Table of Contents
Simulated racing games are among the most difficult and exciting video games that one can play. If you are into them, that is. Some don’t get it, and that is just fine. To each their own, right? Obviously, a big part of racing games is the controls. While it is true that these games could also be played with a regular controller – or even with a mouse and keyboard – it just isn’t the same as playing them with a steering wheel, a shifter, and steel pedals. It’s not just about looking cool (which is undoubtedly does), it is about breathing new life into the game, and making it as realistic as possible. Enter the Logitech G-series controllers and our Logitech G27 & G29 Racing Wheel Review.
In 2006, Logitech released the G25 Steering Wheel. It was a smash hit and a real game-changer, in the best possible way. There are those who are still using it, 10 years after it was released! Several years later, in 2009, the G27 was released, and the G25 was discontinued by Logitech. The G27 was a massive upgrade compared to the G25, and many were more than happy to switch over to the new wheel. In December 2015, the G27 was discontinued in favor of the G29, which is where this little comparison comes in. G27 steering wheels are not being produced anymore, but some are still available for purchase. Many users are wondering about the advantages and disadvantages of both units, now that the G29 has had some (limited) amount of time on the consumer’s end. Some are newcomers, some are veterans who are considering switching over. In both cases, people are looking for some answers. Well, let’s hope this article will be able to provide some relevant information, along with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding these two models.
Logitech G27 & G29 Design, Specs, and Features
| Logitech G27 Racing Wheel | Logitech G29 Driving Force | |
| Systems compatibility | PC, PS3, PS2 (partially compatible) | PC, Mac, PS3, PS4 |
| Included devices | Wheel, pedals, shifter | Wheel, pedals (shifter sold separately) |
| Diameter (inches) | 11 | 11 |
| Rotation (degrees) | 900 | 900 |
| Corded | Yes | Yes |
| Dual paddle shifter | Yes | Yes |
| Layout | 6 programmable buttons on the wheel + D-pad and other controls on the shifter | Wheel is optimized for PS4, includes gamepad and quick configuration button |
| LED rev indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Sensor | Optical | Hall effect |
| Price | $400 – 800 (street price) | $399.99 (MSRP) |
Logitech G27 Racing Wheel Review Logitech G27 steering wheel has been replaced by the new Logitech G29, find out now! Darwin theorized that the process of evolution would cause a species to refine itself over time, with stronger, more effective traits advancing while weaker or ineffective traits were killed off. 30 Slot Steering Wheel Optical Encoder Spare Parts For Logitech. Repair Parts Racing Simulator Steering Wheel For Logitech G27 G29. Happy Fr Logitech G27 Steering Wheel Adapter Printed. Logitech G27 Repair Ifixit. Realgear Wheel Paddles Upgrade Kit For Logitech G27 Round. Logitech G27 is an awesome racing wheel. The Logitech G27 is the best racing wheel, considering the price point ($250-300). It is easy to use and is compatible with many popular racing games for PC. Verified purchase: Yes Condition: Pre-owned.
Essntially, the G29’s biggest advantage is that it is compatible with the PS4. The G27’s shifter and pedals will work with the G29 steering wheel, but the buttons on the shifter won’t work. If you have a PS4 system and already own the G27’s shifter, you may choose to skip the accessory G29 shifter. The G29’s shifter is H-shift only, and does not have the different buttons (since those are already placed on the G29 steering wheel itself). Prices for the G27 steering wheel are kind of skyrocketing these days, due to the ongoing demand and the diminishing supply. Now that Logitech are no longer manufacturing them, it seems that people are more eager to get their hands on them, even though they are approaching 7 years of age. That just goes to show how great these Logitech steering wheels are, and how popular they remain.
If you own a G27 but don’t have a PS4, there really isn’t any definite reason to switch over. The differences between the G25 and the G27 were worth switching over for at the time, but I wouldn’t be too quick to jump on the G29 wagon. I certainly would not want to do so while the G27 is still highly playable and compatible with many modern titles. Furthermore, if you plan on playing with a PC, the switch would be nearly useless, in my opinion. It would take a real die-hard gamer/buff/nerd to notice the subtle differences between the two (as far as performance goes), so don’t feel the need to get all “shut up and take my money!” on the G29.
