Thrustmaster vs Logitech: Which Sim Racing Wheel Is Best for Beginners?

Whether you’re getting into sim racing to practice driving technique, enjoy immersive gaming, or just want a better way to play Gran Turismo or Forza, a good racing wheel setup makes all the difference.

But when you’re just starting out, you’re likely stuck between two big names: Thrustmaster and Logitech.

Both offer high-quality, beginner-friendly sim racing wheels with pedals in the $200–$400 range. But which is better for new racers? Which one feels more realistic? And where should you spend your money if you’re just entering the world of racing sims?

Let’s break down the Thrustmaster vs Logitech battle and help you pick the right entry-level rig.

The Contenders: What You’re Comparing

Here are the two most common beginner models:

Logitech G923

• Wheelbase: Gear-driven
• Pedals: 3-pedal set included (clutch, brake, gas)
• Force Feedback: TRUEFORCE system
• Price: ~$299–$399
• Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox

Thrustmaster T248

• Wheelbase: Hybrid belt/gear-driven
• Pedals: 2-pedal or 3-pedal set (depends on model)
• Force Feedback: Belt-assisted
• Price: ~$249–$399
• Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox

Build Quality & Design

Logitech wheels feel solid and polished. The G923 features a leather-wrapped wheel, metal paddle shifters, and a sturdy pedal base. Setup is easy, and the premium materials give it a high-end feel right out of the box.

Thrustmaster wheels are a little more utilitarian—plastic housing, rubber grip—but still functional and durable. The T248 steps up styling with a small built-in digital display.

Verdict: Logitech wins on premium feel. Thrustmaster wins on functional simplicity.

Force Feedback & Driving Feel

This is where things get interesting.

The Logitech G923 uses a gear-driven system with its proprietary TRUEFORCE feedback engine. It’s sharp, responsive, and works well with supported games. But the gear drive can feel slightly notchy during fast cornering or aggressive transitions.

Thrustmaster’s hybrid belt-and-gear system delivers smoother, quieter force feedback. The T248 enhances this with more torque and a quicker motor response.

Most sim veterans will tell you: belt-driven systems feel more lifelike, especially at this price point.

Verdict: Thrustmaster edges ahead in realism. Logitech’s feedback is more immediate but slightly less refined.

Pedal Set Comparison

The Logitech G923 shines here. It includes a progressive brake pedal that simulates real braking pressure. The pedal base is weighted and stays in place during aggressive driving.

Thrustmaster’s T248 includes a 3-pedal setup (or T3PA upgrade), which is a solid improvement but still trails Logitech slightly in stock form.

Verdict: Logitech wins for out-of-the-box pedal feel.

Game Compatibility & Platform Notes

Both brands work great with major racing sims like:

• Gran Turismo
• Forza Motorsport
• Assetto Corsa
• iRacing
• F1
• Project CARS

Just note: platform compatibility varies by model. Logitech splits Xbox and PlayStation versions, as does Thrustmaster.

PC players enjoy the most flexibility.

Modding and Expandability

If you’re planning to expand your setup:

• Thrustmaster supports add-on shifters, handbrakes, and swappable wheels on higher-end bases.
• Logitech is more closed off—though the G923 does support a separate shifter and some third-party mods.

Verdict: Thrustmaster offers better long-term expandability.

Final Verdict

If you want the best plug-and-play setup with great pedals and solid build quality, go with the Logitech G923. It’s well-built, easy to set up, and delivers a polished experience right out of the box.

If you’re chasing maximum realism and plan to grow your sim rig over time, the Thrustmaster T248 is the better long-term investment.

Bottom line:

• Casual gamers will love the Logitech G923.
• Enthusiasts-in-training should start with Thrustmaster.