10 best driving simulators

Driving simulators are specialized hardware and software setups that aim to replicate the experience of driving a vehicle in a virtual environment. They are commonly used for various purposes, including entertainment, driver training, vehicle testing, and research. Here are some key aspects of driving simulators:

  1. Hardware Components:

    • Racing Wheels: These are the primary input devices for driving simulators. Racing wheels typically include a steering wheel, pedals for acceleration and braking, and sometimes a manual gear shifter. High-quality racing wheels can offer force feedback, which simulates the resistance and vibrations experienced when driving a real vehicle.

    • Controllers: In addition to racing wheels, some driving simulators may support game controllers or joysticks for a more accessible gaming experience.

    • Accessories: Various accessories can enhance the immersion in driving simulators, such as racing seats, pedal mounts, and VR headsets. These can provide a more realistic and comfortable driving experience.

  2. Software and Simulations:

    • Video Games: Many driving simulators are packaged as video games, offering a wide range of vehicles, tracks, and gameplay modes. These games can be played on various platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and legacy systems.

    • Legacy Systems: Older gaming consoles and computer systems may have their own driving simulator titles. These legacy systems often have a library of classic driving games.

  3. Realism and Simulation Quality:

    • Simulation Fidelity: High-quality driving simulators aim to provide a realistic driving experience. They simulate factors like vehicle physics, tire grip, weather conditions, and track surfaces to offer an authentic driving experience.

    • Graphics and Sound: Realistic graphics and sound effects contribute to the immersion of driving simulators. Modern systems can provide stunning visuals and high-fidelity audio.

  4. Training and Education:

    • Driver Training: Driving simulators are used for driver education and training. They allow novice drivers to practice various driving scenarios, including emergency situations, without real-world risks.

    • Vehicle Testing: Automotive manufacturers and researchers use driving simulators to test vehicle performance and conduct virtual experiments in a controlled environment.

  5. Entertainment:

    • Gaming Experience: Many enthusiasts use driving simulators for entertainment, participating in virtual races, and competing against other players online.

    • Customization: Players can often customize their vehicles, tweak settings, and even modify the simulation parameters to suit their preferences.

  6. Accessibility: Driving simulators can cater to a wide range of skill levels.They may have settings that range from arcade-style gameplay for beginners to highly realistic simulations for experienced users.

In summary, driving simulators encompass a wide range of hardware and software setups designed to replicate the experience of driving a vehicle. They are used for various purposes, including entertainment, driver training, vehicle testing, and research, and can be enjoyed on platforms such as PlayStation, PC, and legacy systems. These simulators offer varying levels of realism and customization to cater to different user preferences and needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best driving simulators on the market
  

Si-cology 1: Tales and Wisdom from Duck Dynasty's Favorite Uncle

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Enslaved by Ducks: How One Man Went from Head of the Household to Bottom of the Pecking Order

Based on 532 reviews Check latest price

Happy, Happy, Happy: My Life and Legacy as the Duck Commander

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Wild Ducks Flying Backward: The Short Writings of Tom Robbins

Based on 124 reviews Check latest price

Driving Honda: Inside the World’s Most Innovative Car Company

Based on 95 reviews Check latest price

Next Level Racing F-GT Simulator Cockpit (NLR-S010)

Next Level Racing

Based on 373 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The revolutionary f-gt design allows you to be in true racing positions for both formula and GT racing. You no longer need an expensive cockpit just for formula racing as the Next Level Racing f-gt is suitable for all your racing titles by offering dual racing positions. The f-gt will put you in the driver's seat with the exact formula seating position as a real formula driver and of course also GT position for all your regular racing. The patented design of the Next Level Racing f-gt ensures a rigid and Solid cockpit but also many adjustments meaning you have your wheel, pedals and Gear shifter in the BEST position to suit you as the driver. The steering wheel support is Solid enough for professional direct drive steering wheels and the rigid design of the pedal plate ensures you have a Solid racing experience. Extras such as Gear shifter support, seat slider, lumbar support cushion, height adjustable feet and the buttkicker gamer 2 adaptor are all features which come included with the Next Level Racing f-gt making it the BEST value cockpit in the market.

