The Cube Controls CSX3 is one of the three formula wheels in the current cube controls range. Brands within the sim racing community are continually pushing one and another with their advancements. With so much choice available it’s often hard to pick the right wheel for you.
Cube controls are an Italian brand who have produced some popular wheels such as the GTX and CSX2. The CXS3 is the predecessor to the CSX2 and hope for it to be just as popular.
In this article, we will delve into the key aspects of the Cube Controls CSX 3 Formula Sim Racing Wheel, including its design and ergonomics, button tactility, and ease of use.
We will also explore the Vocore screen and SimHub software compatibility that make this wheel a potential top choice for sim racers looking for a premium racing experience.
What is the Cube Controls CSX3?
The Cube Controls CSX3 is a formula wheel in the Cube Controls range. It is the brands highest price wheel at €1200 meaning that it currently stands as their most premium wheel.
This wheel is packed with features, including its ergonomic design, software compatibility, button tactility, ease of use, and Vocore screen.
Difference between Cube Controls CSX2 and CSX3
The CSX2 became a popular wheel amongst sim racers over time following its release. We will look at some of the differences between the Cube controls CSX2 and the CSX3.
Most notable is the difference between the screens. The CSX2 has a Flat LCD screen where as the CSX3 has the recessed Vocroe screen with a raised plastic surround.
Cube Controls had used elastomer mould on grips for the CSX2 but have now replaced those with hard wearing rubber for the CSX3. Out has gone the clutch point adjustment knob which many racers found as a great addition to the CSX2.
Space surrounds have been implemented around the buttons on the CSX3. The surrounds help with the placement of stickers. The CSX2 encountered issues where the stickers would easily be moved out of place.
Two rotary encoders appear on the the CSX3, whereas the CSX2 used an 8 position rotary switch. The CSX3 allows for only 2 registered inputs each from the 4 rotaries.
The thumb and scroll mechanics have changed, in addition to the paddles and shifters which now have hall sensors. Lastly, cube controls have added dual 7 way hat switches on the CSX3.
Design and Features of the CSX3
The Cube Controls CSX 3 Formula Sim Racing Wheel is an impressive piece of hardware that boasts a striking design and a range of features. In this section, we will take a closer look at the wheel’s design and features, including its build quality, button layout, and compatibility.
Build Quality
The wheel features a 5mm thick carbon face plate and a die-cast aluminium body, which gives it a solid and durable feel. The wheel’s construction is also incredibly precise, with all the buttons, switches, and paddles fitting snugly and securely into place.
The CSX 3 wheel uses high-quality materials. Both the shifters and analogue paddles are built from billet aluminium and carbon fibre offering a smooth, solid, and purposeful feel. The grips are made from a solid rubber material which feel like they will be long lasting.
If you are to purchase the optional paddles you will notice that they are made from polymer. This is slightly out of sync from the rest of the paddles in terms of feel, so bear this in mind if you decide to purchase them.
Button Layout
The CSX 3’s button layout distribution is truly multi functional. There are are two 7-way funky switches, which are programmable to control a range of functions.
The wheel also features 17 programmable RGB LED rev/flag lights, which can be used to provide visual feedback during races. 12 of the buttons have RGB backlighting for effective racing in the dark or to your aesthetic liking.
The paddles have a nice positive click although some may feel that are slightly on the loud side.The are also 4 rotary encoders on the front face, which are not multi-position switches. They are easy to use and provide precise control over various settings. The shifter and clutch are also well-designed and provide a smooth, reliable feel.
On the rear of the wheel there is a power switch which is discreetly hidden in case of an accidental touch.
Screen
One of the standout features of the CSX 3 wheel is the Vocore screen. We here at lap go gods love a replication of a formula one wheel and with a screen attached its all the better.
The screen has an 800 x 480 resolution which incredibly has a touch screen feature through the sim hub software. There is a wide range of information displayed, including lap times, fuel levels, and more. Screen – crisp and vivid colours,Sim hub compatible dash
A design concept of the screen is that it is recessed and not quite as prominent as other racing wheel screens. This means that it can feel slightly more distance than you anticipate. In addition with different seating positions you may struggle to have a clear view of the whole screen.
Compatibility
The CSX 3 is compatible with Simhub support, which allows users to customise the wheel’s settings and display options. Simhub is a program in which you can add external hardware to your preferred sim title.
Performance of the Cube Controls CSX3
The wheel has comfortable grips which fit well in the hands. Ergonomically they form a thinnish shape at the front and a wider grip at the back. There are Plastic inserts on the high wear area of the grip to reduce friction that causes wear and tear.
As you would expect from a formula wheel the CSX2 is aptly light and agile in the hands. All the buttons are within good distance, offering a ice resistance when pressed.
Application of the encoders seems to have the right amount of mechanical resistance, not too rigid nor too supple. The carbon fibre faceplate rounds off a solid, well constructed wheel that offers an overall nice wheel to set those consistent lap times you’re seeking.
Conclusion
The Cube Controls CSX 3 Formula Sim Racing Wheel is an impressive piece of hardware that offers exceptional build quality, a well configured button layout. The CSX 3 is definitely worth considering if you are looking for a high-quality racing wheel.
With its ergonomic design, intuitive button layout, and impressive Vocore screen, this wheel is sure to impress even the most discerning sim racers. So if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line racing wheel that will take your sim racing experience to the next level, be sure to check out the Cube Controls CSX 3 Formula Sim Racing Wheel.