I want to start "Direct Drive" on PS5! Logitech G RS50 SYSTEM Review. For those graduating from G29/G923 and considering a comparison with the Fanatec DD Pro
You've loved your "G29" or "G923," but lately, you've been thinking, "I want a feel closer to a real car," or "I want to feel the start of a slide in a corner with my fingertips." ...Aren't you feeling that way?
In the world of racing wheels, the overwhelming mainstream right now is the Direct Drive system. Unlike traditional gear or belt-driven systems, the sheer amount of information provided by a motor directly turning the steering shaft is a shock you won't be able to go back from once you've experienced it.
However, when you actually try to introduce it, you hit walls like "I'm worried about support for overseas brands" or "It's too complicated to gather all the parts and I don't want to fail."
To solve these pressing concerns of console gamers, the Logitech G RS50 SYSTEM that we will introduce in detail this time has arrived.
In this article, based on my 15 years of experience as a gadget writer, I will thoroughly explain what makes this mid-range racing wheel, which Logitech has finally released, different from its rival, the Fanatec DD Pro, and how it will change your gaming experience.
Why is it necessary to step up from the G29/G923 to an "8Nm Direct Drive"?
The G29 and G923 you've been familiar with are undoubtedly legendary machines. However, because they transmit drive through gears, there is inevitably a "clattering" operating noise and a slight "mellowing" (latency) in the transmission of information.
The dimension of "information" transmitted from the steering wheel is different
The Direct Drive adopted by the RS50 SYSTEM transmits motor force directly to the steering wheel. As a result, the fine roughness of the road surface, the vibration of tires hitting the curb, and the feel of the moment the car starts to slide are transmitted with unbelievable clarity.
In particular, the maximum torque of 8Nm that the RS50 boasts is more than enough power to reproduce the heavy feel close to a real car's power steering. To "drive fast," the key is whether you can "notice the start of a slide" to understand how the car is trying to move. The RS50 dramatically speeds up that realization.
Overwhelming immersion brought by Logitech's unique "TRUEFORCE"
Furthermore, the biggest feature of Logitech racing wheels is the high-definition haptic feedback function, TRUEFORCE. This is not just vibration, but a technology that reproduces engine RPM and changes in road surface conditions in real-time at your fingertips.
Gran Turismo 7 If you play with compatible titles such as, you can experience a different dimension of immersion as if you were sitting in the seat and feeling the vibrations throughout the entire car body.
The biggest advantage of the Logicool G RS50 SYSTEM: The "all-in-one" choice that is friendly to beginners
When building a Direct Drive environment, many people get frustrated with "choosing parts." As you research, "The base is this, the wheel is this, the quick release is...", you end up falling into a swamp of compatibility issues.
An "all-in-one" package that lets you drive as soon as you open the box
The greatest strength of the RS50 SYSTEM is that it is an RS50 base, the easy-to-operate round RS Round Wheel, the RS Wheel Hub, and the table clamp, which are all part of this all-in-one set.
Since the "wheel" and "fixing equipment," which are often sold separately for many high-end machines, are already included, you can eliminate the time spent worrying about purchasing additional parts. It is truly the perfect package for those looking to step up and easily create a professional-grade environment.
High-quality silicone leather and high rigidity
The steering wheel uses a high-performance silicone leather specification. This is excellent; it has the advantage of feeling smooth to the touch while providing high grip, and it is less likely to become sticky even during long play sessions.
Furthermore, because the entire structure is made of full metal (aluminum), the rigidity is extremely high, and you won't feel any distortion or rattling even when receiving the powerful 8Nm of force.
Comparison with the eternal rival, the 'Fanatec DD Pro'. Which one should you choose?
For console gamers, especially those who prioritize PS5 compatibility, the biggest point of comparison is likely the 'Fanatec Gran Turismo DD Pro'. Honestly speaking, these two models are very similar in terms of specs. So, why should you choose the RS50?
Peace of mind with domestic support and warranty
Fanatec is a wonderful product, but because it is an overseas manufacturer, concerns are often raised about the time it takes to handle repairs and the complexity of the procedures.
