If you want the authentic experience of a manual gearbox while sim racing, then investing in a gear shifter is the way to go. We have put together a selection of five of the best sim racing shifters so that you can get the closest possible feel of the real deal. These include H-style shifters and sequential shifters – meaning no matter what kind of driving experience you are looking for, you’ll find it here. Get ready for an immersive racing experience with these highly-rated gear shifters!
1: Logitech G Driving Force
If you’re into Logitech’s G29/920 wheel, you’ll love the G Driving Force Shifter. This top-quality product offers a comfortable, intuitive shifting experience due to its short throw distances. Not only that, the intelligently laid out gears, and budget-friendly price point make this an attractive choice for any Logitech fan.
It does, however, lack a certain realistic feeling other higher-end shifters may possess. So if you’re seeking a truly immersive driving experience, this may not be the product for you. Yet for an entry-level option, this shifter performs surprisingly well. Its solid build of plastic, faux leather, steel, and other premium materials suggests that the G Driving Force Shifter will outlast the average peripheral.
2: Heusinkveld Sim Sequential
Console gamers may feel a twinge of envy when they hear about the Heusinkveld Sim Shifter – an incredibly versatile and durable shifter, specially designed to replicate real-life gear changes and handle the pressures of hardcore racing simulation.
Designed with ergonomics in mind, the Sim Shifter has a short throw, sequential mode, and three levers allowing users to customize their level of resistance. This feature-packed shifter also works with any PC-compatible wheel – and so far, many enthusiastic sim racers have taken to using this awesome machine, including professional race winner Yann Ehrlacher.
The one main drawback? This high-end sim racing machine can only be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s website. Not to worry, the price is quite reasonable, coming in at a cost of approximately $220.
3: Thrustmaster TH8A
The Thrustmaster TH8A is a stellar example of great technology packed into a premium product. By using only aluminum, the quality of this gearbox shifter gives a more realistic feel, making it better than some in actual cars.
Furthermore, the bonus of using magnetic switches instead of mechanical parts allows you to shift as aggressively as desired without worrying about it wearing out and becoming unresponsive. Also, having both the H-pattern and Sequential shift makes the TH8A a much more attractive option.
In line with its pedigree of merging quality with affordability, Thrustmaster once again produced a great peripheral that doesn’t let the outside appearances ruin its incredible interior tech. Compatibility-wise, this works on all PC racing sims, however, on consoles, it will only work with certain wheels, like the T500RS, Ferrari F1 Wheel Integral T500, T300RS, and T300 Ferrari GTE (for PlayStation), and the TX Racing Wheel (for Xbox).
4: Fanatec ClubSport SQ V1.5
When looking for a high-quality shifter that accurately simulates the classic Porsche 911, the Fanatec ClubSport SQ is the way to go. Meticulously constructed with durable metal and several customizability options (such as the ability to adjust resistance and shift feeling), this shifter gives you a driving experience that’s as close to a professional level as it gets.
With easy H-shift to sequential changing, the ClubSport SQ provides an unparalleled gaming experience on PC, PS4, and Xbox. One thing to note is that to access the 7th gear, you must be using a compatible Fanatec wheelbase or the ClubSport adapter. If you’re serious about achieving an elite sim racing experience, then the Fanatec ClubSport SQ is your ultimate solution.
5: Thrustmaster TSSH
The Thrustmaster TSSH is a top-tier sequential shifter, thanks in part to its collaboration with Sparco, as it is an accurate 1:1 replica of race car equipment. High-grade metals comprise the main body except for the plastic handgrip which has been mercifully crafted from durable plastic.
Its double-feature capability, which easily allows it to convert into one of the best sim racing handbrakes available, sets the TSSH apart. Switching between its modes is made simple by the use of a conveniently placed switch.
Unfortunately, this superior shifter does come with a punitive price tag. But that’s only because it is the highest quality shifter of this type out there, so you know you’re getting top-notch craftsmanship. Before making any purchase, we do recommend you take the time to double-check its compatibility with the games you’d like to use it with – you can find a list on Thrustmaster’s website.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an enthusiast or a pro racer, the 5 best sim racing shifters featured in this guide have something to offer for everyone. Depending on your skill level and budget, you’ll find a quality gear shifter to take your sim racing to the next level. From Thrustmaster’s budget-friendly TSSH to Logitech’s Driving Force Shifter, it’s all here. Ready for an immersive racing experience? These are the best gear shifters on the market today.
Also Read: What Are the Best GPUs for Sim Racing?
