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Briefly, both wheels have direct drive and standard quick release. Moza R12 has 12Nm torque and is PC-compatible only, while Fanatec Podium DD1 boasts 20Nm torque and supports PC, Xbox, and PS5. The Moza wheel seems to be the more affordable option.
I've seen users struggle with the Moza R12's reliability issues. Some claim that after a few months of use, the FFB strength drops to under 50% of its original value, even when the base isn't warm. It's as if they're experiencing thermal throttling, but the temperature sensor is suspect. One user on their second R12 already had similar problems with the first one, which was replaced by the retailer. The consensus seems to be that this issue is more related to the hardware itself rather than game settings or firmware. Users are reporting no overheating issues with the R12, however, a specific batch of R9s did have this problem. It's worth noting that these users had invested significant time and money into their setup before encountering these issues. Dealing with faulty products can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when it feels like you're being passed from one support team to another. The Moza wheel's design also gets some criticism for its aesthetics, specifically the rev light strip. It's seen as an unnecessary feature that doesn't contribute much to the overall gaming experience. On the other hand, Fanatec users seem generally satisfied with their product's performance and durability. They mention a few firmware-related issues in the past but claim they've been resolved. The only major issue I found with the Fanatec Podium DD1 was some users experiencing ghost inputs due to ferrite core issues on the cable between the shifter and wheelbase. However, this problem was largely mitigated by using ferrite cores or reconfiguring the wiring. It's worth mentioning that both companies seem to have varying levels of customer support. Moza users report being met with indifference when questioning their QC and software, while Fanatec users had a more positive experience with RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) process.
For the average sim racer on a budget, I'd recommend the Moza R12. It's a good value for money, offering decent performance and compatibility at an affordable price point. However, if you're looking for a premium experience with top-notch build quality and support, the Fanatec Podium DD1 is worth considering – even if it comes with a higher price tag. For specific scenarios: * If you're a PC-exclusive user who wants direct drive without breaking the bank, go with Moza R12. * For console gamers or those willing to spend more for top-tier build quality and support, Fanatec Podium DD1 is the better choice. * If reliability is your top priority, I'd advise against either option, at least until these issues are resolved.