New lease on GT5 with Thrustmaster T500RS

  • Thread starter Thread starter scca_ziptie
  • 85 comments
  • 7,434 views
Mr Latte
Ha, an Aussie that doesnt detect sarcasm.
To be fair the price in AUS is a bit of a joke but this is a mans toy at a mans pricepoint.

I dont recall anyone saying its the best wheel for everyones circumstances but like the thread is titled it has hardware performance that elevates the enjoyment of the game.

People seem to forget it bridges the gap from G27 - ECCI giving performance close to specialist wheels and in price comparison terms to those it is a bargin. Is it worth the extra, well is an ECCI worth 3x more. T500 is therefore looked upon in different ways by dfferent people.
Click to expand...

Let's not go there again. At $600USD it is not a bargain. It is expensive. To someone who drops a metric tonne of money on 3 screens, 8 subwoofers elevntysix buttswipers,49 tweeters and a partidge in a pear tree, $600USD may not be a stretch, but it is still not a bargain.

Money is money.

I have spent $60,000USD upgrading my then $45,000 2001 C5 Z06 to supercar performance levels. For a total of $105,000 amortized over 9 years it was an affordable obsession/hobby compared to any true supercar at $500,000USD+- it was a "bargain" - but in reality it still cost what it cost - a freaking lot of money.

Let's just be honest here - at $600USD the T500 is an expensive toy, not a "bargain" toy, especially when compared to the likes of a FREX, because FREX is really just an overpriced toy ;)

And you know what they say about us boys and our toys? The bigger the boy the higher the price of the toy. :lol:
 
Ahhh, so that must go for Fanatec GT2 with CSP as well then.

wheel 250 euro
csp 200 euro
no free shipping or retail collection
dodgy reliabilty, long wait times and questionable customer service.

A top end PC gfx card costs as much so sorry I dont see the T500 being outrageous or over expensive.
Its certainly not having difficulty selling anyways.
 
Mr Latte
Ahhh, so that must go for Fanatec GT2 with CSP as well then.

wheel 250 euro
csp 200 euro
no free shipping or retail collection
dodgy reliabilty, long wait times and questionable customer service.

A top end PC gfx card costs as much so sorry I dont see the T500 being outrageous or over expensive.
Click to expand...

Yes, the Fanatec is also an expensive toy.

And yeah - we get it - you are independantly wealthy and nothing is expensive to you.

Reality check Mr Moneybags - $600USD is what many people pay for monthly rent - it is a fair chunk of change, period.

Ah, forget it - and talk about not getting the sarcasm, I recall one day in January when you failed to "see the sarcasm" big time.
 
Oh give over, your a joke criticising the price when you of all people had to drop $600 on one to have it instantly.

I wouldnt spend close to ECCI prices so for people that would then yes just like ISR commented then in that respect it is a bargin to that possible ECCI customer. They even had an owner compare them and verify for any serious sim racers the T500 is now very highly recomended.
 
Mr Latte
Ha, an Aussie that doesnt detect sarcasm.
Click to expand...

Right. Sarcasm. Must have gone over my head.

Mr Latte
this is a mans toy at a mans pricepoint.
Click to expand...

Now THATS funny...

Mr Latte
Is it worth the extra, well is an ECCI worth 3x more. T500 is therefore looked upon in different ways by dfferent people.
Click to expand...

So I guess your point here is that different people will have different priorities, and choose a solution that suits their situation, and to make an argument that a certain specific wheel is the best choice for everyone, and that if you think different you just aren't listening hard enough, is kind of silly.

I have to agree with you on that one.

BTW I checked out your thread on the triple screen GT5 setup, and it is awesome. I want to start talking to awesome triple screen Mr Latte, not slightly douchey Mr Latte with the humorectomy.
 
Mr Latte
Oh give over, your a joke criticising the price when you of all people had to drop $600 on one to have it instantly.

