RFactor 2 vs Microsoft Flight Simulator Black Friday 2026

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For Black Friday 2026, Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is the racing-sim pick and Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is the flight-sim pick. The right choice depends on whether you want close wheel-to-wheel competition or open-ended aviation across a huge virtual world. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to build a guide that covers both games and useful gear.

Here's the bottom line: rFactor 2 rewards players who enjoy tuning a car and chasing realistic circuit pace, while Microsoft Flight Simulator suits pilots who want aircraft, airports and long-haul exploration. The accessory picks below cover PC, PlayStation and Xbox setups. Check platform and game compatibility before checkout, then use the product cards to narrow your shortlist.

How We Picked

• We compared each product’s core use, platform support and fit for racing or flight simulation.
• We prioritized clear, useful specifications such as wheel rotation, force feedback and included aircraft.
• We reviewed owner feedback and product documentation for recurring strengths and setup considerations.
• We included options for beginners, dedicated sim players and console owners, not only premium PC rigs.
• We favored products with a clear role in the rFactor 2 versus Microsoft Flight Simulator buying decision.

Comparison Table

Product	Best for	Platform	Core spec	Best use
Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC)	PC circuit racers	PC	Circuit racing	Detailed car handling
Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC)	PC flight sim fans	PC	70 aircraft	Worldwide exploration
Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC)	New wheel users	PlayStation/PC	900-degree rotation	Starter racing setup
Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition Racing Wheel (PS5/PS4/PC)	PlayStation and PC racers	PS5/PS4/PC	1080-degree rotation	Belt-driven feedback
MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC)	Direct-drive PC racers	PC	5.5 Nm	Direct-drive bundle
Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One)	Xbox flight sim players	Xbox	5 axes	Stick and throttle
Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC)	PC pilots who customize controls	PC	189 programmable controls	Advanced HOTAS

Best Picks Reviewed

#1

Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC)

The Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is the best circuit-racing sim for PC players who value detailed handling, with 1 core focus: competitive motorsport driving.

Best for: PC racers who want serious circuit simulation

Platform

1: PC

Game focus

1: circuit racing

Online play

Multiplayer supported

Pros

• Detailed vehicle handling and track surfaces
• Strong fit for wheel-and-pedal setups
• Online racing adds competitive replay value

Cons

• PC-only availability limits platform choice
• Learning the setup and tuning options takes time

Is Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is worth buying for PC players who want a focused circuit-racing simulation, detailed vehicle behavior and online competition. A wheel and pedals make the experience feel more complete.

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#2 · Top pick

Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC)

The Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is the best broad-access flight sim for PC pilots who want variety, with 70 aircraft in its standard lineup.

Best for: PC players who want varied aircraft and worldwide flying

Platform

1: PC

Aircraft

70

Included airports

150

Pros

• Aircraft selection spans several flying styles
• Worldwide scenery supports free-form trips
• Works for sightseeing and structured aviation play

Cons

• A reliable internet connection improves streamed scenery
• Flight controls and settings take time to learn

Is Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is worth buying for players who want aircraft variety, detailed scenery and open-ended flight plans. The Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC)'s 70-aircraft standard lineup gives new pilots plenty of ways to explore.

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#3

Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC)

The Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC) is the best starter wheel for supported PlayStation and PC racers, with 900 degrees of rotation.

Best for: New sim racers who want one wheel for PlayStation and PC

Rotation

900 degrees

Pedals

3

Platforms

2: PlayStation and PC

Pros

• Wheel, pedals and desk clamps form a useful starter set
• 900-degree rotation suits a range of racing games
• A familiar choice for entry-level sim rigs

Cons

• Check the specific console version before purchase
• Gear-driven feedback feels less refined than direct drive

Is Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC) is worth buying for new racers who want a complete wheel-and-pedal setup with 900-degree rotation. Confirm game support and the exact platform version before checkout.

