
Which direct drive is best for PS5?
The arrival of direct drive force feedback racing wheels on PS5 marks a significant step forward for simracing lovers. Formerly reserved for high-end simulators and enthusiasts with high budgets, this technology offers unmatched precision and immersion by directly retransmitting the vibrations and sensations of the track, without passing through belts or gears.
What is direct drive?
As a reminder, direct drive in simracing is based on a direct force feedback, meaning the wheel is mounted directly on the motor without additional belts or gears.
Unlike traditional systems that use such components to transmit movement and vibration, direct drive allows a more direct connection between the motor and the wheel. This results in increased reactivity and precision, as the slightest change on the track, sharp turns and road texture are all faithfully conveyed to the driver’s hands.
The engine produces high torque that can simulate the resistance force of racing cars, thus providing a more immersive and realistic driving experience. This type of force feedback improves sensations, allowing simracers to refine their driving by better perceiving the subtleties of both the track and their car.
Which direct drive base to play on PS5?
Whether or not you’re new at this, it’s still difficult to choose a direct drive base, especially on PS5. After all, the range isn’t as diversified as PC options, and one might be tempted to turn to that platform instead.
The release of the T598 brings you a brand-new alternative.
It includes the Direct Axial Drive motor, a new direct drive feature. This next-gen simracing motor is redefining standards. Traditionally, direct drive bases were equipped with radial flux, with a magnetic field perpendicular to the axis of rotation, which is very efficient over long periods. Now, what we call axial flows are the wave of the future. This time, the T598 orients the magnetic field parallel to the rotation axis. This change alone overcomes the limitations of radial flux direct drive bases.
Base benefits
The T598 stands out thanks to the sensations conveyed through a dynamic force feedback that adjusts in real time. All this is possible thanks to its constant 5 Nm torque, capable of including an overshoot to increase the power and deliver boosted effects at the right time.
To take realism even further, HARMONY technology generates high-frequency vibrations that precisely reproduce every little detail possible in simracing!
But the technological revolution doesn’t stop at that driving feel: it goes beyond with unique tech, namely zero cogging. This improvement enables the T598 to ignore cogging effects (cogging torque). This undesirable element of the motor caused by the magnets’ placement and their interactions, has regularly bothered simracers by creating cogging that hinders driving. This is now a thing of the past.
The T598 also comes with a brand-new pedal set. The Raceline Pedals LTE features two H.E.A.R.T. sensor pedals for enhanced precision and durability. These pedals even have different springs so you can adjust resistance to suit your needs!
Choosing the T598 mean you’ll also enter one of the most complete ecosystems on the market. You can easily replace the Sportcar simracing steering wheel with one of the many other Thrustmaster steering wheels (some models require an adapter). There’s something for everyone, including formula, GT and rallying.
What are the best Thrustmaster wheels for PS5?
A multitude of wheels are compatible with the T598. Some are better suited for rallying, others for GT and others still for formula racing.
Here are our recommendations for the best Direct Drive Thrustmaster wheels by racing type.
Rule rallying on PS5 with the Evo Racing 32R Leather
For those who love the thrill of rallies, the Evo Racing 32R Leather wheel is a top choice. Its fast and precise steering response will support you through the windiest roads. Magnetic sensor paddle shifters remain accessible in all circumstances.
Even in intense moments, you’ll enjoy an incredible comfort thanks to its faux-leather-wrapped wheel rim. Perfect for that authentic rally racing feel!
Discover formula racing on PS5 with the Formula Wheel Add-On Ferrari SF1000 Edition
Inspired by the Ferrari SF1000, this PS5 wheel gives you the feeling you are driving the iconic car. The Formula Wheel Add-on Ferrari SF1000 Edition is the quintessential force feedback driving experience. Its aesthetics and design are top tier in terms of realism for formula simracing.
This PS5 wheel incorporates push-pull technology similar to what’s found in the SF1000 single-seater. It promises clear and precise triggering.
The wheel also features 25 action buttons and an interactive display showing up to 69 data sources needed for formula racing. You won’t miss even a single piece of information!
A PS5 wheel for GT enthusiasts: the Ferrari 488 GT3 Wheel Add-On
A real treat for the eyes and hands, the Ferrari 488 GT3 Wheel Add-On is one of the best wheels for GT racing! Its design is the fruit of a decades-long collaboration between Thrustmaster and Ferrari, which is why it reproduces the Ferrari 488 GT3 and its driving feel as closely as possible.
Built and crafted for competitive racing with robust materials, it will stand the test of time.
Designed to truly embody the essence of what a GT car represents, this highly responsive wheel provides a wealth of realistic data so you can get the most out of your GT races!
Feel the power and luxury of hypercars with the Hypercar Wheel Add-On
There’s nothing like feeling the power and luxury of an awesome car. That’s why Thrustmaster developed the Hypercar Wheel Add-On. Exclusively available with direct drive, this wheel offers a rarely reached level of detail. It features Alcantara, carbon and aluminum components. It offers an uncompromising design combining performance, elegance and refined build quality through its oval shape characteristic of the luxurious, incredibly-powerful hypercars!
The most demanding drivers will also appreciate the two LEDs and 25 buttons, including four rotary encoders.
Switch to the T598!
The launch of the Direct Axial Drive T598 marks an important step in simracing on PS5. Its new direct drive technology means it redefines the standards of console driving. Compatible with a large segment of the Thrustmaster ecosystem, you can scale it as you hone your racing skills. As you’ve no doubt guessed, if you want to take your driving to the next level on PS5, the T598 is what you need.