HORI vs Thrustmaster: Console Wheel Showdown

Brand overview: HORI and Thrustmaster

HORI is a Japanese accessory maker known for licensed gamepads and racing wheels. Their wheels are often designed for a specific console family, such as PlayStation or Xbox, and come in bundles that include a wheel and pedals. HORI wheels typically target entry-level and mid-range buyers who want a simple, ready-to-use setup.

Thrustmaster is a French brand with a longer history in sim racing hardware. They offer wheels at every level, from gear-driven entry models to belt-driven and direct drive bases. Thrustmaster wheels are sold as bundles or as separate components, allowing you to build a system over time. The brand has a large ecosystem of add-on rims, pedals, shifters, and handbrakes.

Drive types and force feedback

The drive type determines how the wheel motor turns the rim and how force feedback is delivered. Gear-driven wheels use plastic or metal gears and are the most affordable, but they can be noisier and less smooth. Belt-driven wheels use a rubber belt for quieter, smoother force feedback. Direct drive wheels connect the motor directly to the rim, offering the highest torque and detail. Learn more in our direct drive vs gear driven guide.

Thrustmaster offers all three drive types: gear-driven (T150, TMX), belt-driven (T300, TX), and direct drive (T818). HORI wheels are typically gear-driven or belt-driven, with some models including force feedback. Neither brand publishes torque figures for all models, so compare stated torque when available. Force feedback is standard on most Thrustmaster wheels, while some HORI wheels use vibration or rumble instead.

Platform compatibility

Both brands make wheels for PlayStation and Xbox consoles. Thrustmaster separates its lineup by console family: models ending in "PS" work with PlayStation, those ending in "X" work with Xbox, and some PC-only models exist. HORI often releases officially licensed wheels for a single console, such as a PS5-licensed wheel or an Xbox-licensed wheel.

Always check the product title and the maker's compatibility list before buying. A wheel labeled "for PS5" may also work on PC, but it will not work on Xbox unless the listing says so. The same applies to Xbox wheels on PlayStation. Cross-platform wheels are rare; most wheels are built for one console family. For more, see our wheel compatibility with consoles guide.

Ecosystem and add-ons

Thrustmaster has a large ecosystem of add-on rims, pedal sets, shifters, and handbrakes that work across many of their wheel bases. This allows you to start with a basic bundle and upgrade components later. The Thrustmaster quick release system lets you swap rims without tools.

HORI's ecosystem is smaller. Most HORI wheels come as a complete bundle with pedals, and add-ons are limited. If you plan to add a shifter, handbrake, or better pedals later, Thrustmaster offers more options. If you want a simple all-in-one package, HORI may be sufficient. Read our brand ecosystem compatibility guide for more on expandability.

Pedals and bundles

HORI wheels are almost always sold as a bundle that includes a two-pedal or three-pedal set. The pedals are typically basic with a spring-based brake. Thrustmaster sells both bundles and separate components. Their higher-end bundles include the T-LCM pedals with a load cell brake, which measures pressure rather than travel for more consistent braking.

If you want a load cell brake or a clutch pedal, Thrustmaster offers those options. HORI bundles rarely include a load cell. Consider whether the included pedals meet your needs or if you will want to upgrade later.

Price tiers

Thrustmaster covers entry-level, mid-range, and premium tiers. Their gear-driven wheels are among the most affordable force feedback options. Belt-driven models sit in the mid-range, and direct drive bases are premium. HORI wheels are mostly found in the entry-level to mid-range price brackets, often undercutting Thrustmaster on price for a comparable bundle.

Your choice will depend on how much you plan to spend. For an entry-level setup, both brands have options. For a mid-range setup, Thrustmaster offers more force feedback choices. For a premium setup with direct drive, Thrustmaster is one of the few console-compatible options.

Which brand for your situation

Choose HORI if you want a simple, affordable wheel for a specific console and do not plan to add many accessories later. HORI wheels are often officially licensed and come ready to use out of the box.

Choose Thrustmaster if you want force feedback, a clear upgrade path, or a wider selection of drive types. Thrustmaster is a better fit if you think you will want to swap rims, add a shifter, or upgrade to a load cell brake later.

For direct drive on console, Thrustmaster's T818 is a current option. For a first wheel, both brands have suitable models. Use the guides below to compare specific listings by stated details.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Does HORI make direct drive wheels?

As of 2026, HORI primarily offers gear-driven and belt-driven wheels. Direct drive is not common in their lineup. See our direct drive vs gear driven guide for more on drive types.

Are Thrustmaster wheels compatible with PS5?

Many Thrustmaster wheels are compatible with PS5. Check the product listing for PS5 support or the maker's compatibility list. Our best racing wheels for PS5 guide lists compatible models.

Which brand has better force feedback?

Thrustmaster offers a wider range of force feedback quality, from basic gear-driven to high-torque direct drive. HORI force feedback is typically entry-level. Compare stated torque and drive type.

Can I use HORI wheels on PC?

Most HORI wheels are designed for consoles but often work on PC. Check the product details for PC compatibility.

Do Thrustmaster wheels come with pedals?

Many Thrustmaster bundles include pedals. Some wheel bases are sold separately. Check the bundle contents.

Which brand is better for beginners?

Both have entry-level options. HORI may be more affordable, while Thrustmaster offers a clearer upgrade path. See our first-time racing wheel checklist for guidance.

Does Thrustmaster have a quick release system?

Yes, Thrustmaster uses a quick release on many of its wheel bases, allowing you to swap rims.

Are HORI wheels officially licensed by Sony or Microsoft?

HORI often produces officially licensed wheels for PlayStation and Xbox. Look for the license logo on the product.