On the other hand, it isn’t as if the G29 is simply a glorified, overpriced version of the G27 (as some upset users have made it out to be). It does have its advantages, like the improved sensor and encoder, and, yes, its compatibility with PS4. The G29 shifter accessory is also compatible with Xbox One, by the way, which is another clear advantage. Who knows? As the prices of the G27 continue to rise, perhaps it will become cheaper to purchase a G29 and a shifter as a bundle. You can always find a bargain somewhere online or offline, so keep your eyes peeled for any good deals that may be coming your way.
Logitech G27 & G29 Issues and Fixes
Common issues with the G-series steering wheels always had something to do with the encoder. Once the optical encoder began to malfunction, the whole steering wheel would lose its calibration and go haywire. There are several different fixes, and they all include replacing the encoder. If your steering wheel is still under warranty, get in touch with Logitech’s support team. If it isn’t, there are plenty of fixes out there for the G27 optical encoder, and some of them are as simple as a 10-cent washer and some super glue.
Logitech G27 & G29 Drivers
Those who are using these devices on a Windows-based PC will have access to the settings and configurations via the Logitech Gaming Software. Drivers for these steering wheels can usually be downloaded by using the software, by using the Logitech ‘downloads’ webpage, or by finding an independent driver provider online. Note: when Windows 10 was first released, G27 users who updated to the newer platform were faced with ongoing driver issues and wrongful device detection (e.g. Driving Force GT, instead of G27). Sometimes, other bugs or conflicts would come into effect and mess things up. These issues have since been fixed, and there are no outstanding or otherwise recurring issues with the PC drivers for the G27.
Logitech G27 & G29 For Xbox (One and 360) and PlayStation (3 and 4)
The newest generation of consoles (XB1 and PS4) have unique security chips inside of them, which do not directly support the Logitech G27 steering wheel. The G29 will work with the PS4, and as for the XB1 – Logitech have released the G920 (which, like the G29, does not come with a shifter), and which fits the XB1 console. As for modifications – there are various converters and adapters which can be purchased independently. These claim to enable the G27 to work with the newer generation of consoles. The only real problem is that the response time is significantly lessened, something which can greatly affect gameplay and bring the enjoyment factor way down. Do your research, and see if there is a converter out there for you. If you don’t mind the lag, it is an affordable (albeit unofficial) alternative.
Theoretically, the G27 could be brought up to grade. However, in order to do that, Logitech would have to do the following: reach out to Sony and Microsoft, request a license, recall all of their G27 units, replace a lot of the electronics, and basically make them all into a refurbished G27 wheels. I wouldn’t bank on that. There was very little chance of any of that happening – in spite of G27 fans’ sincerest wishes – and now there is an even smaller chance of that happening, with the release of the G29 wheel. It would be less expensive to produce a new wheel, which is pretty much what Logitech did.
Assetto Corsa and Logitech G29 Tonight. So much fun! pic.twitter.com/8Kl63FQxdU
— Shawn Campbell (@PlasticCardGuru) September 10, 2016
As for the older generation of game consoles (XB360 and PS3) – both of these models have already been discontinued by the manufacturer in 2015, and replaced with the newer models. Therefore, the G27’s days are numbered. It is only a matter of time. The G29 will work on the PS3, but not on the XB360. In order to get the G29 to work on an XB360, there is the option of obtaining a converter. Once again, this could affect your gameplay and add some measure of frustration to your life, or you may just get lucky and find an adapter or converter which fits your system like a glove, and performs astonishingly well. You never know, and because of that it is always a gamble.
Conclusion
I don’t really like driving. I don’t like the road rage, I don’t care for the constant responsibility, and I don’t appreciate the year-round vehicle-related maintenance. What I do like is playing racing games. I am no expert by any means, but I get around. Using steering wheels is part of the fun. I remember when I first laid eyes on my friend’s Microsoft SideWinder Force Feedback, back in the late 90’s. I was young, but I remember it well. I was pretty jealous of him, to say the least. I was too young to drive, but him and I tore up the tracks on Need For Speed and Midtown Madness anyway.
Most of us are not race car drivers, and heck – most of us would not want to be race car drivers! Maybe for a day, sure, but those guys are just a little crazy. I am all for not being normal, but all things considered, you have to admit it is a rather dangerous calling. I may be in a minority here, but I can say without a doubt that I would much rather experience the adrenaline rush, hairpin turns, and sweaty hands in the comfort of my own living room, holding on tight to my Logitech steering wheel. Is it the same as the real thing? Of course not. Does it come close? As close as it comes. Some professional race car drivers even use simulation games for off-road practice.
