Fanatec's latest wheelbase, the Podium DD, is here, providing an impressive 25Nm of constant torque at a competitive price point. However, with Fanatec's other wheelbases now significantly cheaper, the question arises: is this upgrade worthwhile?
After reviewing the excellent ClubSport GT Cockpit earlier this year, it was only fitting to test Fanatec's new flagship wheelbase with it. The Podium DD offers 25Nm of consistent torque, boostable to 33Nm, placing it at the top of Fanatec's range. The only snag is that Fanatec recently boosted the torque values of its cheaper wheelbases, bringing them dangerously close to the Podium DD, creating a value dilemma despite its competitive market pricing.
Fanatec Podium DD Design and Features
The standout feature is the advertised 25Nm constant torque and 33Nm boost, which few other wheelbases can match. But there's more: Fanatec's build quality has improved significantly, and the Podium DD is another step forward, with the casing, motor shaft, and bearing seats made from aluminium, exuding high quality. A diamond-cut Fanatec logo adds a nice touch.
Fanatec's offset segmented rotor design reduces magnetic cogging torque, while its patented FluxBarrier technology enhances efficiency and smoothness. A notable inclusion is a 10 cm shaft extension, allowing users to move the wheel closer and fit a monitor nearer for greater immersion without affecting force feedback. The wheelbase is compatible with PC and Xbox, but not PlayStation 5.
Design and Features Score: 4.5/5
Fanatec Podium DD Performance
Performance-wise, the Podium DD impresses with strength, smoothness, and consistency across sim titles like F1 25, Le Mans Ultimate, Assetto Corsa Evo, and Forza Horizon 6. Compared to the ClubSport DD+, it offers better responsiveness and force-feedback feel, with reactive steering and enhanced subtle feedback crucial for handling cars at the limit. There is no cogging or deadzone issues, and it excels in high-stress moments like oversteer recovery.
Against similar Nm-level wheelbases from Simagic or Asetek, the Podium DD falls slightly behind in smoothness and feel, especially under traction and in high-speed corners—though the difference is subtle. It is very close to being the best overall wheelbase but not quite there.
The 25Nm (33Nm boost) torque is impressive, but most sim racers will not use it at full power, as it is too strong for normal control. The ideal sweet spot is between 10Nm and 16Nm, providing sufficient strength and feedback while maintaining control. A stronger wheelbase turned down to this range offers more headroom and detailed force feedback compared to a wheelbase maxing out at 15Nm.
However, the ClubSport DD+, now capable of 18Nm after a recent update, offers a similar driving experience within the sweet spot, making the Podium DD's higher price hard to justify despite being the better wheelbase. Another minor gripe is the simplified Fanatec software, which, while easy at first glance, becomes confusing for setting profiles or per-game settings, especially compared to Moza or Simagic software. The lack of readily available game presets adds unnecessary setup time, particularly for beginners.
FullForce, Fanatec's proprietary force feedback system, enhances immersion similarly to Logitech's TRUEFORCE, especially in Assetto Corsa Evo where it simulates road feel impressively. However, only three titles (Assetto Corsa Evo, iRacing, Gran Turismo 7) support it, limiting its current selling point.
Performance Score: 4/5
Fanatec Podium DD Value for Money
The Podium DD MSRP is €1,099.95 / $1,199.99 (roughly £950), placing it in the premium wheelbase market but offering good value for its Nm rating. Compared to the Simucube SC3 Pro (£1,399 for 25Nm) or Simucube 3 Ultimate (£2,899 for 35Nm), it is strong value. Even against the Asetek Invicta (just over £1,000 for 27Nm), it is competitive. The Moza R25 (£899) offers less Nm, but the Podium DD can output 8Nm more.
Its biggest competition comes from Fanatec's own ClubSport DD+, which now produces 18Nm and costs just £691, supporting PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. While the Podium DD is better, the ClubSport DD+ is nearly £300 cheaper, still excellent, and supports more platforms.
Value for Money Score: 4/5
Fanatec Podium DD Overall Thoughts
The Podium DD is Fanatec's best wheelbase to date, offering immense torque, detailed force feedback, and superior build quality. For those seeking a wheelbase with this torque level, it is a superb option, especially within Fanatec's vast ecosystem of pedals and wheels. While not the best on the market in pure performance, its price point makes it easy to recommend for most users.
However, if you already own a ClubSport DD+, the extra cost for an upgrade is hard to justify, given the price difference and the DD+'s strong value.
Overall Score: 4/5
