Introduction: What Is Sim Racing, and Why Should You Care?

Sim racing—short for simulation racing—is far more than a video game. It’s a high-intensity, adrenaline-fueled hobby that mimics the precision, physics, and strategy of real-world motorsport. Whether you’re dreaming of racing at Spa-Francorchamps or tackling time trials at Laguna Seca, sim racing gives you the tools, immersion, and feedback to experience it all—without ever leaving your home.

But here’s the challenge: the world of sim racing can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out. There are dozens of gear choices, platforms, and opinions flying around in forums and Reddit threads. That’s where Sim Rig Zone comes in—we cut through the noise and show you exactly how to get started, what to buy (and avoid), and how to level up as a virtual racer.

Let’s hit the track.

Why Sim Racing Is Exploding in 2025

Sim racing is no longer a niche. Thanks to the rise of eSports, better hardware accessibility, and the real-world racing crossover (many pros now train using sims), the hobby has exploded globally.

Here’s why sim racing continues to gain traction:

• Immersion rivaling real motorsports: Today’s force-feedback wheels, high-end pedals, and VR support allow for realism that rivals actual track driving.

• Global online competition: With platforms like iRacing and Assetto Corsa Competizione, you can compete with thousands of other racers worldwide—any time of day.

• Affordability & scalability: Unlike karting or track days, sim racing lets you race daily with no fuel costs, no tires to replace, and no garage required.

• Real-world crossover: Real F1 drivers like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris actively train in simulators. Sim racers like Igor Fraga have even made the leap into real-world racing.

What You Need to Start Sim Racing

Let’s break down every core component of a sim racing setup, from absolute essentials to optional upgrades for later.

1. Your Platform: PC or Console?

This is your first major decision—and it determines what games, accessories, and communities you’ll have access to.

PC: The Most Flexible, Powerful Option

• Compatible with almost every sim racing title (including iRacing, rFactor 2, Automobilista 2, Assetto Corsa)

• Supports modding, custom liveries, and community-created content

• Offers better graphics, smoother framerates, and extensive gear compatibility

Ideal for: Racers looking for a long-term, customizable experience with access to the most competitive platforms.

Console: Simple & Affordable

• Easy plug-and-play setup with games like Gran Turismo 7 (PS5) or Forza Motorsport (Xbox)

• Limited to console-compatible gear

• Fewer hardcore sim titles, but still immersive

Ideal for: Beginners on a budget or casual players who already own a console.

Pro Tip: If you can afford it, start with PC. It’s the gold standard for sim racing and gives you room to grow.

2. Sim Racing Software: Choosing the Right Game

Your choice of sim racing title affects your experience just as much as your gear. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular platforms:

iRacing

• Subscription-based with laser-scanned tracks and real-world physics

• Unmatched online competition, with licensed races and rankings

• Ideal for serious racers who want structured leagues and realism

Assetto Corsa (and Competizione)

• AC: Highly moddable, great community, massive car/track database

• ACC: Official GT3/GT4 simulator with stunning visuals and competitive realism

• Perfect for both casual and competitive racers

rFactor 2

• Used in professional driver training

• Complex physics engine and great for endurance racing fans

• Steeper learning curve, but extremely rewarding

Gran Turismo 7 (PS5) / Forza Motorsport (Xbox)

• Accessible, beautiful, and controller-friendly

• GT7 leans more into simulation than arcade; Forza is more casual

• Great entry point if you’re not ready for a full rig setup

3. Sim Racing Hardware: The Heart of Your Rig

a. Racing Wheel

This is the cornerstone of any serious sim racing setup. Force feedback lets you feel every bump, slide, and weight transfer.

Beginner Options:

• Logitech G923 – Affordable, reliable, includes pedals, decent force feedback

• Thrustmaster T248 / T300 RS – Stronger feedback, belt-driven, solid mid-tier choice

Enthusiast & Pro:

• Fanatec CSL DD – Direct Drive at an affordable price

• Simucube 2 Sport – Industry-grade performance for the most demanding racers

Direct Drive vs Belt Drive: Direct drive wheels offer pure, powerful force feedback directly from the motor. Belt drive uses pulleys—less sharp but more affordable.

b. Pedals

Never underestimate your pedals. Proper throttle control and trail braking rely on pedal feel.

Key features to look for:

• Load Cell Brake – Measures actual pressure, not distance = more realism

• Adjustable tension – Tune the resistance to your driving style

Top Picks:

• Thrustmaster T-LCM – Load cell at a budget price

• Fanatec CSL Pedals + Load Cell Kit – Modular and pro-level accuracy

c. Shifters & Handbrakes (Optional)

• Shifter: Adds realism, especially for manual racing and rally stages

• Handbrake: Essential for drift/rally drivers

Popular options: Thrustmaster TH8A, Fanatec Clubsport Shifter SQ

4. Mounting Solutions: How to Build a Stable Rig

You don’t need a full cockpit from day one—but mounting matters.

Budget-Friendly

• Clamp your wheel to a sturdy desk

• Use office chairs with locking wheels or swap them for rubber feet

Wheel Stands

• Freestanding, foldable, stable

• Great for small spaces

• Example: Next Level Racing Lite, GT Omega Apex

Full Sim Cockpits

• Steel/Aluminum frames, racing seat, adjustable arms

• Immersive and rock-solid

• Brands: Next Level Racing, Playseat, SimLab

A cockpit doesn’t just look cool—it lets you brake harder, turn sharper, and drive longer without discomfort.

5. Visuals: Monitors vs VR vs Triple Screens

Single Monitor

• Most affordable

• 24″–32″ works fine to start

Triple Monitors

• Massive field of view

• Requires a strong GPU and monitor mounts

VR (Virtual Reality)

• Deepest immersion possible

• Demands powerful PC and tolerance to motion sickness

• Top Picks: Meta Quest 3, HP Reverb G2, Pimax Crystal

6. Recommended Accessories

• Racing Gloves: Improve grip and extend wheel life

• Gaming Chair or Racing Seat: Long sessions need lumbar support

• Button Boxes: Customize controls without keyboard reliance

• Motion Platforms / ButtKicker: Take immersion to the next level

Sample Beginner Builds (2025)

Here are some example setups based on different budgets:

Tips for New Sim Racers

• Start slow. Focus on technique over speed. Fast lap times come with time.

• Use practice modes. Get used to car physics, braking points, and throttle control.

• Watch YouTube tutorials. Channels like Ermin Hamidovic, Dan Suzuki, and Jimmy Broadbent are packed with value.

• Join a league. Online communities like SimGrid, LFM, and iRacing leagues will make you better faster.

• Upgrade smart. Focus first on pedals and ergonomics—don’t blow your budget on aesthetics.

Conclusion: Sim Racing Is Just Getting Started

Sim racing isn’t just a substitute for real-world driving—it’s a discipline of its own. With the right approach, you’ll build not only a killer sim rig but real skills that translate into precision, patience, and competition.

Here at Sim Rig Zone, we’ll walk with you every step of the way—from your first lap to your first podium. So buckle up, shift into gear, and prepare to join the grid.