In the world of simulation racing, choosing the right steering wheel and pedals is crucial for an immersive and authentic racing experience. An essential part of this setup is the handbrake, which allows for precise braking in rally games or drift manoeuvres. A sim racing handbrake has come a long way since its inception. Originally designed as simple levers, they have now evolved into complex precision instruments.

Modern handbrakes are designed to mimic the feel and functionality of real racing cars. They offer adjustable resistance, progressive tension and compatibility with different racing platforms, making them an essential accessory for serious sim racers. There are different types of sim racing handbrakes available, each with their own technology and features. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different types of handbrakes as well as tell you what our sim racing handbrake top 8 is! We have carefully reviewed and selected each of these handbrakes based on their features, performance and value so that you can easily make the right choice when buying a handbrake for your racing setup.

Sim Racing Handbrake: These Types Are There

There are different types of sim racing handbrakes available, each with their own technology and features. In this paragraph, we will elaborate on the three different types.

1. Load Cell Handbrake: Load cell handbrakes use load cell technology to accurately measure the amount of force applied to the handbrake. This results in extremely precise and responsive braking. The harder you press the handbrake, the more braking force is applied, giving sim racers finely tuned control over their braking behaviour. This type of handbrake is ideal for racers aiming for precision and realism.
2. Hydraulic Handbrake: Hydraulic handbrakes simulate the action of a real car handbrake through a hydraulic damping mechanism. As a result, simracers experience smooth and realistic braking, similar to what they would feel in a real racing car. Hydraulic handbrakes are often chosen by simracers who want to achieve a high level of realism and authenticity in their racing simulations.
3. Progressive Handbrake: Progressive handbrakes have a design where the braking force gradually increases as the handbrake is depressed further. This offers a more natural and intuitive braking experience, similar to how a real handbrake works. Progressive handbrakes are suitable for sim racers who prefer smooth and progressive braking, which can be useful when performing complex manoeuvres.

Each type of handbrake has its own unique advantages and is suitable for different racing styles and preferences. The choice between these handbrakes depends on the specific needs of the simracer and the desired level of control and realism in their racing simulations.

Sim Racing Handbrake Top 8

In the world of simulation racing, choosing a high-quality handbrake is essential for a realistic driving experience. The "Sim Racing Handbrake Top 8" offers an overview of the most highly rated hand brakes on the market. From precision loadcell technology to adjustable resistance, this selection highlights the best options to take your simulation racing to the next level.

#1 Sim Racing Handbrake: Sim-Lab XB1 Handbrake

The Sim-Lab XB1 Handbrake is designed for ultimate precision and integration with Sim-Lab cockpits. The XB1 is distinguished by its advanced 150kg load cell technology, which measures not only the travel, but also the exact amount of force applied. This gives you a highly realistic racing experience tailored to your muscle memory. The Sim-Lab XB1 Handbrake is available for just € 199. This makes the XB1 extremely competitively priced.

This handbrake is characterised by a robust aluminium construction that ensures a firm grip and minimal flexibility. Thanks to the elastomer set and Dual Stage Damper, you can fully adjust the resistance of the handbrake to your personal preference. Whether you want a realistic racing experience or a more direct application, the XB1 offers the flexibility you need. The distinguishing feature of this handbrake is its specific design for Sim-Lab cockpits, allowing for seamless integration and eliminating the need for unnecessary adjustments.

The Sim-Lab XB1 Handbrake offers serious sim racers unprecedented precision. The all-aluminium construction ensures solid and stable braking, while the design is specifically tailored to Sim-Lab cockpits, making you feel as if you are really in a rally car. The handbrake is built with an all-metal construction that ensures durability and longevity, even with heavy use. This makes the XB1 Loadcell Handbrake a reliable long-term investment in your sim racing setup. And be honest: isn't the XB1 a joy to look at?

Sim-Lab XB1 Handbrake

• 150kg loadcell technology
• Fully adjustable resistance
• Durable construction

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#2 Sim Racing Handbrake: Fanatec ClubSport Handbrake V1.5

The Fanatec ClubSport Handbrake V1.5 is an impressive handbrake that exceeds the expectations of serious sim racers. This Fanatec handbrake has been one of the most popular sim racing handbrakes on the market for years. And that's partly due to the very competitive price of just €129.95 and partly due to the very comprehensive and solid Fanatec eco system.

One of the most striking features of the ClubSport Handbrake V1.5 is its realistic progressive resistance. This feature allows you to gradually build up brake pressure, just like in a real racing car. Whether you are into drifting, rally racing or just want to enjoy precise control of your vehicle, this handbrake delivers an experience close to reality. The precision and responsiveness are impressive and allow you to tackle every corner and manoeuvre with confidence.

