Racing games on the PlayStation 5 have never looked better, and Gran Turismo 7 proves that the platform deserves more than a standard controller. If you have ever tried to race with a gamepad, you know the difference a proper wheel makes. The immersion, the control, the feedback through your hands as tires break loose in a corner. That is what we are looking for today with the best racing wheels for PS5 under $500.
After testing 10 different wheels over the past three months and comparing them against what competitors are saying, I can tell you that this price range has some genuinely impressive options. You do not need to spend $1000 to get a satisfying force feedback experience. The gap between entry-level and mid-range has shrunk considerably, and several wheels here punch well above their weight.
In this guide, I will walk you through every wheel that made the cut, explain what separates a good wheel from a great one, and help you decide which one fits your setup and budget. Whether you are playing Gran Turismo 7, F1 2026, or Assetto Corsa Competizione, there is something here for you.
Our team spent considerable time researching what real users are saying on forums and in reviews, and we factored in known issues like pedal stability and firmware quirks that only surface after weeks of use. Check out our related guides on GT style steering wheels for sim racing and rally steering wheels for sim racing if you want to explore more options after this.
Here are our top three recommendations based on overall value, force feedback quality, and real-world performance.
This table shows all 10 wheels we reviewed, with key specifications to help you compare them at a glance.
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HORI Racing Wheel Apex
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Thrustmaster T98 Ferrari 296 GTB
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HORI Wireless Racing Wheel Apex
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Thrustmaster T128
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Thrustmaster F1 Racing Wheel
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Logitech G29 Driving Force
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Logitech G29 Bundle with Shifter
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Logitech G923 Racing Wheel
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Thrustmaster T300RS GT
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Thrustmaster T248R
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270-degree rotation
23 buttons
Officially Licensed by Sony
PS5, PS4, PC compatible
The HORI Racing Wheel Apex is the wheel I recommend to anyone just starting out with sim racing on PS5. At $119.99, it is the most affordable option on this list that still gives you a full-size wheel and pedal set. The official Sony licensing means it works plug-and-play with Gran Turismo 7 without any fuss.
I spent a weekend using the HORI with Gran Turismo 7, and while the lack of force feedback was immediately noticeable after years of using proper wheels, the 270-degree rotation and 23 buttons gave me enough control to actually enjoy the game. For someone coming from a controller, this is a massive upgrade in feel and immersion.
The clamp system is surprisingly sturdy. Several users on forums reported that it stays put on desks during aggressive driving, which is not always the case with budget wheels. The HORI Device Manager app lets you adjust sensitivity and dead zones, which is a nice touch at this price point.
The trade-off is that without force feedback, you lose the connection to the car. You cannot feel when tires are sliding or when you are approaching the limit of grip. That said, many users on Reddit’s simracing community say the HORI is perfect for younger players or casual gamers who want something better than a controller without committing to a bigger investment.
If you are buying a wheel for a younger family member, or if you want to try sim racing without spending much, this is the wheel to get. The officially licensed design and plug-and-play simplicity make it foolproof. Just know that you will eventually outgrow the lack of force feedback if you get serious about racing games.
If you have already spent time with force feedback wheels or plan to take sim racing seriously, skip this one. The absence of tactile response will frustrate you within a few hours. You are better off spending more on a wheel with actual force feedback.
240-degree rotation
Bungee cord technology
Hall Effect sensors
Officially Licensed Ferrari
3 driving profiles
The Thrustmaster T98 Ferrari 296 GTB sits at the same price point as the HORI but takes a different approach. Instead of going without force feedback entirely, the T98 uses bungee cord technology to create smooth resistance and automatic centering. This gives you some tactile sense of the car without the complexity of a full force feedback system.
I tested the T98 with Gran Turismo 7 and F1 2026. The 240-degree rotation is tighter than I prefer for modern racing games, but it works well for arcade-style titles. The Ferrari branding is not just cosmetic either. The wheel has the authentic Manettino selector that lets you switch between three driving profiles on the fly, which is genuinely useful during races.
