It is worth it?
Summary
Although racing simulators take up a lot of room and cost a decent amount, they add tremendously to your overall racing experience. Sitting in a real racing seat, grabbing onto an actual racing wheel, and pressing actual pedals makes racing games truly come alive. You can get a regular racing wheel stand for cheaper, yes, but nothing will ever give you the same feel as a racing simulator seat. If you are serious about virtual sim racing, a racing simulator seat is a must.
User Review
( votes)If you already have a PS4, XBOX One, gaming PC or any other video gaming racing wheel you will definitely need something to attach it to. You could get a racing wheel stand, but if you want a full blown racing experience you will undoubtedly want a racing simulator seat.
Racing simulators come with a way to attach a racing wheel as well as a place for you to sit. They are usually actual racing seats, which makes the simulation feel much more real. This is the main difference between racing simulators and a racing wheel stand. A wheel stand you will need to use your couch, or just get your own chair. Some racing simulators even have multiple TV attachment points to fully engulf you in racing.
Although these racing simulators may look big they do not take up as much room as you may think. Even the largest ones in the list take up about the same amount of space as a large reclining chair with the foot rest out. Make sure to check all the links to get the exact dimensions before purchasing. You will obviously need to make sure it fits in the space you plan on putting it.
Most of these racing chairs are also adjustable. The way they adjust is primarily all the same. The chair itself is what moves forward or backwards. The wheel stand and pedals can also slide around to make it easier to get a perfect driving position. As you can see from the video below, pretty much any height can use them. However, some have pre-drilled holes that you adjust the bars to when assembling. These are usually larger and more robust units, however.
Also, unlike racing wheels, racing wheel stands and driving simulators do not need to be replaced every few years. Wheels and accessories will always be able to clamp onto them making them a pretty safe long term investment.
Finally, one final note, none of these racing simulator seats come with wheels. These are accessories for your racing wheel to take your driving experience to the next level. They are not actual video game simulators themselves. You purchase your video game system, racing wheel, and whatever else you want to attach to them.
GTR Simulator
So, you already have a racing wheel, but want to take your driving experience to a new level? Here comes the GTR driving simulator, which gets you everything you want in a gaming experience. It provides you an opportunity to enjoy a real time GT style bucket racing seat along with a gear shifter mount. Also, this specific model is the GTR Simulator – GTA-F Model, which means it comes with three TV mounts. You have the choice to just bolt on the mount for a TV right in front of you, all three, or none at all. You can also get it with no TV mounts at all, as well.
Features of GTR Simulator
The GTR Simulator comes along with meticulously made support systems for all kinds of pedals, steering wheels, and shifters. Moreover, it also possesses powder coated frames as well as an adjustable racing seat. However, no electronics are included in the product. It is up to you what you want to add to the simulator. You need to add a steering wheel, shifter, pedals, and TVs yourself. You probably already have all these items, which is why you are reading this list. However, this simulator definitely adds for a lot of customization now and into the future.
Pros of GTR Simulator
GTR simulator possesses many positive aspects which turns it into a must buy for serious gamers. You get a perfect blend of comfort and a sporty style which sets the GTR simulator apart from its counterparts. Also, its strikingly beautiful design makes it look good under any light. Pictures do no do it justice, but in real life it looks like a serious driving simulator. Especially with all the TVs set up. In addition, the GTR simulator seat possesses a sculpted profile providing great stability for the gamer. It is worth your money and is a durable seat which can be used for a long time.
It works best with the Logitech G29 racing wheel, but can be used with literally any wheel. Users who used the GTR simulator found the seat to be very comfortable and praised the adjustable pedal plates as well as the wheel height. Also, the wheel stand as well as seat can be easily assembled and can be adjusted for any kind of driving games. The GTR simulator comes with 14 way adjustable seating positions which make it comfortable for very long hours of driving.
Negatives of GTR Simulator
There are two major drawbacks of the GTR simulator. Foremost is that the shifter mount of the simulator is not at all adjustable. Thus, when you want to slide your seat way back, your shifter will not move back with you. Moreover, the cockpit has been designed while keeping Logitech G27/G29 in mind, thus you may need to drill holes for any other kind of wheel or pedals which you want to attach. Like all simulators listed here, always click the link and double check your wheel is compatible.
Concluding Thoughts
As a concluding thought, it can be said that except for the two negatives, the GTR simulator is an excellent choice. It offers the most freedom to design the exact racing setup you like. From a simple chair and wheel all the way up to chair, racing wheel, shifter, and even three TV’s. If all that wasn’t enough, it even comes in different colours. White, red, blue, black, whatever you like is what you can get. Trust me, it will definitely look amazing and impress all your friends when they see it.
