New Thrustmaster T598 Wheelbase Testing – Revolutionary, or Just Regular?

Summary

In this gameplay test, Mike from Sim Racing 604 reviews the Thrustmaster T598 wheel, highlighting its innovative Direct Axial Drive technology. Priced at $500, the T598 promises enhanced force feedback and a more immersive racing experience, especially compared to the older TGT2 model. While it features a constant torque of 5 Nm, it can spike up to 10 Nm without clipping, offering impressive responsiveness. Mike notes its PlayStation compatibility and overall value against competitors like Mosa and Fantec. Though still needing software improvements, the T598 marks a significant advancement in Thrustmaster’s sim racing lineup.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mike is testing the Thrustmaster T598 wheel, highlighting it was sent for review.
• 🚀 The T598 features 'Direct Axial Drive' technology, promising enhanced performance over traditional wheels.
• 💰 Priced at $500, the T598 offers impressive force feedback and detail for its price point.
• 🏁 The T598 outperforms the previous TGT2 model, making it a strong competitor in the market.
• 🔋 While it has a constant torque of 5 Nm, the T598 can handle spikes without clipping, enhancing the driving experience.
• 📊 Mike finds the T598's road detail and feedback, especially on bumpy tracks like Sebring, to be exceptional.
• 🛠️ There are plans for future load cell pedals to further improve the T598's performance.
• ⚙️ The software experience for the T598 is noted as a drawback, with limitations on customization.
• 🌟 Mike sees the T598 as a potential benchmark for mid-level direct drive wheels, despite some limitations compared to high-end models.
• 🔜 A full review of the T598 is planned for the future as Mike continues to test its capabilities.

Q & A

What is the main feature that distinguishes the Thrustmaster T5980 from other sim racing wheels?

The Thrustmaster T5980 features direct axial drive technology, which aligns the magnets differently compared to traditional direct drive wheels, aiming to reduce cogging and improve smoothness.

How does the torque of the T5980 compare to other wheels?

The T5980 has a constant torque of around 5 Nm but can spike above that without clipping, providing strong feedback, although it does not match the torque of higher-end models.

What is the price point of the Thrustmaster T5980 and what does it include?

The Thrustmaster T5980 is priced at $500 and includes the wheelbase and a two-pedal set, although the pedal set currently does not have a load cell brake pedal.

How does the T5980 perform compared to the outgoing T GT2 model?

Mike states that the T5980 significantly outperforms the T GT2, which he found lacking despite being a belt drive wheel made for Gran Turismo.

What are the key advantages of the T5980 for PlayStation users?

The T5980 is compatible with PlayStation, which sets it apart from some other direct drive options in the market, making it a great value for console users.

What specific feedback did Mike provide regarding the force feedback of the T5980?

Mike praised the force feedback of the T5980 as exceptional for its price point, noting that it provides detailed road feedback and responsiveness.

What are some limitations of the Thrustmaster T5980 mentioned in the review?

One limitation is the lack of software flexibility, as Mike found the software limited during the testing. Additionally, while the T5980 performs well, it cannot compete with higher torque models like the Moza R16 or Fanatec T818.

What types of games did Mike test the T5980 with, and which provided the best experience?

Mike tested the T5980 with several games, finding that it performed exceptionally well in 'LAL Ultimate,' where he experienced great force feedback.

What future developments does Mike hope to see for the T5980's technology?

Mike hopes to see more powerful versions of the T5980 with higher torque outputs that could provide even better performance and feedback.

What was Mike's overall impression of the Thrustmaster T5980 after the initial testing?

Mike was very impressed with the T5980, calling it a tremendous wheelbase that shows Thrustmaster's strong return to the sim racing market, though he intends to conduct a full review later.