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Fanatec GT DD Pro (8Nm) vs VRS DirectForce Pro. At first glance, it's a tie in terms of drive type and compatibility. Both are direct drive wheels with PC/PS5 support. However, the Fanatec model has an 8Nm torque rating, while the VRS comes in at a whopping 20Nm. The VRS also boasts a higher price point.
I've seen users report issues with both wheels, but the Fanatec GT DD Pro seems to have its fair share of problems as well. One user reported having to build their own 8nm power brick after experiencing issues with the stock unit. Another claimed that upgrading from a 5Nm model to an 8Nm made a big difference in terms of fidelity and detail, but it's not just about raw power – the experience is also dependent on software and hardware settings. But what really gets my goat is when users have to deal with frustrating issues like inconsistent FFB or calibration problems that require you to unplug and replug cables. And then there are the more serious issues like the steering wheel having to turn more than needed, which can be a real pain in the neck (literally). I've also seen users complaining about the socket guards being extremely soft and wobbly, making it easy to plug cables up-side-down. It's not exactly what you want when shelling out top dollar for a premium product.
So, who gets my money? In my book, the VRS DirectForce Pro is the clear winner in terms of torque and overall performance. The 20Nm rating gives it a significant edge over the Fanatec GT DD Pro (8Nm). However, I'd caution you to factor in the price premium – you're paying a lot more for that extra oomph. If you're on a budget or don't need the absolute highest level of fidelity and detail, the Fanatec GT DD Pro is still a solid choice. But if you want the best of the best and are willing to pay for it, the VRS DirectForce Pro is the way to go – just be prepared for some potential teething issues.