Image credit: Thrustmaster
Many modern sim racing rigs only feature two pedals these days, but the enthusiasts of heel and toe are very much around - but they do not have many budget alternatives when it comes to shifters. Now, Thrustmaster aims to change this with the little brother of their TH8A offering - the TH8S is available to preorder.
Shifters can up the immersion of driving vintage cars considerably, but outside of the Logitech G Driving Force Shifter (which is only compatible with Logitech wheels and not as a standalone either), there are not really any low-budget models available. This gap could now be closed by the TH8S.
The shifter looks like a modernized version of the more expensive TH8A model and an extension of the T248 line of wheels, but where the older shifter features a mostly metal construction, the TH8S uses more plastic parts, like the housing. On the inside, it uses the same contactless H.E.A.R.T. sensor system found in the more expensive model, so longevity should be comparable to the near-unbreakable TH8A.
Featuring seven gears pluse one reverse, the shifter uses the same layout as the more expensive model. Unlike the TH8A, however, the TH8S cannot be converted to sequential mode - for the former, this is as easy as switching the shifter plate and rotating the shifter 90 degrees inside its housing.
Preorders are now possible, with an estimated delivery of the TH8S at the end of July.
If you are planning on buying this product and you like what we do here on RaceDepartment, please consider using our affiliate link. We make a small commssion on each sale, without any extra cost for you.
Many modern sim racing rigs only feature two pedals these days, but the enthusiasts of heel and toe are very much around - but they do not have many budget alternatives when it comes to shifters. Now, Thrustmaster aims to change this with the little brother of their TH8A offering - the TH8S is available to preorder.
Shifters can up the immersion of driving vintage cars considerably, but outside of the Logitech G Driving Force Shifter (which is only compatible with Logitech wheels and not as a standalone either), there are not really any low-budget models available. This gap could now be closed by the TH8S.
The shifter looks like a modernized version of the more expensive TH8A model and an extension of the T248 line of wheels, but where the older shifter features a mostly metal construction, the TH8S uses more plastic parts, like the housing. On the inside, it uses the same contactless H.E.A.R.T. sensor system found in the more expensive model, so longevity should be comparable to the near-unbreakable TH8A.
Built-In Mounting Option
Thrustmaster's new shifter also comes with a built-in clamping mechanism to mount it onto desks and rigs . It is compatible with all Thrustmaster FFB wheels on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One and Series X|S, and as a standalone on PC as well thanks to its USB connectivity. The TH8S comes with both DIN and USB cables to ensure compatibility.Featuring seven gears pluse one reverse, the shifter uses the same layout as the more expensive model. Unlike the TH8A, however, the TH8S cannot be converted to sequential mode - for the former, this is as easy as switching the shifter plate and rotating the shifter 90 degrees inside its housing.
Don't Break the Bank
The TH8S comes with a very competitive price: It will only set you back 69,99€/69,99$/64,99£. As a result, it is a good starting point, especially for those who do not know whether or not manual shifting is for them but want to try it.Preorders are now possible, with an estimated delivery of the TH8S at the end of July.
If you are planning on buying this product and you like what we do here on RaceDepartment, please consider using our affiliate link. We make a small commssion on each sale, without any extra cost for you.