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This thrustmaster gt wheel add on gran review looks at the official GT Wheel Add-On. It is a round wheel rim licensed by Gran Turismo and Sony. The unit measures 11 inches in diameter and is wrapped in smooth leather. It connects natively to T818 and T598 direct drive bases. The design includes 12 controls, such as rotary encoders and tact switches. You get a realistic steering feel for sim racing on PS5, PS4, or PC. This add-on brings Polyphony Digital’s design directly to your setup.
- Officially licensed by Sony and Gran Turismo
- 11-inch diameter wrapped in fine leather
- Natively compatible with T818 and T598 bases
- 12 controls including 4 rotary encoders and D-pad
Good fit for
You should buy this if you own a Thrustmaster T818 or T598 base. It suits sim racers who want an authentic Gran Turismo feel. The leather grip and 11-inch size offer a standard steering wheel experience. It works well on PS5, PS4, and PC. If you value official licensing and direct drive compatibility, this rim fits your needs. It is a straightforward upgrade for your existing setup.
Who can skip it
Skip this option if you do not have a compatible Thrustmaster base. It requires a T818 or T598 direct drive unit to function. It will not work with other brands or older Thrustmaster bases. You should also look elsewhere if you prefer a square or semi-sphere shape. This is a round rim only. If you need plug-and-play compatibility with multiple base types, this add-on is not the right choice for you.
Verdict
This add-on delivers official Gran Turismo styling and control layout for compatible Thrustmaster bases. It is a solid choice for owners of the T818 or T598.
Thrustmaster GT Wheel Key Specs
Grip Material: Leather
The rim is wrapped in fine, smooth-textured leather. This material provides a secure hold during intense racing sessions. Leather absorbs sweat better than synthetic options, reducing slippage. You benefit from consistent tactile feedback when steering. Compare this to vinyl or rubber grips, which may wear faster or feel slippery. This choice supports long-term comfort and control for sim racing enthusiasts.
Wheel Diameter: 11 inches / 28 cm
The round rim measures 11 inches across. This size offers a balanced reach for most drivers. It allows for precise steering inputs without excessive arm movement. You can turn the wheel quickly for tight corners. Compare this to larger 330mm wheels, which require more physical effort. This diameter suits players who prefer agility and quick corrections over heavy, realistic force feedback simulation.
Compatible Platform: PS5, PS4, PC
This wheel works with PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Windows 10 or 11 PCs. You can use it across multiple systems without needing separate hardware. The native compatibility ensures plug-and-play functionality on supported devices. Compare this to wheels restricted to single platforms. This flexibility allows you to switch between console and PC gaming seamlessly, maximizing the utility of your investment.
Controls: 4 rotary encoders, 1 D-pad, 2 mini-sticks, 4 tact-switch buttons
The rim includes 12 total controls, including push-button rotary encoders, a D-pad, mini-sticks, and tact-switch buttons. You can map these to in-game actions like gear shifts, view changes, or menu navigation. This layout reduces the need to reach for a separate controller. Compare this to simpler rims with fewer inputs. The variety supports complex game configurations, enhancing immersion and reducing hand movement during critical moments.
Design and Build Overview
The listing describes a black, regular-size wheel rim with model number 4069016. It features a 11-inch diameter wrapped in smooth leather. This material choice suggests a focus on grip and comfort during long sessions. The round shape mimics traditional racing wheels. You get a familiar steering feel that aligns with sim racing expectations. The finish is straightforward, prioritizing function over flashy aesthetics. This neutral look fits well into any setup without drawing unnecessary attention.
Control layout is dense but organized. You have four rotary encoders that double as push-buttons, totaling 12 controls. A D-pad, two mini-sticks, and four tact-switch action buttons round out the input options. This variety allows you to map complex in-game commands without reaching for a separate controller. The Quick Release system connects natively to T818 and T598 bases. This means you can swap wheels quickly if you own multiple Thrustmaster products. The design is strictly for direct drive bases, so it does not stand alone.
Compatibility extends to PS5, PS4, and PC. This broad support lets you use the rim across different systems. The collaboration with Polyphony Digital ensures the design matches Gran Turismo standards. You get an officially licensed product that looks and feels authentic. The build quality appears solid for its category. It is a dedicated accessory for enthusiasts who want precision inputs. The leather grip and numerous buttons cater to serious sim racers. Casual players might find the layout complex. This rim is built for those who value tactile feedback and extensive control mapping.
