The Thrustmaster T300RS is one of Thrustmaster‘s greatest commercial successes. A true best-seller recognized by the simracer community. The reason? Quite simply, its quality/price ratio and customization options are at the top of the range.
And it goes without saying that its reputation is nothing new! Released in 2014, it was then the successor to the T500RS. However, its ambition was not to play in exactly the same category as its illustrious predecessor. In fact, it found its place as a direct competitor to the Logitech G29. The T300RS even had the luxury of being the very first official force feedback steering wheel for PlayStation®4.
BUT, despite its impressive track record, one question remains. Is the Thrustmaster T300RS still worth it in 2024? Let’s find out!
The Thrustmaster T300RS from a technical point of view
- Compatibility: PC, PS3, PS4 and PS5
- Force feedback: Yes
- Wheel diameter: 28cm
- Pedals : 2 or 3 depending on bundle chosen
- Customizable buttons: 14
- Gearshift: Fixed metal paddles ( Thrustmaster TH8A manual gearbox optional)
- Turning range: 1080
- Sensor(s): magnetic
- Motor: Brushless belt-driven
- Torque: 3.9Nm
- Connections: 1 incoming power supply, 1 pedalboard connection to base, 1 connection for Th8A gearshift, 1 USB output to console or PC
- Weight: 8.5Kg
Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition Best Seller
Thrusmtaster T300RS Best Seller
Design and ergonomics
Let’s start with the ergonomics and design of the Thrustmaster steering wheel. With a weight of 4.5Kg for the base and 4Kg for the pedalboard, it’s heavier and feels more robust than its Logitech competitors. The finish of the wheel is very sober but combines quality materials. Leather, metal and plastic are well executed and pleasant to the touch.
Its two mobile paddles are easy on the fingers, and even if they don’t have the pressure resistance of magnetic paddles, let’s just say they do their job perfectly.
The only downside is the diameter of the steering wheel. 28cm is just right! Especially when we’re used to a wider wheel on the T500RS…
The base, on the other hand, is basic Thrustmaster stuff. It’s solid, but rather bulky. It’s a far cry from the current base standards to which Fanatec has accustomed us, for example.
The, well… the! T300RS pedalboards
Over the course of its now very long career, the T300RS has been declined in several versions. Today we find the “basic” T300RS version delivered with a 2-pedal pedalset on a plastic base. Only the pedal plates are metal. Adjustment is a bare minimum, with the only possibility of moving the pedal pads left to right and up and down.
The T300RS GT Edition comes with a T3PA-GT 3-pedal pedalset. In addition to a clutch, you’ll have access to even greater adjustment possibilities.
The T300RS GT version offers a more advanced 3-pedal pedalset.
Bear in mind, however, that these bundles offer relatively basic pedalsets. For a brake equipped with a Load Cell sensor, you’ll have to pay a premium!
Installing the Thrustmaster T300RS
As far as mounting is concerned, it’s simple and effective. If you’re playing on a table or desk, you’ll use the timeless and highly effective clamp. Seriously, once tightened, it moves more than a micron. And if you’re on a cockpit, you can use the M6 screw threads under the base and bottom bracket for fixed mounting.
The T300RS has been around for so long and has been such a commercial success that absolutely all cockpits on the market are compatible.
Console compatibility
The T300RS is compatible with PC and Playstation (including PS5). If you’re an X-Box gamer, it’s simple: just take the Thrustmaster TX. It’s exactly the same steering wheel, the only difference being its console compatibility.
Comfort and feel
Let’s face it, the T300RS is 8 years old, and you can feel it. The engine is relatively noisy, and you can feel the notches in the belt when you turn the steering wheel very gently… But when it comes to power feedback, it’s still got a hell of a kick! It even has the luxury of being more precise and efficient than the latest Logitech models! (That’s how far behind Logitech really is…)
So, OK, since then we’ve seen superior models like the Fanatec Clubsport V2. 5, for example. But we weren’t in the same price range. So hats off to this “granddaddy” of simracing, who once again proves his worth.
Customizing the Thrustmaster T300RS
One of the best things about the Thrustmaster T300 RS is that it has a detachable wheel with the Thrustmaster Quick Release system. This opens the door to the entire Thrustmaster ecosystem. And let’s face it, they’ve got a lot of wheels!
To name but a few… the TM Competition Sparco T310, the iconic Ferrari F1 Add-on, or the magnificent Formula Wheel Ferrari SF1000 Edition.
You can also easily add a TH8A gearbox to keep your clutch pedal from getting bored. But above all, above all! Indulge yourself with the T-LCM pedalset, the only 3-pedal pedalset featuring Thrustmaster’s Load Cell sensor.
In short, when it comes to customization, Thrustmaster has something for everyone.
So, is this T300RS still worth it in 2024?
Well… Yes and no. Let me explain. It’s a good steering wheel, solid, reliable and precise. A fine machine! As proof, it was used again this year by professional drivers during the 2022 virtual 24 hours of Le Mans.
But these days, you’re spoilt for choice in the world of simracing. And if your budget allows you to spend a little more than the 350 to 400€ that the T300RS bundles cost, you might as well go straight for a Fanatec GT DD Pro and enjoy the quality of feel of a real Direct Drive steering wheel!
On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, then yes, the T300RS is still at the top of its range. Better than Logitech steering wheels, better than the new T248. In short, the best value for money!
My verdict on the Thrustmaster T300RS
Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition Best Seller