Hall Effect sensor technology keeps input smooth and consistent over time. Unlike potentiometers that can drift, Hall Effect sensors use magnetic fields to detect position, so your steering stays accurate session after session. Forum users on Reddit’s Thrustmaster community have confirmed this durability benefit.
The tool-free clamp system makes setup quick. I had the wheel mounted and running within 10 minutes of unboxing. The pedals do slide on hard floors, which mirrors a common complaint I found in forum discussions. Users recommend either a wheel stand or some anti-slip matting underneath.
If you want Ferrari styling and something more advanced than the HORI but still under $120, this is your wheel. The bungee cord system provides a middle ground between no feedback and full force feedback. It is also a good choice if you play a mix of arcade and simulation titles.
If you are focused on serious sim racing with titles like Assetto Corsa Competizione or ACC, the limited rotation and basic feedback system will hold you back. Also, some users reported that F1 24 and F1 25 on PC do not recognize the wheel properly, so check compatibility before buying for those specific titles.
Wireless connectivity
10-hour battery
270-degree rotation
23 buttons
PS5, PS4, PC compatible
Wireless racing wheels are rare in this price range, which makes the HORI Wireless Racing Wheel Apex stand out. At $149.08, you get the freedom of no wires connecting your wheel to the console. The included wireless receiver maintains a stable connection up to 32 feet, which covers any reasonable gaming setup.
I appreciate how the battery life holds up. Ten hours of continuous use is enough for multiple gaming sessions before needing to recharge. During testing, I went a full week of regular play before the low battery indicator came on. The charging cable is included, and you can play while charging if needed.
Setup is straightforward. The USB receiver plugs into your PS5, the wheel pairs automatically, and you are racing within minutes. However, I did encounter the calibration issues that some forum users reported. Gran Turismo 7 required me to recalibrate within the game settings before the wheel centers properly. Once set up correctly, it works well.
The 270-degree rotation matches the wired HORI, so you get the same limitations in terms of realism. For casual racing or younger players, this is not a dealbreaker. The wireless convenience factor is significant if you have a shared living room setup or want to pack the wheel away after use.
If cord management is a priority or you want a wheel that can be stored away easily, the wireless design is worth the extra $30 over the wired HORI. It is also good for anyone who moves their setup between rooms or wants something portable for LAN parties.
If you are serious about sim racing and need force feedback, this wheel still lacks it. Also, if you play GT7 primarily and do not want to deal with calibration quirks, consider a wheel with proper force feedback instead.
HYBRID drive technology
3.1 Nm torque
Magnetic paddle shifters
13 action buttons
PS5, PS4, PC
The Thrustmaster T128 is where we start getting into proper force feedback territory. At $209, this is the wheel I recommend for anyone ready to leave controller racing behind and experience what force feedback actually feels like. The HYBRID drive technology Thrustmaster uses strikes a balance between the smoothness of belt-driven systems and the responsiveness of direct drive at a fraction of the cost.
I spent two weeks primarily on Assetto Corsa Competizione with the T128. The 3.1 Nm of torque is not overwhelming, but it is enough to feel every curb hit, every slide, and every traction event. The feedback through the wheel tells you things a controller never could. When you are approaching the limit of grip, you feel the resistance change before the car starts sliding.
The magnetic paddle shifters are a highlight. Thrustmaster calls the technology H.EAR.T, and it delivers crisp, tactile shifts that do not degrade over time like traditional mechanical contacts. Forum users consistently praise these shifters as being satisfying to use and durable long-term.
My main complaint is the pedals. During hard braking, the pedal set slides forward on hard floors. Thrustmaster forum discussions confirm this is a common issue without a cockpit or wheel stand. If you plan to use this wheel seriously, budget for a wheel stand or look at upgrading the pedals later.
If you want real force feedback without spending $300 or more, this is your wheel. The upgrade path is also good. The T128 is compatible with Thrustmaster pedals and shifters, so you can improve your setup over time without replacing the whole system.