Playseat F1 Red Bull Racing
Looking for a gaming seat which can allow you to experience the thrill and excitement of a true Formula 1 racing car? Well, Playseat has got the solution for you. Playseat® F1 Red Bull Racing reproduces the real experience of being a Formula 1 racing car driver. The car seat is an awesome product for those who wish to bring some excitement into their gaming. Also, the seat with awesome accessories and a stunning design creates a mesmerizing driving experience for the gamer.
Features of the Playseat F1 Red Bull Racing Car Seat
The Formula 1 racing car seat is compatible with PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, XBOX 360, XBOX ONE, Wii, Wii U, Mac, and PC. Basically, every system or game you could ever imagine. Also, it is compatible with all kinds of pedal sets and steering wheels present in the market. The car seat comes with a patented Red Bull framework as well as racing seat. Clearly the coolest looking racing seat of the list.
Pros Playseat F1 Red Bull Racing car seat
Looking at positives, the Formula 1 car seat comes with a leather look black vinyl of highest quality. Its other positive aspects are high comfort level, superior stability factor, and perfect buildup. The system of the car seat caters to the G27 styles gearshift setup and is completely adjustable. Of course, any wheel with an aftermarket shifter you should be able to mount without issues as well.
This car seat takes virtual racing games to a new level of gaming. Also, the interaction with the game provided by the racing car seat is unrivaled. You can practically feel as if you are getting bumped by the stones on the road, or will feel the smoothness of roughness of the road with this car seat. In fact, the gamers will feel as if they are real time racing drivers.
Negatives Playseat F1 Red Bull Racing car seat
The major negative of the Formula 1 car seat is that it does not come with any requisite gaming hardware, such as steering wheel or pedals (not that any others do either). However, I think it would of been cool if it came with a special edition Red Bull style racing wheel as well. Although, it is a luxurious and glorious car seat which is compatible with all kinds of racing sim parts. The only real negative would be the seating position. It is a pro an a con. If you like an F1 laying down style driving position this is perfect, but there is no adjustability to make it upright like in a normal car.
Concluding Thoughts
This car seat is meant for those gamers who wish to take a feel of a real time Formula 1 race car. It is like nothing else on the market and looks truly special. If you want something very unique with a huge “wow factor” this is it.
Buy Playseat F1 Red Bull Racing
Playseat Challenge
Playseat challenge can no doubt be stated as a superb racing game seat. In fact, if you want to take that next step in the virtual racing game scenario from a wheel stand, you need to try this Playseat Challenge seat. Moreover, building that virtual racing rig can surely put a hole in your pocket. Whether you are playing on a PC or a console, you already need to make investments for hardware and your games.
Then, why spend so much on the racing seat? Playseat Challenge is an affordable, convenient, and comfortable option for a racing seat. Its smaller size also makes it great for people with less space.
Features of Playseat Challenge
The Playseat Challenge racing car seat is compatible with Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Mac, Playstation 2, Playstation 3, Playstation 4, Wii, PC, and much more. In addition, it is also compatible with all kinds of steering wheels as well as pedal sets available in the market. Additionally, you get a ergonomic adjustable seat along with lumbar support which is also adjustable. Like with the others, steering wheel and pedals are not included in the package.
Pros of Playseat Challenge
Playseat Challenge comes with many positive attributes. Foremost is that it is very easy to set up and can be fully adjusted in no time. Also, the product got acclamations for its better-quality build and high comfort factor. It can be easily stored and does not take much space as compared to its counterparts. Also, due to its “fold-up” style it is a very comfortable racing car seat. The best part is that you get to enjoy a car racing seat well below $500. Attractive, highly functional, durable are some of the positive features of the product. Another big pro is the fact that it folds up. For people with smaller rooms, or like things tidy, this seat is perfect.
Cons of Playseat Challenge
Although this car racing seat has many positive factors, some negative attributes also demolish its reputation to some extent. Foremost, it can be a little uncomfortable for people who are either short in height or a little heavy. However, it does not include any bracket for a shifter. However, you can buy an aftermarket shifter mount if you need one. The sliding peddle part is not ideal as it does not keep the peddle in place as well as a more solid racing seat. Also, if you have a specific heavy wheel such as Thrustmaster TS-XW, it makes the folding of the racing car seat quite awkward and even unsettles it. Regular wheels should be fine, however.
Concluding Thoughts
Except minor negative points, the Playseat Challenge is a preferable racing car seat and better than many other seats. The fact that it is lightweight and can fold away are major pros. It is also perfect for casual gamers who do not want a mess in their room at all times.
Playseat Evolution Alcantara Gaming Seat
Playseat Evolution Alcantara Gaming Seat is a mini revolution in the world of racing seats. A luxury for those gamers who have money in their pockets and space at home, this car seat is getting popular day by day. Playseat Evolution makes it a point to take your gaming experience to new heights.
