Thrustmaster T248R Review: A Serious Challenger to Logitech’s G923
▼ Summary
– The Thrustmaster T248R is a 2025 revamp of the existing T248, featuring visual updates, improved shift paddles, and a sharper digital display.
– It uses a hybrid gear and belt-driven feedback system, which is less smooth and precise than direct drive but offers a powerful 3.1Nm torque for entry-level users.
– The pedal base is highly praised for its stability, well-spaced pedals, and a load cell brake with adjustable stiffness, providing a solid driving experience.
– Priced at $349.99, it is cheaper than the outgoing T248 and Logitech’s G923, offering good value despite some compromises in materials and finish.
– It is recommended for desktop racers and casual players on a budget, but not for those seeking the latest direct drive technology or Xbox compatibility.
For sim racers seeking a solid entry point without breaking the bank, the Thrustmaster T248R presents a compelling package that balances performance and affordability. While it doesn’t incorporate the latest direct drive technology, this refreshed model delivers meaningful upgrades and remains a strong contender in the mid-range racing wheel market.
The T248R isn’t an entirely new product but rather a thoughtful revision of its predecessor. Key enhancements include a sharper digital display, refined magnetic paddle shifters, and a more modern aesthetic. These improvements elevate the user experience without drastically altering the core mechanics.
Under the hood, the wheelbase relies on a hybrid belt and gear-driven system. While this older technology can’t match the smoothness and responsiveness of modern direct drive wheels, Thrustmaster has honed this approach over the years. The result is force feedback that feels detailed and powerful, peaking at 3.1Nm of torque, plenty for casual and intermediate drivers. There’s minimal cogging or roughness, which helps maintain immersion during longer sessions.
Where the T248R truly shines is in its pedal set. The three-pedal configuration features a load cell brake that provides excellent resistance and consistency. Even on carpeted surfaces, the base remains firmly planted, eliminating unwanted movement during aggressive braking. Aluminum contact points add a premium touch rarely found at this price.
Build quality shows some compromises, particularly in the use of plastics throughout the wheel and hub. Though Thrustmaster employs carbon-fiber styling to mask this, the Logitech G923 still feels more substantial in hand. The desktop clamp, secured by a single central screw, functions adequately but lacks the rock-solid stability of competing models.
Compatibility covers PC, PS4, and PS5, though Xbox racers will need to consider the older T248 model. Setup is straightforward, with most racing titles automatically recognizing the wheel and applying sensible default settings.
On the track, the T248R delivers a satisfying, if not class-leading, experience. Feedback communicates road texture and weight transfer effectively, though it falls short of the nuance offered by Logitech’s TrueForce system. The updated digital display provides useful telemetry like lap times and shift indicators, while the quiet magnetic paddles and responsive buttons enhance the overall feel.
Priced below both its predecessor and the Logitech G923, the T248R represents exceptional value for newcomers and budget-conscious enthusiasts. While direct drive systems are becoming more accessible, this wheel makes a strong case for itself through thoughtful design and capable performance.
Ideal for desktop racers who prioritize function over cutting-edge technology, the T248R stands as a smart choice in a competitive field. For those willing to spend more, direct drive options offer greater fidelity, but at this price point, Thrustmaster’s offering is difficult to overlook.
(Source: techradar)