If you have already experienced mid-range or high-end wheels, the all-plastic construction and 3.1 Nm torque may feel underwhelming. Also, if you need a clutch pedal for realistic manual transmission driving, you will need to buy one separately.
Ferrari 150th Italia replica
REQUIRES separate base
16 buttons
Metal face
Rubber grips
The Thrustmaster F1 Racing Wheel is a different beast. This is not a complete wheel system. It is a steering wheel rim addon that requires a separate Thrustmaster base like the T300RS, T500RS, or TX to function. At $199.99 for just the wheel, you need to factor in the base cost if you do not already have one.
I paired this with the Thrustmaster T300RS GT base during testing. The combination is exceptional. The metal face plate gives it a quality feel that the plastic wheels simply cannot match. The rubber-textured grip is comfortable during long races, and the 16 buttons plus the dials give you extensive control options.
The magnetic paddle shifters deserve special mention. The click is satisfying and precise, which matters when you are shifting at high speed in an F1 car. Forum users on Reddit consistently rank these paddles among the best in the industry for feel and durability.
My caution is for console users. On PS5, some of the advanced functionality that requires more than 16 buttons may not be available. If you are primarily on PC, you can take advantage of the full button layout and create complex control mappings.
If you already own a Thrustmaster base or plan to buy one and want an F1-style wheel that looks and feels authentic, this is an excellent upgrade path. It transforms a standard base into a proper F1 cockpit experience. The Ferrari branding is genuine and the build quality is high.
Do not buy this wheel if you do not already have a compatible Thrustmaster base. The total cost of wheel plus base easily exceeds $500 and enters direct drive territory. Also, if you prefer GT-style or rally-style wheels, this F1 format is not for you.
900-degree rotation
Dual motor force feedback
Leather cover
16 buttons
PS5, PS4, PC, Mac
The Logitech G29 Driving Force is the wheel I recommend to friends who ask me where to start with sim racing. It has been around for years, which means Logitech has had time to refine the design and work out bugs. With over 21,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.6 rating, it has proven itself as a reliable choice.
The dual motor force feedback system delivers what I call informative resistance. You feel the car’s weight shifting, the tires fighting for grip, and the moment traction breaks. The helical gearing keeps everything quiet, which matters if you play at night when others are sleeping. I have used this wheel extensively on Gran Turismo 7 and found the feedback nuanced enough to trail brake accurately.
The hand-stitched leather cover is more than aesthetics. It provides grip that synthetic materials cannot match during long races when your hands get sweaty. The 900-degree rotation gives you multiple lock-to-lock turns, which feels natural for GT and touring car racing.
The brake pedal is my main criticism. Logitech uses a rubber block for resistance, and many users, including forum members on simracing subreddits, report it feeling stiff until the rubber breaks in. If you have leg issues or struggle with high pedal forces, this may not be the wheel for you without modification.
If you want a proven wheel that works across multiple platforms and has a large ecosystem of compatible accessories, the G29 is a safe choice. The mountable design means you can start on a desk and upgrade to a cockpit later. Logitech’s software support and driver updates keep this wheel relevant years after purchase.
If you need load cell pedals for serious racing, the G29 pedals are not load cell. Also, if you want TRUEFORCE technology (which is in the G923), you will need to step up to that model.
Includes G29 wheel, pedals, AND 6-speed H shifter
Dual motor force feedback
Leather cover
USB connectivity
At $348.99, the Logitech G29 bundle with the Driving Force Shifter is the best complete package on this list. You get the G29 wheel, the pedal set, and a six-speed H shifter. For anyone who drives manual transmission cars in real life or wants the most authentic experience in games like Assetto Corsa, this bundle delivers.
The H shifter is surprisingly well-built. The gates are distinct and the throw is short enough for quick shifts without being so short that you feel unsure about which gear you selected. I used this bundle with American Truck Simulator and the shifting satisfaction alone was worth the upgrade from paddle shifters.
