Fanatec CSL DD – 2024 Review & Test: Is it still worth it?

Those who know me know I enjoy Fanatec and its product range. Of course, I know how to remain objective, and I don’t take the plunge when something disappoints me, whatever the manufacturer. But here I’m going to tell you about one of their accessories that I was recently able to test, much to my delight! It’s a product I’ve been eyeing since its release last year since it has truly revolutionized the world of sim-racing. As you can imagine, it’s from the Fanatec CSL DD base that we’re talking about.

It has to be said that with this Direct Drive steering wheel base, the Fanatec brand has hit the mark, and competitors have had to react quickly to match this little marvel… It is an absolute joy for us Sim-racing enthusiasts who don’t have the same budget as professional gamers to equip themselves. Fanatec has made Direct Drive technology accessible to everyone!

Key technical features of the Fanatec CSL DD

• Direct Drive force feedback with a maximum torque of 5 Nm (or 8 Nm with Boost Kit).
• Infinite tuning range.
• It has patented and exclusive FluxBarrier™ technology and a high-resolution non-contact hall position sensor.
• Compatible with Xbox platforms and PC.
• Equipped with Fanatec’s Quick Release system.
• Dimensions: 38 x 29 x 25 cm (L x W x H)
• Weight: 6,85 kg

State-of-the-art features and technology

I must remind you, as this is precisely what makes all the difference, we’re dealing here with the Direct Drive technology. I tested the Fanatec CSL DD with the 5 Nm (with standard power supply), but if you purchase the Boost Kit offered by Fanatec, the base can provide up to 8 Nm of maximum torque.

I was impressed by the advanced technology of this model. I’m referring in particular to its 100% customized engine developed in Germany specifically for simulation racing, with exclusive patented technology FluxBarrier, which optimizes engine efficiency and smoothness, and its high-resolution non-contact hall position sensor. Enough to make many a competitor jealous!

I found it practical that the base acted as a HUBThe. The HUB allows you to connect 1 set of pedals, two joysticks, and a handbrake from the Fanatec ecosystem to the unit. This can be particularly useful for those who may not have enough input on their PC or console and don’t want to use a traditional USB hub.

Construction and design

The first impression I had when I took out the base Fanatec CSL DD of the carton was to be surprised by its weight! It’s heavy (just over 6 kg), compact, and solid. Yet this model is tiny compared to other bases on the market. I find this gives it a high-quality feel with most Fanatec products.

And I have to say; it’s not just a feeling… Inside and out, Fanatec has done things big with the CSL DD, which includes, for example, the first industrial engine with a composite motor shaft in carbon fiber.

This model has more fans, with its all-aluminum body acting as a passive heat sink, keeping the engine nice and cool even at sustained high torque levels. Pretty cool, huh? Especially as, thanks to this, you don’t have to deal with the annoying noise of a fan, which can, personally, quickly get on my nerves.

Design-wise, the only snag, of course, is the plastic finish. As I often say, this is not my thing. It always sends me back to low-quality products, although here, I must admit that this does not detract from the CSL DD’s build quality or performance.

Handling

I tested the base Fanatec CSL DD with my steering wheel Fanatec CSL Elite McLaren GT3 V2 ( to discover right here), and I can tell you I was not disappointed! I think I’m repeating myself a little if I tell you that for me, Direct Drive is the crème de la crème! Isn’t it? In any case, the Fanatec CSL DD base gave me truly incredible gaming sensations.

The power of the Direct Drive is surprising, but its purity, fluidity, and precision are just as impressive. Behind the wheel, the sensation is unique: I could feel every detail of the race, the bumps, the curbs, the track deviations… everything! Pure joy for Sim-racing enthusiasts like me, who are always looking to improve their performance.

Compatibility

Sorry for PlayStation fans; the base Fanatec CSL Direct Drive is not for you! It is compatible with Xbox and PC only. Well, I say “only,” but that’s good enough. Moreover, it even has a button that lets you select the platform you will play on.

It’s also equipped with Quick Release and is compatible with the entire Fanatec ecosystem.

This model is compatible with Podium, ClubSport, CSL wheels, pedals, Fanatec handbrakes, and RennSport cockpits.

The base Fanatec CSL DD is ready to use for all the major racing games available on the market today.

Software

As with all Fanatec hardware, modifying the parameters and updating the firmware of the base CSL DD are made with the Fanatec Control Panel.

The setup menu has been simplified to guarantee greater ease of use, especially for novice players. But the advanced settings menu is still available for those who want to tinker more and know what they’re doing.

When everything’s running smoothly, I find the Fanatec Control Panel valuable and easy to use. Unfortunately, I’m inclined to say that the fact that it works properly is very random.

For example, while I had no problem updating the CSL DD base with the latest firmware, I did have great difficulty saving the changes I had made in the settings menu, even though I had applied the settings recommended by Fanatec for the iRacing game. When I disconnected or restarted my computer, all my changes were erased and automatically reverted to the default values.

It’s a good thing Fanatec’s suggested settings for iRacing aren’t numerous. Otherwise, I’d have gone mad in a hurry!

Value for money

Fanatec has changed the game in the Sim-racing sector by introducing this Direct Drive base. I don’t think a competing brand exists today that offers such a high-quality product at this price, CSL DD.

While its maximum force may be considered more snug than other competing models, it’s more than enough to meet the expectations of virtually any type of player.

If I do the math, for less than €, 700you can equip yourself with a complete setup composed exclusively of quality Fanatec accessories. If you find something better on the market, let me know!

My verdict

Too bad I’m repeating myself, but here goes: I love the Direct Drive technology. The base Fanatec CSL DD model was incredible for me to test.

I don’t think I’m wrong in saying that it’s a base that will remain the market leader for a long time to comeIt’s a base that will remain the market leader for a long time to come and one that will make competitors like Thrustmaster and Logitech look good…

After that, is it worth buying the 8 Nm kit? If you ask me, no. The maximum torque of 5 Nm is more than enough, and you’ll get your kicks with this model. But that’s just my humble opinion.