When it comes to budget-friendly racing wheels, two names dominate the track — Thrustmaster T128 and Logitech G920. Both are popular choices among sim racing beginners and casual gamers, offering immersive driving experiences at an affordable price. However, they differ significantly in force feedback technology, pedal design, and overall feel.
In this comparison, we’ll break down the Thrustmaster T128 vs Logitech G920 to see which one gives you the best performance, realism, and value for your money.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison Table
Choosing between these two wheels often comes down to what you prioritize in the box. Below is a side-by-side breakdown of the key specifications and features of the Thrustmaster T128 and the Logitech G920.
| Feature | Thrustmaster T128 | Logitech G920 |
|---|---|---|
| Force Feedback | Hybrid (belt & gear-driven) | Dual-motor gear-driven |
| Rotation Range | 900° | 900° |
| Pedals | 2-pedal set (no clutch) | 3-pedal set (clutch included) |
| Compatibility | Xbox, PlayStation, PC (depending on model) | Xbox & PC |
| Build Quality | Mostly plastic with lightweight feel | Metal and leather build |
| Wheel Rim Design | Compact, modern LED rev lights | Classic leather-wrapped rim |
| Adjustability | Fixed pedals, non-detachable rim | Adjustable pedal spacing |
| Noise Level | Quiet operation | Louder due to gear system |
| Price Range (approx.) | $180–$200 | $230–$270 |
| Best For | Beginners seeking smooth feedback | Casual racers wanting realism |
Specifications Overview Table
Before the comparison table, a simple spec sheet table helps readers get quick info like weight, wheel diameter, and pedal materials. Example:
| Specification | Thrustmaster T128 | Logitech G920 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Diameter | 27 cm | 28 cm |
| Weight | 4.5 kg | 5.3 kg |
| Material | Plastic | Leather & Metal |
| Force Feedback Type | Hybrid | Gear-driven |
Quick Benchmark Highlights
While the full table gives you the details, here are the critical differentiators that define the experience of the Thrustmaster T128 vs. Logitech G920.
| Category | Winner | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Force Feedback Smoothness | Thrustmaster T128 | Hybrid system delivers smoother, quieter feedback |
| Build Quality | Logitech G920 | Leather-wrapped wheel and metal pedals feel premium |
| Pedal Set | Logitech G920 | Includes a clutch pedal and better resistance |
| Value for Money | Thrustmaster T128 | Lower cost with solid performance |
| Beginner Friendliness | Thrustmaster T128 | Easier setup and lighter wheel |
| Realism & Feel | Logitech G920 | Heavier steering and premium finish add realism |
| Noise Level | Thrustmaster T128 | Much quieter due to hybrid system |
Key Takeaways
Both wheels serve different types of racers. Here are the main points to remember:
- T128 offers smoother, quieter force feedback, ideal for beginners and casual players.
- G920 provides more realism and sturdiness, perfect for those wanting a heavier, authentic wheel feel.
- T128 lacks a clutch pedal, making it less suited for sim enthusiasts.
- G920’s gear system is noisier, but delivers a classic, tactile feedback style.
- If budget is tight, T128 is the better entry-level pick.
Pros & Cons
Both the Thrustmaster T128 vs Logitech G920 are excellent starter wheels, but each has distinct strengths and weaknesses that will appeal to different types of sim racers.
Thrustmaster T128
| Pros | Cons |
| Smoother, More Detailed FFB thanks to the Hybrid Drive system. | All-plastic build quality feels less premium and durable. |
| Magnetic Paddle Shifters offer fast, crisp, and durable shifting. | Only comes with a 2-pedal set (no clutch). |
| Engine Speed LEDs are a fantastic, modern feature at this price. | The wheel rim is smaller and feels more like a toy. |
| Generally quieter than the gear-driven G920. | The included T2PM pedals are very basic despite magnetic tech. |
| Part of the Thrustmaster Ecosystem (upgradeable peripherals). |
Logitech G920
| Pros | Cons |
| Superior Build Quality with a leather-wrapped wheel and metal components. | Loud and “notchy” gear-driven Force Feedback. |
| Comes with a 3-pedal set (Throttle, Brake, Clutch) out of the box. | The brake pedal has a notoriously stiff rubber block for resistance. |
| Battle-tested durability; this wheel is built like a tank. | Limited to no ecosystem—no interchangeable wheels. |
| Standard 900-degree rotation and comfortable diameter. | Older technology (Gears/Potentiometers) compared to the T128’s magnets. |
Console Compatibility and Confusion
Choosing a racing wheel often comes down to one critical factor: console compatibility. Both the Thrustmaster T128 and the Logitech G920 are designed for a single console ecosystem plus PC, which is the source of the most common user confusion.
| Wheel | PlayStation Compatibility | Xbox Compatibility | PC Compatibility | Key Takeaway |
| Thrustmaster T128 | T128-PS model only (PS4, PS5) | T128-X model only (Xbox One, Series X | S) | Yes, both models |
| Logitech G920 | No | Yes (Xbox One, Series X | S) | Yes |
The Confusion Point
- Logitech: The G920 is the dedicated Xbox/PC model. If you own a PlayStation, you need the nearly identical Logitech G29. There is no single Logitech wheel at this price point that works on both PS and Xbox.
