Moza R21 Wheel Base vs Thrustmaster TS-XW Servo

The Specs: On Paper

At first glance, both wheels appear to be on par in terms of technical specifications. Both have a direct drive mechanism and a standard quick release system. However, the Moza R21 has a significantly higher torque rating at 21Nm compared to the Thrustmaster TS-XW's 6.4Nm.

The Ugly Truth (Real User Experience)

I've seen users report that the Moza R21 can be quite notchy, even when powered on and in use. Some have mentioned that this is normal behavior for a direct drive wheel, but it's not exactly what you want to experience while gaming. On the other hand, users are reporting some issues with the Thrustmaster TS-XW, including buzzing and calibrating problems, as well as a deadzone in the middle of the wheel.

The big problem here is that these issues can be frustrating and time-consuming to resolve. Users have reported having to deal with defective wheels, calibration problems, and even being left hanging by customer support for weeks on end. It's not exactly what you want to experience when investing a premium price point in a gaming peripheral.

I've also seen users mention that the Moza R21 can be prone to freezing mid-game or exhibiting random behavior, which is absolutely unacceptable for any gaming wheel. The fact that some users have had to replace the PCB on their R21 is also a major concern.

The Verdict

So, who gets my money? Based on the specs and user experience, I'd say the Thrustmaster TS-XW is a safer bet in this comparison. While it may not have the same level of torque as the Moza R21, its price point is significantly more affordable, making it a good value for money.

That being said, if you're dead set on getting a direct drive wheel and are willing to take on the potential risks associated with the Moza R21, then I suppose it's worth considering. Just don't say I didn't warn you...