3D Printed Gadget Turns Xbox Controller Into A Mini Steering Wheel (Video)

Racing games like Gran Turismo, Forza Motorsport, and F1 are fun to play with a controller, but honest truth is there’s nothing quite like playing a racing game with a proper steering wheel peripheral.

The problem is a good wheel definitely isn’t cheap. Even on the low end, wheels can cost around $200 and if you want something from Thrustmaster, Logitech, or Fanatec expect to spend much more.

If you’re on a budget that makes things tricky.

Though it seems like someone has found a cheap solution due to the advent of 3D printing.

A user that goes by “pixel2” on the 3D printing reddit page designed an amazing rack and pinion style piece that snaps onto a regular Xbox One controller, turning into a simple thumb-sized steering wheel.

Besides the plastic rack and pinion piece itself, all you’ll need to make it work is some super glue and a ball bearing disc similar to what you’d find at a skate shop or inside a fidget spinner.

What if you don’t have a 3D printer? Well luckily pixel2’s design went viral and if you do a little internet leg work you can find 3D printing services or you can find someone on a 3D printing forum or facebook group who would be willing to print the piece for you for a small fee or maybe even for free if they’re feeling generous.

Either way its likely to cost way less than it would to buy a legit Xbox steering wheel peripheral.

Obviously this DIY solution isn’t perfect and won’t come close to what you’d get with a proper wheel; But its still pretty damn good considering the price and effort versus the result.

Currently pixel2 doesn’t have a rack and pinion design that will work with a PlayStation controller due to the way its analog sticks are positioned. However he has hopes that maybe someone else will “figure it out”.

If you want to download the 3D printing file, just visit pixel2’s page on thingverse.

If you want to see the piece in action, check out the video below.  Afterwards let us know what you think about this.  Would you use this? Tell us in the comments below or tweet to us at @MotorworldHype

3D Printed Rack and Pinion Steering Mini Wheel video: