Can I use Xbox Ferrari wheel on PS4?
No, unfortunately Xbox branded Ferrari wheels like the Thrustmaster Ferrari 250 GTO wheel are not natively compatible with PlayStation 4. This is because Xbox and PlayStation utilize different proprietary technologies and protocols for connecting accessories like racing wheels.
The root of Xbox and PlayStation wheel incompatibility
Both Xbox and PlayStation racing wheels use their own unique communication interfaces and drivers to connect to their respective consoles. For example:
- Xbox wheels use the Xbox Wireless Protocol to pair over Xbox Wireless or Bluetooth
- PlayStation wheels connect via the PlayStation Serial Bus Connection for power and data transfer
This means that accessories made for one system cannot simply plug-and-play with the other out of the box. An Xbox Ferrari wheel lacks the PS4 chipset and firmware to establish a connection.
Examples of Xbox Ferrari wheels not PS4 compatible
Here are some popular licensed Ferrari racing wheels that only work on Xbox consoles and PC:
| Wheel | Console Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Thrustmaster Ferrari 250 GTO Wheel Add-On | Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC |
| Hori Racing Wheel Overdrive for Xbox One | Xbox One, PC |
As you can see, no mention of PlayStation support. These wheels connect wirelessly to Xbox consoles using the Xbox Wireless Protocol. Without PS4 compatibility built-in, they will not pair with the console.
Workarounds for using Xbox wheels on PS4
While not plug-and-play, there are some workarounds that allow using Xbox wheels with PlayStation 4:
Brook adapters
The Brook Super Converter series are small USB devices that translate inputs between various controllers and consoles. For example the Brook Wingman XE converts Xbox One wheel inputs to PS4/PS3 compatible signals. It‘s a wired solution that gets your Xbox wheel working on PS4 after some button mapping.
Cronus Zen
The Cronus Zen is an advanced cross-compatibility USB adapter that can connect Xbox One wheels wirelessly to PS4. It has scripting and remapping capabilities for maximum customization potential. The premium software features make Cronus Zen a popular choice despite its higher price point.
Quality PS4-compatible wheels
Instead of jerry-rigging workarounds, another option is to trade your Xbox wheel for one officially compatible with PS4. Here are some highly rated alternatives:
| Wheel | Price | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Thrustmaster T150 | $200 | 1080° Force Feedback, Rubber Coating Grip |
| Logitech G29 | $270 | Dual-Motor Force Feedback, LED Indicator Lights |
| Fanatec CSL Elite | $700 | 6Nm Force Feedback, Interchangeable Wheels |
Thrustmaster and Logitech models give you strong dual motor force feedback at competitive price points. Fanatec wheels are premium-grade with unmatched realism and customization potential.
Racing wheel support in PS4 games
The good news is that many popular PS4 racing game offer extensive steering wheel settings like sensitivity, vibration, deadzone calibration etc. Here are some titles with acclaimed wheel support:
- Gran Turismo Sport – Made specifically for Thrustmaster T-GT Wheel
- Assetto Corsa – 1:1 steering ratio and adjustable feedback intensity
- Project CARS 2 – Thrustmaster wheel preset profiles included
- F1 2022 – Detailed FFB and vibration settings
So purchasing a native PS4 wheel unlocks a higher level of customization for responsiveness, control and immersion.
Setting up a PS4 wheel – installation and calibration
Installing a PlayStation 4 compatible wheel is straightforward:
- Connect wheel base directly to PS4 console using USB cable
- Pedals connect to wheel base using pedal cable
- Switch on PS4 – wheel should auto-calibrate to center
- Go to PS4 Settings > Devices > Controllers and select wheel profile
From there, you can button map or tweak sensitivity to dial in controls that suit your driving style. I would crank wheel rotation to match simulation settings for authentic response. Start testing cars in slower classes before working up to loose rear-end beasts!
An advantage of PS ecosystem wheels from Thrustmaster/Fanatec is access to proprietary features via their control panels. For example Thrustmaster‘s T-GT Dashboard allows changing force feedback intensity on-the-fly while racing.
Essential tips for getting most out of PS4 wheel
Here are some of my top tips for having the best experience using a steering wheel with PlayStation 4:
1. Mount securely
Wheels generate aggressive forces, so securely mounting to a rig or table clamp is vital. This prevents slipping or instability that degrades control.
2. Optimize camera view
Set seat position and camera angle to match real driver perspective. Seeing wheel and dash improves spatial awareness and control.
3. Gradually increase force feedback
For beginners, start around 50% force feedback strength. Higher forces can overwhelm but also improve realism with practice.
4. Use headset for immersion
simulated surround sound from a PS4 gaming headset enhances sense of speed and environmental feedback.
5. Engage ABS initially
Learn proper braking technique before moving to no ABS. Trail braking is key for fast cornering without locking up.
The verdict
While Xbox Ferrari wheels won‘t directly connect to PS4, there are converter workarounds possible. For full plug-and-play compatibility plus customization benefits,grab a PS4-native wheel from quality brands that enhances every racing title through greater realism, precision and immersion.
Questions or comments? Let me know below!
