Thrustmaster T150 vs Logitech G29
Many people would agree that the best way for a fan of racing games to get immersed in the virtual environment and enjoy the best experience is by using a decent racing wheel controller. There are now various force feedback racing wheels on the market. These devices can simulate the characteristics of real driving. At the moment, if you are looking for a not-so-expensive option, there are two viable choices: Thrustmaster T150 vs Logitech G29. Each racing wheel here seems to have different pros and cons. Which is actually the best racing wheel?
Design and Build Quality
First of all, we will compare the two models based on the build quality. Well, this is one of the cons of Thrustmaster T150. The build quality is actually pretty good – the parts don’t break any easily. But the materials are not impressive. Many parts are plastic. The wheel is plastic, with just some blue rubber bits on the grip areas. The pedals are also plastic, and they seem flimsy. As a result, it lacks a luxurious feel. But, to be fair, this is to press down the cost and make it available at a more affordable price.
The pedals included do not have a clutch. However, you can upgrade the system later with the T3PA or T3PA-Pro pedals as well as TH8A shifter. If you are willing to spend some extra bucks, you have to read our previous post about Thrustmaster T150 vs T300RS – the higher model offers great improvements.
On the other hand, Logitech G29 appears much more classy, thanks to the materials. It has durable solid steel ball bearings for the best durability. The shifter and pedals are all stainless steel, which makes them look better and feel better. And the wheel is covered with hand-stitched leather. It definitely feels much nicer in the hands. However, note that the price is also more expensive than that of Thrustmaster T150.
Logitech G29’s pedals have a clutch. The dedicated shifter is optional. The wheel features several more buttons, which can be handy for better control.
Performance
Regardless of the look and feel, it is the internal motor and gearing that decides the performance of the racing wheel. So, let’s take a look at the internals of Thrustmaster T150 vs Logitech G29.
Logitech G29 still uses an old technology. Many people have criticized that it is just a disguised Logitech G27. The dual-motor force feedback system relies on brushed gears. As a result, the wheel is not very smooth; you can notice some clicks as you turn it. The wheel is also noisy.
On the other hand, Thrustmaster T150 comes with an innovative ‘hybrid’ technology. It uses some gears, but the system is also belt-driven to make the performance smoother and quieter. The differences are very noticeable. In addition, the brake pedal has progressive resistance, which makes the performance closer to being realistic.
Conclusion
In the end, we recommend you to choose Thrustmaster T150. It is armed with a better hybrid force feedback system which provides smoother and quieter performance. It is also more affordable, so upgrading the pedals and adding the shifter become less problematic. On the other hand, Logitech G29’s build quality is very nice, but the technology is kind of outdated.