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Button Boxes

Ever feel like your racing games could be more exciting? Well, button boxes are here to make your racing feel way more real. These cool gadgets can turn your racing from just a game into something that feels like you're really driving a race car.

Think about having all the buttons and switches of a real race car right in front of you. That's what a button box gives you. 

You won't need to use your keyboard anymore. You'll be faster in your races, you can change how your car works while you drive, and you'll feel more in control. 

The best part? When you push the buttons and flip the switches, it feels just like being in a real racing car. Let's check out these button boxes and see how they can make your racing games even more fun!

Button box collection

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A button box can boost your sim racing immersion

Button boxes are game changers for sim racing enthusiasts. They bridge the gap between virtual and real-world racing experiences. By providing tactile controls that mimic real race car interfaces, button boxes significantly enhance immersion.

Imagine you're in a tight race, approaching a crucial turn. Instead of fumbling with your keyboard, you can adjust your brake bias with a quick twist of a rotary encoder. Need to change your racing view? A simple press of a dedicated button does the trick. These physical interactions make your brain feel more connected to the virtual car.

The placement of controls on a button box often mirrors real racing wheels or cockpit layouts. This similarity to actual race car setups further deepens the sense of realism. You're not just playing a game; you're operating a virtual racing machine.

Moreover, the tactile feedback from pressing buttons or flipping switches provides a satisfying physical dimension to your actions. This sensory input reinforces the connection between your actions and the game's response, making the overall experience more engaging and immersive.

GTS Button Box

Improve control and quickly access essential functions with a button box

Button boxes shine when it comes to improving control and efficiency in sim racing. They put essential functions within easy reach, allowing for faster and more precise inputs.

In the heat of a race, every second counts. Button boxes allow you to perform complex actions with a single button press or switch flip. Need to activate your pit limiter? There's a dedicated button for that. Want to adjust your fuel mix? A quick turn of a rotary encoder does the job.

This quick access to common functions means you can keep your focus on the track. You don't need to memorise complex keyboard shortcuts or take your eyes off the screen to find the right key. Everything you need is right at your fingertips, laid out in an intuitive manner.

Button boxes also allow for more stable control. Rotary encoders, for example, can provide fine-tuned adjustments to settings like traction control or ABS. This level of control can be crucial in optimising your car's performance throughout a race.

GT3 Button Box

Customise your button box to suit your rig

One of the best things about button boxes is their customizability. Many models allow you to program buttons to perform specific functions or even complex macros. This means you can tailor your button box to your exact needs and preferences.

Start by considering your most frequently used functions in your favourite sim racing games. Assign these to the most easily accessible buttons or switches. Think about the layout that feels most natural to you. Some racers prefer to group similar functions together, while others arrange buttons based on frequency of use.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different setups. What works well in one racing sim might not be ideal for another. Create different profiles for different games like Exodus Racing 2 or even different cars within the same game.

Remember to consider ergonomics too. Position your button box where it feels comfortable to use without straining or taking your eyes off the screen for too long. Some racers mount their button boxes directly on their steering wheel base, while others prefer to have them on a separate panel.

Lastly, take advantage of any software that comes with your button box. Many models offer powerful customisation tools that allow you to create complex macros or even integrate with other peripherals in your sim racing setup.

GT4 Button box

Button boxes vs. keyboard shortcuts

While keyboard shortcuts have long been the go-to for sim racers, button boxes offer several advantages. Let's break down the comparison:

  • Tactile Feedback: Button boxes provide physical, tactile feedback that keyboards can't match. This enhances immersion and can improve reaction times.
  • Dedicated Controls: Unlike a keyboard where keys serve multiple purposes, each control on a button box is dedicated to a specific function in your sim.
  • Muscle Memory: The consistent layout of a button box allows you to develop muscle memory more easily than with keyboard shortcuts.
  • No Need to Look: Once you're familiar with your button box, you can activate functions without taking your eyes off the screen.
  • Customisation: Many button boxes offer more extensive customisation options than keyboard shortcuts.
  • Immersion: Button boxes, especially those designed to look like real racing controls, significantly enhance the realism of your sim racing experience.
  • Multitasking: Button boxes allow for easier simultaneous actions, like adjusting brake bias while shifting gears.

However, keyboard shortcuts do have some advantages:

  • Cost: Using your existing keyboard is essentially free, while button boxes represent an additional investment. You can pre-order products like Button Boxes 11 or Racebox 9 and look for occasional discounts to save on the cost.
  • Universality: Keyboards are universally compatible, while some button boxes may have limited compatibility with certain sims.
  • Space: Keyboards don't require additional space in your setup.
  • Familiarity: Many users are already familiar with keyboard controls.

In the end, the choice between a button box and keyboard shortcuts often comes down to personal preference and how serious you are about your sim racing.

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Key features to look for in a button box

When shopping for a button box, consider these key features:

  • Number and Type of Controls: Look for a good mix of buttons, switches, and rotary encoders when you shop sim racing button boxes. The ideal combination depends on your needs and preferences.
  • Build Quality: Durability is crucial, especially for frequently used controls. Look for high-quality switches and encoders.
  • Customisability: The ability to program buttons and create custom profiles is a valuable feature.
  • Compatibility: Ensure the button box works with your preferred sim racing software and platform.
  • Ergonomics: Consider the layout and how comfortable it will be to use during long racing sessions.
  • Aesthetics: While not crucial for function, many racers appreciate button boxes that look like real racing controls.
  • Software Support: Good configuration software can greatly enhance the usability of your button box.
  • Expandability: Some button boxes can be daisy-chained or integrated with other peripherals, which can be useful for complex setups.
  • Plug-and-Play Functionality: This can make setup and use much easier, especially for those new to button boxes.
  • LED Indicators: These can provide useful visual feedback and add to the overall experience.
  • Size and Mounting Options: Consider how the button box will fit into your existing setup.
GT-Flag button box

How much does a button box cost?

The cost of button boxes can vary widely, depending on features, build quality, and brand. Here's a general breakdown:

  • Entry-level: $50-$150 - These often have fewer buttons and simpler designs but can still significantly enhance your sim racing experience.
  • Mid-range: $150-$300 - Offer more controls, better build quality, and often more customisation options.
  • High-end: $300-$500 - Premium build quality, extensive customisation, and sometimes integration with specific sim racing ecosystems.

Remember, while it's tempting to go for the most feature-packed option, it's more important to choose a button box that fits your specific needs and budget.

GTR Carbon Fibre Button Box

Sim Racing Button Boxes Frequently Asked Questions

Are button boxes compatible with all sim racing games?

Most button boxes work with popular sim racing titles on PC. However, compatibility can vary, especially with console games. Always check the manufacturer's specifications and compatibility list before purchasing.

Can I use a button box for other games or applications?

Absolutely! Many button boxes can be programmed for use in flight simulators, productivity applications, or even as stream control decks. Their versatility is one of their key advantages.

Do I need technical skills to set up a button box?

Most modern button boxes are designed to be plug-and-play, requiring minimal setup. However, to get the most out of your device, you might need to spend some time configuring it using the manufacturer's software. This process is usually straightforward and well-documented.

Can I build my own button box?

Yes, many sim racing enthusiasts build their own button boxes. This requires some knowledge of electronics and programming, but there are many resources and communities available to help. Building your own can be cost-effective and allows for complete customisation.

How do button boxes connect to my computer?

Most button boxes connect via USB and are recognised by your computer as a game controller or HID (Human Interface Device). This makes them easy to set up and use with most sim racing software.

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