ClubSport DD+ Long-Term Review: A Consistent Performer With a Few Ecosystem Limits
After two years of using the Fanatec ClubSport DD+ as my primary wheelbase, it has remained the one I return to — even after reviewing technically stronger direct-drive units. This review covers long-term experience, not a first impression, and comes from extended use across multiple sims. Fanatec originally provided the unit for review in 2023, and I maintain an affiliate link, but as always, the opinions here are independent.
The ClubSport line currently includes three models:
ClubSport DD – 12 Nm, priced at $799
ClubSport DD+ – 15 Nm with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox (via compatible wheels), priced at $999
ClubSport DD Extreme – the DD+ bundled with a Gran Turismo–exclusive wheel, priced at $1199
Two Years of Use: Consistency Above All Else
The strongest trait of the DD+ is how consistently it performs across sims. Whether in iRacing, Assetto Corsa, Rally, ACC, Automobilista, or Gran Turismo, the force feedback remains stable, refined, and high quality. Not all wheelbases at this performance tier can claim that. Many high-end units have at least one title where they feel merely “okay.”
The DD+ delivers clear low-speed detail, predictable mid-corner stability, and good communication of weight transfer — without relying on heavy filters or aggressive damping. Minimal tuning is required, and even the Auto settings offer a solid baseline for most users.
Profiles and deeper tuning options exist, but the wheelbase’s strength is that it doesn’t require extensive adjustments to perform at a high level.
Where the DD+ Struggles: FullForce Support
Fanatec’s “FullForce” vibration layer — similar to Logitech’s TrueForce — is only supported in one sim: iRacing. When used lightly, it adds extra texture to the driving experience, but excessive intensity quickly overwhelms traditional force feedback. The feature works, but its limited simulator support means it isn’t a major reason to buy the wheelbase today.
Usability and Driving Feel
Mechanically, the DD+ is robust. When the wheelbase is powered, firmware control stabilizes rotation smoothly. When sims demand sharper, more aggressive torque — such as in ACC — the DD+ responds confidently. Thermal performance is excellent: completely silent, no active cooling, and no torque throttling even at its full 15 Nm.
The torque delivery is quick and stable, and unlike some competitors, it doesn’t require overshoot beyond its rated power to stay consistent during prolonged sessions.
Firmware Evolution
Firmware updates have played a major role in improving the wheelbase. Early versions (454/455) were usable but imperfect, while version 456 introduced instability. Later 2024 firmware updates brought major improvements in refinement and stability.
A long-standing issue where the wheelbase would enter “update mode” when switching to PC mode has now been resolved. Overall, continued firmware support has made the DD+ a stronger product today than at launch.
Quick Release and Ecosystem Limitations
The QR2 quick release is mechanically excellent — arguably the best on the market, though Asetek’s is also strong in certain areas. However, Fanatec’s closed ecosystem remains a drawback. The DD+ does not support USB pass-through, meaning third-party wheels require adapters or emulator solutions. That increases cost, complexity, and limits long-term flexibility.
The DD+’s specific QR2 implementation can also be sticky when removing wheels — a minor annoyance, but one that didn’t happen with earlier Fanatec bases.
A Note on Reviewing Hardware in Today’s Climate
This wheelbase was one of the most challenging products I've covered — not because of the hardware, but because of the community response surrounding it. Providing nuanced analysis often led to aggressive pushback from multiple sides, and the polarization in sim racing discussions has only worsened since. It’s an exhausting dynamic many reviewers now face, and it adds an extra layer of difficulty to producing fair content.
Long-Term Verdict
The ClubSport DD+ remains one of the most refined and consistent wheelbases available in its torque class.
Strengths:
High-quality force feedback across all major sims
Strong mechanical design and excellent thermal performance
Simple setup and genuinely usable Auto mode
Cross-platform support
Firmware that has steadily improved over two years
Weaknesses:
Limited FullForce support
Closed ecosystem and no USB pass-through
Third-party wheel compatibility requires workarounds
QR2 removal can feel sticky on this model
Despite these drawbacks, the DD+ continues to be the wheelbase I personally prefer. It offers consistent quality, reliability, and clarity — and in a segment where many products excel in only certain sims, that consistency is why I keep returning to it.
Owners of the ClubSport DD or DD+ are welcome to share their experiences in the comments — the feedback helps others make informed decisions.
