The first MOZA direct-drive controller that finally works with Xbox

For years, switching to direct drive while playing on Xbox was a real headache. The R3 breaks down that barrier. It’s the first MOZA kit officially licensed for the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, and it includes a true 3.9 Nm direct-drive base, an ESX steering wheel, and SR-P Lite pedals—all in a single box. We set it up on a desk in just a few minutes using the included clamp, and the first thing that strikes you is the size of the motor unit—almost ridiculously compact—housed in an aviation-grade aluminum casing that exudes quality despite its small size.

What 3.9 Nm Really Feels Like in Your Hands

From the very first laps in Forza Motorsport, the difference compared to a belt- or gear-driven system is immediately apparent. The feedback is sharp, precise, and, above all, detailed. You can feel changes in road surface, weight transfer as you enter a turn, and the front end starting to slide. It’s this level of detail that traditional entry-level steering wheels can never reproduce with such precision.

The trade-off is predictable, and let’s be clear: 3.9 Nm is still 3.9 Nm. You can feel everything, but you can’t ramp up the intensity to the level offered by a more powerful base unit. On a heavy GT, the feedback feels a bit muted, and you’d like more bite during hard braking. For casual play, arcade-style racing, and getting started with direct drive, it’s more than enough and genuinely enjoyable. For a demanding driver looking to really work their arms, this is the first real limitation of the system. A plus for long sessions: the base remains quiet and doesn’t overheat.

A decent ESX steering wheel, paddle shifters that click

The 280 mm ESX steering wheel features an aluminum plate and ISF polyurethane grips. The grip is decent without being premium; you can tell this is an area where MOZA cut corners to keep the price down. When pressing hard on the top of the rim, there’s a slight flex—never bothersome during normal driving, but definitely noticeable. The smaller diameter actually enhances the driving feel; there’s less mass to move, making the whole setup even more responsive.

As for controls, the 22 buttons and the RGB LED strip get the job done, and the metal paddles have that crisp, clean click we love. The real drawback is the lack of rotary encoders or dials. Adjusting ABS, traction control, or brake balance on the fly is less convenient than on higher-end models. At this price point, it’s something we can accept, but it’s still noticeable.

The SR-P Lite: Better Than We Expected

This is the pleasant surprise of the bunch. While many competitors use plastic at this price point, the SR-P Lite features a sturdy steel construction with adjustable plate spacing and height. The Hall-effect sensor requires no maintenance. The throttle offers a smooth travel and quick response, even though the resistance remains light. The brake, on the other hand, is spring-loaded rather than load-cell-based, so it lacks that force-based braking—relying on muscle memory—that sets higher-end pedal sets apart.

The smart thing about it is its scalability. You can add a load cell brake kit or a clutch pedal later on without having to throw out the base unit. So you start out light, then gradually upgrade the whole setup to something much more serious.

Compatibility and Room for Growth

The key thing to check before buying is that the R3 is designed for the Xbox Series X|S, the Xbox One, and PCs running Windows 10 and 11. This is not a PlayStation bundle; it’s a product designed for the Xbox ecosystem and PCs. Connectivity options include power, a pedal set, USB, and a Dash port for a future telemetry display. Settings and calibrations are handled through MOZA’s proprietary Pit House software, which is easy to use. With MOZA’s catalog of compatible accessories, this base station serves as a true gateway to an ecosystem that grows with you.

Who, in the end,

The R3 is perfect for casual drivers, Xbox gamers, younger players, or anyone who wants a compact setup on their desk without breaking the bank. It offers a genuine direct-drive feel, a well-crafted metal build, and a pedal set that’s above average for its class. Those looking for the physical thrill of high torque and plenty of encoders will want to look further up the lineup. For everyone else, this is one of the most affordable ways to experience direct drive on Xbox today.