Thrustmaster · shifter
Thrustmaster TH8A Shifter
All-metal 7+R H-pattern/sequential shifter with Hall sensors, USB for PC or DIN to a Thrustmaster base.
A largely metal H-pattern (7+R) and sequential shifter that plugs into Thrustmaster bases or connects by USB to PC. Long the go-to mid-price shifter thanks to its solid, mechanical throw.
AI rating
- Feel
- 8
- Build quality
- 8
- Compatibility
- 7
- Value
- 7
Who it suits
- First rig
- 5
- Console racing
- 7
- Competitive racing
- 6
- Small rooms
- 6
- Tight budgets
- 6
- Enthusiasts
- 6
Scores are AI analysis of public information (specs, manuals, published reviews and owner reports), not a hands-on test. How we rate
Pros and cons
- Switchable 7+R H-pattern and sequential modes
- Mostly metal build with adjustable shift resistance
- Works on consoles through Thrustmaster bases and on PC by USB, even alongside other brands' wheels
- Pricier than the TH8S
- Desk clamp needs a solid edge; best bolted to a rig
Watch out: On consoles it only works plugged into a Thrustmaster base; with Logitech or other wheels it is PC-only.
What it feels like
- Throw
- Resistance
- Notchiness
The metal lever moves with a firm, mechanical feel.
Gate changes are precise and clearly defined.
The base can shift on a flimsy desk if it isn't clamped.
Closer to a short-throw manual gearbox in a sporty car than a toy stick.
What the TH8A works with
- Connects by USB on PC, or plugs into a Thrustmaster wheel base, which is how it works on console.
- On PC it works next to any wheel base.
Wheel bases it plugs into
Plugged into one of these, it works on the platforms shown.
| Part | Works on | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Thrustmaster T598 (PS5/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 73 |
| Thrustmaster T598-X (Xbox/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 71 |
| Thrustmaster T248R (PlayStation/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 70 |
| Thrustmaster T818 Direct Drive Base (PC) | PS5XboxPC | 70 |
| Thrustmaster T248 (PlayStation/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 69 |
| Thrustmaster T248 (Xbox/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 68 |
| Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition (PlayStation/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 67 |
| Thrustmaster TX Racing Wheel Leather Edition (Xbox/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 64 |
| Thrustmaster T-GT II (PlayStation/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 63 |
| Thrustmaster T128 (PlayStation/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 60 |
| Thrustmaster T128 (Xbox/PC) | PS5XboxPC | 58 |
Tech facts
| Gears | 7+R |
|---|---|
| Power supply | None (passive, bus-powered) |
| Connection | USB (PC) or DIN to Thrustmaster base shifter port |
| Software | Optional PC software for firmware and settings |
| Size (W × D × H) | 8 × 6 × 9 in (20 × 16 × 24 cm) |
| Weight | 4 lb (2 kg) |
| Materials | Steel, aluminum and plastic |
Our take
AI analysis of public information, not a hands-on review.
The TH8A is Thrustmaster's step-up shifter: a metal lever, mechanism and mounting system, with contactless Hall-effect (H.E.A.R.T) sensing and two swappable gates, H-pattern (7+R) and sequential. It is a passive device with no power supply, so it adds no outlet to your setup. Thrustmaster lists PC, PlayStation and Xbox compatibility, but the connection depends on the wheel. A Thrustmaster base takes the DIN cable in its shifter port. On PC it can go over USB to any computer. For a first rig, the main gotcha is the pedals. H-pattern driving needs a clutch pedal, and many entry-level sets lack one, such as the T2PM and Raceline LTE. Check that the wheel has a shifter port before buying, because we couldn't confirm T598 or T598-X port support. It weighs about 2 kg and the mount rotates, but it needs a rig or desk to clamp to. Choose it for H-pattern realism, not for budget. If you only want sequential shifts, paddles or a cheaper unit will do.
Questions buyers ask
Does it work on PC, PlayStation and Xbox?
Thrustmaster lists PC, PS3/PS4/PS5 and Xbox One/Series. On consoles it connects through a compatible Thrustmaster wheel base. On PC you can use USB.
Do I need a clutch pedal?
For H-pattern, yes, because you need a clutch to shift realistically. Sequential mode needs no clutch. T2PM and Raceline LTE pedal sets have no clutch.
Does it need a power supply?
No. It is passive and draws power from the USB or DIN connection. It adds no outlet requirement.