In contrast, Logitech G has a robust support system within Japan, and the RS50 comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty. For those who think, 'I'm making an investment of nearly 100,000 yen, so I don't want to cry over technical issues,' this peace of mind is irreplaceable.
Ease of installation and table clamp
The RS50 SYSTEM comes with a sturdy table clamp included from the start. Even if you don't have a full-scale racing rig, you can securely install it to the study desk or PC desk you use daily and start playing.
In the case of Fanatec, the clamp is sold separately, or you need to be creative with how you secure it to withstand the 8Nm of power, but the RS50 is designed to be used with peace of mind even in a desk setup.
The only point to note: If you are particular about brake feel, don't forget the 'RS Pedals'
The RS50 SYSTEM is a fantastic set, but the only thing not included is the 'pedals'.
The importance of load cell brakes
While it is possible to reuse the G29 or G923 pedals as they are, since you are going through the trouble of switching to direct drive, I highly recommend also introducing the load cell type 'RS Pedals'.
A load cell is a sensor that detects 'pressure (force applied)' rather than the 'distance' the pedal is pressed. While conventional pedals are difficult to adjust because the braking strength is determined by how far you press them, load cells allow for precise control because it is determined by 'how hard you pressed,' just like in a real car.
This makes 'trail braking,' where you gradually ease off from full braking, dramatically easier, which directly leads to better lap times in Gran Turismo 7 and Shutokou Battle.
The user experience of the 'RS50 SYSTEM'
The first thing that surprises you is how 'quiet' it operates. There is no clattering noise like with gear-driven systems, so you can attack at full power even in the middle of the night without worrying about your family.
Future potential expanded by quick release
It is also equipped with a quick release mechanism that makes changing the steering wheel surprisingly easy. When you think in the future, 'I want to drive a formula car, so I want to change to a D-shaped steering wheel,' you don't even need to turn a screw; you can swap it with a single touch. There is the joy of being able to expand the system according to your own growth and preferences.
The control scheme is close to the genuine PS5 controller
The 13 buttons mounted on the hub have a tactile feel reminiscent of the genuine PS5 controller, so navigating menus is intuitive. The ergonomic design allows you to change settings during a race with just your fingertips, without ever taking your hands off the steering wheel.
The 'disadvantages' of introducing the RS50 SYSTEM and their solutions
Even for the seemingly perfect RS50, there are points you should know before purchasing.
It requires a sturdy desk is one such point. The 8Nm of power is more potent than you might imagine. With an inexpensive, lightweight desk, the monitor might shake every time you turn the wheel. [Solution]: Use the heaviest and sturdiest desk possible, or consider investing in a dedicated racing cockpit or wheel stand in the future.
Also, it requires configuration via G HUB is another point. You need to connect it to a PC to perform firmware updates and detailed settings (G HUB). [Solution]: The setup itself is very simple. Once you have optimized it, all you need to do is plug it back into your PS5 to start racing in the best possible condition.
Summary: The Logitech G RS50 SYSTEM is the right choice for you if you 'don't want to fail'
The Logitech G RS50 SYSTEM is not just a 'high-end racing wheel.' It is an 'invitation' for you, having discovered the joy of racing with the G29/G923, to move to the next stage with certainty and peace of mind.
8Nm direct drive providing a different dimension of road feedback, the overwhelming TRUEFORCE bringing incredible immersion, the peace of mind of an all-in-one set that eliminates the confusion of choosing parts, and the ultimate 'peace of mind' of domestic Japanese support and a 2-year warranty. All of these support the appeal of the RS50 SYSTEM.
If you are thinking, 'I want to shave more time off in Gran Turismo 7' or 'I want to fully immerse myself in the world of Shutokou Battle,' the RS50 SYSTEM will surely be your best partner.
Can you fully read the changes in the road surface with your current racing wheel? If you find yourself thinking 'I want to feel more,' the RS50 will unlock that potential all at once.