Cockpits to get started in sim racing
If you're passionate about sim racing, you know the simulation experience improves considerably once you have a cockpit. This kind of structure provides stability and a realistic driving position, something essential for virtual drivers who want to get the most out of their sim equipment. However, finding a quality cockpit at an affordable price isn't always easy.
At Simufy, we've selected some of the best budget cockpits we have available, perfect for anyone who wants to move up to a more complete setup without spending a fortune.
SimXPro GT Cockpit
The SimXPro GT is the entry point to aluminium profile cockpits. Its 40x40 mm chassis with steel brackets delivers the rigidity that an entry-level steel frame doesn't, and you can feel it in the Force Feedback: less flex, less unwanted vibration and more of the detail your wheelbase sends.
It supports Direct Drive wheelbases up to 10 Nm and load cell pedals up to 150 kg, with a wheel mount adjustable in height and tilt, and pedals adjustable in height, reach and tilt. It measures 125 x 50 x 59 cm without a seat and weighs between 20 and 22 kg, so it fits where a large rig won't. It doesn't include a seat, which is an advantage if you already have one or want to choose it separately.
It's for anyone moving on from a desk-mounted wheel who wants a chassis they won't outgrow: it expands with a single or triple monitor mount, a PC tray and a handbrake mount without changing the structure.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 40x40 aluminium profile: real rigidity, not entry-level steel | Seat not included |
| Supports Direct Drive up to 10 Nm and 150 kg load cells | The 10 Nm limit falls short for high-end bases |
| Wheel and pedals adjustable on several axes | The base mounts from below: the hole pattern must match |
| Compact at 125 x 50 cm, and expandable without changing the chassis | Recommended for up to 1.90 m and 90 kg |
| Shifter mount included, ships in a single box |
SimXPro R80 Cockpit
The SimXPro R80 is another excellent cockpit that combines a reasonable price with solid construction. Built from reinforced V2 4080 aluminium profile, this cockpit provides stability for the most demanding drivers. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable driving position, which is crucial for long sim racing sessions.
Another advantage of the SimXPro R80 is its ability to adapt to a wide range of peripherals, from wheels to high-end pedals. If you're looking for a cockpit that offers durability without stretching your budget too far, the SimXPro R80 is a highly recommended choice.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reinforced V2 version in 4080 aluminium profile | Takes up more space due to its sturdy design |
| Wheel, pedal and shifter mounts included as standard | Slightly higher price than other entry-level models |
| Compatible with conventional wheels and Direct Drive bases | Somewhat more complex assembly |
| Modular: expands without changing the chassis |
GTRacer 2.0 Cockpit
The GTRacer 2.0 from Next Level Racing is the evolution of the GTRacer, and it comes with a wider, more padded GT seat, a reinforced dual recline mechanism and an angle-adjustable pedal plate. It supports Direct Drive bases up to 13 Nm and has an integrated shifter and handbrake mount that fits on the left or right.
Its main advantage is still value for money: the seat is included and it accommodates users from 130 to 200 cm and up to 130 kg. It also has a mounting post for a ButtKicker if you want to add vibration.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| GT seat included, wider and with lumbar support | Not foldable: needs a dedicated space |
| Reinforced dual recline, firm under heavy braking | The 13 Nm limit rules out high-end bases |
| Angle-adjustable pedal plate, supports load cells | Weighs 37 kg: not easy to move |
| Shifter and handbrake mount, on the left or right | |
| ButtKicker mounting post to add vibration |
SimXPro GT-RS Cockpit
The SimXPro GT-RS is a very attractive option for anyone looking for a premium experience at a tight price. With a premium-grade aluminium structure and laser-cut hardened steel, and a modular chassis adjustable in height, width, angle and depth, this cockpit offers excellent comfort and an optimal driving position. The seat is not included: it takes bucket seats up to 420 x 420 mm. What's more, its sturdiness means it can handle the most demanding setups, from high-torque wheels to load cell pedals.
