Why is everyone buying these $199 pedals?
Simpson sent me their Plus X pedals to review — and the big question is: why is everyone buying these $200 pedals?
Before diving in, a quick note: I do have an affiliate link with Simpson, and you can get 8% off with the code “random.” They’re also available in my Amazon store. But, as always, my opinions are 100% my own.
Familiar Design, Familiar Price Point
If you’ve been around sim racing for a while, the design of the Plus X pedals will look familiar. They’re based on the original “OY” design, which has inspired countless copies — including a few on AliExpress and even my current favorite pedals, the Imim Toentos.
Simpson, however, is one of the biggest Chinese brands using this style. So what makes their version stand out — and what justifies that $200 price tag?
Pricing and Versions
The base two-pedal set starts at around $199 (or £150). If you fully spec it out (without the optical sensors), it goes up to about $255 (£213).
Add the optic reactors, and you’re looking at an extra $145 (£100).
The version I tested — the Plus X base — comes in around $250, which honestly is a pretty solid deal for what you get.
Cost-Saving Choices: Simple but Functional
It’s clear Simpson kept the price down by making smart trade-offs:
Unboxing is as basic as it gets — a cardboard box with foam inserts, some bolts, nuts, and a few extra elastomers and springs.
Hardware quality is functional but not premium. For example, the nuts aren’t Teflon, but they lock perfectly fine.
Finish quality is where the biggest cost savings show. Some edges are quite sharp — enough that I’d caution against using these pedals barefoot or with thin socks unless you sand them down first.
Build and Adjustability
Mounting is straightforward. The pedals use standard rails compatible with most rigs, and you can adjust:
Pedal plate height
Tilt angle
Pedal throw
Spring preload
All the basics are here, making the Plus X surprisingly versatile for its price.
The Throttle Pedal
Here’s where things get mixed. The hydraulic piston on the throttle isn’t great — it feels sticky, especially near full travel (95–100%). Removing it improves the feel dramatically.
Overall, the throttle pedal is decent and adjustable, but there are smoother options out there in higher-end sets.
The Brake Pedal — The Star of the Show
As always, the brake pedal is what makes or breaks a sim racing setup (pun intended).
This brake pedal is excellent for the price. Despite the same rough finish issues, the mechanics are solid:
Adjustable pedal face, tilt, and throw
Customizable elastomers (red = soft, yellow = medium, blue = firm)
Preload and stiffness adjustments
A 200kg-rated load cell that’s precise and responsive
The load cell performance is rock-solid — consistent pressure readings, excellent precision, and smooth modulation. It’s easily the standout component of the entire set.
The Clutch Pedal
The clutch is… fine. Nothing special. It shares the same design and small flaws as the others (sticky hydraulic piston, rough edges), but it does the job. Since the clutch sees less use in most setups, it’s not a major downside.
Software
Simpson’s software is clean and simple — reminiscent of Simagic’s SimPro. It lets you:
Calibrate pedals
Adjust curves and dead zones
Save multiple profiles
It’s plug-and-play for most setups and works perfectly in iRacing, Assetto Corsa, and LFM without much setup hassle.
On the Track: Performance Impressions
Once you’re driving, the Plus X pedals really start to shine.
The throttle can be squeaky — likely due to the damper — but functionally, it’s responsive and linear.
The brake pedal, though, is incredibly precise. You can feel every detail during trail braking, easily modulate pressure before lock-up, and enjoy that satisfying, progressive feel through the elastomers.
Deflection in my setup came from my pedal tray, not the pedals themselves — these things are solid.
Final Thoughts
Simpson clearly cut corners in presentation and finish but put that budget where it matters: in performance and core design.
At $200, the Plus X pedals deliver an impressive balance of capability and affordability. They punch way above their price class — especially the brake pedal, which rivals sets that cost double.
That said, be mindful of the rough finishing, potential sharp edges, and sticky hydraulics.
If you’re on a budget and want a serious upgrade in performance without breaking the bank, the Simpson Plus X pedals are absolutely worth considering.
What do you think?
If you already own these pedals, share your experiences in the comments — what you love, what you’d change, and whether you agree they’re the best value pedals under $250.