Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Moza Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
As an Amazon Associate, Driver Labs earns from qualifying purchases.
As an Amazon Associate, Driver Labs earns from qualifying purchases.
Cammus C5 Direct Drive and Fanatec Podium DD1 are both touted as top-of-the-line direct drive wheel systems. On paper, they're neck-and-neck in terms of torque (20Nm vs 5Nm) and drive type (Direct Drive). However, the Cammus C5 is more affordable, while the Fanatec Podium DD1 has a premium price point.
I've seen users struggle with the Cammus C5, reporting issues that range from software compatibility problems to pedal unresponsiveness. Some claim it's a nightmare to deal with customer support, which seems to be overwhelmed and inefficient. One user even had to deal with broken pedals after an update, rendering them unusable. The shipping process is another area of concern, with excessive wait times and lack of tracking information. I've also heard stories about the wheel itself being prone to issues if not updated regularly. And let's not forget the necessity of investing in shifter pedals, which will inevitably break over time. On the other hand, users rave about the Fanatec Podium DD1, citing its reliability and robustness. While there are some firmware issues that have been resolved with updates, they're relatively rare and often fixed quickly by the manufacturer. One user did experience a problem with the PSU, but Fanatec responded promptly to replace it. The RMA process seems efficient, and users report being satisfied with the results. The big problem here is that Cammus C5 feels like a product that's still trying to find its footing, while Fanatec Podium DD1 is a tried-and-true winner. It's hard to ignore the sheer number of complaints surrounding the Cammus C5.
For anyone serious about Sim Racing, I'd recommend opting for the Fanatec Podium DD1. Its premium price point may be off-putting, but it's a worthwhile investment given its reliability and robustness. While there are some issues to be aware of (mainly firmware-related), they're relatively minor compared to the Cammus C5's laundry list of problems. For budget-conscious buyers or those just starting out, I'd recommend exploring other options that aren't plagued by such frequent issues. There's no reason to risk dealing with a product that may not live up to its promises.