The aluminium frame adds durability, while the versatile compatibility with different racing wheels and platforms ensures that this handbrake is suitable for a wide range of sim racing setups. You can use the Fanatec ClubSport Handbrake in two positions: vertical and horizontal. This makes this handbrake enormously versatile. Whether you are looking for ultimate control during your racing sessions or just want to enjoy an authentic racing experience, this handbrake will meet all your requirements. With Fanatec's reputation for quality and innovation, you can be sure that your investment in the ClubSport Handbrake V1.5 is an excellent choice for any sim racer.

Fanatec ClubSport Handbrake V1.5

• Realistic Progressive Resistance
• Sustainability and quality
• Compatibility with Fanatec Ecosystem

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#3 Sim Racing Handbrake: Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake V2

The Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake V2 is a top choice for serious sim racers who want absolutely no compromise when it comes to brake precision. The signature aspect of this handbrake is its use of load cell technology (120kg), which offers unprecedented levels of accuracy and consistency.

The first thing you notice about the Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake is its impressive build quality. The device is manufactured with high-quality materials and designed to satisfy even the most demanding sim racers. The robust construction gives a sense of durability and quality, which is crucial for long-term use in demanding racing sims. The Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake costs €339, making it one of the more expensive sim racing handbrakes. Here, however, as with the Heusinkveld Sprint Pedals, vastly in return in terms of quality, durability and software support.

The Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake V2 offers an unprecedented level of precision and reliability, which is crucial for sim racers looking for top performance. The combination of the robust aluminium construction, adjustable resistance and precise load cell technology makes this handbrake a favourite among professional sim racers.

The Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake V2 offers extensive customisation options, allowing you to tailor the handbrake to your personal preference. Adjust the resistance, change the handle position and make the handbrake fit your specific needs. This level of customisation allows sim racers to create the perfect racing experience.

Heusinkveld Sim Handbrake V2

• Extensive customisation possibilities
• Impressive build quality
• Load-cell technology (120kg)

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#4 Sim Racing Handbrake: Meca EVO Handbrake

I consider the Meca Evo Handbrake personal as one of the most stunning hand brakes for simulation racing available. The design is truly fantastic and ergonomically sound. It exudes strength and robustness. This Czech manufacturer is known for its exceptionally high-quality products, and that is immediately evident in this beautiful Meca Evo Handbrake. This high-quality handbrake is available for €286.

The Meca EVO Handbrake is a handmade handbrake that stands out for its attention to detail and quality. The Meca EVO Handbrake combines artisanal quality with customisability. Thanks to the replaceable polyurethanes, you can adjust the brake's link length and firmness. This allows you to tailor the handbrake exactly to your riding style.

What further makes this handbrake unique is the possibility of customisation. The Meca Evo Handbrake is designed with attention to precision and realism. The length of the lever is derived from a real race car, ensuring an authentic racing experience. With its advanced technology, this handbrake offers exceptionally realistic and responsive control, giving you full control over your virtual vehicle. Whether you are drifting on a virtual race track or performing impressive stunts, this handbrake will take your skills to the next level. The Meca Evo Handbrake has a proven (Mavin) load cell sensor with a maximum load of no less than 200 kg. The Meca Evo is definitely one of my favourites!

Meca Evo Handbrake

• Tough and Robust Design
• Impressive build quality
• Mavin Load-cell Technolgy (200kg)

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#5 Sim Racing Handbrake: Simagic TB-1 Handbrake

The Simagic TB-1 Handrake is compact and powerful, perfect for simracers looking for a simple solution to their handbrake needs. What sets this handbrake apart is its ease of use and reliable performance. You can mount this handbrake quickly and enjoy improved brake control right away. The Simagic TB-1 Handbrake is a technological masterpiece that exceeds the expectations of any sim racer. With its durability, versatility and precision, it is - like the Simagic Q1S Sequential Shifter - a must-have accessory for anyone serious about sim racing. The TB-1 is available at a price of €219.

The body of the TB-1 is made of CNC-machined aluminium, which ensures maximum durability and longevity. This means you can enjoy this handbrake for a long time without it wearing out or losing its quality. With its compact design and durable construction, it is a reliable choice for both novice and experienced sim racers who don't want to compromise on quality. The Simagic TB-1 Handbrake offers unmatched precision thanks to its next-generation load cell with a capacity of 100 kg.

What makes the TB-1 really special is its innovative 2-stage system, patented by Simagic. This allows you to experience the sensation of a real handbrake. The system offers two different modes, allowing you to alternate the feeling of driving a normal car with that of a racing car. This provides an unprecedentedly realistic experience during sim racing.

Simagic TB-1 Handbrake

• Innovative 2-stage system
• Impressive build quality
• Load-Cell Technology (100kg)

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#6 Sim Racing Handbrake: Moza Racing HBP Handbrake

The Moza Racing HBP Handbrake is an excellent choice for simracers looking for a solid and simple handbrake solution without frills. What sets this handbrake apart is its easy installation and user-friendliness. Within minutes, you can mount this handbrake and enjoy improved brake control. The Moza Racing HBP Handbrake offers reliable performance without complicated setup. Available for €139, the Moza Racing HBP Handbrake is an excellent choice!

