The Hori Apex for PS5, PS4, and PC releases October 24 and is available to preorder now for $170 at Amazon.
By Darryn Bonthuys on August 9, 2024 at 4:08PM PDT
Though wireless game controllers have been the norm for many years now, some specialty controllers like racing wheels haven’t cut the cord. But there’s at least one upcoming racing wheel that is giving wireless connectivity a try. Hori is releasing a new wireless edition of its Apex Racing Wheel, which initially released as a wired wheel in 2022 for $120. The wireless Hori Apex is officially licensed by Sony and is compatible with PS5, PS4, and PC. Amazon is taking preorders for the $170 Hori Wireless Apex Racing Wheel ahead of its October 24 release.
We dug around and couldn’t find any other wireless racing wheels for modern platforms from major brands, so while the Hori Apex may not be the first of this generation, it is the first officially licensed wireless wheel for PlayStation 5.
Hori claims the Apex provides up to 10 hours of battery life on a full charge. It includes a 6.6ft charging cable, allowing you to continue playing while charging. The device connects wirelessly via a dongle that can be plugged into your PlayStation or PC, and it supports a range of up to 32 feet.
Additional features comprise paddle shifters for easier shifting, full-size foot pedals, 270-degree wheel rotation, and clamps for securing it to a table or desk. It also includes standard PlayStation interface buttons like the face buttons, D-pad, and four other buttons in place of traditional triggers and shoulder buttons.
Even though it was released over two years ago, the wired Hori Apex continues to be a favored choice among entry-level racing wheels for PlayStation, maintaining a user rating of 4.3 out of 5 from over 3,000 reviews on Amazon.
For those seeking a more advanced setup, there are robust wired alternatives available. Currently discounted at Amazon to $230 (originally $300), theLogitech G29 delivers excellent performance for its price. Compatible with PC, PS5, and PS4, the G29 features a sophisticated design with sturdy materials, integrated force feedback for enhanced realism, and 900-degree wheel rotation which simulates real driving dynamics effectively.
Alternatively, the Gran Turismo-themed Thrustmaster T300 RS for PlayStation and PC stands out but comes with a high price of $450. It’s highly suitable for racing sim fans due to its dual-belt system in the brushless motor and its use of proprietary magnetic technology for enhanced wheel precision.
The $400 Thrustmaster T248P is another sophisticated racing wheel focusing more on customization options. This newer model compared to the T300 RS features a built-in race dashboard, 25 action buttons, and magnetic paddle shifters, and it offers the option to use a TH8S shifter for manual driving.
For those on a budget, the previously mentioned Hori Apex wired model is a good option. There is also the Thrustmaster T80 available at $100 (previously $110). Like all other racing wheels listed, it is officially licensed by Sony.
Nintendo Switch owners who enjoy Mario Kart should consider Hori’s duo of officially licensed wheels with Mario Kart themes. The Pro Mini is tailored for younger players and is discounted to $56 (from $70), while the Pro Deluxe is selling for $89 (down from $110).
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