In the rapidly evolving world of sim racing, the importance of a high-quality racing wheel cannot be overstated. For enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience on both PlayStation 5 and PC, the HORI Racing Wheel Apex emerges as a compelling choice. As a licensed product for PS5 and compatible with PC, this wheel combines advanced features, ergonomic design, and affordability, making it a popular option for beginners and seasoned racers alike. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the core features, performance metrics, compatibility details, and user feedback to provide a complete picture of what the HORI Racing Wheel Apex offers in 2025.

Introduction to the HORI Racing Wheel Apex

The HORI Racing Wheel Apex is a versatile, officially licensed racing wheel designed to elevate the sim racing experience. Built with a focus on realism, durability, and user comfort, it caters to a broad audience—from casual gamers to competitive eSports participants. As of 2025, the wheel continues to be a popular choice owing to its reliable performance and competitive pricing.

Key Features of the HORI Racing Wheel Apex

Performance Analysis and User Experience

Force Feedback and Realism

The backbone of any racing wheel lies in its force feedback capabilities. The HORI Apex employs H.E.A.R.T. technology, offering nuanced feedback that simulates tire grip, road surface irregularities, and vehicle dynamics. User reviews consistently highlight the wheel’s ability to deliver precise, responsive feedback, which significantly enhances immersion.

Handling and Ergonomics

With a 270mm diameter, the wheel strikes an excellent balance between control and comfort. The textured grips reduce slippage, especially during aggressive turns. Adjustable tension settings allow users to tailor resistance levels, accommodating different driving styles—from casual drifting to competitive racing.

Pedal Performance

The three-pedal set includes an adjustable brake pedal with progressive resistance, mimicking real-world brake feel. The clutch pedal adds to the realism, especially in racing sim titles like Assetto Corsa and iRacing. The pedals’ construction ensures stability during intense sessions, with anti-slip rubber pads preventing movement.

Button Customization and Interface

The array of programmable buttons and paddles enables quick access to essential controls, reducing reliance on keyboard inputs. Many users customize button mappings for specific games, enhancing workflow efficiency and gameplay responsiveness.

Compatibility and Setup

The HORI Racing Wheel Apex is designed for straightforward integration with PS5 and PC. Plug-and-play functionality ensures minimal setup time—simply connect via USB, calibrate through game settings, and you’re ready to race. Compatibility lists include popular titles like:

• Gran Turismo 7
• F1 Series
• Assetto Corsa Competizione
• iRacing
• Forza Horizon 5

For PC users, some titles might require additional drivers or calibration software, but overall, the wheel maintains broad compatibility. It’s advisable to check the official [HORI website](https://www.hori.jp) for the latest firmware updates and compatibility notes.

Pricing and Value Proposition in 2025

As of 2025, the HORI Racing Wheel Apex is priced around $150 to $200, positioning it as a budget-friendly yet feature-rich option. Compared to high-end wheels that can exceed $500, the Apex offers exceptional value, especially considering its licensed status and build quality.

The Apex fits comfortably into the mid-range category, offering an impressive feature set at a competitive price, making it accessible for a broad spectrum of users.

Community Feedback and Reviews

Online forums like Reddit’s r/simracing and dedicated racing sim communities frequently mention the HORI Apex as a reliable and cost-effective wheel. User ratings often cite:

• Excellent build quality for its price
• Responsive force feedback that enhances immersion
• Easy assembly and setup process
• Limitations in force feedback refinement compared to premium wheels
• Compatibility with most racing titles

Some users recommend pairing the Apex with a dedicated wheel stand or mount to optimize stability during vigorous races. Additionally, community mods and software tweaks can extend the wheel’s customization capabilities, further boosting user satisfaction.

Comparison with Competitors

While high-end options like Fanatec and Logitech offer superior force feedback and modular customization, the HORI Apex strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it ideal for casual and semi-competitive players.

Future Outlook and Upgrades

In 2025, the racing wheel market continues to evolve with innovations like wireless connectivity, more sophisticated force feedback mechanisms, and integration with virtual reality systems. While the HORI Racing Wheel Apex remains a solid choice, users can look forward to potential firmware updates that might enhance force feedback precision or add new control features.

Additionally, the increasing popularity of eSports racing leagues could influence manufacturers to develop higher-tier models based on the Apex platform, incorporating features like modular components, customizable wheel rims, and advanced haptic feedback.

Useful Resources and Links

• Official HORI Website
• RaceDepartment Forums
• Assetto Corsa Community
• Reddit r/simracing
• VirtualR – Sim Racing News

As the landscape of sim racing continues to grow, the HORI Racing Wheel Apex remains a noteworthy contender, offering a combination of licensed quality, responsive feedback, and affordability. Whether you’re racing for fun or honing skills for competitive play, the Apex provides a reliable platform to elevate your virtual driving experience in 2025.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com