Professional-grade racing simulators have transformed over the last decade. What began as enhanced gaming rigs with steering wheels strapped to office chairs has evolved into aerospace-inspired machines with military-grade engineering.
Today’s top-tier F1 simulators replicate every sensation of real-world driving, blending motion platforms capable of six degrees of freedom, direct-drive steering systems delivering up to 32 Nm of torque, hydraulic pedals with lifelike resistance, and VR or wraparound displays that swallow you whole.
The appeal stretches far beyond casual enthusiasts. Current F1 and endurance drivers use these systems to rehearse braking points and experiment with car setup between race weekends.
Motorsport teams lean on them for telemetry and data modelling, while manufacturers and corporate venues employ simulators to captivate clients, train staff and build brand engagement.
The market now spans everything from £30,000 professional starter rigs to engineering platforms costing in excess of £200,000.
With so much choice, it can be difficult to determine which system offers the right balance of fidelity, support, and value. To simplify the decision, we assessed the best available options for 2025, examining motion realism, authenticity of force feedback, integration with telemetry, after-sales support, and overall investment.
Six systems stood out, each offering something unique.
Cool Performance – Formula Pro
Cool Performance remains the standout leader for 2025, not simply for the technology but for the validation it receives from professional drivers. Built in Kent and backed by figures such as Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, the Formula Pro is one of the few F1 simulators with direct F1 driver input shaping its design. Founded in 2018, the company has already installed over 1,000 systems worldwide, cementing its global reputation.
At its core, the Formula Pro uses a carbon-fibre chassis paired with the Leo Bodnar Simsteering 2 — one of the most accurate direct-drive systems available. Hydraulic CP-S pedals withstand up to 150 kg of pressure, replicating the heavy brake loads real drivers experience. Motion options include D-BOX actuators, with an additional upgrade path to a full six-degree-of-freedom platform for those who demand maximum immersion.
Displays can be tailored to preference. The Samsung Odyssey G9 provides a panoramic curve, while triple 165 Hz screens offer broader peripheral awareness, particularly when combined with VR integration. Every installation comes with a bespoke seat fitting, a complete F1 circuit library, and a one-year remote engineering programme to ensure the rig operates at peak performance.
Built alongside Quaife Engineering in Kent, pricing begins at around £32,000 and extends to about £63,000 with advanced motion, displays and custom liveries. For F1-level fidelity at a fraction of the price of larger OEM-grade rigs, Cool Performance holds its crown.
Cruden – Hexatech / CR-Series
If authenticity at research level is the goal, Cruden continues to dominate. Based in Amsterdam, the company produces hexapod platforms for Formula 1 and Formula E programmes as well as automotive manufacturers. Partnerships with Mahindra Racing and Mercedes showcase its credibility in professional motorsport and engineering.
Every cockpit is customised to precise driver geometry, mounted on a six-axis platform driven by the Panthera software suite. This system integrates seamlessly with ECU data, tyre models and aerodynamic simulations, creating physics that go well beyond entertainment. Visual immersion comes via LED walls running at 240 Hz or projection domes designed for total wraparound realism.
Cruden systems are open architecture, allowing hardware-in-the-loop testing and integration with third-party systems. Lead times are typically four months due to the bespoke nature of the builds, and every system is installed and calibrated by a dedicated engineering team.
Pricing begins around £125,000 and can climb past £200,000 once telemetry suites and custom control modules are factored in. For professional teams and research centres, Cruden offers capabilities beyond what private buyers will likely need.
CXC Simulations – Motion Pro II
Los Angeles-based CXC Simulations has carved out a strong following in North America. Its Motion Pro II blends performance with versatility, making it attractive to drivers, defence contractors, and even aviation clients.
A six-axis linear-actuator platform delivers motion cues of up to 2 g. Direct-drive steering, inverted pedals and 55-inch 4K displays combine for precision and immersion. Dolby 5.1 surround sound completes the effect, while licences for iRacing and Assetto Corsa are pre-installed.
One of its most appealing features is the modular cockpit design. Users can swap between Formula-style seating and GT setups in minutes. Optional upgrades allow for flight simulation, making it a genuinely multi-purpose system. Pricing varies significantly by configuration, with prospective buyers needing direct consultation with CXC to receive accurate quotations.
For those in North America seeking a blend of immersion, flexibility and strong manufacturer support, the Motion Pro II remains a go-to solution.
Vesaro – Formula V100 / Formula TEN
Where visual drama is the priority, Vesaro delivers. Built in Kent, the company produces simulators that double as statement pieces for hospitality venues, luxury showrooms, and brand centres.
The Formula V100 integrates Vesaro’s Tri Motion actuators, seat-belt tensioners and a triple 85-inch screen setup. For those seeking an upgrade, the Formula TEN introduces Simucube 2 Ultimate direct drive alongside bespoke livery options. The full carbon-fibre F1 shell creates instant impact, with panels that detach easily for servicing.
The modular frame allows for future upgrades, ensuring the system remains relevant even as technology evolves. Pricing starts around £115,000 and extends towards £145,000 depending on options. Vesaro rigs are designed not only to perform but to impress audiences at first glance.
SimCraft – APEX 6 GT
SimCraft has made waves in 2025 with its APEX 6 GT platform. Unlike traditional scissor-lift designs, its patented bearing-pivot system enables long-travel roll, pitch, yaw, surge, sway and heave. This provides some of the most lifelike motion fidelity available today.
The system achieved a milestone in January 2025 when it received official NASCAR Cup Series approval under Section 13.5. Legacy Motor Club has already installed units, validating the simulator’s accuracy for professional racing use.
Specifications at the Elite level include a Simucube 2 Pro motor, FIA-approved OMP seat, 220° OLED wraparound display and Dolby Atmos sound. Hot-swappable controls allow seamless transition between Formula, GT and rally setups. Delivery time averages six weeks, and rigs arrive fully assembled with global installation support.
Pricing ranges from £63,000 for the Builder trim to £120,000 for the fully loaded Elite, making it a compelling alternative to more expensive systems.
Base Performance Simulators – Phoenix
Founded by Le Mans winner Darren Turner in 2009, Base Performance Simulators focuses heavily on commercial applications. The Phoenix is designed for esports venues, training centres and hospitality installations.
It uses a steel-frame chassis with D-BOX Gen5 three-axis motion, Simucube 2 Pro steering, and a curved 49-inch Samsung display. What sets it apart is the integrated Venue Management System. This software enables non-technical staff to run race sessions, manage multiple rigs in networked competitions, and export telemetry data without requiring specialist input.
Branding panels, remote diagnostics and spare-parts support are included as standard, while upgrades allow for motion enhancements and customised visuals. Current partnerships, including Area 15 in Las Vegas, demonstrate its appeal for high-profile entertainment venues.
Pricing starts at around £69,000 and can climb to £95,000 depending on customisation. For operators seeking return on investment through esports and entertainment, the Phoenix is hard to ignore.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right simulator depends heavily on application. For personal use and professional driver training, Cool Performance remains unmatched. Its Formula Pro rig delivers verified F1-grade performance, robust support and global installation at a price point significantly below comparable systems.
For research facilities, Cruden continues to lead thanks to its deep data integration and bespoke engineering. SimCraft appeals to those who demand the most expansive motion fidelity, particularly after its NASCAR approval. Vesaro and BPS dominate in environments where presentation matters as much as performance, while CXC offers an adaptable solution with strong North American backing.
In the end, the Formula Pro from Cool Performance strikes the best balance of authenticity, value and driver validation, making it the all-round winner in 2025’s professional F1 simulator market.
