Since its inception, sim-racing has always aimed to immerse virtual drivers in their favorite simu, providing maximum realism. With its steering wheel, base, pedals and shifter, this discipline has come a long way in the space of 20 years. Gone are the days when all you had to race on screen were steering wheels and a table. Today, sim-racing fans swear by their setup with steering wheel, base, pedals and, above all, cockpit.

It’s undeniable that such a product (cockpit) is a medium that considerably boosts realism and immersion for pilots. Over the years, a number of players have capitalized on the popularity of the sim-racing community, offering top-quality products that deliver the maximum experience. For sim-racing peripherals, we’re all familiar with brands like Fanatec and Logitech , which in a way dominate the game, even if new competitors have emerged over time. For cockpits, it’s mainly Playseat that reigns in this segment. But new brands such as Next Level Racing intend to dethrone the world leader.

In what follows, I’m going to introduce you to one of the brand’s flagship products, the F-GT. It’s a cockpit with a hybrid design, able to accommodate F1 and GT fans at the same time.

Main and technical cockpit features

• Hybrid driving position for F1 and GT cars
• Durable, solid structure
• Compatible with all major brands of sim-racing peripherals
• Adaptable structure with the addition of a monitor support
• Fully adjustable chassis
• Gear lever holder
• Dimensions: 170 x 60 x 100 cm
• Weight: 45 kg

Next Level Racing F-GT design

In the world of cockpits, it’s not just Playseat that knows how to make beautiful products, and the Next Level Racing F-GT is the proof. Honestly, it looks stunning with its tubular chassis painted entirely in black. What’s more, the brand’s logos are quite subtle, positioned in places that aren’t too obvious.

The watchword in the design of the Next Level Racing F-GT was “modularity”. The entire chassis has passages that allow all cockpit structures to be repositioned, giving it a high level of customizability. The cockpit design offers 2 driving configurations:

• A typical F1 model for single-seater fans.
• A typical GT for fans of this discipline.

As far as I’m concerned, it’s one of the best selling points a sim-racing cockpit can have, because fans can enjoy several disciplines at once. And that’s where the Next Level Racing F-GT shines in comparison with the competition, who struggle to come up with such ingenious and adaptable designs.

Manufacturing and finishing

The Next Level Racing F-GT uses steel tubing for its frame to ensure a solid structure. These tubes run the entire length of the frame, from the seat to the bottom bracket. The parts are laser-cut to ensure perfect assembly, with no brackets protruding from the frame.

The choice of steel is the result of the Next Level Racing F-GT ‘s modular design, which is intended for both F1 and GT sim-racers. Having tried several cockpits, I can tell you that it’s hard to get a product that’s stable and, above all, adaptable. Well, it is, but not at reasonable prices.

Obviously, such a choice of materials and design is not without its drawbacks, and weight is the main one. Weighing in at 45 kg, the Next Level Racing F-GT is far from being an easy-to-handle, lightweight cockpit. But the manufacturer did come up with the idea of adding wheels. Except that I’m not a fan of such a system, as it implies instability, and I’d advise you to make do with the support feet and leave the Next Level Racing F-GT in a sim-racing corner.

As for the finish, the entire cockpit is painted black (and I love this color), with no burrs or sharp parts to hurt you. This not only makes the beast easier to assemble, but also to use on a daily basis.

The seat is very well made, both comfortable and well finished. What’s more, the Next Level Racing F-GT comes with a cushion for lumbar support. If you like to spend hours sim-racing, this is the cockpit for you.

Using the cockpit

Competing with leaders like Playseat isn’t easy. Not only do you have to stand out with a unique, attractive design, but you also have to offer a product that is compatible with the big names in sim-racing in terms of peripherals.

In terms of design, I’m pleased to announce that the Next Level Racing F-GT has made a name for itself. Its hybrid design allows it to be driven from either F1 or GT positions, which will delight sim-racers who love both disciplines.

Even if assembly will take some time, as the beast has many parts and a design that’s not very user-friendly, the Next Level Racing F-GT is still quite easy to use and to switch from one position to another with the aid of a wrench. Okay, it’ll involve removing some screws and then putting them back in, but it’s easy enough. Bear in mind, however, that this cockpit weighs in at around 45 kg, which means you’ll need to assemble it where you’re going to use it. Don’t even think of assembling in one place and then moving the monster to another, unless you want to damage the paintwork and get backaches, of course.

Sensation in play

As far as sensations are concerned, I must say I was delighted. The cockpit is immersive, whether in F1 or GT position, even if the seat isn’t a bucket. The seat is low, with a steering wheel at shoulder level, and a pedal unit that can be raised and moved away.

Both driving positions are just about perfect as far as I’m concerned. You’ll literally dive into your sim-racing sessions and think you’re one of the Mercedes drivers in the F1 position. For the GT position, choose a Porsche GT3 and that’s it, plus adjust the cockpit to the right position of course.

The chassis is stable, and you don’t have a bracket that goes between your legs, which is a problem on some Playseat cockpits, especially for setups with a shifter and 3 pedals. Hats off to Next Level Racing and its team of engineers and designers.

The seat can also be adjusted in several planes, making it easier to use and immerse oneself in the water. Honestly, I didn’t expect this on a cockpit costing less than €600. It’s a masterpiece.

Compatibility of Next Level Racing F-GT

It goes without saying that, to gain a share of the sim-racing cockpit market, Next Level Racing had to offer a product compatible with the game’s biggest names. And the F-GT does just that. This cockpit will easily accommodate products from Fanatec (such as the CSL, ClubSport or Podium ranges), Logitech (the G29, G923 or G Pro Wheel) and also Thrustmaster.

The Next Level Racing F-GT is also compatible with a large number of sim-racing pedals and shifters, making it even more realistic for certain drivers.

As for platforms, they’re all supported. PC, Playstation or Xbox, they’ll all run on Next Level Racing F-GT without the slightest problem.

Value for money

At an average price of €550, you won’t find anything better in this price bracket. This is the best 2-position cockpit on the market. The brand has hit hard and is aiming directly at Playseat and its domination.

Even if you’re not a fan of either sim-racing discipline, the Next Level Racing F-GT remains an excellent cockpit for non-stop racing.

My verdict on Next Level Racing’s F-GT cockpit

My verdict is simple: buy this cockpit! Admittedly, the weight is problematic, as are the dimensions. But if you already have a corner for sim-racing, the Next Level Racing F-GT is, in my opinion, the best possible choice in terms of value for money. It’s solid, versatile and, above all, beautiful. I can’t say enough about it. But if you’re not convinced, then take a look at the 4 best cockpits for Sim Racing at 2025 by clicking here.