General Information
The Thrustmaster T598 is a high-end racing wheel designed for serious sim racing enthusiasts. This review will cover its design, features, performance, compatibility, and overall value for money.
Design and Build Quality
Wheel
- Size: 28 cm (11 inches) in diameter
- Material: High-quality brushed metal with leather wrapping
- Buttons: 25 action buttons with a multi-directional D-pad
- Display: Built-in LED display for real-time telemetry data
Base
- Technology: Dual-belt system with metal ball-bearing axle
- Force Feedback: Powerful and smooth with 6 Nm of torque
- Cooling: Embedded cooling system for extended gaming sessions
Pedal Set
- Pedals: Three-pedal set (accelerator, brake, clutch)
- Material: 100% metal construction
- Adjustability: Angle and spacing can be customized
Features
- H.E.A.R.T (HallEffect AccuRate Technology): Provides 16-bit resolution for ultra-precise steering
- T-DFB (Thrustmaster Dynamic Force Feedback): Allows for realistic and responsive force feedback
- T-RTF (Thrustmaster Real-Time Force Feedback): Minimizes latency for instant response
- Swappable Rim System: Compatible with other Thrustmaster rims for customization
- Ecosystem Compatibility: Works with Thrustmaster shifters and handbrakes
Performance
Force Feedback
- Powerful and detailed force feedback
- Excellent road feel and texture simulation
- Smooth and consistent performance even during long gaming sessions
Precision and Control
- High-resolution steering inputs for precise control
- Responsive buttons and paddles for quick in-game actions
- Customizable rotation angle (270° to 1080°)
Pedal Performance
- Progressive brake pedal with adjustable resistance
- Smooth and linear accelerator response
- Realistic clutch feel for manual transmission enthusiasts
Compatibility
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
- Games: Compatible with most popular racing titles including:
- Forza Motorsport
- Gran Turismo
- Assetto Corsa
- iRacing
- Project CARS
Software
- Thrustmaster Control Panel: Allows for detailed customization of force feedback, rotation angle, and button mapping
- Firmware Updates: Regular updates to improve performance and compatibility
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent build quality with premium materials
- Powerful and detailed force feedback
- High level of customization and adjustability
- Wide compatibility across platforms and games
- Comprehensive ecosystem for expansion
Cons
- High price point may be prohibitive for casual users
- Large size requires significant space for setup
- Learning curve for optimal settings and use
Value for Money
While the Thrustmaster T598 comes with a premium price tag, it offers excellent value for serious sim racing enthusiasts. The build quality, performance, and features justify the investment for those looking for a long-term, high-quality racing setup.
Conclusion
The Thrustmaster T598 is a top-tier racing wheel that delivers on all fronts. Its powerful force feedback, precise controls, and robust construction make it an excellent choice for dedicated sim racers. While it may be overkill for casual players, enthusiasts will appreciate the immersive experience it provides. If you're serious about sim racing and have the budget, the T598 is definitely worth considering.
Overall Rating: 9/10
The Thrustmaster T598 stands out as one of the best racing wheels on the market, offering a near-perfect balance of performance, quality, and features for the dedicated sim racing enthusiast.
