Sim racing is more immersive and enjoyable when you have a motion platform to drive on. Fortunately, assembling and integrating these platforms into your setup is surprisingly simple.
If you’re in the market for a motion platform, we’ve rounded up the 5 Best Sim Racing Motion Platforms ones you should consider.
1: SIMRIG SR2 Sim Racing Motion System
The SIMRIG SR2 is a very economical choice for the price-to-performance ratio it offers. If you’re looking for a great setup with lots of customization potential and excellent value for money, then this could be the perfect solution for you.
Compared to the higher-priced models on the market, the SR2 will provide all of the realism and details you need, without having to pay too much. With the electric control unit’s fan running only when needed, you’ll experience minimal noise while operating the system.
Moreover, its simple setup requires minimal space, and an aluminum rig, along with an emergency stop included, keeps everything secure and running safely. In summary, the SIMRIG SR2 motion system provides unbeatable value and quality in one easy-to-use package.
2: SIMRIG SR1 Sim Racing Motion System
The SR1 motion simulator by SIMRIG is a great option for those that want a competitive and immersive experience but at a cheaper price than the SR2 model. You can attach the 4 linear actuators with ease to your chassis using aluminum extrusions.
This is ideal for lighter chassis as the maximum load is 175 kg (385 lbs), significantly less than the 225 kg (500 lbs) max load of the SR2 model. Although the SR1 has a lower maximum load, the actuators themselves perform the same in terms of travel distance, speed, accuracy, and even latency.
The only drawback is the 500 W power supply – half the power of the SR2. The SR1 has many advantages. It’s cheaper, easier to set up, and still boasts the same performance as its more expensive counterpart. So, if you have a lighter rig and are looking to save money without sacrificing performance, the SR1 is the ideal option.
3: Qubic System V20 4 DOF Motion Simulator
For those who have a smaller budget and less space, the Qubic System V20 4 DOF Motion Simulator is an excellent option to consider. This is still a costly device, however, and thus, wouldn’t be an ideal purchase for those just getting into sim racing. While the QS-S25 has six degrees of freedom, the V20 features four.
Designed with a slimmer frame than the QS-S25, this device is perfect for those with limited room. Despite the lower price tag, it offers the same quality materials and builds as its pricier counterpart, making it resilient against the wear and tear that it may go through. Easily mount the simulator to a seat, pedals, or wheel and adjust it accordingly for the best experience.
The motion simulator is also outfitted with great software for customizing settings, allowing for profiles to be created on a per-game basis. Pre-loaded profiles are available for popular sim racing titles. Setting up the system is simple with most games as it’s mostly plug-and-play.
The four DOF features, which are heave, roll, pitch, and yaw, ensure an immersive experience with tons of feedback that you can take advantage of to make the best lap times. Plus, the 280 kg / 620 lbs frame is heavy and robust, making sure it stays put while in use.
If you are after the highest quality setup while being on a budget, the Qubic System V20 is your ideal choice. It comes with all the bells and whistles of the more expensive options and is a great addition to any racing setup.
4: Qubic System QS-S25 Ultimate 6DOF Motion Simulator
The Qubic System QS-S25 is a pricey piece of kit but well worth the money if you are serious about racing. It boasts 6 DOF, meaning it can accurately simulate almost every movement a real car would make, allowing you to get immersed in the game.
Not only that, but it also features vibration motors to provide engine rumble and road texture feedback. This can be customized and tweaked with the software that comes with the system. In addition to the incredible technology, there is a range of accessories such as monitor stands and safety belts available to truly maximize the experience.
It might seem daunting, but once set up, it should be smooth sailing with plenty of opportunities to tweak your preferences on a per-game basis. It certainly offers the ultimate immersive racing experience!
5: GTR Simulator GTM Motion Cockpit
The GTM Motion Cockpit provides two degrees of freedom, creating an immersive experience, though it does come with fewer movements than other pricier options. This is a great value purchase as the package includes a chassis, a racing seat, and a triple monitor stand.
All at a more reasonable price point than other setups. With its slim design, this cockpit is easier to accommodate into your space and it’s lightweight enough to move around as needed. It’s also able to take a maximum weight of up to 136 kg. The chair is adjustable, as is the pedal deck, plus it accepts VESA 100×100 and 200×200 mm mounting interfaces.
One thing to keep in mind is that there are certain omissions such as the lack of surge, sway, heave, and yaw simulations, though the actuators are responsive and lag-free. So, if you’re looking for a comprehensive setup that won’t break the bank, this 2 DOF motion cockpit could be the right choice for you.
Conclusion
For sim racers looking to bring their game to the next level, investing in one of the 5 best sim racing motion platforms on the market is an excellent way to achieve maximum immersion.
The options range from the economical SIMRIG SR2 Sim Racing Motion System to the Qubic System QS-S25 Ultimate 6DOF Motion Simulator, allowing you to find a motion simulator that meets your budget, size, and performance needs. Whichever you choose, your gaming experience is sure to be enhanced to an entirely new level.
Also Read: The 11 Best Sim Racing Shoes and Boots