Priced at 1500 Euros, this wheel is designed to offer an authentic experience for sim racers, closely mirroring the wheel used in the real BMW M4 GT3 car. In this article, we will explore the features, construction, performance, and drawbacks of this high-end racing wheel.
The BMW M4 GT3 Wheel is constructed using high-quality materials, including carbon fiber with a distinct forged carbon pattern. This ensures exceptional rigidity and resistance to various forces. With a diameter of 308 millimeters, it is suitable for both GT3 and Formula racing.
The wheel features a total of 14 buttons, 12 of which are retro-illuminated and located on the front, along with three 12-way rotary switches. At the center, you’ll find a four-wheel directional stick bearing the BMW logo. The handles are covered in rubber for a comfortable grip, although some may prefer a different material such as leather or Alcantara.
Unboxing by RykovSimRacing
There is no built-in screen or compatibility with SimHub, making it less feature-rich for sim racing. However, the wheel’s performance shines in terms of button quality, ergonomics, and shifters.
The buttons are stable, satisfying to use, and offer excellent clickiness. The shifters, utilizing a mix of clicky engagement and adaptive movement, provide a highly satisfying feel during gear shifts.
While the BMW M4 GT3 Wheel doesn’t offer built-in shift lights like the BMW Dash, its limitations can be mitigated by using Fanatec’s own software, Fanalabs. This software allows for extensive customization, including changing the color of individual buttons and dynamic color changes based on RPM or speed.
Fanalabs provides flexibility in tailoring the wheel’s settings to your preferences. The wheel’s cost may be prohibitive for many sim racers, especially considering the limited features specifically geared towards sim racing.
The QR1 system, while functional, feels outdated when compared to other options available on the market. Fanatec has announced that buyers of this wheel will receive a free upgrade to the QR2 system when it becomes available, but its release date remains uncertain.
Its construction, utilizing high-quality materials like carbon fiber, ensures rigidity and durability. The wheel’s button quality, ergonomics, and shifters stand out, making it a joy to use during sim racing sessions. While it lacks certain features common in sim racing wheels, Fanalabs software allows for extensive customization.
The pricing and the dated QR1 system may be deterrents for some potential buyers. Ultimately, the BMW M4 GT3 Wheel is a high-end option for sim racers seeking a realistic and immersive experience.
Seee you on the track!
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