In this article we will make a comparison of the Fanatec CSL DD vs Moza R5 Bundle. We will analyze the complete packages including hoop and pedals. We have used the Fanatec CSL DD QR2 Ready2Race BMW and the Moza R5 Bundle.
If you’ve been simracing for a while with a low-end steering wheel like a Logitech G29 or a Thrustmaster T300, you’re sure to want to make the jump to direct drive wheels and improve your best scores in F1 24, iRacing or Assetto Corsa.
That’s why I have analyzed the two cheapest direct drive steering wheels on the market in this 2024. The two best-selling brands in the world of racing simulation.
Below I show you my conclusions with a comparison table, my personal opinion and the pros and cons of these two steering wheels.
Both are among the best simracing steering wheels.
If you want more information, the Moza R5 Bundle base has already been reviewed in the following article -> Moza R5
If you want more information, the Fanatec CSL DD base has already been reviewed in the following article -> Fanatec CSL DD
Fanatec CSL DD vs Moza R5 Bundle
Fanatec CSL DD
Moza R5
Our Verdict
From our point of view, the Moza R5 Base is very similar to Fanatec CSL DD as both have direct drive technology (DD) but Moza’s has a little more force, 5.5 N-m, while Fanatec’s has 5 N-m but it is extendable up to 8 N-m.
However, if we had to buy one we would opt for Moza R5 Bundle that although it is about 50 € more expensive than Fanatec gives us better driving sensations. In addition, we find the quality of the steering wheel and shift paddles a little better.
However, if you want to upgrade the kit in the future, the Fanatec has a boost kit to increase the force up to 8 Nm, while in Moza you have to change the base for the R9.
Comparison Table – Key Differences
Product | Moza R5 Bundle | Fanatec CSL DD BMW |
Image | | |
Plataform | PC | PC and XBOX |
Force Feedback | Direct Drive | Direct Drive |
Force | 5.5 Nm | 5 Nm (boost 8 N·m) |
Pedals | Yes | Yes |
Wheel included | Yes | Yes |
Price | 439$ | 569$ |
Rating | 8.9 | 8.8 |
The first thing that strikes you when you compare these two simracing bases is the size, in this sense the Moza R5 is smaller and more compact than the Fanatec CSL DD.
The price, at this moment of 2024, of the Fanatec CSL DD BMW is 449€ and the Moza R5 Bundle 509€. So the Fanatec is more economical.
As for the platforms on which each wheel works, the Fanatec has greater compatibility as it is compatible with XBOX and PC, while the Moza is only compatible with PC.
Here is a summary of the features:
- Torque:
- CSL DD: 5 N m extendable up to 8Nm with boost kit.
- R5: 5.5 N m.
- Feedback
- Both: Force feedback direct drive feels very precise on both steering wheels while driving. The differences are very subtle.
- Flywheel diameter:
- CSL DD BMW: 30 cm diameter
- R5: 28 cm diameter
- Platforms:
- CSL DD: Compatible with XBOX and PC.
- R5: Compatible only with PC.
- Price:
- CSL DD BMW: The current price is 445€.
- R5: The price of the Moza R5 Bundle is around 509€.
Outstanding Common Features:
- Pedals: The pedals are similar in both packages, constructed of metal. Clutch pedal not included.
- Both: both flywheels are excellent value for money and very easy to set up.
Fanatec BMW vs Moza steering wheels
In the Moza R5 Bundle vs Fanatec CSL DD comparison it is also important to analyze the Sim Racing hoops.
The R5’s D-shaped steering wheel is upholstered in leather and is 28 cm in diameter. The paddle shifter feels very smooth and precise and the QR (quick release) is one of the best steering wheel controls available.
Fanatec’s BMW rim measures 30 cm in diameter and has a smooth rubber coated rim. The shifting feels smooth but less precise than Moza’s.
The quick release of the steering wheel (QR) is better on the Moza R5.
In terms of build quality, I think there is no question that the Moza R5 has the best build quality. Looking at the steering wheel, which is a mix of leather and aluminum, it looks and feels much better than the Fanatec steering wheel.
Moza R5 vs CSL DD Which one has better pedals?
The pedal bases that are standard in the package look very similar. They are both 2 modular pedal bases constructed primarily of metal. Both use Hall sensors to measure your acceleration and braking. There are 2 differences that distinguish these pedals. One is that the Fanatec pedal faces are plastic and the other is the additional shock absorber for the brake.
When it comes to the pedals, I would prefer the Fanatec ones. The brake foam they added helps the brake feel a little more progressive than with the Moza brake. Both work well, but you clearly feel that these pedals are cheap. I would compare the braking feel to the Thrustmaster T3PA pedals. Not bad, but…
Driving Sensations
The driving feel of the Moza and Fanatec are comparable and after setting them up well, I would say the Moza has a little more detail and smoothness than the Fanatec. I like the R5 a little better, but this is a personal opinion. I have felt it smoother and with a little more feedback strength.
As for lap times, I have managed to do the same lap times with both F1 and iRacing.
For Fanatec, I have read user reviews that have problems with the collar on the shaft coming loose sometimes and disconnecting the flywheel from time to time. I have not had that problem but this is a known issue and can be resolved by re-tightening the collar around it.
Some say they also have some problems with Moza’s quick release. Personally, I did not have any problems.
Configuration software
As for software, the Moza R5 bundle software is really good. Fanatec has a very decent configuration panel and you also have the Fanalab software that allows some more configuration.
But I prefer the ease of use and cleanliness of the Moza software over the 2 different programs I have for Fanatec. I think they both have a very nice ecosystem.
Here is the Fanatec CSL DD configuration for the EA Sports WRC game-> Fanatec CSL DD EA WRC Settings
Moza R5 vs Fanatec CSL DD: Final Recommendation
Fanatec CSL DD vs Moza R5? Whatever your final choice is, it must be said that both simracing steering wheels are very good. Some users prefer Fanatec CSL DD and others Moza R5.
In my case, I prefer Moza R5 for the sensations it gives me when driving, I think I have a little more information about the track and the small details.
As for where to buy the steering wheel, I recommend that you look at Moza’s official website.
and Fanatec or buy it through Amazon, which offers shipping and return guarantees. Something that is very important if you have failures with the simracing base after several months of use. Also if you buy through Amazon I will get a commission that will allow me to continue analyzing steering wheels.
Fanatec CSL DD