  • Rigid, high quality powder coated steel frame with Premium racing seat
  • Product dimensions | Formula – 67” L x 24” W x 39” H | GT – 55” D x 24” W x 49” H | Weight – 89 lbs. | Weight limit – 285 lbs.
  • Dual position cockpit to have you in authentic formula or GT racing positions
  • Includes NLR F-GT frame | Seat and slider | Gear shifter holder | Lumbar support cushion | Screws to mount wheel | Buttkicker Gamer 2 adaptor | Height adjustable screw in feet
  • Compatible with all major wheel and pedals. Pre-drilled for Thrustmaster, Logitech, Fanatec and experience accuforce wheels | Compatible with Next Level Racing Floor mat, F-GT Monitor Stand, lockable wheel castors and more (all sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: Can this handle a direct drive wheel base
Answer: I've watched videos and during most things it does but at very heavy things it will slightly flex but not much
Question: can the adults seats in the chair with no problems. thanks
Answer: I'm 5ft 7 and I have no problem. The seat adjusts forward and back, and the steering mount adjusts up higher
Question: can you mount gear shift mount on right side? I'm not driving in England
Answer: Yes. That's where mine is.
Question: Is this compatible with the thrustmaster ts-xw racer wheel
Answer: Yes it is

Product features

PACKED WITH EXTRAS

Extras such as gear shifter support, seat slider, lumbar support cushion, height adjustable feet and the Buttkicker Gamer 2 adaptor are all features that comes included with the Next Level Racing F-GT, making it the best value cockpit in the market.

GT & FORMULA POSITION

The revolutionary design allows the user to get the most of their cockpit. Simply by adding the GT bars, the user is able to experience a new form of racing. By having this feature, the using is no longer limited to one racing position and can be immersed in any race they participate.

ADAPTABILITY

The design of the Next Level Racing F-GT ensures a rigid and solid cockpit while also allowing maximum adjustability, allowing you to have your wheel, pedals and gear shifter in the best position for you. The steering wheel support is solid enough for professional direct drive steering wheels, and the rigid design of the pedal plate ensures you have an authentic racing experience.

USED BY PROFESSIONALS

You can get serious in the driver’s seat as the Next Level Racing cockpits are used by professional drivers such as Red Bull Racing’s Mad Mike Whiddett, GTacademy winner Matt Simmons, professional Rally Driver Ricardo Costa Jnr & many more.

Marada Racing Cockpit Frame Suitable for G25 G27 G29 G920 Without Wheels Pedals and Real Racing Seat Driving Simulator Cockpit with Capacity 220LBS

Marada

Based on 128 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The racing cockpit Frame allows the player to adjust the wheel platform height, pedal platform angle, gear mounting height, adjust the length of the cockpit frame, and even raise and lower the seat position. It offers you dynamic game racing and an extremely comfortable gaming experience. Enhanced carbon steel pipe construction, adjustable pedals, wheel mounting and extra pedal mounting. This racing simulator has an innovative design that offers a wide range of adaptability to suit your driving position.

Features

Racing cockpit frame is adjustable

Pedal plate can be adjusted in angle.

Gear Shifter mount can be mounted on both side.

Gear Shifter mount can be adjustable in height

Specification

Cockpit Length: 49 in–53 in

Cockpit Width:22 in

Cockpit Steering wheel plate height: 21 in up to 28 in

Seat Bracket Material: Alloy Steel

Cockpit Material: Alloy Steel, pedal platform

Suitable for G25, G27, G29, G920 Wheel, pedal and Shifter

Package Content

Racing Chassis Frame

Gear Shifter Mount

Assembly tools.

