Direct drive force feedback has become the holy grail of sim racing. Hobbyists want the most realistic, responsive, and customizable experience to take their driving immersion to the next level. That’s where wheel bases like Simucube and Simagic come in.
These two brands produce some of the best direct drive wheel bases on the market. But how do you choose between them?
In this guide, we’ll compare Simucube and Simagic across key factors like power, precision, features, and more. Let’s rev up and see how these high-end DD bases stack up!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Simucube | Simagic |
| Peak Torque | Up to 40Nm (Simucube 2) | Up to 20Nm (Alpha) |
| Force Feedback Detail | Very good | Excellent |
| Customization | Fully adjustable with SimuCUBE software | Limited adjustments |
| Wheel Rims | Bring your own | High-end integrated options |
| Cost | $$-$$$ | $$$ |
| Quick Release | Spline shaft | Dual ball bearing URS |
Overview Of Simucube And Simagic
First, let’s look at what each brand offers:
Simucube
- Founded in 2014 in Germany
- Offers the Simucube 1 and Simucube 2 wheel bases
- Known for high strength, customization, and value
- Torque ranges from 10Nm on the Simucube 1 Sport to 40Nm for the Simucube 2 Ultimate
Simagic
- Chinese company founded in 2017
- Produces the Alpha, Alpha Mini, and Alpha Mini Pro bases
- Focuses on precision, detail, and plug-and-play simplicity
- Torque ranges from 10Nm on the Alpha Mini to 20Nm for the Alpha
Both companies have excellent reputations in the sim racing community. Let’s see how their wheel bases stack up.
Torque And Power
When it comes to direct drive force feedback, torque is the name of the game. More torque means you can feel stronger and more nuanced forces through the wheel.
Simucube’s flagship Simucube 2 Ultimate outputs an industry-leading 40Nm of torque. This gives it the edge in pure power over Simagic’s 20Nm Alpha wheel base.
However, Simagic’s bases provide plenty of detail and precision even at lower peak torque levels. And the Alpha system offers great wheel rim options like the carbon fiber Formula Pro.
Winner: Simucube for max torque, but Simagic still impresses.
Precision And Detail
While torque is important, it’s precision and detail that allow you to feel every tire slip and terrain bump. This can make the difference between virtual driving that feels like a game versus true driving immersion.
Here, Simagic shines. Their control electronics and firmware produce an exceptionally detailed and nuanced force feedback experience. Effects come through smooth and natural, even as the torque ramps up.
Simucube also provides excellent detail, although some users feel Simagic has the slight edge. But Simucube offers tons of customization options to dial in the precision to your liking.
Winner: Draw – both are excellent, but Simagic feels a tad more refined out of the box.
Features And Customization
When it comes to features and customization, Simucube is the clear winner. While Simagic focuses more on refinement and simplicity, Simucube lets you tweak and tailor the experience exactly how you want.
With the user-friendly SimuCUBE software, you can customize:
- Torque curves
- Steering system inertia
- Wheel damping
- Force effects like road bumps, tire slip, suspension movement
- And much more
Simagic uses predefined profiles without ability to modify torque curves or effects.
Winner: Simucube for unparalleled customizability.
Quick Releases And Wheel Rims
Both Simucube and Simagic use excellent quick release systems to easily switch wheels. Simucube uses a simple spline-based QR that locks securely into place.
Simagic’s URS system has a dual ball bearing locking mechanism that creates a super smooth, wobble-free connection.
For wheel rims, Simagic has gorgeous high-end options like the aforementioned Formula Pro carbon fiber wheel. Simucube focuses just on the wheel base, letting you bring your own rims.
Winner: Draw – both have great QR systems. Simagic takes the edge on pre-built wheels.
Also watch this video!
Cost And Value
When it comes to price, Simucube 2 and Simagic Alpha bases have comparable costs in the $1000-$1500 range. You pay for what you get with these high-end systems.
However, Simucube 1 models provide excellent performance for hundreds less. So you get more customization and torque for the money with Simucube.
Winner: Simucube for outstanding performance per dollar.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
For serious sim racers, the Simucube 2 is definitely worth the investment. The 40Nm of torque provides jaw-droppingly realistic force feedback. And being able to fully customize the experience via the SimuCUBE software is incredibly powerful. The 2 Ultimate package gives you the pinnacle of DD performance.
Simucube was founded in Germany in 2014 by long-time hardware engineer Bernhard Rosing. The wheel bases are designed and manufactured in-house by Simucube.
The Simucube 2 Pro uses an industry-leading 40Nm Kollmorgen AKM servomotor capable of 10,000 RPM. This brushless AC synchronous motor provides unmatched torque and detail in the compact DD wheel base.
Yes, the Simagic Alpha Mini and Alpha Mini Pro are direct drive wheel bases. They use a single brushless motor for smooth, detailed force feedback up to 10Nm of torque. The slightly larger Alpha model is DD as well with 20Nm of peak torque.
Verdict: Which is Better for You?
Based on this comparison, which high-end direct drive wheel base is right for your virtual driving needs? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Simucube is the choice if you want:
- The pinnacle of torque and power
- Complete fine-tuning over force feedback
- Great value for money spent
Simagic is ideal for those who:
- Prioritize refinement and detail
- Want beautiful pre-built wheel rim options
- Prefer a simplified plug-and-play experience
Either of these industry-leading direct drive brands will level up your sim racing. It comes down to your budget and preferences for customization Vs. refinement. Both deliver an incredible and realistic driving experience.