The functionality and features of the Playseat Evolution reproduces the feelings of driving an actual race car. It is must have for all those gaming enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill and excitement of an actual race car.
Features of Playseat Evolution
Playseat Evolution is available in black color and can be used by both adults and kids. So, bring in all your family members and friends to enjoy a game with real gaming effects. The car seat is compatible with all kinds of gaming consoles as well as PCs. Also, it is compatible with all varieties of steering wheels as well as pedal sets available in the market, including Thrustmaster, Logitech, and Fanatec.
Pros of Playseat Evolution
The Playseat Evolution racing car seat has a high quality build as well as good stability. Also, the users who bought the Playseat Evolution Alcantara Gaming Seat praised it for it being easy to assemble. It takes only a few minutes to assemble the seat. It is also easy to store because of its foldable design. This makes it much easier to move out of the way when not in use. In addition, many users complimented it for its leather looks and good feel. It looks just like a real racing seat you would find in a car, which is pretty cool. The car seat comes with different adjustments for all kinds of users. So, it does not matter whether you are an adult or a 7 year old kid. The car seat can be adjusted as per the user requirements.
Negatives of Playseat Evolution
A major negative point as stated by users is the high price of the car seat. Many users were uncomfortable for shelving out ample of money for just a car seat. In addition, some users complained about a lack of space near the feeting section of the car seat.
Concluding Thoughts
Except for a few negatives, this racing car seat is obviously a 9/10 when it comes to enjoying a real gaming experience. A must buy; it can add that much needed depth to some of the games, especially if you use the cockpit view.
Buy Playseat Evolution Alcantara Gaming Seat
Openwheeler Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit
Openwheeler racing wheel stand cockpit has been designed specifically to offer a feeling of realism to the players of any racing game. Any racing wheel can perform this task but the Openwheeler racing wheel stand cockpit will make you feel as if you are sitting in your own racing car. Sounds interesting?
Features of Openwheel Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit
The Openwheel racing wheel stand cockpit is compatible with all kinds of gaming consoles or PC. Moreover, the racing wheel stand cockpit also fits Thrustmaster racing wheels, as some others have trouble. It possesses a tubular steel frame which lends a sense of strength to it. Also, you can enjoy compatible adjustment controls. As you can see from the picture, it is also offered in many colours, which is cool.
Pros of the Openwheel Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit
The Openwheel Racing Wheel Stand not only has good looks, it also gives a great feeling to sit in the cockpit. In fact, you can even sit for long hours without feeling any soreness, or tiredness. Customers who bought this racing seat were quite happy with the large packaging it came in. Also, the customers felt great about its enhanced functionality as well as its easy assembling.
In addition, the seat is made up of a fabric material, which is also very nice. The seat is available in six different colors, thus giving you the chance to pick your favorite color choice. Also, the comfort of this racing wheel seat is quite high. The metal chassis is quite stable and is made up of zinc plated metal tubing and plates. It is also quite adjustable, which adds to its market value. You can adjust your seat sliders, enjoy a reclining backrest, and can move your wheel up, down, forward, or backward.
This racing car wheel can easily accommodate different varieties of racing wheels, including Logitech racing wheel, Thrustmater, and many others.
Cons of the Openwheel Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit
Coming to its negative side, the Openwheel racing wheel cockpit is sure to take up much space in your home. The reason is that it is actually a large piece of equipment. Some customers complained about the comfort level of the cushions being low. Moreover, it is not possible to raise the height of your racing steering wheel without bringing it closer to your body. However, these negative issues are very small and won’t affect you too much compared to its pros.
Concluding Thoughts
Openwheel racing wheel stand cockpit is highly recommended. It is comfortable, supportive, looks good, and comes in many colours. Definitely a good choice for serious gamers.
Buy Openwheeler Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit
What is the Best Racing Seat or Simulator?
Just like I mentioned in my best racing wheel article, there is no “best”. It all depends on you and what you are looking for. The things to consider are:
- Your budget
- Size of your room
- How dedicated to virtual racing are you
If you don’t care about price, have a large room, and just want the best then the GTR Simulator, or Playseat F1 Red Bull Racing would be for you. The GTR Simulator because it has multiple TV mounting points, which is awesome, and the Red Bull seat because it is a freaking Red Bull racing seat! Walking into your gaming room and seeing that Red Bull racing seat would just be amazing. Even when you aren’t playing that chair looks cool.
However, at the same time, if you have a smaller budget with a small space you wouldn’t want either of those seats. By far the Playseat Challenge chair is for you. It doesn’t cost as much and it folds up nicely to be stored away when you aren’t using it. Much more practically than any of the others.
All the others are similar, and which one you would like is up to you. They are all great choices and will equally improve your racing experience.
Please share in the comments which one you decided on and why. I would love to hear your thoughts!