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Beneath the surface, both wheels look identical. They're both Direct Drive, PC-compatible, and feature a Standard Quick Release. The Fanatec Podium DD2 boasts 25Nm of torque, while the Moza R12 puts out a measly 12Nm. On paper, it's clear that the Fanatec has the upper hand.
I've seen users struggle with overheating issues on both wheels, but it seems to be more prevalent in the older R9 model. The R12 doesn't seem to have this problem, or at least, not to the same extent. However, users are reporting that even when the base isn't warm, the FFB can drop to under 50% of its strength after just a few hours of use. I've had my share of dealing with faulty Quick Releases and RMA requests for both Fanatec and Moza products, and let me tell you, it's not fun. The customer support from Moza is questionable at best, leaving users to send a laundry list of troubleshooting steps via email, only to be ignored or dismissed. It's a headache I'd rather avoid.
For casual sim racers who just want a plug-and-play experience, the Moza R12 is a decent choice. It's more affordable and gets the job done. However, for serious enthusiasts who demand top-notch performance and can handle the occasional pain of dealing with customer support, I'd recommend saving up for the Fanatec Podium DD2. Yes, it comes at a premium price point, but its superior torque output and (relatively) better quality control make it worth the investment. Don't get me wrong, the Moza R12 is still a good value for money, but if you want the best, you'll have to pay for it.