I wouldnt spend close to ECCI prices so for people that would then yes just like ISR commented then in that respect it is a bargin to that possible ECCI customer.
Click to expand...

WTF is your problem? I have NEVER said the T500 was a bargain - ever. I admitted from day 1 it was rather overriced and expensive.

I bought it to enjoy PC racing and GT5 with - period. Not because "it was a bargain".

FFS man, you really are a royal prick and still have your panties in a bunch because YOU never got the sarcasm and humour of my calling to have the TM engineers lined up and kicked in the nuts.

And as vindication to my opinion, screeds of other T500 owners outlined exactly the same issues I did on day 1 but you are so stuck up and pompous you STILL can't admit you got all bent out of shape for no reason.

Bah... it'll be easier just to put you back on ignore.
 
Whats funny is this thread is nothing to do with T500 price.

But like in other threads its an issue, I just dont see the point of it continuely being raised, particulary when shown if anything GT2 costs similar if not more now in UK/Europe.

RC please do cos all you want to do is argue.
READ WHAT I SAID MAN -"People seem to forget it bridges the gap from G27 - ECCI giving performance close to specialist wheels and in price comparison terms to those it is a bargin."

NOT TO BE READ THAT IT IS A BARGIN @ $600
However only when compared to $2000+ wheels then yes it is.
 
Last edited:
I had a G27 for 2 days then I returned it because it was not totally supported in GT5. My Thrustmaster T500 arrived yesterday and all I can say is wow. The G27 looks and feels like a cheap toy compared to the T500.

It really has renewed my play for GT5, not to mention it has shaved off seconds of my lap times. I am not trying to knock owners of the G27, some may feel the T500 is not a good buy because of the price or because of not having a shifter included. It does not matter to me, I worked hard all my life and the mortgage is payed off, the kids are grown and now I own one of the best sim wheels on the market. :)
 
I'm still debating on getting that new T500RS vs Fanatec GT2/GT3

Cons for T500RS:
1) Only supported by GT5. I was looking forward to buying F1 2010 and soon NFS Shift 2. I see films of GT3RS playing Shift 2 so I know thats supported. But no confirmation of Thrustmaster being supported. I would guess it will be - but there's no confirmation'

2) I really want a shifter like the type of street race cars I've driven (modified, street legal ford mustangs).

3) Those fixed paddles may give me some issues.

Pros:
1) Apparently its a really awesome wheel everyone here seems to vouch for it hard
2) It looks sexy! Direct support in GT5 (but again, no direct support in F1 2010 atm and who knows bout Shift 2)
3) Since the clutch is there, perhaps the shifter will come soon but at what price?
4) Good customer support (versus Fanatec which is known to be super poor i keep reading but ofc the happy customers wont bother posting much!)
5) I think my local FRY's has a Thrustmaster in stock versus waiting months+ for Fanatec to ship the h-shifter, etc


But alas, I have to consider I will want to use a wheel on Forza 4 when it comes out most likely. It's a tough decision choosing a wheel because there is no complete multiplatform package that can be purchased easily (like walk into a store and buy a good wheel that supports 360/PS3/PC). I am still baffled why dont we see more wheels!


Anyway back on topic I enjoy reading these testimonials! It helps people like me decide thats willing to spend around $700 or so on a good wheel

Edit - I was mistaken, it appears this video from ISR: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okMd_ggeW4w is for Shift 1. They thought it was Fanatec + Shift 2 originally. So I was incorrect earlier when I said there are videos with people playing Shift 2 with GT3RS.
 
Last edited:
sandboxgod
I'm still debating on getting that new T500RS vs Fanatec GT2/GT3

Cons for T500RS:
1) Only supported by GT5. I was looking forward to buying F1 2010 and soon NFS Shift 2. I see films of GT3RS playing Shift 2 so I know thats supported. But no confirmation of Thrustmaster being supported. I would guess it will be - but there's no confirmation'

2) I really want a shifter like the type of street race cars I've driven (modified, street legal ford mustangs).

