Which PlayStation-Licensed Base Is Best For Me?

Choosing the right PlayStation-compatible Base is an important first step into sim racing on the Sony platform. How much torque is enough? Do I have a good upgrade path? What’s the best value? Let’s take a look.

Before we cover the current lineup, a quick nod to two discontinued classics: the CSL Elite Wheel Base+ and the Podium Wheel Base DD1 PS4 (sold as part of the Podium Racing Wheel F1).

Both remain fully compatible with PS4 and PS5, so they remain viable options on the used market. Just be mindful of quick release requirements.

They're solid bits of kit, but today’s bases benefit from newer motor tech, better thermal design, and a cleaner upgrade path.

The Gran Turismo DD Pro Wheel Base is your gateway into PlayStation-licensed Direct Drive technology, built around Fanatec’s second-generation motor architecture.

You can buy it in two ways:

• As part of the Gran Turismo DD Pro bundle, which includes a multi-purpose wheel designed by Polyphony Digital, a table clamp, and Hall effect pedals. This is a superb starter set. Everything you need is in the box, and you’re already on a clear upgrade path as your interest in sim racing grows.
• As the standalone Gran Turismo DD Pro Wheel Base, which comes bundled with the Boost Kit 180, giving you the full 8 Nm of torque out of the gate.

The standalone Gran Turismo DD Pro Wheel Base is ideal if you want to build a custom setup from day one, choosing your own wheel and pedals. The bundle version, meanwhile, is perfect for newcomers who want everything in one box, ready to plug and play.

Here you jump from 8 Nm to a mighty 15 Nm, which is not a subtle upgrade. The perception of higher torque does not necessarily scale in a linear fashion, and ClubSport DD+ certainly feels like at least double the performance. That extra torque translates directly into clearer details, and more strength for handling heavier high-end wheels.

Although it uses the same second-generation motor architecture, everything has been redesigned and reinforced: motor structure, electronics, and housing. This is optimized for long sessions and heavy steering loads. And it supports FullForce, which adds an extra layer of fine vibration in supported games, including Gran Turismo 7.

It also forms the heart of two premium PlayStation bundles: Gran Turismo DD Extreme – the flagship Gran Turismo bundle, and ClubSport Racing Wheel F1 – the official hardware of the F1 Sim Racing World Championship.

Go with Gran Turismo DD Pro if you want an approachable entry point, or the standalone base if you want to be more selective about the components from the start. Choose ClubSport DD+ if you crave higher torque and richer feedback and FullForce support. Either way, you’ll have a fantastic experience on PlayStation with Fanatec Direct Drive.