Hands-On: The Turtle Beach Racer Is a Casual Gamer’s Dream Wheel
▼ Summary
– The Turtle Beach Racer is a mid-range wireless racing wheel designed for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and casual racing games like Forza Horizon 5 and Fortnite’s Rocket Racing mode.
– It features impressive build quality for its $179.99 price point, with a comfortable steering wheel and remappable buttons for customization.
– The wheel does not include pedals, instead assigning throttle and braking to rear paddles to maintain affordability and reduce environmental impact.
– It comes with an adjustable lap rest for portability and ease of use, making it suitable for players with limited space.
– The Racer offers both 2.4Ghz and Bluetooth connectivity, claims up to 30 hours of battery life, and is set to launch on September 9, 2025.
Getting behind the wheel of the Turtle Beach Racer at Gamescom 2025 felt like a breath of fresh air for anyone who loves racing games but doesn’t have the space or budget for a high-end sim rig. Designed for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and even Android devices, this wireless wheel delivers a surprisingly polished experience at a mid-range price point, making it ideal for casual and arcade racing fans.
What immediately stands out is the wireless design, a rarity in this segment that enhances convenience without sacrificing performance. During hands-on time with titles like Dirt 5 and Forza Horizon 5, the Racer responded swiftly with no noticeable input lag, especially over its 2.4Ghz connection. While hardcore simulation enthusiasts might prefer a wired setup with dedicated pedals, this wheel clearly targets players who value ease of use and flexibility.
Build quality impressed right from the start. Though constructed primarily from plastic, the materials feel sturdy and thoughtfully designed. The wheel itself offers a soft, textured grip that’s comfortable during longer sessions, and the inclusion of remappable buttons on the face adds a welcome layer of customization. One notable design choice is the absence of traditional pedals, instead, acceleration and braking are handled by two rear paddles. This streamlined approach not only keeps the package compact and affordable but also reduces clutter, appealing to gamers with limited space.
A particularly clever inclusion is the adjustable lap rest, which allows you to use the wheel comfortably even without a desk or racing stand. This thoughtful accessory underscores the Racer’s focus on accessibility and portability. Battery life is another highlight, with Turtle Beach promising up to 30 hours per charge, a claim that, if true, would easily outperform most standard wireless controllers.
Scheduled for release on September 9, 2025, the Turtle Beach Racer is positioned as a compelling option for players diving into sim-lite or arcade racers. While there’s no PlayStation version announced yet, strong sales could easily lead to expanded compatibility in the future. For those seeking an affordable, wireless, and space-friendly racing wheel, this one deserves a close look.
(Source: TechRadar)
