The right set of pedals can make all the difference in your sim racing experience and performance, especially when it comes to the brake pedal. There are a few different types of technologies used in pedals, which can get a bit confusing.
We’ve taken note of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to sim racing pedals, and have done our best to answer them. We hope you find this article helpful!
If you’re looking for more information on what type of sim racing pedals to buy, check out our article on the best sim racing pedals for any budget.
FAQs in this article include:
- Hall-effect sensor vs potentiometer pedals: what’s the difference?
- Load cell vs potentiometer pedals: what’s the difference?
- What are load cell pedals and how do they work?
- Are load cell pedals worth it?
- Will load-cell pedals make you faster?
- What are inverted pedals?
- What are the overall best sim racing pedals?
Hall-effect sensor vs potentiometer pedals: what’s the difference?
Both hall effect sensors and potentiometers are used in pedals to measure displacement (i.e. how far you push it) to determine braking force. With Potentiometers this is done through the interaction of mechanical parts. One of the key benefits of hall-effect sensors is that they use contactless magnets rather than moving mechanical parts. The moving parts of potentiometers can wear and accumulate dirt, which reduces chances of failure and reduces accuracy. Hall-effect sensors are rarely used for brakes, but are often used in higher-end pedal sets (featuring load cell brakes) instead of potentiometers for the clutch and throttle.
Logitech G29 Potentiometer Pedals
Load cell vs potentiometer pedals: what’s the difference?
Potentiometer pedals use displacement (i.e. how far you push it) to determine braking, while load cell pedals use pressure (i.e. how hard you push it). Potentiometer is usually the cheapest braking technology, but load cell pedals are reflective of how braking works in real cars and are more accurate and responsive. Potentiometer pedals are also more prone to failure because they rely on moving mechanical parts that can wear out over time and accumulate dirt.
Fanatec ClubSport Load Cell
What are load cell pedals and how do they work?
Load cell pedals use pressure to determine braking (i.e. how hard you push it) rather than displacement (i.e. how far you push it). These are reflective of how braking works in real cars and are also more accurate and responsive than potentiometer pedals.
Are load cell pedals worth it?
Yes, if you are serious about sim racing and want to improve your performance and consistency load cell pedals are definitely worth it. Load cell pedals are reflective of how braking works in real cars and are also more accurate and responsive than potentiometer pedals. Check out our article on the best sim racing pedals for a breakdown of the best load cell pedals.
Thrustmaster T-LCM Load Cell Pedals
Will load-cell pedals make you faster?
Potentially, yes. Because of the increased accuracy and responsiveness of load cell pedals, you should be able to improve your performance and consistency. People have reported improved lap times after switching to load-cell technology. Because load cell pedals use pressure to determine braking (i.e. how hard you push it) you can also use that physical feedback from the pedal to form muscle memory for your braking points.
Fanatec CSL Elite Load Cell Pedals
What are inverted pedals?
Inverted pedals are pedals that have been mounted up-side down so that the pivot points/hinges are at the top of the pedals. This won’t really impact performance, so it comes down to personal preference, especially if you’re seeking a realistic road car setup. Most road cars have inverted pedals while F1 and race cars generally have floor mounted pedals. You can buy pre-inverted pedals (like the Fanatec ClubSport V3 Inverted set), buy an upgrade kit (like this Extreme Sim Racing Logitech Inversion Kit), or try to DIY it.
Thrustmaster T3PA Pro Pedals Inverted
What are the overall best sim racing pedals?
If you’re a beginner looking for a low-budget plug-and-play pedal set, look no further than the Logitech G29 for PS or G920 for Xbox which includes three 100% metal pedals as well as a wheel for $249 USD on logitech.com(prices subject to change). If you’re willing to invest a bit more to get load cell technology and a full suite of adjustment options, the Fanatec ClubSport V3 pedals are our recommendation for $360 USD at fanatec.com (but don’t forget to get the brake performance kit for the $30 USD extra). Finally, if you have deep pockets and are looking for the absolute top-of-the-line gear, the Heusinkveld Ultimate hydraulic pedals are truly some of the most advanced pedals on the market today. Check out our article on the best sim racing pedals for a more detailed breakdown.
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