Table of Contents

When Did the T248 Come Out? Your Ultimate Guide to Thrustmaster’s Racing Wheel

The Thrustmaster T248 racing wheel was officially released on October 21, 2021. This marked the arrival of a mid-range force feedback wheel aimed at bridging the gap between entry-level options and higher-end, more expensive sim racing setups.

Exploring the Thrustmaster T248: A Deeper Dive

The T248 was designed to appeal to both new and experienced sim racers looking for a significant upgrade without breaking the bank. Its key features, including its hybrid drive system, magnetic paddle shifters, and information display, quickly made it a popular choice in the sim racing community. Let’s explore what made this wheel such a hit.

Key Features and Innovations

The T248 brought several notable features to the mid-range racing wheel market:

Hybrid Drive System: This system combines belt and gear mechanisms to offer a balance of smooth force feedback and responsiveness. This means you get a more realistic feel of the road, tire grip, and various racing conditions.
Magnetic Paddle Shifters: Utilizing magnetic technology, these shifters provide precise and responsive gear changes, enhancing the immersion and control during gameplay. They offer a crisp, satisfying click with each shift.
Racing Information Display: The built-in screen displays vital racing information like gear position, RPM, lap times, and even telemetry data in compatible games. This allows you to keep a closer eye on your performance without having to constantly glance at the in-game HUD.
Premium Design and Materials: The T248 boasts a sleek design with leather wrapping on the wheel rim, providing a comfortable and premium feel. The build quality is generally considered robust for its price point.
Compatibility: It’s designed to be compatible with both PlayStation consoles (PS5, PS4) and PC, making it a versatile choice for multi-platform gamers.

Who is the T248 Designed For?

The T248 strategically targets a specific segment of the sim racing market:

Enthusiasts seeking an upgrade: Players currently using entry-level wheels (like the Thrustmaster T150 or Logitech G29) who desire a more realistic and immersive experience.
Newcomers ready to invest: Individuals looking to enter the world of sim racing with a wheel that offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
Gamers needing multi-platform compatibility: Users who play racing games on both PlayStation and PC and want a single wheel that works seamlessly across both platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Thrustmaster T248

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Thrustmaster T248 racing wheel, covering its features, compatibility, setup, and potential issues.

1. Is the Thrustmaster T248 compatible with PS5?

Yes, the Thrustmaster T248 is fully compatible with PlayStation 5 (PS5). It’s designed to work seamlessly with the console, providing force feedback and other features in compatible racing games.

2. Does the T248 work with PC?

Absolutely. The T248 is compatible with PC (Windows). You’ll need to install the appropriate drivers from the Thrustmaster website to ensure it functions correctly.

3. What is the difference between the T248 and the T300?

The T248 uses a hybrid drive system (belt and gear), while the T300 utilizes a dual-belt system. The T248 also features a racing information display, magnetic paddle shifters, and a more aggressive design. The T300 is generally considered smoother and more refined in its force feedback, but lacks the display and magnetic shifters of the T248.

4. How do I install the T248 drivers on PC?

To install the drivers, visit the Thrustmaster support website and download the latest drivers for the T248. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure the wheel is connected to your PC during the installation process.

5. What does the screen on the T248 display?

The screen displays various racing information, including gear position, RPM, lap times, and telemetry data depending on the game you’re playing. Some games may offer customized information displayed on the screen.

6. Are the pedals on the T248 adjustable?

Yes, the pedals on the T248 are adjustable. You can adjust the position of the pedal heads and the spring tension to customize the feel to your preference.

7. Does the T248 have force feedback?

Yes, the Thrustmaster T248 features force feedback. Its hybrid drive system delivers realistic sensations of the road, tire grip, and impacts, enhancing the overall immersion.

8. Is the T248 worth the price?

Whether the T248 is “worth it” depends on your needs and budget. For sim racers looking for a significant upgrade from entry-level wheels and wanting a feature-rich experience without paying top-tier prices, the T248 offers a compelling value proposition.

9. Can I use the T248 with Gran Turismo 7?

Yes, the T248 is fully compatible with Gran Turismo 7 on PlayStation consoles. It provides force feedback and other features that enhance the gameplay experience in Gran Turismo 7.

10. How do I update the firmware on my T248?

You can update the firmware using the Thrustmaster control panel on your PC. Connect the wheel to your PC, open the control panel, and check for firmware updates. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

11. What racing games are compatible with the T248?

The T248 is compatible with a wide range of racing games, including Assetto Corsa, iRacing, Gran Turismo 7, F1 2021/2022/2023, Project CARS 2/3, and many more. Compatibility generally depends on the game’s support for force feedback wheels.

12. My T248 is not recognized by my PC. What should I do?

First, ensure that the wheel is properly connected to your PC via USB.
Try a different USB port.
Make sure you have installed the latest drivers from the Thrustmaster website.
Restart your computer.
If the problem persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the drivers.

13. Is the T248 compatible with Xbox?

No, the Thrustmaster T248 is not natively compatible with Xbox consoles. It is specifically designed for PlayStation and PC. If you need an Xbox-compatible wheel, consider looking at models designed specifically for Xbox, or those compatible with both Xbox and PC.

14. How loud is the T248?

The T248 is generally considered to be moderately loud due to its hybrid drive system. It’s quieter than gear-driven wheels but louder than high-end belt-driven wheels. The noise level can vary depending on the intensity of the force feedback.

15. Can I replace the wheel rim on the T248?

While not officially supported, it is possible to replace the wheel rim on the T248 with aftermarket options. However, this may require some technical skills and could potentially void your warranty. Be sure to research compatibility thoroughly before attempting any modifications.

Conclusion: The T248’s Lasting Impact

Since its release on October 21, 2021, the Thrustmaster T248 has established itself as a popular and versatile racing wheel in the sim racing community. Its blend of features, performance, and compatibility make it a solid choice for both newcomers and experienced racers alike. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, you can make an informed decision about whether the T248 is the right racing wheel for you.

When did the T248 come out?