Thrustmaster · wheel · 2021
Thrustmaster T248 (Xbox) Wheel Rim (bundled)
Fixed 28 cm rubber-grip rim with magnetic paddles, 25 buttons and a small on-wheel display
The T248 (Xbox)'s fixed 28 cm rim with an integrated LCD (gear, speed, lap data), 25 buttons and magnetic paddle shifters. The best-equipped fixed rim at this price, held back only by not being removable.
AI rating
- Ergonomics
- 7
- Controls
- 8
- Build quality
- 6
- Versatility
- 3
- Value
- 7
Who it suits
- First rig
- 8
- Console racing
- 9
- Competitive racing
- 4
- Small rooms
- 8
- Tight budgets
- 7
- Enthusiasts
- 2
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
- Built-in screen with multiple telemetry pages
- Magnetic paddles with a crisp, consistent click
- 25 buttons and encoders for in-race adjustments
- Fixed to the base: no quick release
- Rubber grip feels basic next to leather
Watch out: It is not removable; upgrading the rim means replacing the whole T248 (Xbox).
What it feels like
- Grip
- Weight
- Clickiness
- Reach
The rubber grip feels secure and slightly tacky, and it isn't slippery during long sessions.
The paddles click crisply, and with 25 buttons most things are within thumb reach.
At 28 cm it feels compact and quick to turn, more like a GT wheel than a big formula rim.
Feels like a sporty hatchback steering wheel with extra buttons added.
What the T248 (Xbox) rim works with
- Comes in the box with the Thrustmaster T248 (Xbox/PC); it isn't sold on its own.
- It's fixed to its base and can't move to another one.
- With the right base it works on Xbox Series and PC.
Wheel bases it fits
Platforms show where each pairing works.
| Part | Works on | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Thrustmaster T248 (Xbox/PC)In the box | PS5XboxPC | 68 |
Tech facts
| Diameter | 280 mm (11.0 in) |
|---|---|
| Buttons | 25 |
| Paddles | 2 |
| Magnetic shifters | Yes |
| Display | Yes |
| Grip | Rubber |
| Connection | USB (via T248 base) |
| Software | Thrustmaster drivers for PC; on-wheel display for settings |
| Quick release | built-in (not removable) |
| Size (W × D × H) | 11 × 4 × 11 in (28 × 11 × 28 cm) |
| Materials | Plastic, rubber and steel |
| Released | 2021 |
| Platforms | PS5XboxPC |
Our take
AI analysis of public information, not a hands-on review.
This is the non-removable rim built into the Thrustmaster T248 (Xbox/PC) base, so you can't buy it alone or swap it for another. At about 28 cm it is a compact GT-style wheel. It has a rubber-coated grip, two magnetic paddle shifters and 25 buttons, which means you can set up most car functions without a keyboard or controller. A small display on the rim shows quick-access settings, and you can adjust force feedback without opening a PC app. That is useful on Xbox.
The tradeoff is that the rim is fixed to the base's quick-release-free hub, so upgrading later means replacing the whole wheel. Thrustmaster's own add-on rims won't fit this model. The button-heavy layout and paddles are a good fit for beginners who want a console-friendly, all-in-one setup. People who want a leather or suede rim, a larger diameter or a bigger button box will need to move up to a different ecosystem later. The plastic-and-rubber construction is more functional than premium. Judge it as part of the bundle, not as a standalone part.
Questions buyers ask
Can I swap this rim for a different one?
Not on the T248 as sold. The rim is fixed to the base, so you can't change it. Upgrading means replacing the whole wheelbase and rim.
Is it compatible with Xbox and PC?
Yes. This Xbox version works with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC. Check Thrustmaster's compatibility list for your specific games.
Are the paddle shifters magnetic?
Yes. The two paddles are magnetic, so they have no mechanical contact switch to wear out. They give a crisp click when you shift.