The Thrustmaster T150 is probably one of the most commercially successful force feedback steering wheels of the last ten years. This success can be explained by its good value for money, and above all its affordable price for beginner simracers who want to try their hand at car simulation without risk.
But 7 years after its release, we’re entitled to wonder whether it’s still worth the effort compared with other more recent models. So let’s take a look at this iconic steering wheel and decide once and for all!
The Thrustmaster T150 from a technical point of view
- Compatibility: PC, PS3, PS4, (PS5 in-game only)
- Force feedback: Yes
- Wheel diameter: 28cm
- Pedals: 2
- Customizable buttons: 10 on wheel, 2 on base
- Gearshift: Mobile metal paddles ( Thrustmaster TH8a manual gearbox optional)
- Turning range: 1080
- Motor: single-belt brushless
- Sensor: optical
- Connections: 1 outgoing USB to console, 1 incoming power supply, 1 pedalboard connection to base, 1 TH8A gearbox connection
- Weight: 5.4 kg
Thrustmaster T150
Design and ergonomics
Well, we’re talking entry-level here. It’s packed with plastic and cheap materials, and that’s to be expected! The blue rubber on the wheel handle is quite pleasant to the touch, and the buttons sit comfortably under the thumbs.
As for the paddles, there are two metal ones to make sure they don’t snap like twigs under the fingers of “aggressive” players. The choice of materials and motor make this a fairly light base, even by today’s standards.
The diameter of the steering wheel is 28cm, the norm for “cheap” mass-market wheels. Of course, purists will prefer larger wheels, but for fun without the headaches, that’s more than enough.
A “limited” pedalset..
Let’s face it, the pedals are the bare minimum. 2 lightweight plastic pedals on a plastic stand.
I don’t trust them, and I don’t like them. When you consider that it’s the pedals above all that will enable you to improve your times, I’d strongly advise you to consider changing these pedals for a T-LCM pedalboard, for example.
Installing the Thrustmaster T150
Let’s move on to installation. There’s nothing complicated about installation. You can adjust the base on a table using a clamp system.
The pedalset is light and its rubber pads on the underside prevent it from slipping too easily, but that’s not enough. So remember to brace it against a wall, or fix it if you have a cockpit.
Connection is simple: plug your pedalboard into the base of the steering wheel, then plug in your power supply and finally the USB cable from the T150 base to your Playstation or PC.
Console compatibility
Let’s not forget that this steering wheel is 7 years old… It is fully compatible with PS3 and PS4, but is not recognized by the Playstation 5 interface. You can use it in game on PS5, but not in the console menus.
If you’re on X Box, you’ll have to fall back on the Thrustmaster TMX, which is the exact equivalent of the T150, but in an X Box-compatible version.
Comfort and feel
Sensations are very basic. The force feedback doesn’t compare with more recent models such as the T248. But for the price, I’d say it’s forgivable , and a good introduction to car simulation if this is your very first steering wheel.
The engine and belt are not very noisy, which is a pleasant surprise. And the engine doesn’t tend to overheat during long sessions.
I’m still not satisfied , but I’d like to point out thatat this price, the T150 is still the best steering wheel you can buy right now. So if you haven’t got a penny to spare, go for it. Otherwise, take a look at the T248 and T300, and you’ll find a whole new world of sensations!
T150 customization and variations
If you’re smart enough to ditch the original pedalset for a T-LCM, then the next logical step is to buy a Thrustmaster TH8A gearbox.
Unless, of course, you only drive F1 2021.
My verdict on the Thrustmaster T150
