Podium Button Module Endurance vs. Podium Button Module Rally – What’s the Difference?

When it comes to high-performance racing simulators, the button module provides quick and efficient control over the vehicle’s functions. Two standout Fanatec options are the Podium Button Module Endurance and the Podium Button Module Rally. Both modules cater to different racing styles and needs, so understanding their features and differences can help drivers choose the right one based on their specific preferences and the type of racing they are most involved in.

The Podium Button Module Endurance is designed primarily with endurance racing in mind, offering an ergonomic layout that suits long sessions where accessibility and comfort are paramount. This button module features a total of 12 buttons[MV1] , including several rotary encoders, allowing drivers to make rapid adjustments to settings like traction control, brake bias or fuel mixture without taking their eyes off the track. The large buttons are designed for easy access and are spaced out to reduce the likelihood of accidental presses – important when fatigue starts to set in during long races.

The buttons themselves are highly responsive, offering tactile feedback that helps prevent misclicks, which is vital during high-speed simulations. Additionally, the module features a minimalist design, with no overwhelming visual clutter, allowing the driver to focus on the race without being distracted by unnecessary controls.

One additional feature of the Endurance module is its versatility, as it can be mounted on various Podium or ClubSport steering wheels, like the ClubSport Wheel Rim GT3 Endurance, allowing users to tailor the layout to their personal preference.

In contrast, the Podium Button Module Rally is specifically tailored for rally and off-road racing. It also features a combination of buttons and rotary encoders, but with a higher emphasis on versatility. This module comes with 9 buttons, two 5-way d-pads, three 12-way multi-position switches, and a layout geared toward fast-paced, in-the-moment decisions, where a rally driver needs instant access to key functions like traction control, map adjustments, and power delivery.

The Rally module has an aggressive design, with buttons that are often larger and more prominent, which is beneficial for drivers needing to differentiate controls without looking down. This design is essential when navigating rough terrains where the driver’s hands may not always be in a fixed position on the wheel. The ergonomic design prioritizes function over form, with robust buttons that offer firm, tactile feedback, ensuring that the driver’s inputs are registered even under intense conditions.

In terms of build, the Rally module incorporates materials that are both lightweight and rugged. While the Endurance module is geared toward long-distance stability, the Rally module is designed to withstand the abrupt and intense movements characteristic of rally racing.

While both modules are top-tier products in the world of sim racing, the Podium Button Module Endurance excels in providing comfort and reliability for long-distance racing, offering ample control over vehicle adjustments during extended sessions. The Podium Button Module Rally is optimized for the specific needs of rally racing, with a design tailored to the quick, erratic nature of off-road driving and a focus on rapid, tactile button presses.