Setup and Everyday Use
This wheel rim is an add-on unit. You attach it to a compatible base. It works with the T818 and T598 Direct Drive racing wheel bases. The connection uses the next-gen Quick Release system. This mechanism allows for fast swapping. You do not need complex tools for this process. The unit plugs in via standard connections for your platform. It supports PS5, PS4, and PC with Windows 10 or 11. Setup involves selecting the correct base and ensuring the rim locks into place. Daily use relies on the layout of the controls. There are four rotary encoders with push-button functionality. This gives you a total of 12 controls. You also have one D-pad, two mini-sticks, and four tact-switch action buttons. These controls are positioned for easy access. The 11-inch diameter fits most hand sizes. The leather wrap provides consistent friction. You get a secure hold during turns. The smooth texture reduces friction against your palms. The black color matches standard gaming setups. The wheel style is GT. This design suits sim racing enthusiasts. You use it to navigate virtual tracks. The official license means the layout matches Gran Turismo games. This alignment helps with muscle memory. You benefit from familiar button placement. The platform compatibility ensures broad usage. You can switch between console and PC if your base allows. The regular size keeps the profile low. This setup prioritizes direct feedback. You feel the road through the base. The rim transmits this data accurately. The leather maintains its texture over time. You do not need special cleaning. A dry cloth is sufficient. The quick release ensures you can swap rims quickly. This feature adds flexibility to your rig. You are ready to race in seconds.
Before You Buy This Rim
This item is a wheel rim add-on. It does not include a base. You must already own a compatible Direct Drive unit. The listing confirms native support for the T818 and T598 bases. Verify your existing hardware matches these models before purchasing. Using an incompatible base will prevent the Quick Release system from functioning. You also need a supported platform. The rim works with PS5, PS4, and PC systems running Windows 10 or 11. Check your console or computer version to ensure smooth operation. Leather grips require basic maintenance. Wipe the surface regularly to remove oils and sweat. This keeps the material from degrading over time. This rim sits alongside other Gran Turismo-licensed options. It offers a traditional round shape and leather texture. If you prefer a different grip material or button layout, compare it against the other 1 choices on this page. Ensure the control layout meets your racing style before finalizing your selection.
Check before you buy
- Confirm you own a T818 or T598 Direct Drive base.
- Check if your system is PS5, PS4, or Windows 10/11.
- Verify the leather grip size suits your hand preference.
- Ensure the 12 controls match your in-game button mapping needs.
Thrustmaster GT Wheel Add-On
Best for: T818 and T598 base owners
- Compatible Platform
- PS5, PS4, PC
- Wheel Diameter
- 11 inches / 28 cm
- Grip Material
- Leather
- Color
- Black
- Wheel Style
- GT
- Recommended Use
- Sim Racing
This is a licensed wheel rim designed for Gran Turismo. It features an 11-inch diameter wrapped in smooth leather. The rim includes 12 controls, such as rotary encoders and tact-switch buttons. It connects natively to T818 and T598 direct drive bases. You can use it on PS5, PS4, or PC. It suits sim racers who want official Sony collaboration details.
- Officially licensed by Gran Turismo and Sony
- 11-inch diameter wrapped in fine leather
- 12 controls including 4 rotary encoders
- Natively compatible with T818 and T598 bases
- Fixed 11-inch diameter limits grip size preference
- Requires separate direct drive base for operation
- You own a T818 or T598 wheel base
- You want official Gran Turismo branding
- You prefer a leather-wrapped rim
- You need a complete wheel with base
- You prefer a smaller or larger rim size
- You want wireless connectivity
Verdict: Thrustmaster GT Add-On Wheel Rim offers official licensing and 12 controls for T818 and T598 users. It fits sim racers who already have a compatible base and want a leather grip.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thrustmaster GT Wheel Add-On |
|---|---|
| Compatible Platform | PS5, PS4, PC |
| Wheel Diameter | 11 inches / 28 cm |
| Grip Material | Leather |
| Color | Black |
| Platform | PC, PS5 |
| Wheel Style | GT |
| Recommended Use | Sim Racing |
| Size | Regular |
| Model | 4069016 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Thrustmaster GT Wheel Add-On work on Xbox Series X or S?
No, this rim is not compatible with Xbox consoles. The published specifications list the supported platforms as PC and PlayStation 5. You should verify your console type before purchasing. If you use an Xbox, this specific add-on will not connect to your system. Check for alternative rims designed for your platform.
How many controls does the GT Add-On wheel rim have?
The wheel features 12 distinct controls. These buttons are positioned for easy access during sim racing sessions. This count allows you to map various in-game functions without reaching for a separate controller. The layout supports the GT style design, keeping essential inputs within thumb reach.
Is the wheel rim size standard or compact?
The listing classifies the size as Regular. It measures 11 inches in diameter. This dimension matches standard racing wheel proportions for most sim racing games. You get a familiar steering feel that aligns with typical cockpit setups. It is not a compact or mini version of the wheel.
What is the model number for this Thrustmaster add-on?
The specific model number is 4069016. You can use this code to verify compatibility with your base unit. It helps distinguish this GT licensed rim from other Thrustmaster products. Keep this number handy when checking driver updates or support documentation for your setup.
Can I use this rim with the T300 base?
No, this add-on is not designed for the T300 base. The data confirms native support only for the T818 and T598 Direct Drive bases. The connection mechanism relies on the next-gen Quick Release system found in those specific units. Using it with older bases may not work or could damage the hardware.
Does the wheel come with a mounting bracket?
The product description does not mention an included mounting bracket. This item is a wheel rim add-on that attaches to your existing base. You likely need your base to provide the mounting structure. Check your base documentation to see if additional clamps or adapters are required for your desk or rig.
