272,– EUR
Thrustmaster T248
PS4, PS5, PC
Testing the Thrustmaster T248: good wheel. Fantastic pedals
21.3.2022
Video: Manuel Wenk
Translation: Patrik Stainbrook
Thrustmaster wants to mix up the entry-level steering wheel range with the T248. The wheel itself is good. Its pedals, however, steal the show.
Just in time for the release of «Gran Turismo 7», Thrustmaster released the T248, an affordable steering wheel for PC and the PlayStation (4 and 5) at the end of 2021. The steering wheel features a sweet LED display, showing information such as speed, current gear or revs. This way, you always have the most important thing in mind: a bar fills up and shows you when it’s the perfect time to upshift. Very smart indeed.
Otherwise, the Thrustmaster offers decent force feedback. Thanks to the steering wheel resistance, you can tell exactly whether you’re driving on asphalt, gravel or ice. You can increase or decrease the effect’s intensity directly on the wheel. During my «Gran Turismo 7» test laps, the feedback was sometimes a bit weak or delayed to me, partly also due to the game itself. There’s nothing to complain about for a steering wheel in this price range.
At last, extraordinarily stiff pedals
The included pedals are especially deserving of praise. It features new magnetic technology enabling very precise inputs. In addition, Thrustmaster has eliminated one of the main criticisms haunting inexpensive pedals. The brake pedal can now be adjusted in four stages between soft and hard. Harder pedals allow for more precise braking, meaning your virtual wheels lock up less.
Verdict
Sure, the T248 is a beginner wheel. Beginners with ambition, however. The LED display is pleasing, the adjustable brake pedal inspiring. It loses some points on workmanship. There’s a lot of plastic, which isn’t surprising considering the low price. For more precious materials such as aluminium or Kevlar, you’ll have to shell out four-figure sums. Furthermore, the force feedback could’ve been a bit crisper.
The Thrustmaster T248 is a perfect introduction to virtual racing. Cheaper alternatives aren’t worth the price, you’ll have to make too many sacrifices (fewer buttons, no display, unusable pedals). More expensive wheels can quickly cost double and more.
Note on installation
If this is your first wheel, don’t make the same mistake I did and try mounting it to a table. Either the pedals slip off or your office chair starts moving. Besides, assembly and disassembly are tedious. Investing in a decent solution (right away with an integrated seat or as a folding frame) is worth it.
Racing seats
All in one, especially useful as a standalone solution.
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Ideal for the sofa.
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Simon Balissat
Teamleader Editorial
simon.balissat@digitecgalaxus.chWhen I flew the family nest over 15 years ago, I suddenly had to cook for myself. But it wasn’t long until this necessity became a virtue. Today, rattling those pots and pans is a fundamental part of my life. I’m a true foodie and devour everything from junk food to star-awarded cuisine. Literally. I eat way too fast.