
Thrustmaster T3PA vs T3PA Pro
So, you want to upgrade your Thrustmaster T300RS racing wheel system with a better set of pedals. The manufacturer provides two options for upgrade: Thrustmaster T3PA and Thrustmaster T3PA Pro. Of course, we should question how the two models differ from each other. We can expect that the Pro version is more expensive, but is it worth the money? Below, we will see the comparisons between Thrustmaster T3PA vs T3PA Pro based on several aspects, such as the durability and customizability features. Continue reading!
Durability
Thrustmaster T3PA indeed is a better set of pedals compared to the default one included in the bundle of the T300RS racing wheel (see our post about Thrustmaster T150 vs T300RS). While the default one feels flimsy, Thrustmaster T3PA feels much more solid and sturdy. This is because the pedals and internal structure are metal. The pedals feel very nice, and there is significantly less chance of the internal system breaking because it is more durable. However, the casing is still plastic. The footrest is wide and textured to prevent slipping.
Thrustmaster T3PA Pro is even more durable. It boasts the 100% metal construction – not only the pedals and internal structure, but also the casing. It is definitely more rugged and durable. The metal footrest feels solid and sturdy. The footrest is also textured to prevent slipping.
Customizability
The next difference between Thrustmaster T3PA vs T3PA Pro is about the customizability. Thrustmaster T3PA is very nice because you can adjust the spacing and angle of each individual pedal. There are three spacing positions and two angle settings for each pedal. In addition, you can adjust the height of the accelerator pedal, with two height settings available. There is an optional conical rubber brake mod which is meant to be fitted right under the brake pedal to increase the resistance and create a realistic ultra-progressive effect.
Thrustmaster T3PA Pro provides more height settings for all of the pedals. It offers more range and pressure adjustments for all pedals. In addition, it also has two removable brake mods that you can use to customize the pressure force, travel length, and resistance of the brake pedal.
You may have noticed that Thrustmaster T3PA Pro has this external metal bar on the top. This is to allow the user to adjust the preferred pedal style. You can select between two pedal styles, floor-mounted position (alias F1-style) or suspended position (GT-style). The floor-mounted position can make it easier to heel/toe the pedals, but may require some time to get used to. On the other hand, the suspended pedals require some extra effort from the user to heel/toe, but generally feel more natural for most people.
Conclusion
If you are fine with the suspended pedal position, and you want to save some bucks, Thrustmaster T3PA is already a fine choice. The pedals and internal structure are durable metal. The pedals are also adjustable, and you get a conical rubber brake mod to create a progressive effect. However, for the best durability and customizability, Thrustmaster T3PA Pro is the way to go. The entire construction is metal, and you get more customization options including the ability to invert the pedals into a floor-mounted position.