Sim racing · head‑to‑head
Choosing between these two bases is a choice between no-compromise, ultra-premium PC performance and budget-friendly, console-compatible entry-level direct drive. The Simucube 3 Ultimate WheelBase represents the absolute peak of force feedback engineering, while the Thrustmaster T598 Direct Axial Drive Servo Base (Playstation / PC) targets drivers looking for an affordable gateway.
The Thrustmaster T598 suffers from frequent community complaints regarding random mid-race disconnections caused by a fragile USB-C port or faulty power supply. Additionally, its passively cooled base can run extremely hot during long sessions, leading to noticeable force feedback fade.
The Simucube 3 Ultimate WheelBase requires the Simucube Link Hub to be purchased separately, and its quick release lacks native USB pass-through. This means you must use proprietary Link wheels or wireless adapters to avoid cable clutter.
While the Thrustmaster T598 bundled wheel rim and pedals suffer from cheap, plasticky build quality and noticeable flex, the base can be upgraded within its own ecosystem. This allows you to swap out the entry-level components as your budget grows.
If you demand absolute realism, bulletproof thermal performance, and have $3,299.00 to spend, the Simucube 3 Ultimate WheelBase is the ultimate engineering marvel. However, if you are on a budget, the Thrustmaster T598 offers an entry point at $466.78, though its price has risen 33.3% over the last 90 days.
| Simucube 3 Ultimate WheelBase | Thrustmaster T598 Direct Axial Drive Servo Base (Playstation / PC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Simucube | Thrustmaster |
| Ecosystem | Simucube | Thrustmaster |
| Starting Price | $3,299.00 | $463.87 (€399.99)Best |
| Price trend | Unchanged over 30 days | Up 33.3% in 90 days |
| Peak Torque | 35 NmBest | 10 Nm |
| Drive Type | direct | direct |
| Max Rotation | 2160 °Best | 1080 ° |
| Connectivity | RJ45 | USB-C |
| Software | Simucube Tuner | My Thrustmaster Panel |
| Quick Release | P3G polygon | — |
| Weight | 13 kg (28.7 lb) | 4.7 kg (10.4 lb)Best |
| Mounting | front, bottomBest | bottom |