Thrustmaster T818 Direct Drive Wheelbase Review By The SRG

20/01/2023 Hardware Leave a comment

Back in November 2022, after months of teasing, Thrustmaster revealed their first Direct Drive sim racing wheel which will compete directly with the Fanatec DD Pro and the Logitech G Pro units.

Now Barry Rowland of the Sim Racing Garage reviewed the Thrustmaster T818 Direct Drive Wheelbase. As usual, Barry takes the product through the famed SRG review procedure, checks out the parts and internals of the wheelbase, and performs a hands-on test session.

Time Stamps:

Intro: 0:00
Closer Look: 0:52
Closer Look QR System: 10:32
QR System Flex: 23:56
Look Inside: 28:21
Mounting: 39:39
Mounted: 44:04
T818 Tuning Driver: 44:58
Tuning Session: 51:08
Driving: 1:13:54
Final Thoughts: 1:20:04

The new Thrustmaster T818 is a hexagon shaped 10Nm Direct Drive wheel exclusively for use with a PC. The unit is fitted with a new quick-release which in comparison to the existing Thrustmaster wheelbases, can be used without the need for a tool. The new QR is compatible with all upcoming and existing rims via an adapter. Thrustmaster already hinted that they will release four new wheel rims during 2023.

The T818 features an RJ45 connecter that will be used to support future add-on peripherals.

Esthetically, the new wheelbase front plate features an RGB Led liner which can be used both as a visual aspect or to communicate in-game telemetry. Furthermore, the user can customize the look of the wheelbase via exchangeable metal covers. So far Thrustmaster revealed 5 colors that will be available at launch. (White – blue – black – gray – Orange)

Pricing / Availability:

The Thrustmaster T818 DD wheelbase is available in Europe for €649.99 / £599.99. The US market should follow by March 2023. The Thrustmaster T818 includes a pair of dark blue metal plates, with an optional pair of additional metal plates in grey, orange, white or black.

Optionally: