Sim racing · head‑to‑head
Asetek targets tactile wheel interaction with its premium aluminum button kit, while Thrustmaster focuses on replacing the plastic-heavy exterior of its wheelbase with metal side plates. Your choice depends entirely on which ecosystem you are locked into and whether you prioritize hands-on feel or desk-side aesthetics.
These are proprietary cosmetic upgrades. You cannot mix and match them across different ecosystems.
If you own an Asetek wheel, the Aluminum Button Color Kit delivers a genuine tactile upgrade, though the $89.00 price tag is tough to swallow if you drive in VR or want matching thumb rotaries. For Thrustmaster T818 owners, the White Metal Plate Add-On is a cheaper way to mask the wheelbase's plastic housing, provided you do not mind the short stock screws or the lack of other standalone color options.
| Aluminum Button Color Kit | T818 White Metal Plate Add-On | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Asetek | Thrustmaster |
| Ecosystem | Asetek | Thrustmaster |
| Starting Price | $89.00 | $40.92 (£29.99)Best |
| Price trend | Unchanged over 90 days | Cheapest retailer changed — see product page |
| Type | steering wheel customization kit | Cosmetic side plates |
| Connectivity | none | None |
| Compatibility | all Asetek SimSports steering wheels | Thrustmaster T818 |