Obviously, simulations are for entertainment purposes only. While you could argue that there is real value to it- since some skills might transfer over to real life driving – you can’t deny that driving simulators are first and foremost a game, and nothing more. It wouldn’t feel the same at all in real life. I have never been on a real racing track, and I doubt I ever will. Regardless, it is always fun to fire up my Playstation and get a game on. I don’t do it for practice. I do it for the pure enjoyment factor. And, there is a LOT to enjoy with these G-series steering wheels. Logitech have been making gaming and computer peripherals for decades, and they know what they are doing.
The heat and criticism the company is getting over making the G29’s and G920’s shifter an independent accessory is understandable. I mean, depending on where you live, the price for a new generation Logitech steering wheel is almost as much as the price of a brand new console! But, all in all, I think that the newer steering wheels are a great option for those who own those newer consoles, and who are looking to make the most out of their racing games and driving simulators. Time will tell on that one. The G29 and G920 are still relatively new, and the more time they spend in the hands of gamers and other players, the more hindsight we will have on whether or not they are able to pass the test of time. Drive safely!
Thanks for visiting our page. If you like Logitech, check out our G900, Harmony Series and G502 features here at EduMuch!
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
The Logitech G27 controller combines a wheel, shifter, and pedals to make PC and console racing simulators more immersive. The G27 is an improved version of the G25 design released in 2006. Logitech introduced the G27 in 2010 and discontinued this controller in 2015 with the release of the G920 and G29 racing wheels.
Comparison Table
| Preview | Product |
|---|---|
| Logitech G27 Racing Wheel | |
| RaceRoom Gear Shift Holder for Logitech G25/G27 Shifter for RaceRoom GameSeats | |
| Racing Steering Wheel Stand for Logitech G25/G27/G29 and G920 Racing Steering Wheel Stand Wheel and... |
Logitech G27 Gaming Console Reviews
If you love racing simulators, you may want to invest in a racing wheel for a PC or gaming console. There are many steering wheel, shifter, and pedal controllers available on the market. You can pay as much or as little as you care to for these peripherals. Sets range in price from under 100 all the way up to 1500, but the cost of a racing wheel does not always indicate its quality.
You should not have to spend so much on a controller to make all your favorite driving simulators much more immersive. Find out why many users prefer the Logitech G27 almost 10 years after the introduction of this racing wheel.
Logitech G27 Racing Wheel
Logitech G27 Racing Wheel
- The powerful, dual-motor force feedback mechanism with helical gearing smoothly and accurately simulates traction loss
- Six-speed shifter with push-down reverse gear allows you to quickly choose exactly the right gear.
- RPM/shift indicator LEDs integrate with racing game software to indicate when the user should shift gears.
- Realistic 11-Inch wheel with leather-wrapped rim provides a more comfortable, true-to-life racing experience for hours on end.
- Steel gas, brake, and clutch pedals deliver precise throttle, braking, and shifting control for heightened realism.
The G27 steering wheel has an 11-inch diameter and provides up to 900 degrees of rotation, just like a car steering wheel. The G27 wheel has little or no free play, even after extensive use. A leather-wrapped rim makes this racing wheel more comfortable to use, and the controller features adjustable desk mount clamps that can be set to a maximum of two inches for stable operation.
This wheel features six unmarked red buttons that users can configure to any control scheme. You will need to map the Logitech G27 wheel to the controls of each simulator. The fact that there are no distinguishing markings on any of the buttons on the wheel or shifter may add to the difficulty of mapping controls. The wheel of the G27 also features F1-style paddle shifters that allow users to shift gears with their hands on the wheel.
To make the most of all the features of this racing wheel, the racing simulator software you are playing with must have support for the 10 LED lights found on the plastic fairing at the top of the wheel hub. These indicators range from green and amber to red and show players relative engine revolutions per minute as well as the achievement of desired shift points in the power curve.
Some users find that this steering wheel controller goes off-center during driving sessions. A few have reported that this issue causes simulated vehicles to veer left or right. This problem may become so pronounced that a user must turn the wheel up to 90 degrees to either the left or the right to drive in a straight line. The most common cause of steering issues with the Logitech G27 involves the calibration of a gear on the motor.