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#4

Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition Racing Wheel (PS5/PS4/PC)

The Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition Racing Wheel (PS5/PS4/PC) is the best belt-driven upgrade for PlayStation and PC racers, with 1080 degrees of rotation.

Best for: PlayStation and PC racers seeking smoother wheel feedback

Rotation

1080 degrees

Pedals

3

Platforms

PS5, PS4 and PC

Pros

• Belt-driven feedback feels smooth across corners
• Three-pedal set supports clutch-focused driving
• Wide rotation range suits varied racing styles

Cons

• Check compatibility for each game and console generation
• The wheel takes more room than a controller

Is Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition Racing Wheel (PS5/PS4/PC) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition Racing Wheel (PS5/PS4/PC) is worth buying for racers who want belt-driven feedback and 1080-degree rotation. The included three-pedal set is a useful match for games with clutch support.

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#5

MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC)

The MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC) is the best premium wheel bundle for PC sim racers building a dedicated rig, with 5.5 Nm of direct-drive torque.

Best for: PC racers upgrading to direct-drive force feedback

Force feedback

5.5 Nm

Wheel size

11 inches

Platform

1: PC

Pros

• Direct drive delivers detailed force feedback
• Bundle provides a coordinated wheel-and-base starting point
• Compact footprint suits smaller sim-racing spaces

Cons

• PC compatibility is the key platform limitation
• A sturdy mounting surface improves the experience

Is MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC) is worth buying for PC sim racers who want direct-drive feedback without piecing together a wheel base and rim separately. The MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC)'s 5.5 Nm rating makes it a substantial step up from basic wheel systems.

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#6

Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One)

The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One) is the best Xbox flight-control pick for pilots who want stick-and-throttle input, with 5 axes.

Best for: Xbox pilots who want dedicated flight controls

Axes

5

Main controls

2: stick and throttle

Platforms

Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One

Pros

• Separate stick and throttle suit aircraft control
• Designed for supported Xbox flight games
• A more immersive option than a standard gamepad

Cons

• Xbox-focused compatibility requires careful game checks
• Desk placement needs room for both control units

Is Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One) is worth buying for Xbox pilots who want separate stick and throttle controls. Check that the specific flight game supports the controller before choosing it.

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#7

Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC)

The Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC) is the best feature-rich HOTAS for PC flight sim fans, with 189 programmable controls.

Best for: PC pilots who want extensive control customization

Programmable controls

189

Main control units

2: throttle and stick

Platform

1: PC

Pros

• Large control count suits complex aircraft
• Separate throttle and stick support flexible layouts
• RGB lighting adds setup visibility and style

Cons

• Many controls create a steeper learning curve
• PC-only support narrows its audience

Is Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC) is worth buying for PC pilots who want extensive button mapping and separate throttle control. The Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC)'s 189 programmable controls suit complex simulation setups.

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Which is better, rFactor 2 or Microsoft Flight Simulator?

Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is better for track racing, while Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is better for aviation and exploration. The two games serve different kinds of sim fans, so the better pick comes down to the activity you want at the center of your setup.

Choose rFactor 2 for circuit competition, car handling and a wheel-focused experience. Choose Microsoft Flight Simulator for aircraft variety, world-scale trips and a slower, exploratory pace. Worth it for most players: the flight sim has broader sightseeing appeal, while racing fans get more focused motorsport depth from rFactor 2. Both picks are PC titles, so neither replaces checking your console library.

Which game should I buy first for a sim setup?

Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is the more versatile first sim for players who want 70 aircraft and varied flight plans. New pilots can start with relaxed sightseeing, then learn more demanding aircraft and routes as their skills grow.

Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is the better first buy when the main goal is circuit racing and a wheel is already part of the plan. Racing rewards repeat practice and setup adjustments, so players who enjoy improving lap pace get a clear reason to return. Match the choice to your available controls: a gamepad works for casual play, but dedicated wheel or flight controls make the specialist experience more engaging.