3) Those fixed paddles may give me some issues.

Pros:
1) Apparently its a really awesome wheel everyone here seems to vouch for it hard
2) It looks sexy! Direct support in GT5 (but again, no direct support in F1 2010 atm and who knows bout Shift 2)
3) Since the clutch is there, perhaps the shifter will come soon but at what price?
4) Good customer support (versus Fanatec which is known to be super poor i keep reading but ofc the happy customers wont bother posting much!)
5) I think my local FRY's has a Thrustmaster in stock versus waiting months+ for Fanatec to ship the h-shifter, etc

But alas, I have to consider I will want to use a wheel on Forza 4 when it comes out most likely. It's a tough decision choosing a wheel because there is no complete multiplatform package that can be purchased easily (like walk into a store and buy a good wheel that supports 360/PS3/PC). I am still baffled why dont we see more wheels!

Anyway back on topic I enjoy reading these testimonials! It helps people like me decide thats willing to spend around $700 or so on a good wheel
Click to expand...

There is a lovely slip in the box that mentions the ability to get drivers for the t500 with updates(firmware) also available and the compatibility mode that is also available built into the wheel - and that it is a dlc for game makers for an easy add. Pretty sure many games will be supporting this wheel.
 
Id agree one of the biggest issues the wheel has is not so much the wheel itself but that new games need to support it on PS3.

EA / SHIFT2 as yet have not listed the wheel as supported, they do however support other Thrustmaster wheels. For me this is one game Id really like to get and play on the T500 but not have to wait for a patch. It will be a real bummer if we have to wait on a patch considering Thrustmaster stated they shipped out wheels sometime ago to all the major developers.

The Forza compatibility is the same situation people had over G27 Vs Fanatec. Now also with the T500RS. However I cant think of any other good racing game on X360 that isnt multiplatform or available on PS3.

So for some do they compromise the additions T500 brings in performance/build and have easaily the best wheel in GT5 for X360 support or to be more frank for "Forza" support. It is a tough call because the GT2 is by no means a bad wheel neither and each have their own advantages.

It may come own to how a particular person feels for each franchise GT/FM.
 
Mr Latte
Id agree one of the biggest issues the wheel has is not so much the wheel itself but that new games need to support it on PS3.

EA / SHIFT2 as yet have not listed the wheel as supported, they do however support other Thrustmaster wheels. For me this is one game Id really like to get and play on the T500 but not have to wait for a patch. It will be a real bummer if we have to wait on a patch considering Thrustmaster stated they shipped out wheels sometime ago to all the major developers.

The Forza compatibility is the same situation people had over G27 Vs Fanatec. Now also with the T500RS. However I cant think of any other good racing game on X360 that isnt multiplatform or available on PS3.

So for some do they compromise the additions T500 brings in performance/build and have easaily the best wheel in GT5 for X360 support or to be more frank for "Forza" support. It is a tough call because the GT2 is by no means a bad wheel neither and each have their own advantages.

It may come own to how a particular person feels for each franchise GT/FM.
Click to expand...

cool! thanks for your insights on the wheel.

Probably a dream sequence, but since the T500RS wheel appears to be detachable it would be easy to make a "Forza4" wheel and slap it on the unit! assuming MS and Thrustmaster would come to an agreement and support this venture by making the wheel compatible with the Xbox360 game.

FWIW...some online vendors are selling the T500RS for $560 and free shipping in the U.S. The price difference between the GT2 kit and T500RS is about $100USD (does Fanatec provide free shipping?) or less. if Fanatec offers the true kit this summer then the difference may grow to $150USD.
 
Patrocles
cool! thanks for your insights on the wheel.

FWIW...some online vendors are selling the T500RS for $560 and free shipping in the U.S. The price difference between the GT2 kit and T500RS is about $100USD (does Fanatec provide free shipping?) or less. if Fanatec offers the true kit this summer then the difference may grow to $150USD.
Click to expand...

