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At first glance, both wheels seem to be on par with each other. They're both direct-drive, have a standard quick release, and are compatible with PC. However, Fanatec's CSL DD has the advantage of being available in multiple torque settings (5Nm and 8Nm), whereas VRS DirectForce Pro is only available at 20Nm.
Let me tell you something about these wheels. I've seen users reporting issues with the CSL DD's design, specifically with the shaft losing connection to the steering wheel after extended use. And don't even get me started on the QC problems and quick release bending/breaking. It's a mess out there. Users are complaining about overheating and faulty pedals. The big problem here is that these issues seem to be prevalent across multiple revisions of the product, which raises serious concerns about Fanatec's quality control.
Meanwhile, VRS DirectForce Pro users seem to have it relatively easy. Sure, some folks have reported minor issues with the wheel not being recognized by certain games, but that's a problem easily fixed with some tweaking. I've seen no reports of overheating or broken parts. It's suspiciously smooth sailing.
But here's the thing: I'm not just concerned about individual problems; it's the consistency and reliability of these issues that worries me. Fanatec's customer service has been a mixed bag, with some users reporting great support while others claim to have received subpar help. VRS, on the other hand, seems to encourage community-driven troubleshooting, which might not be ideal for everyone but at least acknowledges that there are problems.
So who gets my money? If you're a hardcore sim racer with deep pockets and don't mind dealing with potential reliability issues, the CSL DD might still be worth considering. But if I'm being honest, it's not worth the hassle for most people.
VRS DirectForce Pro is the clear winner here. It's more affordable, has fewer reported issues, and seems to offer a smoother experience overall. Don't get me wrong; it's not perfect, but at least it doesn't have the same level of consistency problems as its competitor. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much performance, VRS is the way to go.