Is Upgrading from Logitech G29 to G923 Worth It? An Expert’s Take
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In short, no, upgrading from a Logitech G29 to a G923 is generally not worth it for most users. While the G923 boasts the new TRUEFORCE feedback system, the overall difference in the driving experience is minimal compared to the price difference. If your G29 is in good working order, the marginal improvements offered by the G923 don’t justify the cost of a new wheel. However, new sim racers deciding between the two should opt for the G923 if the price difference is negligible.
The G29 and G923: A Side-by-Side Comparison
The Logitech G29 and G923 are both popular entry-to-mid-level force feedback racing wheels designed for PC and console gaming. They share a similar build quality, feature set, and overall design, but the G923 introduces Logitech’s TRUEFORCE technology.
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Build Quality and Design: Both wheels feature a sturdy construction with a steel frame, hand-stitched leather covering the wheel rim, and aluminum paddle shifters. The pedal sets are also similarly constructed, featuring steel pedals and a carpet grip system. The overall design is ergonomic and comfortable for long racing sessions.
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Force Feedback: The G29 and G923 both use a gear-driven force feedback system. However, this is where the main difference lies. The G923 features TRUEFORCE, a new technology that connects directly to the game’s physics and audio engine to deliver a more nuanced and detailed force feedback experience. In theory, this allows you to feel subtle vibrations from the engine, road surface, and tire grip more accurately. In practice, the difference is noticeable in supported games, but not revolutionary.
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Compatibility: Both wheels are compatible with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles (the G29 is primarily for PlayStation, while the G923 has versions for both platforms).
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Pedals: Both the G29 and G923 feature a three-pedal set (throttle, brake, and clutch). However, the G923’s brake pedal has a progressive spring design, aiming to simulate the feel of a real brake pedal with more resistance as you apply more pressure. This is one of the more welcome improvements.
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Price: The G923 typically retails at a higher price point than the G29, although prices can fluctuate significantly. This price difference is a key factor when considering whether the upgrade is worthwhile.
Why the G923 Upgrade is Not Always Worth It
Despite the inclusion of TRUEFORCE, the G923 doesn’t offer a drastically different experience compared to the G29. The core driving feel remains largely the same, and the gear-driven force feedback system still suffers from the same inherent limitations:
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Noise: The gear-driven system is notoriously noisy, especially during intense force feedback effects. The G923 is, surprisingly, considered by some to be even louder than the G29 in some instances. This can be distracting and annoying for both the user and those around them.
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Lack of Smoothness: Gear-driven systems tend to feel less smooth and refined than belt-driven or direct-drive wheels. The force feedback can feel notchy or clunky, especially during rapid changes in direction.
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Limited TRUEFORCE Support: TRUEFORCE only works in a limited number of games. If you primarily play games that don’t support TRUEFORCE, you won’t experience any benefit from the G923’s main selling point.
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Marginal Improvement: Even in games that support TRUEFORCE, the difference in immersion is often subtle. While you may notice more detailed vibrations and textures, it doesn’t fundamentally change the driving experience in a way that justifies the cost of a new wheel.
Who Should Consider the G923?
Despite the criticisms, there are a few scenarios where the G923 might be a worthwhile option:
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New Sim Racers: If you’re new to sim racing and deciding between the G29 and G923, opt for the G923 if the price difference is minimal. The slight improvements offered by TRUEFORCE and the progressive brake pedal can provide a slightly better starting point.
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Replacing a Damaged G29: If your G29 is damaged beyond repair, the G923 is a viable replacement. However, consider exploring other brands like Thrustmaster, which offer alternatives with potentially better value for the price.
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Enthusiasts with TRUEFORCE Supported Games: If you are passionate about sim racing and exclusively play games that fully utilize TRUEFORCE, the G923 might offer a slightly more immersive experience.
Alternatives to the Logitech G923
If you’re considering upgrading from the G29, there are several alternatives that offer a more significant improvement in performance and immersion:
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Thrustmaster T300RS: This is a belt-driven wheel that offers smoother, quieter, and more powerful force feedback than the G29 and G923. It’s a popular mid-range option that provides a noticeable upgrade in driving feel.
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Thrustmaster T-LCM Pedals: Upgrading the pedals can significantly improve your sim racing experience. The T-LCM pedals feature a load cell brake, providing much more realistic and precise braking control.
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Fanatec CSL DD: For a substantial leap in performance, consider a direct-drive wheel like the Fanatec CSL DD. Direct-drive wheels offer unparalleled force feedback fidelity and responsiveness, providing the most immersive sim racing experience possible. This is significantly more expensive than the G29/G923, but it also gives a significantly improved driving experience.
Conclusion: A Calculated Decision
Upgrading from the Logitech G29 to the G923 is generally not recommended due to the minimal improvements offered compared to the price difference. The TRUEFORCE technology is not a game-changer, and the gear-driven force feedback system still suffers from inherent limitations. If your G29 is in good working order, save your money and consider investing in other upgrades or exploring alternative brands that offer better value for the price. If you are looking for learning more about gaming and education, be sure to visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is TRUEFORCE and how does it work?
TRUEFORCE is Logitech’s proprietary force feedback technology that connects directly to the game’s physics and audio engine. It aims to deliver more nuanced and detailed force feedback by simulating subtle vibrations from the engine, road surface, and tire grip.
2. Which games support TRUEFORCE?
The number of games that fully support TRUEFORCE is still relatively limited, though more titles are being added over time. Assetto Corsa Competizione and Dirt Rally 2.0 are some of the notable titles. It’s important to check compatibility before purchasing the G923 if TRUEFORCE is a key factor for you.
3. Is the G923 louder than the G29?
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the G923 can be just as loud, if not louder, than the G29, depending on the game and force feedback settings. The gear-driven system is inherently noisy.
4. Can I use my G29 shifter with the G923?
Yes, the Logitech Driving Force Shifter is compatible with both the G29 and G923.
5. Is the G923 compatible with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox?
Yes, the G923 is compatible with PC and both PlayStation and Xbox consoles, depending on the specific version of the wheel.
6. What are the key differences between the G923 and the G920?
The G923 and G920 are virtually identical, aside from the fact that the G920 is designed to primarily work with Xbox consoles, while the G923 has versions for both PlayStation and Xbox.
7. Does the G923 have a belt-driven force feedback system?
No, both the G29 and G923 use a gear-driven force feedback system.
8. Is the G923 good for drifting?
The G923 can be used for drifting, but its gear-driven force feedback and limited power may not provide the ideal experience for serious drifters.
9. What are the advantages of a belt-driven wheel over a gear-driven wheel?
Belt-driven wheels typically offer smoother, quieter, and more powerful force feedback compared to gear-driven wheels.
10. How durable is the G923?
The G923 is generally considered to be durable, thanks to its steel frame, leather-wrapped wheel, and aluminum paddle shifters.
11. What is the lifespan of the G923?
The lifespan of the G923 depends on usage, but it should last for several years with proper care and maintenance.
12. Is the brake pedal on the G923 better than the G29?
Yes, the G923 features a progressive spring design on the brake pedal, which aims to simulate the feel of a real brake pedal with more resistance as you apply more pressure.
13. What kind of leather is used on the G923 wheel?
The G923 wheel is covered in hand-stitched leather.
14. Can I adjust the force feedback strength on the G923?
Yes, you can adjust the force feedback strength on the G923 through the Logitech G HUB software and in-game settings.
15. Are there any custom wheels and mods available for the G923?
Yes, there are custom wheels and mods available for the G923, allowing you to personalize the look and feel of your racing wheel.