GT2 Prices (No Shifter / Wheel Pedals & Shipping)

Europe:
Euro 471

United Kingdom:
Sterling £404

United States:
Dollars $471

So in USA the T500Rs is still more expensive as you guys get the Best deal on Fanatec stuff. Uk & Europe T500RS is available now for less.
 
Why do you guy's continually compare the price of a GT2 to a TS500?

The mind boggles, they have different console support. GT2 owners obviously want Xbox support that's why they pay more.

Please compare the prices of a GT3 to a TS500. At least they are for the same consoles.
 
I finally thought to go check NFS Shift 2 boards and looked up the official wheel list. They claim to have Fanatec support and the older Thrustmaster wheels. Was hoping they would mention support for the new T500RS...
 
Spagetti69
Why do you guy's continually compare the price of a GT2 to a TS500?

The mind boggles, they have different console support. GT2 owners obviously want Xbox support that's why they pay more.

Please compare the prices of a GT3 to a TS500. At least they are for the same consoles.
Click to expand...

Probably because thats the top 2 two wheels now for X360/PS3 is why.
Well for $70 or £70 more to have X360 support Im sure most when spending that kind of money, the little difference between the GT3 or GT2 wouldnt be a bad decision.
 
Mr Latte
Probably because thats the top 2 two wheels now for X360/PS3 is why.
Well for $70 or £70 more to have X360 support Im sure most when spending that kind of money, the little difference between the GT3 or GT2 wouldnt be a bad decision.
Click to expand...

I don't think you understand what I'm saying.

Anyone looking for an xbox compatible wheel is not even remotely interested in a TS500.

Why compare (price wise atleast) apples and oranges.

Someone looking for a TS500 is not even remotely interested in an Xbox wheel.

Marking up the nearest equivalent to a TS500 for PS3 and PC by £70 may not be much to you but it's misleading.

The GT3 retails at £70 cheaper over the GT2, for what it offers for PS3 and PC.

Just want to put that out there for people who might not know these things.

I still stand by the logic that anyone looking for an alternative to the TS500 obviously isn't interested in Xbox.
 
I guess then your missing many peoples dilema. Yes their only is one decent X360 wheel now so if that's a must feature then simple decision. No need for comparing to anything else.

What if the user like many faces a tougher decision. Do they go for X360 support or a reported better wheel for PS3/PC? If they are a PC player then they could yes get a GT3 but how many then would not consider the GT2 over it now?

It's not a simple choice as T500 has it's own support issues and only the end user can decide what package is best for them. However the point of illustrating this is people keep going on about T500RS being much more expensive as well when as highlighted that's not the case for all regions.

I don't recall Fanatec wheels being given such a hardtime about their price like the way T500RS has and certain members @ GTP and even some expect near perfection from the product due to it's price yet don't criticise Fanatec products for their short comings anywhere near as much.
 
Last edited:
Mr Latte
I guess then your missing many peoples dilema. Yes their only is one decent X360 wheel now so if that's a must feature then simple decision. No need for comparing to anything else.

What if the user like many faces a tougher decision. Do they go for X360 support or a reported better wheel for PS3/PC? If they are a PC player then they could yes get a GT3 but how many then would not consider the GT2 over it now?

It's not a simple choice as T500 has it's own support issues and only the end user can decide what package is best for them. However the point of illustrating this is people keep going on about T500RS being much more expensive as well when as highlighted that's not the case for all regions.

I don't recall Fanatec wheels being given such a hardtime about their price like the way T500RS has and certain members @ GTP and even some expect near perfection from the product due to it's price yet don't criticise Fanatec products for their short comings anywhere near as much.
Click to expand...

If we compare to the other Fanatec wheel then the price difference will jump to around $150 between the GT3 and the T500RS.

