Sim racers are always on the lookout for ways to improve their experience. When it comes to Fanatec’s CSL DD and GT DD Pro, one way to unlock the full potential of these wheelbases is through the Fanatec Boost Kit 180. This accessory provides an additional 3Nm of torque, allowing the bases to reach a peak of 8Nm. However, for those who don’t want to spend the extra cash on the Boost Kit 180, there are more affordable third-party alternatives available.
Fanatec CSL DD and GT DD Pro Overview:
The CSL DD and GT DD Pro are a popular choice for many sim racers, offering excellent performance at an entry-level price. The GT DD Pro, designed for PlayStation users, offers similar performance, but with compatibility for Sony’s platform. Both models come with solid features, but their torque limits can feel restrictive when compared to higher-end offerings.
The Boost Kit 180 helps unlock the maximum potential of both models, but at a cost— approx. £130 (currently €159.95). While these price points are reasonable to some, not everyone wants to spend that much, especially when third-party alternatives are available at a fraction of the price.
Third-Party Alternatives: Affordable, Reliable, and Plug-and-Play
For those looking to unlock that extra power without breaking the bank, AliExpress offers third-party power supplies that are often priced under £40. These alternatives provide the same peak power ratings— And they really are plug and play and detected the same as the original.
Benefits of Third-Party Power Supplies:
No Tinkering Required: Unlike some third-party solutions that may require complicated modifications, these power supplies are plug-and-play. Simply plug them into your wheelbase, and they will automatically increase the torque output. There's no need to worry about wiring or adjusting firmware settings. It’s a quick, hassle-free way to boost performance.
Cost-Effective: Priced at under £40, these alternatives cost a fraction of the Fanatec Boost Kit 180 while still offering comparable performance. For those on a budget, they represent incredible value.
Good Reliability with Some Risk: The reliability of third-party power supplies is generally good, with many sim racers, including myself, reporting solid performance without any issues for over a year. I’ve personally used one of these power supplies for more than a year, and I have not encountered any problems. However, as with any third-party product, there is always a risk—some users have reported occasional quality control issues, though these appear to be relatively rare.
The Lincoiah power supply that can be purchased from ali express Plug-and-Play Setup: One of the biggest advantages of these third-party options is their ease of use. These power supplies don’t require complex firmware adjustments, and you won’t need to be technically inclined to get them working. Simply plug in the power supply, and the torque boost will be applied, providing a noticeable increase in force feedback and overall performance.
Video review of the aftermarket Boost Kit and initial unboxing
Things to Keep in Mind:
Warranty Concerns: It’s important to note that using a third-party power supply may void your Fanatec warranty. This is something to consider if you value having official support from Fanatec. If you’re worried about this, it might be worth sticking with the official Boost Kit 180.
Potential Risks: While these third-party options generally perform well, the reliability is not guaranteed to the same extent as Fanatec’s official components. As mentioned, I've personally had no issues after using one for over a year, but there’s always the possibility of defects or premature failure with non-official products. It’s important to weigh the potential savings against the risks.
Conclusion: Budget-Friendly Performance Boost
If you're looking for a way to boost the performance of your Fanatec CSL DD or GT DD Pro without spending a fortune, the third-party power supplies from AliExpress are an excellent alternative. They provide nearly identical performance to the Fanatec Boost Kit 180 at a fraction of the price, all while being easy to set up and reliable for the most part. I’ve been using one of these third-party options for well over a year with no issues, but it’s essential to be mindful of the risks involved with non-official products.
Ultimately, whether you choose the official Boost Kit 180 or a third-party alternative, you're sure to experience a much more immersive sim racing experience. The decision comes down to your budget, risk tolerance, and willingness to try something new.
Purchase Links
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Official Fanatec Product:
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Note: As mentioned in the article please outweigh the pro's and cons of using a non official product. This is purely to highlight the different offerings available.
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