The competition outshines its force feedback, but 10Nm of torque is no joke.
Overall, it’s one of the most affordable options for a direct-drive sim setup.
Compatible with all Thrustmaster wheel rims.
Everything I need to get started with the T818, plus a couple of extras.
Up to 10Nm of torque with solid force feedback.
Quick-release rims with extra adapters available.
No wheel rims included.
Everything I need to get started with the T818, plus a couple of extras.
No Xbox compatibility, exclusively for PC.
Additional mounts are needed for some setups.
Disclaimer:This review was made possible by a review unit provided by Thrustmaster EU.
The company did not see the contents of the review before publishing.
The included quick-release adapter can become challenging to remove without using a flat tool for leverage.
Either way, it’s simply too heavy for most desks.
Around the back, the port arrangement is as straightforward as ever.
There have been improvements with the T818, but some unfortunate leftovers are still here, including the screw.
I skipped the screw, and it was fine.
It’s a massive improvement from the Thrustmaster TX servo base, with only one real downside.
Essentially two rims in different shapes and styles, moving the adapter was painfully difficult.
Still, most e-sport racing sim enthusiasts will likely use custom configs, and nothing stops them here.
The metallic blue accent can be easily removed and swapped for alternate colors.
Gamers love RGB, I guess.
Pushing the torque up to 10Nm makes for a realistic experience with F1 titles.
Overall, it’s an impossibly smooth experience if you kill the force feedback.
The bolt pattern differs from previous wheelbases, needing extra mounting kits for many cockpits.
It gave me an idea of exactly how precise the steering is.
Some of its competition might provide more earth-shattering feedback effects.
Still, the T818 offers fantastic accuracy in precise steering.
A couple of unused ports hint at mysterious plans for future add-ons.
This assumes you already have compatible steering wheels to attach; otherwise, that’s more cash to spend.
Thrustmaster T818: Should you buy it?
Thrustmaster is pricing the T818 aggressively enough to keep it affordable.
The quick-release system is excellent if you drop the cash on extra adapters.
T818: realistic racing with direct drive technology.
Feel the intensity and performance of unfiltered feedback with this long-awaited entry from Thrustmaster.
The locking lever is sturdy enough to trust your favorite rim will remain safely connected to the servo.
(Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
(Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
(Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
(Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
(Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
Ramping the T818 feedback up to 100% had my portable cockpit quaking in its proverbial boots.
The Logitech G PRO includes a high-quality wheel and a desk clamp compatible with cockpits.
