Choosing the right racing wheel can transform your sim racing experience from a casual pastime into a deeply immersive hobby. For Xbox and PC gamers, two names consistently dominate the entry-to-mid-level conversation: the venerable Logitech G920 and its successor, the Logitech G923. Both offer the legendary Logitech build quality and force feedback, but key differences in technology and features set them apart. Whether you're eyeing a brand-new unit or considering the excellent value of a renewed gaming gear option, understanding these differences is crucial. This guide will break down everything from the core TrueForce technology to pedal feel, helping you make an informed decision for your rig.
The Core Technology: Gear-Driven vs. TrueForce Enhanced
At their heart, both the G920 and G923 utilize a dual-motor, gear-driven force feedback system. This is Logitech's signature approach, known for its durability and distinct, coggy feel that provides strong, immediate resistance. It's a proven design that has powered millions of racing miles. However, the Logitech G923 introduces a significant software upgrade: TrueForce. TrueForce is not a new motor or gear system; instead, it's an advanced high-definition force feedback protocol. It uses real-time audio and physics data from the game to generate high-frequency vibrations and nuanced details through the wheelbase.
Think of the standard force feedback in the G920 as feeling the big bumps and curbs. TrueForce in the G923 adds the texture of the road surface, the rumble of the engine, and even gear shift vibrations directly into the wheel rim. This creates a more immersive and informative driving experience. For titles that natively support TrueForce (like Gran Turismo 7 on PlayStation—though for Xbox/PC, compatibility is game-dependent), the difference is noticeable. It makes the car feel more alive and connected to the virtual environment.
Pedal Set and Build Quality: A Side-by-Side Look
When you look at the pedal sets, the G920 and G923 appear nearly identical, and for good reason. Both feature a three-pedal setup (accelerator, brake, clutch) with a built-in progressive brake spring designed to simulate increased pressure. The pedals are made from solid stainless steel and brushed aluminum, offering a premium feel and excellent durability. The build quality here is a hallmark of Logitech's racing wheel line and is consistent across both models.
This similarity is great news for buyers considering a renewed unit. Whether you choose a renewed G920 or G923, you can expect the same robust pedal construction that can withstand aggressive heel-and-toe downshifts. The non-linear resistance on the brake pedal is particularly praised for allowing more precise modulation compared to a simple linear spring, a feature that helps both beginners and experienced sim racers improve lap times.
Compatibility and Features: Xbox, PC, and Beyond
Both wheels are officially licensed for Xbox, ensuring seamless plug-and-play compatibility with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and of course, Windows PCs. The G920 is the Xbox/PC counterpart to the PlayStation-oriented G29, while the G923 has separate Xbox/PC and PlayStation models. On the feature front, both wheels include:
- 900-degree rotation lock-to-lock.
- Dual-motor force feedback.
- Stainless steel paddle shifters.
- Console-specific buttons (Xbox guide button, menu buttons).
The G923 adds a few subtle but welcome upgrades. The rev indicator LED lights on the wheel rim are brighter and more responsive. More importantly, the G923 often includes a trial subscription to iRacing, a premier online racing service, adding immediate value for newcomers to the sim racing world. When evaluating a renewed G923, verifying the inclusion or validity of such a bonus code is a good practice.
The Renewed Advantage: Value Proposition Decoded
This is where the decision often becomes financial. The Logitech G920 has been on the market longer and frequently appears at a lower price point, especially in the renewed or refurbished category. A certified renewed G920 represents one of the best value entries into force feedback sim racing. It undergoes rigorous testing, cleaning, and inspection, often coming with a warranty, making it a low-risk, high-reward purchase for a first wheel.
The renewed G923, while potentially costing more, offers the newer TrueForce technology. The key question is: does that tech justify the price difference for you? If you play games that support TrueForce and crave the highest level of detail, the G923 is the clear choice. If you play a wider variety of titles or are primarily focused on mastering car control and racecraft with reliable force feedback, the G920 provides an exceptional experience that has stood the test of time. Both are fantastic PC sim racing and Xbox racing solutions.
Making Your Choice: Which Wheel is Right for You?
Choose the Logitech G920 if: Your budget is the primary concern, and you want the proven, most cost-effective path to quality force feedback. You play a mix of racing sims and arcade titles. You are new to sim racing and want a durable, no-fuss wheel to learn on. You're building your first gaming wheel setup and want to allocate savings towards a wheel stand or seat.
Choose the Logitech G923 if: You want the latest software-driven force feedback technology (TrueForce) for supported games. You can find a renewed model at a price close to the G920, making the upgrade a no-brainer. The included iRacing trial or other software bonuses add significant value for you. You appreciate the slightly refined aesthetics and brighter LED indicators.
Ultimately, whether you select a renewed G920 or G923, you're investing in a piece of force feedback hardware from an industry leader. Both will dramatically increase your immersion and control compared to a gamepad. The decision hinges on how much you value cutting-edge haptic detail versus maximizing value, and thankfully, in the renewed market, both paths lead to thrilling sim racing adventures.