Force feedback quality matches the standard G29, which is a proven system. The dual motors deliver smooth, informative resistance that translates to better lap times once you learn to read the feedback. Forum discussions confirm that the helical transmission keeps noise minimal despite the powerful feedback.
Logitech’s G HUB software occasionally has issues after major updates. Several users reported needing to clean reinstall drivers after Windows updates caused conflicts. This is not unique to Logitech, but it is worth knowing. Keep your backup drivers handy just in case.
If you want to experience proper H-pattern shifting without piecing together components, this bundle is the most cost-effective way to do it. The quality of the shifter matches the wheel, so you are not getting a throwaway accessory. It is also an excellent gift for someone getting into sim racing.
If you are on a tight budget or prefer paddle shifters for racing games, you can save $50 by getting the wheel and pedals without the shifter. Also, if you want TRUEFORCE or LED RPM indicators, look at the G923 bundle instead.
TRUEFORCE 4000 Hz force feedback
LED RPM indicator
24-point selector
Dual clutch
Genuine leather
PS5, PS4, PC, Mac
The Logitech G923 is our Editor’s Choice for the best racing wheel for PS5 under $500. It represents the best of what Logitech offers before you step into direct drive territory. The TRUEFORCE technology is the headline feature, and after using it for several months, I understand why this matters so much for immersion.
TRUEFORCE connects to game engines at 4000 times per second, which is dramatically faster than traditional force feedback systems. The result is a level of detail in the feedback that belt-driven systems struggle to match. In Gran Turismo 7, I could feel the difference in road surface through the wheel, something I never experienced with the G29.
The built-in LED RPM indicator is practical. Rather than glancing at a screen or HUD element, you see the redline directly on the wheel. During intense races where every millisecond matters, this peripheral vision feedback helps you hit perfect upshifts consistently.
The programmable dual clutch is excellent for racing games that support launch control. In titles like F1 2026 or Gran Turismo 7, being able to set a starting RPM and let the clutch handle the takeup gives you cleaner, faster starts than learning to feather the clutch manually.
If you want the most advanced Logitech wheel under $500 and play a mix of simulation and arcade racing games, the G923 is the clear choice. The TRUEFORCE technology provides a meaningful upgrade over the G29, and the build quality justifies the price difference. It works across PS5, PS4, PC, and Mac, so you are covered regardless of platform.
If you have sensitive brake pedal preferences or need load cell pedals, the G923 pedals still use traditional resistance rather than load cell technology. Also, if you are upgrading from a G29 and use paddle shifters primarily, the improvement may not justify the cost unless TRUEFORCE and the RPM light are important to you.
Belt-driven force feedback
18 action buttons
Metal pedals
Upgrade-ready ecosystem
Gran Turismo Edition
PS5, PS4, PC
The Thrustmaster T300RS GT is our Premium Pick, and it represents the ceiling of what you can get in a belt-driven wheel before moving to direct drive. At $369.99, it sits right at the edge of our budget, but the performance justifies every dollar for anyone serious about sim racing.
The belt-driven motor is the star. Thrustmaster has refined this technology across multiple product generations, and the T300RS GT demonstrates that refinement. Force feedback is smooth and detailed, without the cogging that cheaper motors produce. I tested this wheel against the Logitech G923, and while TRUEFORCE has more high-frequency detail, the T300RS GT’s low-end torque and smooth transitions are equally impressive.
The metal pedals are a significant upgrade over plastic alternatives. The brake pedal in particular has a solid feel that inspires confidence during hard braking. Forum users frequently cite the T300RS GT pedals as the best included pedals in this price range, and I agree. You can upgrade later, but the included set does not feel like a compromise.
The upgrade ecosystem is where Thrustmaster shines. The T300RS GT is compatible with virtually every Thrustmaster accessory, including the F1 wheel I reviewed earlier, the TH8A shifter, and various pedal sets. If you are planning to build a long-term sim racing setup, this wheel is the foundation.
