Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Moza Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
As an Amazon Associate, Driver Labs earns from qualifying purchases.
As an Amazon Associate, Driver Labs earns from qualifying purchases.
On paper, it's a no-brainer. The Asetek Invicta has more torque (27Nm) and is built with a direct drive system. However, the Fanatec GT DD Pro 8Nm still packs a punch, especially considering its compatibility with both PC and PS5.
Let me tell you, I've seen some issues with these devices. Users are reporting that the Fanatec GT DD Pro 8Nm can have calibration problems - it's not uncommon for a 20-degree turn in-game to require an absurd amount of real-world steering wheel rotation (think 100 degrees or more). It's like driving with anchors on your wheels. Sometimes, simply restarting or switching off/on solves the issue, but don't expect this to be a one-time problem. I've also seen reviews and discussions about users who upgraded from the 5Nm version, only to find that it wasn't about brute force - the new torque was all about adding more detail and fidelity to their simulations. It's an interesting concept, but I'm not convinced. But here's the thing: if you're looking for a reliable, hassle-free experience with decent adjustability (because let's be real, some users are picky about that), Asetek Invicta is your best bet. However, there have been reports of failures - multiple units failing in less than a year of use. The horror! You'll be left cursing the day you bought it, wondering if they're just not built to last. The Fanatec GT DD Pro 8Nm might have its quirks, but at least I can appreciate that users are reporting some genuinely unique experiences with it. Not everyone will experience these issues, of course - some people seem immune to calibration problems or mechanical failures.
For most of you sim racers out there, the Asetek Invicta is still the better choice. Sure, it's a premium product with a higher price point, but if you value reliability and smooth performance over every last ounce of detail and realism, then go for it. I just can't shake off the feeling that something might be amiss under the hood. However, for those who crave more detail in their simulations and are willing to put up with some calibration hiccups (and maybe even build your own power brick like one enthusiastic reviewer), Fanatec GT DD Pro 8Nm could still be worth a look - especially if you're on a tighter budget.