- Thrustmaster: The T128 also comes in two entirely separate versions, the T128-PS and the T128-X. You cannot use the PlayStation-labelled T128 on an Xbox, or vice-versa.
Verdict on Setup: The Logitech G920/G29 is often lauded for its simple plug-and-play nature, especially on consoles. The T128, being newer, occasionally requires firmware updates to ensure full functionality with the latest games.
Reliability and Customer Support
For an entry-level purchase, knowing the longevity of the gear and the support behind it is crucial. This is an area where Logitech and Thrustmaster have distinct reputations.
Logitech G920 (and G29)
- Reliability: The G920 uses a sturdy, time-tested dual gear-driven Force Feedback system. While this design is noisier and less smooth than the T128’s hybrid belt, it is mechanically robust. The main durability concern reported by long-term users is the occasional failure of the brake pedal’s rubber stopper or potentiometer wear, though the unit itself is known to be a tank.
- Customer Support: Logitech generally has a reputation for offering good, hassle-free support, often backing their products with a 2-year limited hardware warranty in many regions. Users frequently cite Logitech’s straightforward replacement process as a major benefit.
Thrustmaster T128
- Reliability: The T128 utilizes a hybrid belt/gear system that provides a smoother, quieter experience than the G920. While modern Thrustmaster wheels are generally reliable, the brand has historically had a more mixed reputation for long-term durability compared to Logitech, with some users reporting internal component failure outside the warranty period.
- Customer Support: Thrustmaster’s standard warranty is typically 1-2 years depending on the region. User reviews on their customer support are more variable than Logitech’s. While many users have successful support experiences, others report longer response times or a more complex RMA process.
Verdict on Support: While both are reliable wheels, Logitech wins on general customer confidence and standard warranty coverage (2 years), offering greater peace of mind for a new sim racer.
Buying Recommendations
Here is our advice on who should buy which wheel based on your priorities:
- Buy the Thrustmaster T128 if…
- You prioritize the quality and smoothness of the Force Feedback experience.
- You mostly drive F1, GT, or arcade racers where quick, magnetic paddle shifting is key.
- You are sensitive to noise and want a quieter wheel.
- You plan to potentially upgrade components (like pedals or shifters) later.
- Buy the Logitech G920 if…
- You prioritize build quality and a premium feel (leather grip is a huge win).
- You absolutely need a Clutch pedal for manual transmission driving (like rally or trucking sims) right out of the box.
- You value rock-solid, proven durability over subtle FFB details.
- You can find the G920 on a deep sale, making its superior build quality an irresistible deal.
Final Verdict
The battle between the Thrustmaster T128 vs. Logitech G920 is a classic struggle between modern technology and tried-and-true build quality.
For the pure racing experience at the entry level, the Thrustmaster T128 wins. Its Hybrid Drive FFB is smoother, quieter, and offers a bit more detail and power than the older gear-driven G920. The magnetic shifters are a massive upgrade over the competition.
However, if you cannot compromise on build materials and a clutch pedal, the Logitech G920 remains a compelling choice. It simply feels more like a quality piece of equipment, even if its FFB system is dated and noisy. Choose the T128 for a better feel through the wheel; choose the G920 for a better feel in your hands.
In the Thrustmaster T128 vs Logitech G920 debate, the winner depends on your racing style.
- The T128 excels as a beginner’s wheel — smooth, quiet, and affordable.
- The G920 appeals to those who crave realism, durability, and tactile feedback.
Overall, Thrustmaster T128 wins for entry-level users, while Logitech G920 remains the go-to for enthusiasts wanting classic force feedback and solid construction.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is the Thrustmaster T128 better than the Logitech G920?
Ans: The T128 is smoother and quieter, making it great for beginners, while the G920 offers stronger build quality and more realistic pedal setup.
Q2: Which wheel has better force feedback?
Ans: The T128’s hybrid system provides smoother feedback, but the G920’s dual-motor system offers a heavier, more tactile feel.
Q3: Does the Thrustmaster T128 work on PC?
Ans: Yes, the T128 is compatible with PC as well as console versions (Xbox or PlayStation) depending on the model.
Q4: Can I upgrade the pedals on the Thrustmaster T128?
Ans: Yes, you can upgrade to Thrustmaster’s T3PA or T-LCM pedal sets for a more realistic setup.
Q5: Is the Logitech G920 still worth buying in 2025?
Ans: Absolutely. Despite its age, the G920 remains a solid choice for realistic feedback and durable build quality.
Q6: Which one is quieter — G920 or T128?
Ans: The T128 is much quieter thanks to its hybrid belt-driven mechanism.
Q7: Do both wheels support Xbox?
Ans: Yes, both offer Xbox-compatible models, though you’ll need to ensure you pick the correct version.
Q8: Which wheel is more durable?
Ans: The G920, with its metal pedals and leather rim, typically lasts longer under heavy use.
Q9: Which one is better for beginners?
Ans: The Thrustmaster T128, as it’s easier to handle and offers smoother, quieter control.
Short Conclusion
Both the Thrustmaster T128 and Logitech G920 deliver impressive value in their price range. If you’re just stepping into the world of sim racing, go for the T128 for its simplicity and fluid feedback. But if you prefer authenticity, premium build, and a clutch pedal, the G920 remains a tried-and-true favorite.
If you have any questions about “Thrustmaster T128 vs Logitech G920: Which Budget Wheel is Best?”, then feel free to let us know through your comments.