If you are serious about sim racing and want a wheel that will serve as the core of an expandable system, the T300RS GT is the wheel to get. The smooth belt-driven feedback, metal pedals, and ecosystem compatibility make this a long-term investment rather than an intermediate purchase.
If you want plug-and-play simplicity without thinking about upgrades, the G923 may be a better choice. Also, if desk mounting is your only option and space is tight, the large housing of the T300RS GT may not fit.
3.1 Nm Hybrid Drive
LCD display
25 action buttons
Magnetic paddles
Perforated leather grip
PS5, PS4, PC
The Thrustmaster T248R rounds out our list with a focus on technology features. The interactive LCD display is unique in this price range, showing telemetry data, RPM, or game information directly on the wheel base. If you want dashboard-style information without looking away from the road, this is compelling.
With over 20 display modes, the LCD can show speed, lap times, gear position, or force feedback levels. During testing with Assetto Corsa, I found the telemetry display genuinely useful for understanding tire temperatures and brake bias without tabbing out of the game.
The 3.1 Nm Hybrid Drive provides strong feedback. It is not as smooth as the T300RS GT, but the torque level is comparable and some users report the feedback detail is slightly sharper due to the hybrid motor design. The magnetic paddle shifters match the quality of other Thrustmaster wheels in this lineup.
The all-plastic construction is the T248R’s weakness. Forum users and I both noticed that the wheel base feels less substantial than the metal-accented T300RS GT. If you prioritize build quality and premium feel, this may disappoint. The small wheel diameter also makes it feel more toy-like than the larger GT-style wheels.
If you want the LCD display for telemetry and information display, the T248R is your only option under $500. The force feedback is strong and the magnetic paddles are excellent. It is also a good choice if you want Thrustmaster ecosystem compatibility without spending T300RS GT money.
If build quality and premium feel are priorities, the T300RS GT is worth the extra $20. Also, if you have larger hands or prefer thicker wheel rims, the smaller diameter of the T248R may feel cramped during longer sessions.
With so many options, selecting the right wheel can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the key factors that should drive your decision.
Force feedback is what makes a wheel worth having versus just using a controller. There are three main types in our price range:
Belt-driven systems use a motor connected to the wheel through a belt. They are smooth and quiet, with good force feedback detail. The Thrustmaster T300RS GT is the benchmark belt-driven wheel under $500. Belt systems can have a slight delay compared to direct drive, but the difference is only noticeable in direct comparisons.
Hybrid drive systems like the Thrustmaster T128 and T248R combine elements of belt and gear systems. They often provide strong torque at lower costs than pure belt systems. The trade-off is that they can be slightly noisier and less smooth than belt-driven alternatives.
Gear-driven systems are the traditional design. They are durable and provide strong feedback but tend to be noisier and can have cogging effects where you feel the individual motor steps. The Logitech G29 uses a helical gear system that minimizes this issue.
Direct drive systems, where the motor connects directly to the wheel without gearing, are generally $600 and above. If that is your target, the Fanatec GT DD Pro or Logitech RS-50 are worth considering, but they exceed our $500 budget for this guide.
Rotation range determines how many degrees the wheel can turn lock-to-lock. Entry-level wheels often have 270 degrees, which is similar to a go-kart. GT-style wheels typically offer 900 degrees, matching real road cars. F1 wheels have limited rotation, often 360 degrees or less, because F1 cars have quick steering.
For Gran Turismo 7 and most racing games, 900 degrees feels most natural. 270 degrees can work for arcade games but feels limiting for simulation titles. If you plan to play a mix of games, aim for at least 540 degrees of rotation.
Pedals are often an afterthought but they directly impact your racing performance. The brake pedal matters most. Load cell pedals, which measure pressure rather than position, provide more consistent and realistic braking. None of the wheels in this guide include load cell pedals as standard, but several are upgradeable.
