Simagic recently introduced its new Zeus range of steering wheels. The flagship model reviewed is the Zeus Formula, which is specifically designed for open-wheel and Formula 1 racing, adhering to F1 standard sizing.
The full system, which includes variants like the GT and Sport models, earned a high score from Kris Butterill in TweakTown’s review, netting it 95% and the Editor’s Choice award. The price for the Zeus Formula is listed at $669.
In terms of build quality, the wheel incorporates a solid carbon fiber front plate (5mm) paired with a one-piece CNC-machined aluminum alloy back cover. When equipped with the companion dash, the assembly weighs 1.63kg, and Kris reported finding zero flex even when twisting it aggressively during track use.
The hardware is highly feature-rich, offering up to 92 physical inputs. These include sixteen customizable RGB buttons, two seven-way rotary switches, four rotary encoders, and four thumb encoders. Additional components comprise magnetic paddle shifters and separate metal clutch paddles. Users can also opt for an additional six-paddle upgrade kit for $80.
Hardware critiques noted that the four main rotary encoders are pre-labeled with F1-specific functions (such as Diff, Map, ABS, TC) rather than shipping blank. Additionally, Kris observed that the top screw holes in the grips were slightly noticeable under the fingers.
Complementing the wheel is the new MagicDash 4 companion screen. This dashboard is a 4-inch, 800×400 touchscreen featuring RGB shift and side indicator lights. It attaches to the wheel or can be placed elsewhere using various accessories like Air Link, MagLink Pro, or MagDock.
Kris praised Simagic’s decision to now bundle Air Link—providing wireless connectivity—as standard after receiving customer feedback post-launch, since it was initially sold separately. He highlighted that the dash integrates well with SimHub, a popular third-party telemetry software, making it accessible to a wider user base.
The review also praised a unique trackpad mode feature on the touchscreen, allowing it to function as a mouse pad for quick access to settings or recording programs mid-session.
One overarching criticism concerned the confusing nature of the connectivity accessories. Achieving full functionality, especially SimHub LED control, requires users to fully understand which specific add-on is necessary for their intended setup.
Overall, Kris summarized the package as complete and versatile, deeming it difficult to surpass at its price point, noting he had
Source: TweakTown