Choosing a Wheel for Formula Sim Racing

If you've been following Formula 1 racing, you probably know about eSports competitions in which drivers compete in a virtual environment for a Formula 1 title. Inspired by the possibilities, you’re eager to get behind the wheel yourself — great! The only question is, how do you know what Formula steering wheel is best suited to make your racing dreams come true? Understanding the options available to you complete your Fanatec setup will help you make the right choice and get the most out of your sim racing experience.

What makes a Formula steering wheel different?

Before we go into detail, let’s describe what defines a formula car and how it distinguishes itself from, for example, a GT steering wheel.

• Open-wheel or formula cars often use smaller steering wheels, typically around 270mm to 300mm, to allow for quick and precise movements.
• GT or touring cars may have larger steering wheels, ranging from 300mm to 350mm, providing a better leverage advantage.

The size of a sim racing steering wheel plays a crucial role in determining the precision and realism of the driving experience. Just as in real-world racing, a larger rotation angle allows for more precise control.

If you want to dive into the history of Formula 1 steering wheels, be sure to read this article: Evolution of F1 Steering Wheels: From 1950 to Today

If you’re on a tight budget but want to get started with F1 sim racing, this is a great option.

• 300mm Diameter: A great all-rounder not only for GT cars but also for formula cars.
• Authentic Design: The McLaren GT3 V2 steering wheel is a full-size, detailed reproduction of the steering wheel used in McLaren GT3 race cars.
• Precision: The overall shape, size of the switches, paddles, and dials are based on original McLaren CAD data.

For a very competitive price, you get a complete setup, including the McLaren steering wheel, CSL Pedals, and the CSL DD (5Nm) Wheel Base.

The perfect choice for Formula 1 enthusiasts who want the full experience of holding a formula-style steering wheel.

• Compact 270mm Diameter: Allows for fast movements and quick reactions.
• Features: Magnetic shifters, customizable RGB LEDs, revised electronics, and an exchangeable quick release.

You can’t ask for much more in this price category!

If you’re looking for the ultimate, premium but still affordable formula steering wheel, this is the way to go.

• Perfect Size: A 270mm diameter ideal for all formula-style and single-seater race cars.
• Build Quality: Features a 5mm solid carbon fiber front plate, aluminum shifter modules, and smooth perforated leather grips.
• Advanced Features: Multi-color LED bars, OLED display, and more input options than ever.
• Magnetic Shifters: Comes standard for quick and precise gear changes.

This steering wheel will make your hands feel the immersion of actually sitting inside a formula race car.

Bonus Tip: If you’re looking for a customized look of the ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5, keep an eye on Fanatec’s Black Friday sales, as they often release new versions, like the recently launched ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula Oracle Red Bull Racing 2024.

Although its primary intention is for GT3 racing, the ClubSport Wheel Rim GT3 Endurance can still work well for Formula racing.

• 318mm Diameter: Slightly larger than a traditional formula wheel but still manageable.
• Comfortable Grip: Overmolded rubber grips shaped for long endurance races.
• Customisation: Downloadable, customisable, and printable sticker sheets available on the product page.

If you prefer holding a chunkier steering wheel in your hands, this is a solid option.

To sum up, here are the top options for formula sim racing enthusiasts:

• Budget-Friendly:
  • CSL Elite McLaren GT3 V2 Steering Wheel + CSL DD Ready2Race Bundle
  • ClubSport Steering Wheel F1® Esports V2 + CSL DD Ready2Race Bundle
• Premium Choice:
  • ClubSport Steering Wheel Formula V2.5 / V2.5X
• Honourable Mention:
  • ClubSport Wheel Rim GT3 Endurance

Whether you’re looking for an affordable entry-level setup or a premium Formula-style wheel, there’s an option that fits your budget and needs.

If you wish to find your perfect sim setup or you need product consultation, Fanatec experts’ team is glad to help you! Just fill in this product consultation form.

Furthermore, to stay updated on new product launches, visit Fanatec.com and follow Fanatec on social media.