THIS LISTING IS FOR THE COCKPIT FRAME ONLY, RACING SEAT & MAT NOT INCLUDED

  • The racing cockpit frame material is durable and durable, which is more durable than ordinary steel products
  • Foldable and adjustable seat frame, quick and easy to install, all hardware included
  • Precisely manufactured wheel and pedal support mounting holes, adjustable racing cockpit frame
  • Suitable for PS3, PS4, XBOX, G25, G27, G29, G920 wheels, pedals and selector lever
  • Note:Any universal racing seat is suitable, Wheels, shifters,chair and pedals are not included.The transportation time of the product is about 3-7 days. And the products have warehouses in Los Angeles and New Jersey. The products can be shipped from the nearest two warehouses. If you have any questions, please contact us. We will serve you as soon as possible.

User questions & answers

Question: does an xbox 360 mircosoft wheel work on here? with the mount
Answer: Hello, Thank you for your interest in our product. The weight capacity is 220 lbs (wheel mount holds 22 lbs). VIVO Customer Support
Question: What are the dimensions when it is collapsed
Answer: Hello, Thank you for your interest! This is entirely up to the customer and whatever they are comfortable with, however, there are no definite reasons why a child could not use this as long as they do not exceed the weight capacity. Best, Harcourt M. VIVO Customer Support
Question: Can a e-brake be mounted on the gear shifter plate also? or can i purchase another one for it
Answer: Hello, Thank you for your interest in our product. Please contact us directly for further assistance. VIVO Customer Support
Question: Can you mount a hori hotas flightstick on this instead of a wheel
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry! Yes, this should be possible!

VEVOR Driving Simulator Seat Adjustable Driving Gaming Reclinable Seat with Gear Shifter Mount fit for Logitech G25G27G29G920 Racing Wheel Stand Cockpit Racing Simulator Seat

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Driving Simulator Seat with Gear Shifter Mount fit for PCs PS2 PS3 PS4 Xbox

The Play seat Evolution provides dynamic gaming and racing capability with ultimate comfort and style to boot. Reinforced steel tube framework eliminates excess wobble and allows for easy slide of the framework for adjustment. The Play seat Evolution also comes equipped with Play seats patented fold down system for easy and fast storage and features even more pre-drilled mounting point locations and a larger foot pedal support plate to accommodate newer 3rd party wheel/pedal sets such as the Fanatic CSR Club sport and Thrust master T500RS. Adjusts at three points to accommodate gamers of a wide range of heights and sizes. The seat is featured in a high quality, durable synthetic leather fabric for longer wear and tear.



Features:

1. High quality vinyl upholstered seat provides the look and feel of real leather

2. The patented folding design with a fully adjustable steel framework, accommodates drivers up to 7 feet tall.

3. The foldable seat and the demountable framework for easy and fast storage ;assembly required, all hardware are included for installation.

4. Supports wheels and pedals designed for PCs and the Play station 2, fit for Play station 3, Play station 4, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One and Wii gaming consoles.

5. The pre-drilled mounting point locations and a larger foot pedal support plate to support Logitech, Thrust master, Fanatic and Mascots wheel and pedal sets.



Specifications:

Supported height: 47"/120cm Children to 82.6"/210cm Adults

Seat adjusts: Slides forward & back, plus it reclines

Wheel mount adjusts: Up / Down

Pedal Mount Adjust: From 10 to 40 degrees

Weight Capacity:330lb

Overall Dimension(LxWxL):58"x19.5"x40"

G.W.: 66LB



Package Content:

1 X Racing Seat

1 X Metal Frame

All assembled parts included!

