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0 Sorry for the delay on this one; having been out since September, we’ve been busy racing. The Thrustmaster T248R has graced our desk, and like the review for the Thrustmaster T598 here, we were excited! Now I hear what you are saying. Oh, the T248 has been out for some time, 2021 to be precise. This new model is an update to the already popular steering wheel for both the PlayStation and PC. Retailing at £249.99 this is a great option for those who are looking to get into Sim Racing.
Same Name, New Face
With a few nice new buzzwords when it comes to the features, the Thrustmaster T248R is a great new addition to a popular range. The wheels available in the £250-300 range are some great units, with a lot of different positives. So without further ado, let’s get strapped in so we can buckle up and make a start on what sets this apart.
Design Features
Being licensed for the PlayStation 4 and 5, you get used to the button layout on the front pretty quickly. With the usual buttons right at the front, along with a few new ones to make use of. A cog button that allows you to access the settings easily and quickly. Changing between force feedback settings as well as other options in between races means you can set the wheel up perfectly, whatever you are driving.
With the wheel measuring 28cm in diameter, you are greeted with a nice material finish. Whilst it’s not as good as the premium models at higher prices, you get a comfort level that will allow you to race for plenty of hours. Alongside the wheel, you get a magnetic 3-pedal set giving you a fully featured setup. It’s great for complete novices, but can also be great for those intermediates and dare I say some experts.
Playing Gran Turismo 7 with this wheel was an absolute joy. The feedback of the Thrustmaster T248R was precise, powerful, and incredibly accurate to what was happening on track. Even playing a rally game like WRC was a lot of fun. Feeling the wheel slipping and sliding around on the gravel, as well as the heavy impacts as I slam into trees, was great. Thankfully, this wheel isn’t strong enough to rip your wrists off.
The Force Is Strong With This One
Featuring a new hybrid drive, the T-HD gives this little unit some powerful and responsive Force Feedback with 3.1Nm of torque, as well as three BOOST levels that will automatically adjust the FFB, all depending on your preferences or the type of race. With the LCD screen, you can instantaneously change the FFB strength in-game so if something doesn’t feel right, or even if you need to change how easy the wheel is to turn. Giving you so much freedom to adjust how you want, with its 20 displays, there is something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Is the Thrustmaster T248R worth its price tag? I honestly think that it is. With some great features and new technology. Like the Hall effect sensors in the pedals, ensuring that they stand the test of time. You won’t regret this wheel. It feels great in action as well, with plenty of FFB in so many different circumstances. My favourite is the small rumble strips on the majority of corners on GT7. Perfection.
The Thrustmaster T248R gets the Thumb Culture Gold Award.
Disclaimer: A sample was received in order to write this review.
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