A slotted disc component is not keyed to the servo shaft, and the manufacturer relies on an interference fit to keep this important component in the proper position. This slotted disc frequently becomes cracked or works loose over time. Many users have reported this issue to Logitech and received replacement controllers.
These issues have recurred on some replacement units, but are not common complaints with the next-generation G29 and G290 racing wheels launched in 2015. Other complaints with regard to a dead zone in the G27 steering wheel may be resolved by increasing the controller sensitivity level.
RaceRoom Gear Shift Holder for Logitech G25/G27 Shifter for RaceRoom GameSeats
RaceRoom Gear Shift Holder for Logitech G25/G27 Shifter for RaceRoom GameSeatsLogitech G27 Racing Wheel Games
- For Logitech G25/G27 shifter
- For Left or Right side Use
- Individually height adjustable
- Mounting hardware included
- For use with RaceRoom RR2000 or RR1000 GameSeats
The Logitech G27 has a six-speed shifter with a push-down reverse gear that makes driving a vehicle with a manual transmission in any simulator more realistic. The G27 shifter features a steel rod topped with a leather boot. The base of the shifter feels solid, and the stick is easy to maneuver. Most users remark that this shifter provides smooth access to all the gears.
The shifter console also has four black buttons that correspond to the buttons on a conventional video game console controller as well as a directional pad. Between the stick and the paddle shifters on the wheel, the G27 enables users to choose the right gear for any driving situation. Some users have found that quick shifts between gears sometimes fail to register. They recommend slowly pressing the clutch to ensure that you shift to the desired gear.
A loose connection within the Logitech G27 shifter can cause this controller to become unresponsive. Users must contact Logitech customer service, or they may risk voiding a three-year manufacturer’s limited warranty on the controller by opening the shifter unit to fix this problem. A plastic collar inside the shifter book may also slip down the shaft and lock the shifter into a certain gear. This collar can be removed to restore functionality without causing any major issues, but these problems may prove frustrating to those who do not want to risk voiding the warranty on this controller.
Racing Steering Wheel Stand for Logitech G25/G27/G29 and G920 Racing Steering Wheel Stand Wheel and Pedals Not Included CP202
Racing Steering Wheel Stand for Logitech G25/G27/G29 and G920 Racing Steering Wheel Stand Wheel and Pedals Not Included CP202- Steel construction supports the most punishing force-feedback settings and keeps the stand and the wheel stable
- The wheel stand height can be adjusted: from 22' up to 30.7' and angle adjustable wheel platform, foldable for easy storage
- Steering wheel stand are hard mounted, so they will not move when you race and they will not fall off and pull the delicate wiring out of your wheel
- Foldable for easy storage,: 4 rubber feet combined with the steel tubes make for a smooth and stable driving experience without marking any floors
- Steering wheel stand designed to accommodate for Logitech G25 G27 G29 and G920 racing wheels ,Thrustmaster T300RS, TX F458 & T500RS, all Fanatec Wheels Notice: Wheel and Pedals not included
Steel gas, brake, and clutch pedals allow users to throttle, brake, and shift gears. The pedals on this racing controller have a different geometry than the pedal faces on the previous G25 controller, but they are not adjustable. Some users claim that the pedals are grouped too closely together for ease of use.
Opinions on Logitech G27 pedal feel and design vary from user to user. Several remark that the brake pedal feels too firm. Others complain that the controller may repeatedly fail to recognize that a user has depressed the clutch pedal. Proper pedal calibration may help to resolve some of these issues, but many simulation drivers are disappointed when they must stop driving to repeatedly recalibrate the pedals or other interfaces on this controller.
All the G27 control interfaces are integrated into one USB input rather than being separately connected. Some users do not appreciate this lack of customizability and prefer the separate plugs found on some other models or brands of racing wheel controllers. Others point out that the placement of connections and routing of wires close to the mating surface causes wiring to fray or become smashed over time.
The Logitech G27 shares many of these issues with its predecessor, the G25, which Logitech released in 2006. Most users suggest that these calibration and wiring issues are resolved in the subsequent G920 and G29 models released in 2015. You can purchase these streamlined models with just the wheel and pedals, a shifter, or a complete set with a wheel, shifter, and pedals. The separate plugs and gaming system-specific buttons make these later models popular alternatives to the G27.
