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Best Steering Wheels for American Truck Simulator In 2024

Driving Simulators have taken the market by storm. Everyone is getting into these games. The same can be said for American Truck Simulator. It remains one of the most popular driving games players turn to for a unique experience in trucking. That’s why we have this list of the best steering wheels for American Truck Simulator.

Furthermore, Its hyper-realistic design captures the essence of the industry, giving players a chance to connect with their inner trucker through simulation. However, making such an experience feel seamless means having the right equipment, and among that equipment, steering wheels take center stage. They serve as the link between player and game and impact gameplay more than any other peripheral can.   

Best Steering Wheels American Truck Simulator
Best Steering Wheels for American Truck Simulator 2024

In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best steering wheels that enthusiasts recommend for American Truck Simulator. Navigating through countless brands and specifications, we’ve sorted through numerous steering wheels to bring you nothing but the cream of the crop. Our evaluation will delve into essential factors including operation, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness with notable attention directed at assisting with decision-making processes. 

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Regardless of whether one has substantial truck-driving proficiency, casual gaming interests, or requires a new alternative for American Truck Simulator gameplay endeavors; acquiring the most fitting steering wheel could potentially amplify one’s overall experience exponentially. Join us as we take a deeper look at the top-rated steering wheel choices offered within current markets.

#PreviewNameAwardDetails
1Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and PedalsEditor's Pick
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2Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB with PedalsBest Entry-Level
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3Fanatec CSL Elite Starter KitHigh-End Option
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4Logitech G920Popular Option
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5Thrustmaster TX RW Leather EditionPremium Option
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6Hori Apex Racing Wheel for PS4Best for PS4
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7Logitech G29Classic Option
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#1
Preview
NameLogitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals
AwardEditor's Pick
Details
Check Price
#2
Preview
NameThrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB with Pedals
AwardBest Entry-Level
Details
Check Price
#3
Preview
NameFanatec CSL Elite Starter Kit
AwardHigh-End Option
Details
Check Price
#4
Preview
NameLogitech G920
AwardPopular Option
Details
Check Price
#5
Preview
NameThrustmaster TX RW Leather Edition
AwardPremium Option
Details
Check Price
#6
Preview
NameHori Apex Racing Wheel for PS4
AwardBest for PS4
Details
Check Price
#7
Preview
NameLogitech G29
AwardClassic Option
Details
Check Price

Last Update on 2024-10-27 at 22:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Get the most out of American Truck Simulator by using a steering wheel

A good steering wheel is essential for any driving simulator. When it comes to American Truck Simulator, it is even more important. A decent steering wheel will make the game more immersive and fun. While playing with WASD seems fine, it is not. Because it eventually becomes boring and repetitive. With a high-quality steering wheel with force feedback and good torque, the game will feel realistic and endlessly fun. As it offers more control and intensifies your experience.

As a result, if you are a truck enthusiast, a steering wheel is essential, as it will elevate your trucking experience to the next level. We have a lot of high-quality options for you to choose from; take your pick and start trucking.

1. Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals

Editor's Pick

Pros

  • Force Feedback
  • Impressive Performance
  • Mid-ranged Price
  • Easy Installation

Cons

  • Still Brakes

Force Feedback: Yes | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PC/ Playstation/Xbox

Logitech a renowned brand for every sim racer. This is because they have the best steering wheels on the market. They have something for everyone, from the most basic to the most advanced sim setup. As a result, it was obvious that our best overall pick would be the G923. This package is the best steering wheel that Logitech has to offer right now. 

The Logitech G923 is perfect for American Truck Simulator. During testing, the wheel performed quite exceptionally. Furthermore, it has forced feedback, which makes the experience more immersive. It even features dual clutch launch control which elevates the feeling of immersion and realism in high-speed races.

Best Steering Wheel for American Truck Simulator - Logitech G923
Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals.

The wheel cover is made out of genuine leather, which adds a lot to the overall premium feel of this one. It is compatible with PS4/PS5, PC, and Xbox One/Series X and S. The pedals have a polished metal exterior, and the baseplate also feels quite sturdy. There’s only one downside here, and it’s that the brake pedal can feel a bit rigid. 

This will ultimately come down to personal preference, but if you want to, you can replace the springs for the brake pedal and make it softer. These are also adjustable in terms of height, inclination, and spacing. This gives you complete control over your setup. The wheel does not come with a shifter but can be bought separately.

It is also a good idea to invest in a good sound system to enhance the experience further. Check out our round up of the best budget studio amplifiers.