Although it sits at the top end of this list in terms of price, it's still an affordable option considering the performance it offers. It's perfect for advanced sim racers who want to improve their driving experience without having to invest in high-end cockpits.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Premium-grade aluminium and laser-cut hardened steel | Seat not included |
| Supports Direct Drive up to 25 Nm and hydraulic pedals | Higher price than the basic models |
| Adjustable in height, width, angle and depth | Takes up more space |
| Top or front wheel mounting | Assembly takes time |
| Comes with wheel deck, pedal deck, and shifter and handbrake mounts |
Sim Factory Competizione Cockpit
The Sim Factory Competizione Cockpit is a premium yet affordable option, standing out for its aluminium and steel structure, with 5 and 10 mm aluminium plates, and a customisable design for sim racers. Its chassis supports different configurations, such as standard or inverted pedal mounting and options for integrated or external monitor mounts (single or triple). This cockpit provides great stability and flexibility, ideal for custom setups aiming for maximum ergonomics.
It's the perfect choice for drivers looking for a complete, adjustable cockpit, optimised for long sim racing sessions and demanding setups.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Aluminium and steel with 5 and 10 mm plates, made in Italy | High price compared with other models |
| Standard or inverted pedal mounting | Needs a dedicated space: 74 x 146 cm |
| Single monitor up to 50", triple 42" and top 32" | Shipped as a kit: assembly can take hours |
| Adjustable in distance and height for drivers of any height | |
| Compatible with PC, PS5, PS4 and Xbox |
Next Level Racing Wheel Stand 2.0 (Foldable)
The Next Level Racing Wheel Stand 2.0 is an excellent option for those who need a flexible cockpit that's easy to store. Unlike traditional cockpits, this wheel stand folds, which makes it a perfect solution for anyone without a dedicated sim racing space at home. Its laser-cut carbon steel structure keeps the stand stable while driving. It's designed for entry-level and mid-range wheels and pedals —Logitech, Thrustmaster and Fanatec—, not for high-end equipment.
This stand is ideal if you're looking for an affordable solution you can easily put away after your gaming sessions, without giving up the immersive experience a cockpit offers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Foldable with quick release: stows away in seconds | Less stable than a full cockpit |
| Laser-cut carbon steel | Designed for entry-level and mid-range gear, not high-end |
| Shifter and handbrake mounts included and reversible | Seat not included: requires the GTSeat Add-on |
| Expands into a full cockpit with the GTSeat Add-on | |
| Fits heights from 120 to 210 cm |
GT Lite Pro Foldable Cockpit
The GT Lite Pro is one of the best foldable cockpits on the market for anyone who wants a realistic sim racing setup without taking up much space. This cockpit stands out for being fully foldable, which makes it easy to store after use and an ideal option for those with limited space.
Despite being foldable, the GT Lite Pro doesn't compromise on stability or ergonomics. It supports bases up to 13 Nm —entry-level Direct Drive, belt-drive and gear-drive— with two reinforcement straps, so you can enjoy a complete driving experience without the structure permanently taking over your room. It has built-in wheels and folds with the peripherals still mounted. Its value for money makes it one of the best options in the budget foldable cockpit segment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Folds with peripherals mounted and has wheels | Less stable than a fixed cockpit |
| Padded seat included, with lumbar and shoulder support | More limited adjustment than a non-foldable cockpit |
| Supports up to 13 Nm with two reinforcement straps | The 13 Nm limit rules out high-end bases |
| Tool-free assembly and adjustment | |
| Supports a shifter and handbrake at the same time |
Choosing a budget cockpit doesn't mean compromising on quality. The models we've shown you stand out for their sturdiness, stability and comfort, letting you enjoy sim racing to the full without spending too much. And if space is a concern, foldable cockpits like the Wheel Stand 2.0 or the GT Lite Pro offer a perfect solution for sim racers who need to optimise their setup without giving up a unique experience.
Whether you're looking for a compact cockpit like the SimXPro GT or a foldable option like the GT Lite Pro, Simufy has a range of cockpits to suit your needs and your budget. And remember that you can also customise your cockpit to your needs or screen configuration, so we recommend checking out all the cockpit accessories available on our website.
Written by Salva Talens
Professional esports driver and coach, co-founder of Simufy Academy
Engineer and professional esports driver, co-founder of Simufy Academy. He races in the iRacing top split with over 9,000 iRating and has qualified for the Porsche TAG Heuer Esports Supercup. He knows hardware from the only place that matters: lap pace.