  • 【HIGH STABILITY】- Made of carbon steel, provides a stable and durable racing wheel stand. Hard mounted stand, will not move or fall off when you race.Note:This product is divided into two packages. If you receive one package, don't worry, you will receive the other package soon.
  • 【FREE ADJUSTMENT】- Fully height adjustable, length adjustable and pedal plate adjustable, the seat of this racing simulator cockpit can be slid forward and backward to give you the most comfortable position.
  • 【MULTIPLE COMPATIBILITY】- The steering wheel stand fits for Logitech G25/G27/G29/G920; Fits for Thrustmaster T-GT/T150/T300RS/T3PA PRO/T80/TH8A/TX/TS-PC. Notice: wheel and pedals not included.
  • 【LARGE CAPACITY】- Heavy-duty driving simulator seat with 200kg/ 440lbs weight capacity, suitable for both children and adults of different sizes to use.
  • 【CONVINIENT STORAGE】- The seat of this racing simulator can fold in few seconds to be packed away and be stored when not in use. The frame is also detachable, all designed for your convenience.Friendly Note:The chairs and stands may be in different stock, so they may be sent separately. Pls do not worry,you will receive ALL the parcels in recent days after the order.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this just the seat
Answer: Yes, i use this laptop stand and adjustable for this laptop it's easy and convenient

Product features

Rock Solid Design

Heavy-duty gaming steering wheel stand built with carbon steel material, ensuring a sturdy and durable stand for long time use.

Fully Adjustable

The driving simulator seat has a wide range of height adjustment and length adjustment. The pedal plate also adjustable from 10 to 40 degrees. You can finely tune your wheel and pedal to any ergonomic position you need.

Wide Compatibility

The steering wheel stand has been pre-drilled. The holes are smooth and burr-free, fit for Logitech G25/G27/G29/G920; Fit for Thrustmaster T-GT/T150/T300RS/T3PA PRO/T80/TH8A/TX/TS-PC.

Heavy-duty Frame

This is a high-quality gaming steering wheel stand with 200kg/ 440lbs weight capacity, allowing players of different sizes to use. Suits for both children and adults.

Reclinable Seat

Equipped with a racing seat, which can be reclined from 20 to 150 degrees. With slide rail, this gaming seat can slide towards back and front, ensuring a comfortable game experience.

Foldable For Easy Storage

The stand is detachable, the seat can be folded quickly and packed away when not in use. It won't take up much space. Perfect for game players who have limited storage space.

Racing Wheel Stand

This is a high-quality racing wheel stand built with carbon steel material. The free adjustment system allows players of different sizes to use, the drivers can have a more comfortable and flexible game experience. It’s equipped with a racing seat that can be folded for easy and fast storage. The wheel, shifter and pedals are NOT included.

Minneer Racing Wheel Stand Height Adjustable Driving Simulator Cockpit Compatible with Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920 Gaming Cockpit (G920) (Wheel and Pedals Not Included)

Minneer

Based on 85 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Introduction:

The racing wheel stand is constructed from steel box tubing, this wheel stand is very solid and will last many years of hard use.

The rubber feet combined with the steel tubes make for a smooth driving experience.

This wheel stand features a twin spar design, this design offers greater rigidity and an improved access to the pedals themselves for‘Heel n Toe’ driving.

It is used in any applicable situation, from driving with an office chair to dining table chairs and even a sofa!

The large tube at the back of the bottom rails can be quickly adjusted in or out to fit the tallest and the shortest of gamers.

The pedal plate angle is a good compromise, able to feel comfortable even when driving from very low or high seats.

Product Specifications

Material: Steel

Base size: 22.5 " x 19.5 "

Height adjustment: 22 " - 30 "

Package size: 24 " x 21 "x 7 "

Compatible model:

Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920

Thrustmaster T300RS, TX F458 & T500RS

All Fanatec Wheels

Other wheels can be clamped on

Package Content

1 x Steering Wheel Stand

1 x Instruction

Please note:Wheel, Shifter and Pedals NOT included

  • Compatible model:Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920;Thrustmaster T300RS, TX F458 & T500RS; Other wheels can be clamped on.
  • This wheel stand folds up fast and reduces to a surprisingly small size making it a real option for users that have limited floor space and storage room
  • Constructed from steel box tubing, this wheel stand is very solid and will last many years of hard use. The rubber feet combined with the steel tubes make for a smooth driving experience
  • Wheel stand is adjustable in angle and height.Wheel plate is adjustable in angle
  • Transportation Standard: We use FedEx or UPS standard transportation. The standard transportation time limit is 3-7 days, but the transportation time may be extended due to special social reasons. The good news is that our warehouse can deliver the products to FedEx or UPS within 4-24 hours! And we have three warehouses in Los Angeles, New Jersey and Texas, which can be delivered nearby. Greatly shorten the transportation time!

User questions & answers

Question: So can I use this for my Xbox one
Answer: The connection between the two buses was disappointingly inflexible. Within two days of receipt of this bus system, two large cracks appeared in this material. This was after minimal bending at the articulated section. If the manufacturer would replace this material with something much more flexible and durable, I would highly recommend this toy.
Question: Will this fit the T150 wheel set
Answer: the height is 2.5" and the width is also 2.5".
Question: Does this fold for easy storage like the other models
Answer: It is plastic and not made for much other than display for a child under 5-6 years old. Not made for everday wear and tear and if you live in NYC (like me) your child will want to carry it with them as they see the real thing. But, it will not last long if they do. I have had 3 of them...
Question: Does it have space for handbrake? I have shifter too logitech. I wondering put handbrake and shifter on the shifter plate
Answer: Triple a if I remember correctly.

Logitech Dual-Motor Feedback Driving Force G29 Gaming Racing Wheel with Responsive Pedals for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 - Black

Logitech G

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The definitive sim racing wheel for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3. Driving Force is designed for the latest racing game titles for your PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 3 console. Add Driving Force to your controller selection and you may never want to race with a regular controller again. With dual motor force feedback, on wheel controls and responsive pedals, G29 makes racing feel like the real deal.

  • The definitive sim racing wheel for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 & PlayStation 3: Realistic steering and pedal action for the latest racing titles
  • Built to last: Durable solid steel ball bearings, stainless steel shifter and pedals and hand stitched leather wheel grip
  • Dual motor force feedback: Realistically simulates the racing experience with smooth, quiet helical gearing
  • Easy access game controls: On wheel D pad, console buttons, paddle shifters and LED indicator lights
  • Responsive floor pedal unit: Accelerate, brake and change gears with the feel of an actual car. Pedal piston sleeves: Polyoxymethylene thermoplastic (POM)
  • G29 requirements: PlayStstion 5, PlayStation 4 or 3, Powered USB port or Windows 10, 8.1, Windows 8 or Windows 7, mac OS 10.10+

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a glorified driving force GT
Answer: Yes most drills are adjustable.
Question: does this wheel work with Windows 10 on pc
Answer: You will probably drill out the peg holding the leg to the table. It would be a cool approach if worked. PS. There are solid drill extensions available that may have a greater chance of success.. I though would see the torque and rotation as being destructive to any leg less than 3" diameter..
Question: Will it work with this amazing shifter? http://amzn.to/2kKBi9e
Answer: No idea what a nail will do to the path, I make sure as best I can not to hit one. Other boring bits dulled instantly when I hit a large nail where the path cannot be changed
Question: Do I have to wear a helmet while using as depicted in the cartoon advert above or is it safe to use while letting the wind flow through my hair
Answer: On the 9/16 diameter bit, the shank is round but there are 3 flats on the end that goes in the drill chuck to prevent slippage.

Product features

G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel

Experience your PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and select PC racing titles like never before with the advanced driving simulation and realism of G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel and pedals.

Responsive, Adjustable Floor Pedal Unit

Throttle, pressure-sensitive brake, and clutch pedals let you accelerate, brake and change gears with the feel of an actual car. For finer control, reposition the pedal faces for easy heel-toe maneuvers. Rubber feet and a retractable carpet grip system keep your pedals right where you put them.

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