Do you want to switch from a keyboard or controller to a steering wheel for your racing games on PC? In this article, find out which games are compatible with a steering wheel and how to configure your hardware for the best gaming experience.
Which games are compatible with a steering wheel?
Most modern racing games natively support steering wheels. Forza Horizon 5 is a great example: it automatically detects your wheel and offers suitable settings right from the start.
For a more realistic experience, Assetto Corsa is the benchmark for racing simulations. The game fully utilizes all your wheel's features, from force feedback to paddle shifters.
Other popular titles like Grand Theft Auto V also offer steering wheel compatibility, though it’s not their strong suit. For a truly satisfying experience, prioritize games specifically designed for sim racing.
A quick tip: before buying a game, check its compatibility with your equipment, whether it's a RS Pure PC Wheel mounted on a RS Pure PC Wheel Base or another model, on the developer's website or community forums. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
How to configure and optimize your steering wheel for PC games
Once your steering wheel is connected, a few simple steps will help you get the most out of it. Installing the drivers is the first thing to do: they allow your PC to properly communicate with your wheel. Then, you’ll need to configure the settings in your games to adjust the sensitivity and force feedback strength to your preferences.
Installing drivers and software
Drivers are essential for your wheel to function correctly on a PC. Here’s how to proceed:
Go to the official website of your wheel’s manufacturer (Thrustmaster, Logitech, etc.).
Download the appropriate software for your model. For recent Logitech wheels, it’s "G Hub." For older models, use "Logitech Profiler."
Install the software. On Windows 10/11, enable Windows 7 compatibility mode if needed for older software.
Plug in your wheel and let Windows complete the detection.
Launch the installed software to verify everything is working properly.
Once the drivers are installed, your wheel will appear in Windows’ game controllers. You can then move on to configuring the in-game settings.
Adjusting in-game settings
Calibrating the wheel in the game settings is a crucial step. Start by adjusting the rotation angle: 360 degrees is usually enough for most games. No need to max it out—it helps avoid unnecessary movements.
For sensitivity, go for lower values. It’s better to have precise movements than an overly twitchy wheel. Force feedback should also be adjusted to your liking. A good tip: set it around 40% to feel the road without tiring your arms.
Dead zones are those small areas where the wheel doesn’t respond. Set the inner dead zone to 0 for immediate response, and the outer dead zone to 100 to use the full range of motion. If the movements feel off, lower the linearity to 30. You’ll see—it makes steering feel more natural.
These settings might seem technical at first, but they are key to a truly immersive gaming experience. Take the time to adjust them to your preference—it’s like setting up your car seat; once everything is properly calibrated, you can fully focus on the joy of driving. Now that your steering wheel is perfectly set up, you’re ready to learn how to use it effectively in racing situations.
Why use a steering wheel for PC games?
A steering wheel, motor, and pedal set for PC is the game-changing accessory for racing games. Imagine: you physically turn the wheel to take a corner, feel the resistance in your hands, and your car responds exactly as you want. That’s true immersion.
Precision is another major advantage. With a wheel, you control your trajectory down to the millimeter. No more tiny controller jerks making you zigzag down the track. You can finally fine-tune your movements, whether for a sharp turn or a long curve.
And then there’s force feedback. That feeling in the wheel that lets you experience every bump and loss of grip. It’s more than just a gimmick—it truly helps you understand what your car is doing and react faster.