The steel construction ensures durability and the easy installation makes it a good choice for novice sim racers who want to get started quickly. The Moza Racing HBP Handbrake takes your racing experience to the next level with its realistic resistance. Feel the braking power build up like in a real race car, giving you an immersive and authentic driving experience. Manufactured with top-quality materials, the Moza Racing HBP Handbrake is known for its durability.

Built to stand the test of time, this handbrake remains reliable even during the most intense racing sessions. This is because the complete housing of the HBP Handbrake is manufactured by CNC machining from aerospace-grade anodised aluminium. This makes the handbrake extremely hard-wearing, robust and durable. The lever can be mounted either horizontally or vertically and offers the ability to emulate both road and race cars.

Moza Racing HBP Handbrake

• High durability and quality
• Precision with 16-bit angle sensor
• Fully Adaptable and Ergonomic Design

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#7 Sim Racing Handbrake: VNM Handbrake V1 / 1.5

VNM Simulation is a relatively new player in the simulation racing hardware market. This Vietnamese manufacturer began its journey in the mid 2020s and has already impressed in a short time with a wide range of very exciting products, such as the VNM Simulation Shifter and the VNM Handbrake V1 and V1.5. The difference between the VNM Handbrake V1 and the VNM Handbrake V1.5 is mainly in performance improvements and some design tweaks. The V1 has a price tag of €259, while the V1.5 costs €309. What makes this handbrake so special is its simplicity and reliability. With its sturdy steel construction, this handbrake delivers consistent and reliable performance.

The VNM Handbrake V1.5 is equipped with more advanced sensors for even more precise input. This results in improved response and precision during use. In addition, the VNM Handbrake V1.5 has received some aesthetic improvements and design tweaks, resulting in a more ergonomic and attractive look.

Designed specifically for rally simulation enthusiasts, the VNM Handbrake offers an authentic racing experience. This handbrake is shaped and feels like a real rally instrument and features high-quality components, including an industrial load cell (200kg). The pressure sensitivity and firm, gradual feel allow the VNM Handbrake to deliver extremely precise and smooth inputs. Moreover, the rally handbrake's handle design can be adjusted to angles of 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 degrees. This allows you to adjust the handbrake to your preference for an optimal racing experience.

VNM Handbrake V1 / V1.5

• Designed for rally simulator drivers 
• Industrial Load Cell (200 kg)
• Full Aluminium Design
• Adaptable Design

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#8 Sim Racing Handbrake: Thrustmaster TSS Handbrake Sparco Mod

The Thrustmaster TSS Sparco Mod+ Handbrake is a handbrake designed together with Sparco, providing an authentic racing look. The TSS Handbrake is officially licensed by Sparco, one of the world's most respected brands in the motorsport industry. This means you can count on the highest level of authenticity and quality. What sets this handbrake apart is the ability to adjust the resistance, allowing simracers to set their braking force to their liking.

In addition, the TSS Handbrake is built to last. With a robust metal construction, this handbrake feels solid and durable, even during the most intense racing sessions. Another great advantage of the Thrustmaster TSS Sparco Handbrake is that it is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4. Whether you race on a PC or use your console, this handbrake can be seamlessly integrated into your setup and costs €299.

The Thrustmaster TSS handbrake uses a progressive force system, meaning that the further you press the handle, the stronger the braking force is applied. This ensures a realistic and precise racing experience, similar to what real racing drivers experience. The TSS Handbrake also has two modes: a handbrake and sequential gearbox. This allows you to switch effortlessly between handbrake and gearbox functions, adding to the versatility of this accessory.

The Thrustmaster TSS Sparco Mod+ Handbrake combines the best of Sparco's design aesthetics with customisability. The resistance settings allow sim racers to adjust their braking power to their personal preferences, creating a true racing experience.

Thrustmaster TSS Handbrake Sparco Mod+

• Official Sparco licence
• Progressive Handbrake and Sequential Gearbox
• Robust construction

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Conclusion Sim Racing Handbrake

Our top eight selection of sim racing handbrakes gives a comprehensive overview of high-quality options suitable for both novice sim racers as experienced. Whether you're looking for precision, realism, customisability or affordability, our list includes a variety of handbrakes to suit different needs. Choosing the right sim racing handbrake is essential to take your simulation racing experience to the next level, and we hope this list has helped you find the perfect handbrake to suit your racing setup and personal preferences. With these high-quality handbrakes, you can take your racing and braking skills improve and enjoy a more immersive and authentic simulation racing experience. Have lots of rally or drift fun!