Overall, the G923 is a great pick for American Truck Simulator because of its impressive performance and build. While the price is high, it’s worth the price of admission considering it’s the best steering wheel for American Truck Simulator. It’s an even better investment if you play a variety of other racing/driving sims.

2. Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB Edition

Best Budget

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Precise Control
  • Sporty-feel
  • Study Build
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Two Pedal sets
  • Lack of Xbox support

Force Feedback: Yes | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PC/PlayStation

The world of simulation driving can be expensive to get into for many people. As the wheels can look costly and be a hassle to set up. But, there are good budget entry options available. So, you can enjoy trucking or drive without worrying about your wallet. The best budget option based on our testing is the Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB Edition, as it comes with a lot of premium features at a very low cost.

Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB - Best Budget
Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB

The Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB Edition is a high-quality racing wheel that offers an excellent entry point into the world of racing simulation. It is a great choice for beginners and casual gamers who are looking for a more immersive driving experience without breaking the bank.

In terms of design, the wheel is quite compact and easy to handle. The wheels offer a lot of customizable buttons to help you optimize your experience. Looks-wise, the wheel looks sporty, with a Ferrari logo in the center. It makes you feel like you are handling a real car.

Furthermore, it comes with a well-built pedal set with throttle and brake. Sadly, there is no option for the clutch. So, if you are going for a manual setup, you might have to buy another pedal set. In terms of performance, the pedals are quite impressive and accurate. And make it easier to control your speed and brakes.

The other main feature of all Thrustmaster wheels is that they are modular, so you can easily change your pedals, wheels, shifter, and wheelbase to make the perfect setup.

When it comes to the steering wheel, it performs admirably. The T80 Ferrari 480 shows an impressive amount of accuracy when it comes to sharp turns and corners, which is essential in American Truck Simulator as you won’t be driving fast but will be handling dangerous turns and tough terrain.

If you’re on a budget and want to check out more accessories for your racing sim setup, check out our coverage on the best gaming headsets

In terms of compatibility, it is compatible with PC, PS4, and PS5. There is no support for Xbox. However, we have included some good options for our Xbox users.

In conclusion, the Thrustmaster T80 Ferrari 488 GTB Edition is an excellent racing wheel for beginners and casual gamers who want to enhance their racing simulation experience. It is a well-designed product that offers a great deal of customizability and performance, all at an affordable price point. However, for more serious gamers who demand a more realistic and high-performing wheel, it may be worth investing in a more advanced model.

3. Fanatec CSL Elite Racing Wheel

High-End Option

Pros

  • Premium Build
  • Impressive Performance
  • Full Modularity
  • Realistic Design

Cons

  • Difficult to set up initially
  • Costly

Force Feedback: Yes | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PC/PlayStation

If you are a true simulator enthusiast, it’s about time to invest in a high-end steering wheel setup. And the Fanatic CSL Elite Racing Wheel is perfect for that. Since you are going to be driving trucks in American Truck Simulator, it is essential to have a wheel with precise control and comfortable grips. The Fanatic CSL Elite checks all those boxes.

Fanated-CSL-Elite
Fanated CSL Elite Starter Kit

What sets the Fanatic CSL Elite wheel apart from the other options is the premium build quality. Holding the wheel in your hand makes it feel like a real car wheel. Every component is made of premium leather, rubber, or plastic. And the driving experience is quite comfortable. Furthermore, there are pedals on the back of the wheel for shifting if you are going for a no-shifter setup. There’s also a cool LED at the top of the wheel that displays speed and gear.

Furthermore, this wheel features a two-wheel pedal design, but you can opt for a three-wheel pedal as well. The build of the pedals is premium as well.

If you have a premium setup it is also a good idea to invest in a good home theater power manager to protect your set up from dirty power.

Apart from the premium build quality, the performance of the wheel is quite exceptional. The force feedback is one of the best we’ve tested. And when driving trucks, the wheel resistance feels real. And you can feel the terrain through the wheel while driving.

The biggest plus of going with the Fanatic CSL Elite wheel setup is its complete modularity. You can easily change parts of your setup. You can go for a larger wheel, change the shifter, or change the wheelbase as well. This is quite nice when you are looking to upgrade your setup in the future.

Overall, the Fanatic CSL Elite is a premium option, which means it costs a bit. But if you are serious about American Truck Simulator, or any driving simulator for that matter, Then this is a good option, as it allows easy upgrades and has one-of-a-kind performance.

4. Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel

Popular Option

Pros

  • Bang for the buck
  • premium quality
  • Lots of Customizable buttons
  • All-platforms compatible

Cons

  • Non-removable wheel

Force Feedback: Yes | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PC/PlayStation/Xbox

If you’ve ever searched for steering wheels for PC, you’ve probably come across the Logitech G920. It is the most popular steering wheel on the market right now. and there’s a good reason for it. Regarding gaming peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and headsets, Logitech is a well-known brand. The fact that their products are frequently used on the professional scene demonstrates the high quality of their products.

Logitech-G920-Wheel-Popular-Option
Logitech G920

The Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel is a strong contender for those looking for a premium racing wheel with an unrivaled level of immersion. It has an impressive 900 degrees of rotation and gives you a genuine sense of being in control. Furthermore, the unit includes a D-pad, which can be useful when navigating through tough terrain in American Truck Simulator.

The Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel’s steering performance is truly impressive. You can easily maneuver your car in any situation thanks to its exceptional responsiveness and superior feedback system. The pedals, too, have been designed with the utmost attention to detail and accuracy, rendering an incredibly realistic sensation when accelerating or braking.

It is not a good experience if American Truck Simulator lags or suffers from poor FPS. Consider opting for good GPU like the RTX 2060 for a smoother experience.

The Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel comes equipped with cross-platform compatibility, meaning it can be used interchangeably with both the Xbox One and PC. Furthermore, the unit’s buttons have been placed tactically for optimal ease of use. There is also a version for our PS4 and PS5 users.

To summarize, the Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel is a phenomenal choice for anyone looking to elevate their simulation experience. With its sturdy build, responsive features, and immersive experience that’ll have you convinced you’re truly in the driver’s seat, it’s an investment that won’t disappoint.

5. Thrustmaster TX Racing Wheel Leather Edition

Premium Option

Pros

  • Leather Wheel
  • Realistic Performance
  • All Systems Compatible
  • Hassle-free installation

Cons

  • Costs Premium

Force Feedback: Yes | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PC/PlayStation

When we talk about premium steering wheels, only one brand comes to mind, and that is Thrustmaster. Thrustmaster is the go-to brand for high-end wheels. It was also our pick for our best high-end pick and the same for the best premium pick. And there is a reason for that. Most Sim enthusiasts prefer Thrustmaster wheels because of their immersive features, which blur the line between real wheels and gaming wheels.

Thrustmaster TX RW Leather Edition - Best Premium
Thrustmaster TX RW Leather Edition

Similarly, the Thrustmaster TX Racing Wheel Leather Edition is an exceptional piece of technology that is a game-changer for those who want to take their trucking simulation to the next level. Its sleek and ergonomic design makes it one of the best wheels on the market today.

The wheel is built with high-quality materials overall, including a leather-covered rim and a sturdy metal base, which provide a premium feel and durability. The leather finish of the wheel adds to the luxurious feel and offers excellent grip for an immersive racing experience. The pedals are equally impressive, made from high-quality materials with a realistic feel, allowing for precise and accurate input.

But the real magic lies in the wheel’s performance. It performs exceptionally well, because of the well-built force feedback that makes your experience realistic. Furthermore, the 900-degree rotation gives you more control when you are navigating through rugged terrain.

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In terms of compatibility, the wheel is compatible with a range of platforms, including Xbox One, PC, and PS4, and is easy to set up, providing a hassle-free experience. The wheel comes with a range of customizations and settings to cater to every user’s preference, ensuring a tailored experience for each driver.

In conclusion, the Thrustmaster TX Racing Wheel Leather Edition is an exceptional product that offers outstanding performance, design, and customizability. It is a must-have for any serious racing simulation enthusiast and is worth the investment for those who want to take their gaming experience to the next level.

6. Hori Apex Racing Wheel for PS4

Best for PS4

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Precise Control
  • Sporty-feel
  • Wireless Connectivity

Cons

  • Two Pedal sets
  • Lack of Xbox support

Force Feedback: No | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PS4/PS5

When you think about a fully in-depth sim racing setup, you probably imagine having to deal with a lot of cables. That’s exactly why the Hori Apex Racing Wheel is so interesting. This is a relatively and affordable wireless option available exclusively for PlayStation. If you own a Playstation and don’t want to deal with the hassle of setting up your rig for trucking adventures, then this might be the best steering wheel out there. 

