Just five years ago, direct drive wheels were almost unattainable for the average sim racer. Entry-level models often started around $1,000—before you even added a rim, pedals, or a rig. That all changed in 2021 when Fanatec released the CSL DD, ushering in a new era of affordable, high-quality direct drive wheelbases.
Now in 2025, sim racers have more choices than ever. But what are the cheapest direct drive ecosystems in 2025, and are these entry-level options actually worth your money?
1. Moza: Budget Champion
Moza R3
Moza currently leads the pack for budget-conscious sim racers with the R3 and R5 wheelbases. The Moza R3 is especially impressive: at just $299 (PC version), it includes a rim and a basic pedal set. Despite its compact size, it delivers a respectable 3.9 Nm of torque and features Moza’s excellent NRG-style quick release, offering full compatibility with their entire ecosystem.
There’s also an Xbox-compatible R3 bundle available for $399 (or on sale for $359), which is a fantastic entry point when you consider it’s $100 less than just the 5 Nm CSL DD base alone.
2. Cammus: The Wild Card
Cammus is a lesser-known player, but their C5 direct drive bundle makes waves with an aggressive price of $329 and 5 Nm of torque. It includes a rim and a basic pedal set. While the pedals look minimal and don’t support a clutch add-on like Moza’s R3, they’re likely sufficient for casual sim racers.
The downside? No console support and a smaller ecosystem. Still, for PC users who want a plug-and-play DD experience without plans to upgrade, the C5 is worth considering.
3. Thrustmaster: A Return to Relevance
Thustmaster T598
After years stuck with aging belt-drive wheels, Thrustmaster returned to the spotlight with the T818 and, more recently, the T598. Priced at $499, the T598 bundle includes everything you need to get started: a rim, pedals, and a wheelbase delivering 5 Nm sustained torque.
The T598 is PlayStation compatible, a huge plus at this price point. It also supports Thrustmaster’s new ecosystem of DD-compatible rims and existing accessories. Bonus points for the included pedal set, which can be upgraded with a load cell brake mod—no need to replace the entire set to upgrade later.
One advantage Thrustmaster still holds is retail availability. Their products are often found in big-box stores, and discounts are common during sales.
4. Fanatec: Still Solid, But No Longer the Budget Leader
Once the go-to for budget DD racing, Fanatec’s CSL DD has become less competitive in North America due to price increases. The 5 Nm Ready2Race bundle now starts at $599, which puts it higher than much of the competition.
However, the European price is still attractive at €399, and the Boost Kit 180 allows users to upgrade from 5 Nm to 8 Nm later. That flexibility is a big plus, though the $179.99 price tag on the Boost Kit is steep.
The CSL DD Ready2Race bundle includes an Xbox-compatible wheel, solid QR2 quick release, and CSL pedals with upgrade potential, making it a long-term investment—just not the most affordable one anymore.
5. Simagic: High-End Power at Entry-Level Prices
While not strictly a budget option, Simagic’s new Alpha Evo Sport deserves a mention. For $648 (with the GT Neo rim), it delivers a whopping 9 Nm of sustained torque, putting it well above the other options on this list in terms of raw performance.
However, it comes with trade-offs:
No console support
No included pedals
No desk clamp (rig or stand required)
Still, for serious PC racers, the Alpha Evo Sport offers unmatched value in terms of feel and power. Simagic’s P1000 2-pedal load cell set starts at $149, with a clutch upgrade for $59. It’s not cheap, but it’s very high quality and won’t need replacing anytime soon.
Final Thoughts
Budget sim racing in 2025 is in a fantastic place. Moza leads in overall value, Cammus offers a compelling PC-only option, Thrustmaster has regained relevance with console compatibility, and Fanatec still offers long-term flexibility for those willing to pay a bit more. So what are your favorite cheap direct drive ecosystems in 2025?
And if you want a rig you can grow into? Simagic’s Alpha Evo Sport is the strongest performer of the bunch.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade on a tight budget, there’s never been a better time to go direct drive.