Logitech G27 Force Feedback
Force feedback simulates traction loss, allowing for a more intense driving experience. This controller features a dual-motor force feedback mechanism that relies on helical gearing to simulate road feel, traction loss, and weight shift while allowing for quiet operation. The Logitech G27 is much quieter to operate than the Logitech Driving Force GT, but serious racers have identified several issues with the force feedback of the
G27 racing wheel controller that have reportedly been improved in the later G29 and G920 models.
A common objection is that the force provided by the controller is not consistent across the range of forces that racing simulator software calls for.
The G27 is known for top performance with higher forces, but has limitations when it comes to softer force feedback. Some users point out that if the software of the simulation you are playing requests approximately 15% force, the G27 provides as little as 5 percent force.
Choppy force feedback is another common issue, especially in simulators that are not native to this controller. Depending on the importance of feedback for the simulators you play and driving preferences, you may find that the G27 is a solid racing controller, or you might prefer more consistent and precise force feedback available with later models.
Taken together, the various components of the G27 controller are solid upgrades from a low-end racing controller. This affordable alternative to more expensive racing wheels has almost every feature that a racing simulator enthusiast is likely to need or want.
Logitech G27 Racing Wheel Xbox One
Compatibility
We pointed out above that the G27 was released back in 2010, prior to the current generation of video game consoles. The Logitech G27 racing wheel is native to several older games and can be made compatible with more recent titles once you map and adjust the controls. The buttons on the steering wheel and shifter are fully configurable, but some users still encounter difficulties when setting up the shifter or pedals with older simulators that have native G27 support, let alone newer games for which this controller must be fully mapped.
Out of the box, this racing wheel is compatible with PCs as well as second- and third-generation PlayStation systems.
A universal adapter may be necessary to make this racing wheel controller compatible with newer gaming systems. Most computer gamers are satisfied with the compatibility of this controller, but some PlayStation 4 and Xbox One users still encounter difficulty using this racing wheel even with an adapter.
The later Logitech G920 controller is designed for use with the Xbox One and has buttons that correspond to layout and look of this system’s controllers. The G29 features the PlayStation controller design and is compatible with the third and fourth generations of this system.
Pricing
Source: Giphy
Mid-range to expensive racing controllers are made out of very high-quality materials. The most expensive controllers are intended to emulate the feel of a vehicle rather than gaming components. Most users agree that the Logitech G27 is a solid controller that does not feel cheap, yet they point out that the shifter and pedals are less solid or consistent than higher-end racing wheels.
As Logitech discontinued this model in 2015 at the time of the release of the G29 and G920 racing wheels, you may have better luck purchasing a G27 used or through an auction site. A new G27 controller may cost up to 1000 on Amazon. For this price, you are almost sure to be able to find a better controller, both in terms of the quality of the peripherals and the compatibility of the controller with more recent titles.
If you are planning to invest in racing gear, you may also want to pick up a steering wheel stand that is compatible with these models. Stand designs compatible with all these Logitech models are available. These stands allow you to set the height of the steering wheel and shifter and lock the pedals in place to approximate the layout of a vehicle. You may find that you prefer placing the shifter closer to the wheel for easy access during simulated drives. Some stands ship fully assembled, making it a breeze to attach a Logitech racing wheel, shifter, and pedals. You have the option to keep your driving set-up assembled or fold down the stand for easy storage.
What We Think About Logitech G27
If you want to take your racing simulators to the next level, the Logitech G27 is a solid wheel controller with a shifter and pedals. If you upgrade from a cheaper racing wheel without force feedback, it may take some time for you to adjust to this controller. You should eventually be able to achieve comparable, or even faster, lap and race times with this mid-range controller. The G27 is more likely to work well with older titles and PC simulators than late-generation video game consoles.
In addition to driver compatibility with newer systems, the blank red buttons on the G27 steering wheel and black buttons on the shifter have been replaced on the newer wheels Logitech released in 2015. The G920 racing wheel has buttons that correspond to the layout and look of the Xbox One while the G29 features the PlayStation controller design. These models also resolve a number of common problems with the G27 steering wheel, shifter, and pedals.
Last update on 2021-07-14 at 13:28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API