Black Angel Team - Notizie

Thrustmaster T248R: The Perfect Evolution of Accessible Sim Racing

The sim racing world continues to evolve rapidly, and Thrustmaster confirms its leadership position in the sector with the new T248R, a racing wheel that redefines standards in the mid-range price segment. This comprehensive review explores every aspect of this device that promises to deliver a high-quality simulated driving experience without breaking the bank.

A Carefully Studied Evolution

The Thrustmaster T248R represents a perfect example of how an already excellent product can be improved through subtle yet significant changes. Just like the Porsche 911, which has evolved gradually over decades while maintaining its essence, the T248R retains the fundamental characteristics of its 2021 T248 predecessor while introducing targeted improvements that make a real difference.

Compatibility and Target Market

The new wheel is compatible with PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5, positioning itself as the ideal choice for those approaching sim racing for the first time or wanting to upgrade from entry-level devices. It's important to note that currently, there are no plans for an Xbox-compatible version, for which the original T248 model will continue to be available.

Technical Performance and Feedback System

T-HD Hybrid System

The beating heart of the T248R is the T-HD hybrid drive system, which combines belts and gears to provide convincing and realistic force feedback. With a peak power of 3.1Nm, the wheel offers authentic sensations that dynamically adapt to the type of game and car being used.

While it doesn't reach the intensity of more expensive direct drive systems, the T248R manages to offer a surprisingly smooth and engaging experience. The mechanical improvements, though not officially declared by Thrustmaster, are noticeable: the wheel feels less "notchy" compared to the previous model, offering more natural transitions during driving.

Performance in Gran Turismo 7

The T248R proves particularly effective with Gran Turismo 7, PlayStation's flagship racing game. Despite not being specifically listed in the game's configuration menus (it's recognized as the previous TGT), all main functions are immediately available and correctly mapped. The silver rocker switches allow control of GT7's multi-function display, adding an extra level of immersion.

The force feedback calibration proves ideal for sim racing newcomers, avoiding the excessive aggressiveness that characterizes some high-end direct drive wheels when used with Gran Turismo.

Design and Materials: A Quality Leap

The New Perforated Synthetic Leather Wheel

One of the most evident improvements concerns the wheel material. The new perforated synthetic leather represents a dramatic upgrade over its predecessor: it feels soft, slightly spongy, and according to Thrustmaster, less prone to sweat buildup during intense driving sessions.

The difference is immediately noticeable to the touch and represents a significant advantage over competitors in the same price range.

Color Display: Clarity and Functionality

The new color display inherits technology and functionality from the more expensive T598, allowing settings adjustment directly from the wheel without requiring PC software. This feature is particularly valuable for PlayStation 4 and 5 users.

The most significant improvement concerns readability: while the previous black and white display had limited viewing angles, especially for taller people, the new color screen maintains sharpness and readability from any angle.

Two individual lights on the sides of the panel change color based on engine RPM, effectively replacing a true LED tachometer strip.

Magnetic Paddle Shifters: Improved Quietness

Another significant upgrade concerns the magnetic paddle shifters mounted on the back of the wheel. While maintaining plastic construction (unlike the metal finishes of some competitors), they are noticeably quieter. If the previous T248 paddles were comparable to machine gun noise, the new ones maintain tactile and auditory feedback without excessively disturbing the surrounding environment.

T-3PM Pedals: Confirmed Reliability

Construction and Features

The T-3PM pedal set included in the package remains unchanged from the previous model, which represents a wise choice considering its excellent performance. It includes throttle, brake, and clutch with metal-lined plates and a durable plastic base.

The hall-effect sensor construction ensures particular precision in the brake pedal, offering superior control compared to entry-level pedal sets like the T128's T-2PM or those from Logitech competitors.

Brake Pedal Customization

The package includes a firmer spring and an elastomer for the brake pedal, installable without tools and ideal for those wanting to transition from arcade titles like EA SPORTS F1 25 to more realistic simulators like iRacing, where braking precision is fundamental.

However, a load cell upgrade is not available for this specific pedal set, which would require purchasing a completely different set.

Value for Money: A Competitive Advantage

Pricing and Availability

Despite numerous improvements, the T248R has a lower launch price compared to its predecessor:

• Original T248 (2021): £299.99 / €349.99 / $399.99
• T248R (2025): £269.99 / €299.99 / $349.99

Pre-orders are active with first shipments from September 17, 2025, making this wheel an even more attractive option in the competitive landscape.

Market Positioning

The T248R positions itself at the top of the recommended racing wheel list in the ~$350 price range. While previously the cheaper T128 represented the best value for money, the T248R's upgrades fully justify the price difference, making it the ideal choice for those with a budget of around $350 for their first sim racing wheel purchase.

Conclusions

The Thrustmaster T248R demonstrates that revolutions aren't always necessary to create excellent products. Through a series of targeted improvements - superior wheel materials, more readable color display, quieter paddle shifters, and reduced price - Thrustmaster has created what could be considered the best sim racing wheel in its category.

For those approaching the sim racing world or wanting a significant upgrade without investing excessive amounts, the T248R represents a choice that's hard to beat. The combination of proven technology, tangible improvements, and competitive pricing makes it a safe recommendation for any simulated racing enthusiast.

https://www.thrustmaster.com/it-it/products/t248r/