Fanatec DD1 vs DD2: which should you buy?

Considering buying a Fanatec DD1 or DD2? Then you're in the right place! In this article, we tell you everything you need to know before you buy. The Fanatec Podium DD1 and DD2 are part of the Fanatec Podium Series and have been Fanatec's flagship products for years. With 20 and 25 Newton metres of torque respectively, both wheelbases with direct drive (Direct Drive) are in the higher end of the market. The Fanatec wheelbases leave nothing to be desired when it comes to the irresistible power of the force feedback.

Fanatec Ecosystem

The absolute advantage of Fanatec is its incredibly well-developed ecosystem. There are several steering wheels for sale, as well as pedals, a handbrake, a gear lever and unimaginable accessories. The only thing Fanatec does not have are DDU dashboards. Should you want this - which is highly recommended - you will have to rely on external suppliers for this. Tip: take a look at Sim Racing Addict. They have fantastic sim racing mods and add-ons that complete your sim rig.

The following Fanatec products are fully compatible with the DD1 / DD2:

• All Fanatec Podium steering wheels
• All Fanatec ClubSport steering wheels
• All Fanatec CSL steering wheels
• All Fanatec pedals
• All Fanatec Shifters

Features

Besides the basic functions of the wheel base and the connection options at the rear, Fanatec has installed a 2.7-inch integrated OLED screen with a resolution of 256 x 64 pixels at the front. There, for example, wheel base telemetry data and force feedback settings can be displayed and adjusted while driving. You do this easily via the integrated electronics using the Fanatec Tuning Menu.

What is the difference between the Fanatec DD1 and DD2?

The differences between the Fanatec DD1 vs DD2 are minimal. The plug and play wheelbases consist of an all-aluminium body. The biggest difference is the output in power. The DD1 is electronically limited to 20Nm, while the DD2 has a peak torque of 25Nm. This results in more powerful force feedback on the DD2. The table below shows the differences between the two wheelbases.

	Fanatec DD1	Fanatec DD2
Force	20 Nm	25 Nm
Kill Switch	Optional	Included
Finish	Brushed aluminium	Carbon fibre
Warranty	3 years	5 years
Price	€ 1.199,95 / $ 1.199,95	€ 1.499,95 / $ 1.499,95

What's in the box?

The packaging of the Podium Wheel Base DD1 (and DD2) is very sturdy, modern and beautiful. When unboxing, I was even shocked at how heavy it is. The wheelbase is well secured and fastened with a special closure. If you open the packaging, you will find the following:

• Fanatec Podium Wheelbase DD1 / DD2
• Remote controlled safety stop (kill switch) (for DD2 only)
• Torque dongle
• Manual
• Power adapter (480 Watt)
• USB cable (USB-A)
• The usual Fanatec stickers

The Fanatec Torque Key is a tool that lets you adjust the power of the force feedback on Fanatec racing wheels. The Torque Key allows you to increase or decrease the tension on the wheel's internal mechanism, giving you a stronger or weaker force feedback effect. It is important to be careful when adjusting the force feedback, as this can affect the wheel's performance and durability. Therefore, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and do not exceed the recommended torque values.

Note: if you want to use the maximum power of the Podium Series then using the Fanatec Quick Release (QR1) adapter an absolute prerequisite. The plastic QR1-lite is not suitable for this purpose.

Build quality Fanatec DD1 and DD2

The DD1 and DD2 are both designed and manufactured in Germany, and the build quality is typical of the high standards associated with German technology and engineering. In other words: Deutsche Gründlichkeit ;). The design of both handlebars is sleek and modern, with a minimalist look and use of high-quality materials such as metal and carbon.

The wheelbases have a metal aluminium housing that feels sturdy and solid and are designed to be very durable, with high-quality internal components that have been carefully assembled. Both wheelbases have an all-aluminium housing. The Fanatec DD2 has a beautiful carbon fibre finish, while that of the DD1 wheelbase is brushed aluminium. The design of the Fanatec DD1 and DD2 are often praised by sim racers for their high quality and reliability, and they are considered one of the best direct drive racing wheels on the market.

The design also focuses on efficiency and performance, with a powerful motor mounted directly on the steering wheel, resulting in a very fast and responsive steering response. This means you don't lose power in force feedback and creates a very detailed force feedback that you feel through the steering wheel.

Force feedback

Force feedback is, of course, the most important feature of a wheelbase. The force feedback (ffb) on the wheel is direct and very detailed, as you would expect from a wheelbase in this price segment. The DD1's 20 Nm should be more than sufficient for almost any purpose, so the DD2 is mainly a purchase for the "good conscience" of always being able to use the theoretical maximum. In practice, you will absolutely not use the maximum power and only use about 20 á 30% of its power. The FFB can be configured the same way from both wheelbases. Only minor differences can be found in the subjective area.

Relative to the CSL DD PRO (with 8 Nm), the DD1/DD2's huge power reserves are of course noticeable. The range in force feedback is huge, not least in the case of unintended spins or impacts; historic vehicles with large steering wheels can also be moved around the track without clipping.

Final verdict Fanatec DD1 vs DD2

I hope this Fanatec Podium Wheel Base DD1 review and Fanatec DD2 review helps you in making a choice. Is Fanatec DD1 or DD2 worth it? As far as we are concerned a resounding: YES! The Fanatec DD1 and Fanatec DD2 are both incredibly accurate and powerful. With its direct drive wheel base and advanced force feedback, the Fanatec Podium DD1 DD2 offers a very realistic and immersive driving experience.

This wheelbase is therefore an absolute must for your simulator that will ensure years of gaming fun. Fanatec has significantly improved the build quality and functions compared to previous models. This quality is also to be expected from a premium Podium series.

The DD1/DD2 offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for serious sim racers. Already have an older Fanatec wheelbase or no Direct Drive system yet? Then I would definitely buy the DD1 or DD2.

Whether the price difference is worth it is personal and I cannot judge for you. For an extra €300 you get an extended warranty of up to 5 years as well as the safety plug. If you buy this separately, it costs €99.95. With the extra power of the wheelbase, this kill switch is definitely not an unnecessary luxury.

The existing Fanatec ecosystem is one of the big advantages. For example, all steering wheels, pedals and accessories compatible with the Fanatec DD1 or DD2. Software, Fanalab, at first glance looks a bit outdated and confusing but does what it is supposed to do. Should you still have doubts, there is no need. You are guaranteed not to regret using the Fanatec DD1 or Fanatec DD2. The level of power, detail and feel on the track are sublime! Convinced? Then order it today!

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