Logitech is finally launching a new gear shifter for its latest sim racing ecosystems, the Logitech G RS H-Shifter. The new gear stick will play with the brand's G Pro Wheel and pedal set, as well as more up-to-date RS Wheel Hub and RS50 loadouts, which we deem the best PC racing wheel currently on the shelves.
The new RS H-Shifter is available from today in both the US and UK for $159.99 / £159.99 at Logitech. You can plug it directly into the RS50 or G Pro wheel base if you wish, but there's also compatibility through the Logitech G Racing Adapter for console players. PC players also have the option to plug straight into their rigs through USB.
“There’s a strong demand from car enthusiasts worldwide for the connection and control that a manual shifter offers,” said Richard Neville, Head of Product, Simulation at Logitech G.
“The RS H-Shifter’s engaging, racing gearbox feel, is engineered to reliably deliver the elevated experience that is expected from Racing Series and PRO products.”
With a custom 7-speed plus reverse mechanism, you have loads of room to gallop in whatever car you're simulating. Reverse gear is actually a push-through lockout with the 7th gear, which should ensure that you don't accidentally land in the wrong gear at the wrong moment.
It's been a long wait for Logitech's sim racing fans for an updated gear shifter. The last time the brand released one was for the G29 and G920 wheels, which launched over a decade ago. The Driving Force Shifter is still available and does work with the more up-to-date wheels through the Racing adapter, but fans have been calling out for something newer to match the design of the modernized hardware.
Bringing the design into the 2020s, Logitech has opted for Hall effect, contactless sensors that the brand seems to have tested rigorously. In a press briefing, I was shown GIFs and videos of the R&D rooms at Logitech, where machines were continuously shifting the gear stick between positions. With Hall tech inside, there will be no wear and tear to the parts, hopefully allowing the RS H-Shifter to last even longer in people's setups than the Driving Force Shifter.
Reliability seems to have been a real priority for Logitech. The RS H-Shifter uses a mix of aluminium and high-strength plastics, and it says in the press release that "Designed to endure the rigors of competitive racing, it underwent months of rigorous stress testing on every gear transition, delivering the durability and performance worthy of the Logitech Racing Series' renowned reputation."
In a fun turn, Logitech has also catered to those who want after-market customization. In essence, you can unscrew the gear stick head and attach whatever you want to the top, provided it has the right fixing dimension.
If you want to get platform-specific, check out the best PS5 steering wheels and the best Xbox steering wheels. For more on controllers, look at the best Xbox Series X controller and the best PC controller.