What equipment works best for rFactor 2?

The Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC) is a practical 900-degree starter wheel for supported PC racing games. The Thrustmaster T300 RS GT Edition Racing Wheel (PS5/PS4/PC) offers 1080 degrees of rotation and belt-driven feedback for players seeking a smoother wheel upgrade.

PC racers moving to direct drive should consider the MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC), which specifies 5.5 Nm of torque. A stable desk or rig matters because force feedback transfers movement into the mounting surface. Before buying, verify the game’s device support and check whether your chosen wheel version matches your computer or console.

What controls should I use for Microsoft Flight Simulator?

The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One) is the console-focused choice, while the Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC) is a control-rich option for PC pilots. Both provide separate stick and throttle units.

A gamepad is a simple way to start, especially for short sightseeing sessions. A HOTAS helps pilots manage aircraft controls with more direct inputs. The X56 has 189 programmable controls, which suit players who enjoy assigning functions to buttons. Check game compatibility, available desk space and your preferred aircraft before selecting a controller.

What should I check before buying on Black Friday 2026?

Check the platform, included edition and accessory compatibility before buying any of the 7 products in this guide. Game editions can differ in included content, while wheels and flight controllers often have distinct PC, PlayStation or Xbox versions.

For games, confirm system requirements, online features and any account or internet requirements that affect your setup. For accessories, confirm the connector, mounting needs and supported titles. A bundle is useful when its included parts match your plan; a standalone controller is a better fit when you already own compatible hardware. Keep your shortlist tied to the sim you intend to play most.

Buying Guide

Pick your simulation first

Choose Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) for circuit racing or Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) for aviation. The game should lead the purchase; controls are only useful when they support your preferred sim.

Match hardware to your platform

Check the exact product variant for PC, PlayStation or Xbox support. Similar-looking wheels and flight sticks can have different platform compatibility, so verify the product listing and the game’s supported-device information.

Choose controls for your experience level

A Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC) suits a first wheel setup. The MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC) suits a direct-drive upgrade. A gamepad remains a simple starting point for flight simulation.

Plan your space and mounting

Measure desk space before choosing a wheel or HOTAS. Force-feedback wheels need a firm mount, while stick-and-throttle controls need room for both units and comfortable access to buttons.

Compare edition contents

Review included aircraft, airports, accessories and cables in the specific listing. Edition names and bundle contents matter; choose the package that fits your setup rather than assuming every version includes the same parts.

FAQ

Is rFactor 2 better than Microsoft Flight Simulator?

Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is better for PC players focused on circuit racing and detailed car handling. Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is better for aircraft variety and worldwide exploration. Neither game replaces the other’s core style.

Which is better for beginners, rFactor 2 or Microsoft Flight Simulator?

Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) is the broader beginner choice for relaxed sightseeing and varied aircraft. Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) suits new players who already know they want circuit racing and enjoy learning vehicle setup and track pace.

Does rFactor 2 work on PlayStation or Xbox?

Studio 397 rFactor 2 (PC) is a PC game, so check your platform library before buying. Players looking for a console racing experience should select a racing title confirmed for their console and verify wheel compatibility with that specific game.

Is a HOTAS worth it for Microsoft Flight Simulator?

Yes. A HOTAS is worth it for players who want separate stick and throttle controls. Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One Flight Stick (Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One) targets Xbox, while Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB Throttle and Stick Simulation Controller (PC) targets PC.

Which wheel is best for rFactor 2?

MOZA Racing R5 Bundle (PC) is the premium pick here, with 5.5 Nm direct-drive force feedback. Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals (PlayStation/PC) is a suitable starter option. Confirm the game supports your wheel and platform before purchase.

Is Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition enough?

Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition (PC) includes 70 aircraft and 150 airports, making it a substantial starting package for many pilots. Compare the exact edition contents with the aircraft and locations you want before choosing a version.