For more info on connectivity and setting up your hardware, check the quick start guide or video guide.
Are there alternatives to using a handbrake?
If you’re unable to add a handbrake to your setup, you can still obtain the analog input signal by using paddles directly mounted to your steering wheel. Alternatively, if you have a ClubSport Universal Hub V2 (for Xbox), you can upgrade it with the Podium Advanced Paddle Module. This module allows you to map the paddles to function as a handbrake – either in the Fanatec Control Panel, or directly via the Tuning Menu on your steering wheel.
