Choosing the right racing wheel can dramatically transform your sim racing experience, turning a casual game into an immersive, heart-pounding competition. Two of Logitech's most popular offerings, the G923 and its predecessor, the Logitech G29, often find themselves at the center of this decision. While both are excellent entry-to-mid-level wheels, understanding their differences is crucial to investing in the setup that matches your platform, budget, and performance expectations. This comprehensive guide will break down every aspect, from the revolutionary TRUEFORCE feedback to pedal feel and compatibility, helping you decide whether to upgrade to the newer model or if the classic G29 still holds its value.
Core Technology Showdown: TRUEFORCE vs. Dual-Motor Force Feedback
The most significant leap from the G29 to the G923 lies in its feedback system. The Logitech G923 introduces TRUEFORCE technology, a game-changer for tactile immersion. Unlike traditional force feedback that simulates effects through motor resistance, TRUEFORCE is a high-speed, high-fidelity audio-tactile system. It connects directly to a game's audio engine, translating detailed sound data—like engine rumble, tire scrub, road texture, and gear shifts—into precise, high-frequency vibrations in the wheel itself. This happens at an astonishing 4000 Hz, offering a level of detail and responsiveness the G29's dual-motor system simply cannot match.
The classic Logitech G29 utilizes a reliable dual-motor force feedback system. It provides strong, tangible resistance for effects like understeer, oversteer, and curb strikes. While effective and proven over years of use, its feedback can feel more generalized and "notchy" due to its gear-driven mechanism. The G923 retains this gear-driven base but superimposes the nuanced TRUEFORCE vibrations on top, resulting in a much richer and more informative driving experience. For gamers seeking the most immersive connection to the virtual road, the G923's technological edge is substantial.
Performance and Responsiveness: Feeling the Road
Building on the feedback technology, the overall performance metrics also differ. The G923 operates at a default 1000 Hz report rate (compared to the G29's 400 Hz), meaning it communicates with your PC or console more than twice as often. This translates to slightly reduced input lag and smoother, more immediate feedback. In fast-paced racing situations, every millisecond counts, and the G923 provides a marginal but perceptible advantage in control.
Both wheels feature a 900-degree rotation lock-to-lock and similar maximum rotational force. However, the feel is distinct. The G29's feedback is robust and weighty, perfect for learning car control. The G923, with TRUEFORCE, adds a layer of texture; you can feel the difference between asphalt, rumble strips, and gravel in a way that provides crucial instinctual cues. This makes the newer wheel particularly appealing for serious sim racing enthusiasts who rely on fine details to shave seconds off their lap times.
Design, Build Quality, and Pedals
At first glance, the wheels share a nearly identical silhouette. Both boast hand-stitched leather wraps on the rim, providing a premium, grippy feel during long sessions. The G923 introduces a more subdued, contemporary aesthetic with its grey accents and red stitching, moving away from the G29's traditional racing red and blue. The button layouts are almost identical, with programmable dual clutch paddles and familiar console buttons.
The pedal sets, however, tell a different story. The G923's pedals received a quiet but important revision. While both are three-pedal sets (accelerator, brake, clutch) with a non-linear brake pedal for progressive resistance, users often report the G923's brake pedal has a more consistent and refined feel. The potentiometers (the sensors measuring pedal travel) are also updated for improved longevity and accuracy. For those who prioritize pedal feel, the G923 set offers a slight but meaningful upgrade over the G29's already solid pedals.
Compatibility: PS5, PS4, PC, and Mac
This is a critical deciding factor for many buyers. The Logitech G29 is officially compatible with PlayStation 4 and PC (with PlayStation button prompts). To use it on a PlayStation 5, you are limited to playing PS4-native games on your PS5 console, which covers many popular titles but excludes true next-gen PS5 racing games.
The Logitech G923, specifically the model with "PS5" in its name, offers native compatibility with PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC. This future-proofs your investment, ensuring you can play the latest Gran Turismo and other PS5-exclusive racing titles without any workarounds. If you own or plan to own a PS5, the G923's native support is a compelling reason to choose it over its predecessor.
Software and Customization
Both wheels are fully customizable through Logitech's G HUB software on PC. This powerful suite allows you to create multiple profiles, adjust force feedback strength, fine-tune pedal sensitivity, and remap buttons for different games. The key difference is that G HUB unlocks the full potential of the G923's TRUEFORCE system, letting you adjust the intensity of the audio-tactile effects to your preference. For the G29, the software controls the standard force feedback parameters. While both are highly tunable, the G923 simply has more advanced parameters to tweak, thanks to its newer technology.
Price and Value Proposition
The Logitech G29 often holds a significant price advantage, especially when found on sale or as a certified refurbished unit. It represents incredible value for someone entering the world of sim racing on PS4 or PC, providing a robust, reliable, and fully-featured experience without breaking the bank.
The Logitech G923 commands a higher price point, reflecting its next-gen TRUEFORCE technology, PS5 native support, and refined pedals. You are paying for a more immersive experience and future compatibility. The question of value hinges on how much you prize tactile detail and whether you need to use it with a PlayStation 5.
Verdict: Who Should Choose Which Wheel?
Choose the Logitech G923 if:
- You own a PlayStation 5 and want to play native PS5 racing games.
- You crave the most immersive, detailed force feedback and value high-fidelity tactile sensations from TRUEFORCE.
- You are a serious sim racer looking for every performance edge, like the higher 1000 Hz report rate.
- Future-proofing your setup for upcoming console generations is a priority.
Choose the Logitech G29 if:
- Your primary platforms are PlayStation 4 or PC, and you don't require native PS5 support.
- You are on a tighter budget and want the best possible value in a proven, high-quality racing wheel.
- You are new to sim racing and want a dependable, full-featured wheel to learn the ropes without overspending.
- The classic, robust dual-motor force feedback meets your needs for learning car control and having fun.
Ultimately, both the Logitech G923 and G29 are standout products in the racing wheel market. The G923 is the clear technological successor, offering a more nuanced and next-gen experience, especially for PS5 owners. The G29 remains a legendary workhorse, providing phenomenal performance for its price. Your choice depends on your platform, your budget, and how deeply you want to feel the virtual road beneath your wheels. Whichever you choose, you're stepping into a high-quality sim racing experience that will elevate your game for years to come.