Hori Apex Racing Wheel

In all honesty, this one does not look too bad for the price at all. The red accents on the front paired with the sleek metal exterior all around give it a very subtle appearance. It can easily fit into any man cave, gaming room, or sim racing setup.

It connects wirelessly to your PS4/PS5 via Bluetooth and is officially licensed by Sony. This means you won’t have any connectivity problems whether you’re using it wired or wirelessly. Thanks to a recent firmware update, it has been optimized to work better with PS5 exclusive titles. This incredible steering wheel is also compatible with the PS3. This means you can bust out your PS3 for old racing games like Burnout Paradise or something. 

The Hori Apex features a 270-degree turn radius with an option to adjust the output and feedback. However, it only features two pedals, so it might not be the most immersive experience if you’re looking for a more realistic experience. 

Battery life is pretty decent as it can last for up to 15 hours of gameplay on a single charge. It features an internal rechargeable battery that you can leave plugged in overnight. All of that makes it an excellent option for Playstation Users. Not only is it one of the best steering wheels for American Truck Simulator, it’s also great for newer games like Gran Turismo 7. 

7. Logitech G29 Steering Wheel

Classic Option

Pros

  • Best for PlayStation users
  • Dual-motor force feedback
  • LED light
  • Customizability

Cons

  • Expensive for new gamers

Force Feedback: Yes | Shifter: Sold Separately | Compatibility: PC/PlayStation

The Logitech G29 is a premium racing wheel that offers an immersive and realistic driving experience for racing simulation enthusiasts. It is one of the most popular and highly rated wheels on the market today, thanks to its impressive features and exceptional build quality.

Logitech G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel
Logitech G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel

The wheel is constructed with high-quality materials, including a leather-wrapped rim and metal pedals that offer a premium feel and durability. The design of the wheel is sleek and ergonomic, allowing for a comfortable grip and easy access to all controls and buttons. The pedals are also adjustable, allowing users to tailor the distance and angle to their liking.

Because of its powerful force feedback system, which provides realistic sensations for every turn and curve, the G29’s precision and responsiveness are impressive. The system is adaptable, allowing users to fine-tune feedback levels and improve their overall driving experience.

The wheel is compatible with a range of platforms, including PS4 and PC, and is easy to set up, providing a hassle-free experience. To enhance the immersive experience, the wheel includes several customizable settings and features, such as programmable buttons and LED lights.

In conclusion, the Logitech G29 is an exceptional racing wheel that offers an immersive and realistic driving experience. Its high-quality build, powerful force feedback system, and range of customizable settings make it a top choice for racing simulation enthusiasts. However, its premium price point may not be suitable for everyone, and it may be worth considering other options for more casual gamers.

Is American Truck Simulator Worth It Without Steering Wheel?

American Truck Simulator is hands down the best truck simulator out there. It’s the game all truck enthusiasts play. Because of its immersive and realistic game design. That makes you feel like you are driving a truck. So, it is essential to buy a good steering wheel to play it with or you will be missing out on a lot of fun,

Yes, you can play with a controller or keyboard. But then it will only be a driving game, not a simulator. Hence, we highly urge you to play it with a steering wheel to get the complete experience.

If you do not have a steering wheel. We have listed a lot of options to choose from. So, take your pick and start trucking.

Can You Use Any Steering Wheel for American Truck Simulator?

When it comes to steering wheels, there are tons of options to choose from. And any avid gamer will get confused over what to buy.

For American Truck Simulators there is no specific steering wheel. All the steering wheels on the market will work. But you need to check the compatibility.

Make sure that the steering wheel of your choice is supported by your PC or console. In our list above, we have provided options for all platforms, like Xbox, Playstation, and PC.

How We Picked and Tested

American Truck Simulator (ATS) is a game that has garnered a large following of simulation enthusiasts. It offers players the experience of being a truck driver in the United States, with a focus on realism and immersion. One of the most popular ways to enhance the realism of the game is by using a steering wheel. A good steering wheel can improve your control and make the experience more immersive.

However, since there are tons of options on the market it can be a hassle to find the right one for yourself. And you definitely do not want to buy something that is not premium. So, our tech-team at Appuals decided to test and sift through dozens of options and compiled a list of the best steering wheels for American Truck Simulator.

This is our process on how we tackled our testing to give you the best options on the market. We took in account multiple factors like price, performance, realistic features, brands etc.

