Load Cell Pedals

Load cells are a special type of transducer that transform a force, such as tension, compression or torque into an electrical signal. In the case of load cell racing pedals, this electrical signal is measured as braking, acceleration or clutch pressure. Load cell pedals are far and away more accurate than entry level pedals that only measure pedal travel distance.Racing pedals are a critical component in your racing rig set-up and you should choose wisely

For some people a basic set of racing pedals is all they’ll ever need or want – and that’s OK. But if you’re like us and you’re looking for something that provides you with a more immersive and realistic pedal action then you need to add load cell pedals to your shopping list.

There are a number of brands and load cell pedal models on the market. We’ve got a large range with price points that cater from entry level to mid-tier, right up to high end.


Your final choice will come down to your budget and the result you want from your racing simulation efforts.

Prices start at under $400 and peak above $2,000 for some load cell pedal models. Let’s run through two load cell pedal models now so you can get a feel for what’s on offer here at Gamer Gear Direct.

Thrustmaster T-LCM load cell racing pedals

At just $399 (plus shipping), Thrustmaster are easily the most budget-friendly racing pedals on the market today. The T-LCM model incorporates a load cell brake pedal that produces up to 100kg of brake pressure for a life-like sensation.
In our view, these are easily the best racing pedals Thrustmaster have ever produced. You’ve got redesigned, all metal pedals, 6 included springs for quick brake pedal feel and pressure adjustments and a rugged footrest. Each pedal is also adjustable, so you can change the height, angle and distance settings.

Another bonus is that the Thrustmaster T-LCM pedals are USB-based, so, they’re compatible with PC, Playstation 4 and Xbox One and you don’t need a Thrustmaster wheel to use them on PC. In fact, you could pair these pedals with just about any racing wheel.

BJ SimRacing Steel Series GT load cell racing pedals

BJ SimRacing are a small Spanish outfit who are churning out some of the best quality, value-for-money racing peripherals on the market today.

The Steel Series pedals we’re talking about here come in both load cell and hydraulic form. They’re easily comparable to better known brands like Heuskinvelds or Simworx yet cost several hundred dollars LESS.

Here’s the load cell version in all their glory…
Nice, right? Scroll below to check out the BJ SimRacing range and the other load cell pedals we stock.

The BJ SimRacing steel series GT load cell racing pedals utilise a brake load cell (with 200kg force pressure) and friction hall sensors on both the accelerator and clutch for more precise control – over and above the standard potentiometer pedals. BJ racing pedals also pack a top-of-the-line, 16-bit Leo Bodnar USB load cell sensor. Leo Bodnar is a leading simulation electronics brands and produce some of the most trusted and precise gear around.

This particular board features integrated EMI filters. These filters are particularly important on motion simulators or heavy force feedback rigs so you don’t get input ‘creep’, making these pedals even more precise.

Building quality is outstanding and the pedals are crafted tough, 3mm thick satin stainless steel. You also get fully adjustable pedals (height, travel, inclination, spring preload and hardness). Plus, a baseplate made from 8mm steel.

Why you should upgrade to load cell pedals

There’s no doubt about it, load cell pedals are built to increase the immersion, realism and performance of your sim racing. The built in electronics designed to measure pedal pressure rather than distance are far more accurate than run-of-the-mill Logitech or Thrustmaster T3PA pedals. Yes, load cell pedals are a sizeable investment, but the benefits are worth it. Especially if you want to take your sim racing to a whole new level of excitement.