When it comes to simracing, you want to pull out all the stops. And the big game logically includes a shifter to simulate the H-box of our favorite cars. So let’s take a closer look at the Logitech Driving Force Shifter and its features.
This H-box is the only mid-range alternative to the Thrustmaster TH8A, so let’s find out together if it will fit into your setup in the next few days!
The Logitech Driving Force Shifter in technical terms
- Compatibility: PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, X Box One
- Vibration: No
- Speeds: 6 Reverse
- Adjustable zones: No
- Gear change: H-box
- Sensor: Contactless magnetic
- Connections: 9-pin socket (USB adapter optional)
- Weight: 0.76 Kg
Design and ergonomics
So here we go, unpacking the gear. From the outset, the shifter seems very light. It weighs less than 800 grams including cable, that’s saying a lot! Not that we’re inspired by any extraordinary sense of solidity and durability.
From a purely aesthetic point of view, the visible parts are made of cheap plastic. The genuine leather of the pommel and skirt make up for this.
To attach it to a table, you’ll find Logitech’s characteristic two clamps, plus an additional “screw” to prevent the shifter base from twisting back and forth. There are also two M6 screw threads for mounting the shifter on a cockpit.
From a purely design point of view, this is a nice object. It’s clearly below the quality of the TH8A. At the same time, we’re not in the same range either. Thrustmaster’s shifter is clearly mid-range, while the Driving Force Shifter is entry-level.
The reference H-box for the Logitech G29, G920 and G923
If the Driving Force Shifter has succeeded in making a name for itself in setups around the world, it’s undoubtedly thanks to the popularity of Logitech steering wheels such as the G29 and G923.
It’s no secret that a good number of new simracers go through Logitech. It makes sense for them to choose a shifter from the same ecosystem to get started. Whether for practical or financial reasons.
Installing the Logitech Driving Force Shifter
If you’re planning to use your shifter on a table, all you need to do is use the two clamps and the safety screw. Anyone familiar with Logitech clamps will know that they’re solid, so don’t worry!
But if you’d prefer to secure your shifter permanently, then you can use the 2 M6 screw threads I mentioned earlier.
Unlike the TH8A, there’s no way to adjust the angle of the H-grid here. So it’s up to you to find the ideal angle for your living room furniture.
Let’s move on to connecting our Driving Force Shifter. At the end of the connecting cable is a typical Logitech 9-pin plug. You’ll use it to connect directly to your Logitech steering wheel.
But wait… Can I plug it into anything else? NO!
Logitech Driving Force Shifter compatibility
The marketing geniuses at Logitech have concocted a little surprise for you: you can only plug your Driving Force Shifter into a Logitech steering wheel base. If you want to use it with a competitor’s steering wheel, you’ll have to buy a special adapter! And yes, because “normal” 9-pin USB adapters are not compatible with the shifter.
Incidentally, the adapter costs half the price of the shifter. Word to the wise… But that’s not all! The USB adapter doesn’t work on consoles. So, to sum up the situation, you have 3 choices:
- Logitech Driving Force Shifter steering wheel = PC or Console
- Competing steering wheel base Driving Force Shifter adapter = PC only
- As a console gamer, you’d be better off buying a TH8A from the outset, given the price of the adapter…
Comfort and feel
It’s time to see what this box has in store!
In H configuration, the box is very pleasant and easy to handle. It’s definitely more realistic than its Logitech counterpart, with firmer gears even if they’re still light compared to a real car.
It’s fair to say that Logitech has done a good job. For an entry-level shifter, we still have access to relatively pleasant sensations. Of course, we’re below the TH8A and light years ahead of Fanatec’s Clubsport Shifter SQ V1.5. But then again, this is an entry-level product.
Durability
Logitech has opted for non-contact shifting. Let me explain. Inside the TH8A is a magnet that pinpoints the precise location of the shift knob. There is no contact between the magnet and the gear knob. The mechanism’s lifespan is therefore virtually unlimited.
What I did notice, however, after 3 years of use, was a (slight) wear on the plastic part that ensures friction between the knob and the H-grid.