Folks here can compare any two wheels that they like!! (makes you wonder why everyone is comparing the G27 to the thrustmaster T500RS! haha :dopey:). As you mention above my dilemma is to buy an GT2 fanatec wheel for my Xbox360 compatability and lighted buttons or a T500RS Thrustmaster wheel for PS3 and PC gaming. That is why I am comparing the these two wheels! So, in short, I will not stop comparing these two wheels.
:)

As for the Thrustmaster T500RS hate....Unfortunately, I believe that many people who cannot afford the Thrustmaster wheel (or perhaps recently bought an inferior wheel) tend to devolve mentally into a "sour grapes" mindset.
:)
 
Last edited:
GT3 RS European Price (without plastic gear stick)
* Whell = 180€
* Pedals = 200€
Total = 380 €

GT2 European Price (without plastic gear stick)
* Whell = 250€
* Pedals = 200€
Total = 450 €

T500 RS European Price
Wheel + Pedals = Now less than 450 €
http://modundco24.de/product_info.php?info=p319_T500-RS-GT-Racing-Wheel-Thrustmaster.html
http://www.alienpc.it/lit/_p4550/VOLANTE-T500-RS---PS3
http://www.webdistrib.com/cat/THRUSTMASTER-T-500-RS-GT5-volant-et-pedalier-__p_756177.html?site=touslesprix&xtor=AL-17&utm_source=touslesprix&utm_medium=shopbot&utm_campaign=TousLesPrix
etc...
 
that is cool! Your T500RS is about the same as in the U.S. retail of $600 (~430euros).

Oh my word! :crazy:
Fanatec is really charging a lot in Europe!! For U.S. the cost is the same...but in USD not in Euros!! :scared:

GT3RS $180USD
CSPedals $200USD
+shipping (~$20USD)

GT2 $250USD
CSPedals $200USD
+shipping (~$20USD)

iirc, in the U.S. Fanatec used to offer a GT2 kit (wheel + CSPedals) for $400USD +shipping (~$20USD). But this offer is no longer valid. Anyone know if this kit will ever be offered again?
 
Patrocles
As for the Thrustmaster T500RS hate....Unfortunately, I believe that many people who cannot afford the Thrustmaster wheel (or perhaps recently bought an inferior wheel) tend to devolve mentally into a "sour grapes" mindset.
:)
Click to expand...

This has been a prickly thread from page one. I don't think the OP was out of line in any way, but the 'devolution' started pretty quick on both sides.

The fact is we're a bunch of enthusiasts who all love our new toys, and deal with criticism of them with varying degrees of success. I can accept the T500 is a better wheel (there's always something better for more money), but I get cranky about blanket statements about the G27 being 'incompatible' with GT5, and there are plenty of those around. I think it would be helpful for people who are trying to make an informed decision about what to buy, if exact compatiblity issues were described.

Believe me, if you were to go out onto the street and talk to random people about whether the TM T500RS is good value for money, you would soon find out we have a LOT more in common than we do differences. Like knowing what the hell a TM T500RS is, for instance.
 
robulus
This has been a prickly thread from page one. I don't think the OP was out of line in any way, but the 'devolution' started pretty quick on both sides.

The fact is we're a bunch of enthusiasts who all love our new toys, and deal with criticism of them with varying degrees of success. I can accept the T500 is a better wheel (there's always something better for more money), but I get cranky about blanket statements about the G27 being 'incompatible' with GT5, and there are plenty of those around. I think it would be helpful for people who are trying to make an informed decision about what to buy, if exact compatiblity issues were described.

Believe me, if you were to go out onto the street and talk to random people about whether the TM T500RS is good value for money, you would soon find out we have a LOT more in common than we do differences. Like knowing what the hell a TM T500RS is, for instance.
Click to expand...

well said. Yeah, when I find a product that I do not care to own or what I consider not a good deal (say, Thrustmaster Warthog for instance) I say it once without emtion and move on. Why would one have a vested interest in expression disgust or hate for something (and express it once or more!) is beyond me...but then I am a simpleton! :dunce:
 

Latest Posts

Back