Countless times we have written on the web about Next Level Racing, as their products cover a very wide range of prices and needs for all virtual drivers, including flight simulation. That is why we have had the opportunity to test their Next Level Racing GTElite Cockpit , described as the most rigid cockpit in the mid-range segment thanks to its “4080” profile, along with their new Next Level Racing ERS3 Elite Seat .
This cockpit is also known for its adjustability in position and distance, which allows achieving the best possible ergonomics, as well as the possibility of converting it from GT to Formula style with a separately sold kit. However, in this review, we will focus exclusively on the GT style, a position that covers most disciplines.
Packaging
At just a quick glance at the packaging, you can already notice how heavy it is, as everything comes included in a single box. Obviously, this Next Level Racing GTElite Cockpit does not include a seat, so you will have to add one separately, although it does include everything necessary to mount a brand-specific or generic seat.
Once the box is opened (I strongly recommend having enough free space), you’ll find each piece perfectly fitted and protected. In some cases, I had to break the protective styrofoam because it was difficult to remove certain parts without risking my fingers. Inside the box, there are two levels of pieces, one on top of the other. My recommendation to have free space is especially important to organize each piece with its respective assembly part and thus have everything properly sorted.
In addition to all the necessary parts, it obviously includes two manuals: one for the complete cockpit and another for the optional mounting of the adjustable seat in terms of angle and height. A plus is that, if you can’t figure out the paper manual, there is a QR code that leads to an explanatory assembly video.
With everything organized, you can start the assembly using the included tools.
Assembly
If you already have experience assembling cockpits, this process may seem simple. Still, follow the instructions. In my case, even though everything is perfectly organized, so much aluminum in the room can become confusing. That’s why my prior advice to organize everything into sections was the best thing I could do before starting.
A big plus that makes the work much easier is the video that Next Level Racing has on their YouTube channel. I followed it whenever the paper instructions weren’t enough, as in some cases you can get confused with the position of certain parts due to unclear representation on paper. The video in question is this:
Another useful tip: if you have a family member, friend, or someone who can lend a hand, it will save you a lot of time. I decided to do it alone, and while I didn’t face major issues, it took me several hours to finish.
The only significant inconvenience was with the seat rails. The holes were positioned in a way that made tightening the screws correctly difficult, but with patience, I managed it.
Although the assembly is not extremely complex, it requires time. I made sure to check each step before moving forward to avoid having to disassemble anything afterward.
Once I finished the chassis, I adjusted the ergonomics. I left the pillars holding the base of the steering wheel slightly loose so I could move them and find a comfortable position. Once adjusted, I tightened everything properly so I wouldn’t have to touch it again. I did the same with the plate holding the steering wheel.
The pedals must also be very well secured to prevent movement when braking. My version has a plate with holes compatible with different bases and wheels. If you need a front mounting option, it’s also available, but the standard plate works incredibly well and supports most brands.
After taking a small break, I mounted the peripherals and turned on the simulator.
Feelings
Coming from a GTOmega ART, a much cheaper cockpit made of lower-quality material, this NLR at first glance is a behemoth that will not move under any circumstances. When you sit down, that rigidity becomes even more apparent.
Rigidity is the key word. Next Level Racing was not wrong in describing it. This truly feels like a real cockpit, a space where it’s just you, your hands, your feet, and the wheel, with nothing else to worry about.
Testing with a Moza Racing R12 and FFB at maximum, it is impossible to feel movement where there shouldn’t be. If you look closely, there might be slight movement, but it is completely imperceptible during driving. This rigidity allows you to perceive every detail of the FFB more clearly, while in other cockpits this gets lost due to the movement of the structures absorbing all that information.
The sense of immersion also increases when surrounded by a modular chassis, where you can add button boxes, keyboard and mouse mounts, ButtKickers, and other accessories found on NLR’s website.
Seat
The Next Level Racing ERS3 Elite Seat initially left me with a feeling of continuity. Coming from other synthetic leather seats that ended up cracking and breaking, I feared the same would happen here. However, since late August, I’ve been using it almost daily for a couple of hours and it shows no signs of wear. It doesn’t seem like this will change in the future, but if it does, I will update the information here.
Regarding comfort, it is a marvel. The thickness of the seat allows for long sessions without discomfort, something I always look for in both simulation and my office chair.
The backrest is reclining and comfortable. Although I prefer to use an additional lumbar cushion, this is a matter of personal preference. The side supports hold well but are not uncomfortable. I also appreciate that the seat doesn’t have side supports on the base, as I like to move my legs freely.
Overall, the seat is almost perfect. My only concern is the durability of the leather, but so far it exceeds expectations.
Conclusions
Since I started using it, this setup has been a solid 10. I have not found any major issues: it is easy to assemble, highly customizable, and despite this, remains as rigid as a high-end cockpit. The modularity and the possibility of converting it to Formula style with just an additional kit are additional advantages.
It is true that it has a high price (€279 for the seat and €699 for the cockpit). Some may opt to build something themselves or look for cheaper cockpits, but once you try it, you understand that it is an investment that will last for years.
Where to buy: You can get it with a 5% discount using the code BOXTHISLAP at the Next Level Racing store
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