The Fanatec V3 and CSL Elite V2 pedals each bring their unique strengths to the racing experience, with the CSL Elite V2s marking a significant step forward in Fanatec's lineup.
Design and Build Quality: A Detailed Examination
The Fanatec V3 Pedals are known for their sturdy build and refined design. Made from high-quality metal components, they offer both durability and a premium appearance. Every detail reflects Fanatec’s focus on craftsmanship and reliability, making them a top choice for racers who appreciate equipment that performs well and looks exceptional.
8.8Total score
Fanatec ClubSport V3 Pedals
Visit Fanatec WebsiteQuality
9
Price
9
Value for money
9
Design
9
User experience
8
Pros
- ClubSport V3 pedals can be upgraded with brake performance and damper kits for enhanced racing experience. High-quality build and performance at a reasonable price point, making it a great long run investment. Adjustability: Highly flexible setup with adjustable brake cylinder and pedal plates.
Cons
- Brake Kit Sold Separately: Despite its importance, the brake performance kit isn't included with the pedals. The bolts on the pedal plates can easily get damaged during installation. The instructions for adjustments should be more detailed, as they may be challenging for beginners.
9Total score
Fanatec CSL Elite V2 Pedals
Get V2 Pedals!Quality
9
Price
9
Value for money
10
Design
8
User experience
9
Pros
- Realistic braking with 90 kg load cell
- Durable, premium aluminum build
- Precise Hall-Effect sensors for accuracy.
Cons
- High price point for beginners.
In contrast, the CSL Elite V2 Pedals take a more practical and user-focused approach. Instead of the polished look of the V3s, they feature a clean, industrial design built around performance and usability. The updated brake system delivers a realistic, responsive feel that enhances control and immersion. This focus on function over form highlights Fanatec’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in sim racing technology.
Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look
The Fanatec V3 Pedals have earned their reputation for combining strength and style. Built from high-quality metals, they not only look premium but are designed to handle the demands of intense racing sessions. Their polished surfaces and precise construction highlight Fanatec’s dedication to durability and craftsmanship, making them a popular choice for racers who value both aesthetics and performance.
The CSL Elite V2 Pedals, on the other hand, represent a shift in Fanatec’s approach. Moving away from the sleek finish of the V3s, the V2s embrace a more industrial and purposeful design. This isn’t just a visual change; it reflects a focus on usability and driver feedback. The revised brake system is the centerpiece, delivering a realistic and responsive feel that enhances control and immersion. Together, these improvements show Fanatec’s continued effort to refine its products and push the experience of sim racing closer to reality.
Features and Adjustability
The Fanatec V3 Pedals are known for their wide range of adjustments, giving racers the freedom to fine-tune every detail of their setup. You can modify the pedal face position, angle, and spring stiffness, and even add damper kits for a more personalized feel. This level of customization allows drivers to create a setup that matches their exact preferences and driving style.
The CSL Elite V2 Pedals, while offering fewer adjustment options, focus on simplicity and practicality. They feature interchangeable elastomers for the load cell brake and an adjustable preload spring, providing just the right amount of customization without complexity. This approach keeps setup straightforward while still allowing meaningful tweaks that enhance braking feel and overall control.
Performance: Breaking Down the Differences
The braking performance of the CSL Elite V2 Pedals is one of their strongest points. The brake delivers a realistic, responsive feel that closely mirrors the sensation of real-world racing. This level of feedback allows drivers to modulate pressure with precision, helping them maintain control and consistency through corners. The result is a more immersive and confident racing experience that supports better performance on the track.
The V3 Pedals, while not as focused on braking alone, deliver well-rounded performance across all inputs. Their high level of adjustability allows drivers to fine-tune throttle, brake, and clutch response to create a setup that feels natural and consistent. This balance makes them a versatile choice for racers who value precision and control in every aspect of driving, from smooth acceleration to stable braking and seamless gear changes.
Track Performance
To determine which pedal set delivers the best performance for sim racers, the Fanatec V3 or the CSL Elite V2, I carried out a detailed analysis over multiple races. The comparison focused on several key metrics, including fastest lap times, average lap times, median lap times, and the standard deviation of lap times. Together, these figures provide a clear picture of both peak performance and overall consistency, revealing how each pedal set performs under real racing conditions.
All Laps
| Metric | Fanatec V3 Pedals | CSL Elite V2 Pedals |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest Lap | 1:43.999 | 1:43.977 |
| Average Lap | 1:44.284 | 1:44.547 |
| Median Lap | 1:44.219 | 1:44.303 |
| Standard Deviation | 0.275 | 0.573 |
Top 5 Laps
| Metric | Fanatec V3 Pedals | CSL Elite V2 Pedals |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest Lap | 1:43.999 | 1:43.977 |
| Average Lap | 1:44.065 | 1:44.191 |
| Median Lap | 1:44.084 | 1:44.237 |
| Standard Deviation | 0.044 | 0.122 |
Fastest Lap: The CSL Elite V2 pedals edged out the Fanatec V3 pedals by a mere 0.022 seconds in the fastest lap category. This slight advantage indicates that the V2 pedals can support competitive racing at the highest level, providing the necessary precision for peak performance. Average and Median Lap Times: The V3 pedals show a slight edge in both average and median lap times, suggesting a more consistent performance across multiple laps. This consistency is crucial for racers who aim for reliability and steady performance throughout a race. Standard Deviation: The standard deviation in lap times further illustrates the consistency advantage of the V3 pedals. With a lower standard deviation, the V3 pedals demonstrate less variability in lap times, indicating a more predictable and controllable racing experience. In contrast, the higher standard deviation of the V2 pedals suggests a wider range of lap times, which could reflect a steeper learning curve or greater sensitivity to driving technique. All Laps
- Fastest Lap: Fanatec V3 (1:43.999) vs. CSL Elite V2 (1:43.977) - CSL Elite V2 edges out by a hair!
- Average Lap: Fanatec V3 (1:44.284) is slightly faster than CSL Elite V2 (1:44.547).
- Median Lap: Fanatec V3 (1:44.219) shows more consistent performance compared to CSL Elite V2 (1:44.303).
- Standard Deviation: Fanatec V3 (0.275) demonstrates tighter lap times than CSL Elite V2 (0.573), indicating more consistency across all laps.
Top 5 Laps Analysis (Errors Excluded):
- Fastest Lap: Remains virtually the same with Fanatec V3 (1:43.999) and CSL Elite V2 (1:43.977).
- Average Lap: Fanatec V3 improves significantly to 1:44.065, closer to its fastest lap, whereas the CSL Elite V2 averages at 1:44.191.
- Median Lap: Fanatec V3 maintains a strong median at 1:44.084, compared to CSL Elite V2's 1:44.237.
- Standard Deviation: Fanatec V3 shows remarkable consistency with a deviation of just 0.044, far outperforming CSL Elite V2's 0.122.
Value for Money
Priced at $399.95, the V3 pedals are an investment in advanced features and customization capabilities, justifying their cost for racers seeking the pinnacle of personalization and performance. At $299.95, the CSL Elite V2 pedals offer exceptional performance at a more accessible price point. Their improved braking system, in particular, presents a compelling value proposition, enhancing race results without a hefty investment.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Choice
Choosing between the Fanatec V3 and CSL Elite V2 Pedals ultimately depends on what you value most in your racing setup. If you want maximum customization and the ability to fine-tune every detail, the V3 Pedals are the better fit. If your focus is on realistic braking performance and overall value, the CSL Elite V2 Pedals stand out as a strong option. Both deliver excellent quality and performance, ensuring a more immersive and enjoyable sim racing experience no matter which you choose.
