Sim racing · head‑to‑head
Choosing between the Fanatec CSL Elite Pedals V2 and the Simsonn Plus X Racing Simulation Pedal comes down to a choice between plug-and-play reliability and budget-focused, high-spec tinkering. While one offers a seamless, robust ecosystem, the other delivers high-end force specs at a fraction of the price but requires some patience.
The Simsonn Plus X suffers from hit-or-miss quality control, with users reporting dead load cells, faulty control boxes, and defective hydraulic dampers out of the box. Furthermore, you will likely need to ground the pedals to your rig to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) from causing input flickering, and be aware that the plastic throttle spring holder is a known failure point.
The default brake on the CSL Elite Pedals V2 is exceptionally stiff out of the box, which can be tough for beginners or those without a rigid cockpit. To improve the throttle feel, some users recommend swapping the throttle and clutch pedal arms or springs to add heavier, more realistic resistance.
If you want a reliable, plug-and-play experience with hassle-free maintenance and a quick-adjust elastomer brake, spend the $329.99 on the Fanatec CSL Elite Pedals V2. However, if you are on a tight budget, comfortable grounding your rig to fight EMI, and willing to risk quality control issues for a heavy 200 kg load cell, the Simsonn Plus X offers undeniable value at $160.00.
| CSL Elite Pedals V2 | Simsonn Plus X Racing Simulation Pedal | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Fanatec | Simsonn |
| Ecosystem | Fanatec | Simsonn |
| Starting Price | $237.61 (¥38,000.00) | $191.59Best |
| Pedals | 3 | 3 |
| Load Cell Brake | Yes | Yes |
| Load Cell Rating | 90 kg (198.4 lb) | 200 kg (440.9 lb)Best |
| Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| Construction | aluminium | stainless steel |
| Connectivity | USB, RJ12 | USB |
| Software | Fanatec Control Panel | SIMSONN Manager |
| Price trend | Unchanged over 90 days | Down 8.3% in 90 days |