If you’re like me, you read our previous post about building a compact sim racing rig, got to the end and were staring at the $3,500+ price tag – which didn’t even include the cost of a computer and monitor! That’s why we set out to test a more budget-friendly setup that gives you everything you need to get started with sim racing without breaking the bank or taking up a lot of space.
The structure: “The office”
My office is on the small side as I need it for working, storing my gear, filming podcasts, and now sim racing, all in a 9.5 x 11 foot room. So I needed something that I could pack up and store away when I didn’t need it. I can’t necessarily keep a massive aluminum cockpit in the middle or even next to my office, this is where the Playseat Challenge X changes the game.
Combine that with my SecretLab Magnus Pro adjustable desk: I can set up the sim rig stored underneath, lower the desk to the perfect height with the push of a button, and then extend the monitor arm so my ultrawide monitor is perfectly positioned in front of the steering wheel. This is the perfect setup for my small space.
The Cockpit: Playseat Challenge X Logitech Edition
I admit, when I saw photos of the Playseat Challenge X Logitech Edition, I was a little skeptical. I thought it would be fine to start my sim racing journey, but it wouldn’t be ideal for me as I’m taller at 6’2″ and 200lbs and take racing a little more seriously than most!
However, the engineering is really impressive as it came in a relatively small box. Assembly took about an hour, and it took another 30 minutes to get everything assembled. The instructions are really well laid out and are easy to assemble with minimal tools.
It features these “X-Adapt” hinges that allow you to adjust the seating position from a more upright “GT” position to a relaxed Formula-style position in seconds. And the great thing is that this seat doesn’t really feel like an adjustable seat. Once the X-Adapt latches are locked, the seat no longer moves, shifts or squeaks at all.
To make entry easier, the steering wheel and base are mounted on an arm and base plate that can be unlocked and pivoted to the side. The included cable ties allow you to neatly route the cables from the wheel to the ground, keeping them out of the way and tangled.
You can fine-tune the positions of the pedals and steering wheel with just a few quick turns of a dial. The pedals reach out far enough for my 1.95 meter frame and the steering wheel angle can be quickly adjusted – even while sitting. Additionally, the backrest and seat firmness can be adjusted via large Velcro straps on the back, ensuring a fit that enhances every race.
The seat material is made from what Playseat calls “ActiFit,” a breathable fabric that is very similar to what you would find in a proper racing seat. This material will keep you cool when you sweat during a long stint at the Nürburgring. The stiffness is also surprisingly good; When you step on the brake pedal, the frame remains stable. It feels like a real cockpit, not a toy.
But the real magic lies in its practicality. When you’re done racing, the whole thing folds up in seconds with the wheel and pedals still attached! It only weighs 26 pounds, so it’s compact and light enough that you can literally shove it in a closet or under a bed.
The control: Logitech G923
Since the Playseat that was provided to me was made specifically for Logitech and is a budget device, I chose the Logitech G923, which has TrueForce feedback. It’s typically available for less than the entry-level G29 set, but features TrueForce feedback, which connects directly to game physics for greater realism. The premium construction features aluminum paddle shifters, a hand-stitched leather wheel and a pressure-sensitive braking system.
The drive: Sony Playstation 5 with Assetto Corsa Competizione
The final piece of the puzzle is the Playstation 5, but you can also easily switch to the XBOX. It’s plug and play and I don’t have to bother with a PC build or additional software. I chose the cheapest version, the Slim Digital.
I used the computer mount that attaches to the SecretLab Magnus table leg to mount the PS5 and routed all network, USB and power cables through the desk. This results in a clean setup and allows for easy assembly and dismantling that takes a few minutes at most.
For racing, I chose the official GT World Challenge video game Assetto Corsa Competizione. There is a strong racing community and has been an integral part of esports for several years.
A great SIM racing starter kit
I’ve been riding this setup for a few months now and I’m really enjoying it. It offers enough engagement to get the addiction going! The steering wheel feels good in the hand and although the 2.3Nm force feedback motors are enough to provide some feedback, the handling is a bit clunky. When you hit the curb, the wheel vibrates and you can feel the ABS engage. It responds quickly to my input and feels precise once all of your personal settings are set.
The pedals feel good as they are a little progressive, but they are a bit light. My main criticism is that they are really close to each other. One of the first modifications I will make is to remove the clutch pedal and move the brake pedal to that location. The Logitech G series has been popular for many years, so there are many mods that allow you to customize it to your liking.
Overall, I’m very happy with this setup and was able to achieve fairly respectable lap times. The Playseat is definitely the best part as it gives me good support and I felt very comfortable during several late night sessions.
Cost Breakdown
- Playseat Challenge X Logitech Edition: $299.00
- Logitech G923 TRUEFORCE Racing System: $299.99
- Playstation 5 Slim Digital: $399.99
- Assetto Corsa Competizione: $39.99
Total cost: $1,038.97 plus any local sales tax
These are all prices if you were to buy it new and at its normal retail price. We’ve seen that the Playseat Challenge Since the Playstation Store regularly has Assetto Corsa Competizione on sale, bringing the price down to just $9.99, your total cost could be over $200 lower at just $814.97 plus taxes.
Disclaimer: Playseat provided the seat for review and is not subject to return.