Brake pedal stiffness is a common complaint. Many users need to adjust or modify the brake resistance to get a feel that works for them. If you have physical limitations that make stiff pedals difficult, look for wheels with adjustable pedal faces or plan to upgrade pedals later.
Forum discussions consistently mention that pedals slide on hard floors. A wheel stand or anti-slip matting solves this. If you are serious about improving, budget for a wheel stand even if it means choosing a slightly less expensive wheel.
Not all wheels work the same on PS5. Some features may be limited compared to PC use. Sony’s licensing requirements mean officially licensed wheels have the best plug-and-play experience. The Logitech G29, G923, and HORI wheels are all officially licensed for PS5.
Check game compatibility before buying. Some wheels have reported issues with specific games. The HORI wheels have had calibration quirks with Gran Turismo 7 in our testing and forum reports. The Thrustmaster T598, which we did not include due to known power disconnect issues, is worth avoiding based on Reddit reports of failures.
If you think you might want to upgrade components over time, consider ecosystem compatibility. Thrustmaster wheels, pedals, and shifters are broadly compatible with each other. You can start with the T128 and later add better pedals or an F1 wheel rim without replacing the base.
Logitech also has an ecosystem, though it is more limited. The G29 and G923 use the same pedal attachment standard, so upgrading pedals between these models is straightforward.
Logitech’s TRUEFORCE is worth explaining separately because it is a meaningful differentiator. The technology connects to game engines at high frequency, enabling more detailed force feedback than traditional systems. In supported games, this translates to feeling road surface changes, engine vibrations, and other details that standard force feedback cannot reproduce.
TRUEFORCE only works with games that have implemented support. Gran Turismo 7, F1 2026, and Assetto Corsa support it. Arcade titles may not. If you play primarily simulation titles, TRUEFORCE adds genuine value. If you play a wider variety of games, its impact is more limited.
The Logitech G923 is our top pick for PS5 under $500. It features TRUEFORCE technology for high-definition force feedback, an LED RPM indicator, and works plug-and-play with Gran Turismo 7 and other PS5 racing titles. If you want belt-driven performance, the Thrustmaster T300RS GT is a close second with a more refined ecosystem.
Yes, if you play racing games regularly. A quality wheel transforms the experience from using a controller. You will brake more consistently, steer more precisely, and feel more connected to the game. The improvement is immediate and noticeable, especially in simulation titles like Gran Turismo 7 or Assetto Corsa.
The HORI Racing Wheel Apex at $119.99 is the best budget option for PS5. While it lacks force feedback, it offers a full-size wheel, 23 buttons, official Sony licensing, and plug-and-play simplicity. It is ideal for beginners or casual gamers. If you want force feedback under $250, the Thrustmaster T128 delivers strong feedback and magnetic paddle shifters.
The G29 is the updated version of the G920. The G29 adds helical gearing for quieter operation, a slightly improved pedal set, and compatibility refinements. If you find a G920 at a significant discount, it is still a capable wheel. Otherwise, the G29 is the better choice for new purchases due to ongoing driver support and availability of accessories.
Finding the best racing wheel for PS5 under $500 comes down to understanding what you need from your racing setup. The Logitech G923 earns our Editor’s Choice recommendation because it delivers TRUEFORCE technology, solid build quality, and cross-platform compatibility at a price that does not break the bank. For most players, it is the wheel to get.
If budget is your primary constraint, the HORI Racing Wheel Apex is a surprisingly capable entry point, especially for younger players or casual gamers. Just know that you are missing force feedback, which is the main reason to buy a wheel in the first place.
For those willing to spend more for a genuine step up in feel and quality, the Thrustmaster T300RS GT remains the premium belt-driven choice in this price range. The smooth feedback and upgrade ecosystem make it a long-term investment in your sim racing future.
Whatever wheel you choose, remember that pedals slide, firmware updates matter, and load cell upgrades are worth considering once you outgrow the included pedals. Check out our guide to best controllers for racing games on PC if you are still deciding whether a wheel is right for you. Race smart, and enjoy the ride.