We wanted to ensure you get reliable options for steering wheels. So, we went through a rigorous testing process with Asad Khan as the tech-lead. Asad has years of experience testing and reviewing gaming peripherals, including steering wheels. He looks at each product with a bird eye’s view to ensure you get the right products.

We put each steering wheel through countless hours in American Truck Simulator. We tested durability to make sure the steering wheel lasts long. Furthermore, we also tested the force feedback to ensure you get the most immersive experience. And, we also made sure that we have enough variety of products for all platforms. 

Additionally, we also kept price in mind. Since everyone cannot afford high-end expensive options. Therefore, we have included budget and premium options to cater the needs of every consumer. 

While testing, we skipped the marketing fluff and focus on the core features and performance of every steering wheel. We broke down each steering wheel to its basic components to make sure that you get the best products in the market

In conclusion, finding the right steering wheel for American Truck Simulator can be a daunting task, but our process of research and testing, with the help of Asad Khan, has led us to this list  We hope that our guide has helped you in your search for the perfect steering wheel for your American Truck Simulator gameplay.

Buyer’s Guide

If you’re a serious driving game enthusiast, you know that a gaming steering wheel can make all the difference in your gameplay. Not only does it add to the realism of the experience, but it can also help you perform better and enjoy the game more. Here’s a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right steering wheel for your gaming needs:

Compatibility

This is the most important factor of all. You don’t want the hassle of buying a wheel and then finding out it does not work with your system. Make sure to check the product website for information about its compatibility.

Build Quality

The second point to consider while looking for steering wheels in the market is the build quality. Simulation games are all about bridging the gap between games and reality. Your experience won’t be immersive if your steering wheel feels like plastic. Therefore, you need to look for something with a premium build. It should be made with premium materials like leather, so you feel like you are holding a real steering wheel rather than a cheap copy.

Force Feedback

Force feedback is a feature in steering wheels that recreates the real steering experience. This is usually done by the motors inside the wheelbase. It creates resistance when driving at high speeds and through sharp turns, just like you would in a real car.

Hence, if you want a realistic experience, go with a steering wheel that supports force feedback.

Pedals

Most gaming steering wheels come with pedals, which add to the realism of the driving experience. Look for a steering wheel with adjustable pedals that can be customized to your preferences.

Customizability

A good gaming steering wheel should allow for customizability, such as programmable buttons, adjustable force feedback levels, and other settings that can be personalized to your liking.

Price

There are a plethora of options when it comes to gaming steering wheels. So, you need to consider your budget when looking for one. There are many good budget options in the market, and we have listed a few of them here as well. Similarly, going for a high-end, expensive wheel is not as bad an idea as you think. Because high-end steering wheels come with premium features that make your experience more realistic

Keeping these factors in mind, you can easily choose a good steering wheel for American Truck Simulator or any other driving game for that matter. Furthermore, we have already done the research for you and have listed a lot of really good options to choose from.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Appuals, our love for simulation games is matched only by our dedication to ensuring that our readers have access to the best gear available. Our team of experts brings a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to equipment that enhances your gaming experience. Leading the pack is Asad Khan, our resident expert, who has logged countless hours testing and reviewing each product.

We are proud of delivering comprehensive reviews based on factors such as durability, affordability, design, and functionality. At Appuals, we know that selecting the right steering wheel is vital for any American Truck Simulator player.

That’s why we’ve undertaken rigorous research to bring you a carefully compiled list of only the finest options on the market. We want all gamers out there to have access to exceptional gear that will amplify their playing experience beyond expectations. Choose from our recommendations and dive headfirst into an unparalleled trucking journey.

Best Steering Wheels for American Truck Simulator - FAQs

Which steering wheel is best for American Truck Simulator?

The Thrustmaster T150 Pro Racing Wheel is a good option considering it is quite inexpensive and a good starting point. For a more premium option Fanatec CSL Elite Racing Wheel is recommended.

Is American Truck Simulator worth it without a steering wheel?

No, American Truck Simulator is a simulator by the name. Hence, to enjoy it to its full extent it is crucial to get a steering wheel. Though it is playable with a controller or keyboard. But not recommended.

Can you play American Truck Simulator with steering wheels?

Yes, and its highly recommended as it makes the game more immersive and realistic.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Asad Khan


I've been an enthusiastic follower of both the tech and gaming industries for as long as I can remember. This passion for both fields and a curiosity that drives me to learn new things every day are the two things that allow me to provide readers with my insights. When you don't find me writing or researching about games, you'll find me building PCs, hunting for new components, or naturally, playing games.