The Best Test Drive: Reviewing The Stealth Sim Steering Wheel From Vpg (2025 Updated)

Introduction

The VPG Stealth Sim Steering Wheel is a high-end sim racing wheel designed to cater to the needs of serious PC racers who demand premium build quality, cutting-edge RGB telemetry feedback, and an ergonomic control layout. This wheel distinguishes itself with its innovative stealth lighting system, which utilizes a network of individually controllable LEDs to provide real-time visual feedback, eliminating the need for a traditional dash screen.

Unboxing & First Impressions

Upon unboxing the Stealth wheel, the first impression is one of substantial craftsmanship and attention to detail that justifies its premium positioning. With a 290 mm diameter, it fits perfectly within the Formula-style racing wheel category. This size strikes a balance between allowing for quick steering inputs and feeling substantial in hand.

The materials utilized in the Stealth wheel immediately signal quality. Featuring a combination of billet aluminum for the front and rear covers, CNC-machined chassis components, and injected-molded ergonomic grips, the wheel feels robust and comfortable from the moment you hold it.

Design & Build Quality

Premium Materials

• 290 mm Diameter: Compact racing wheel size suitable for open-wheel and GT titles.
• Custom Molded Grips: Ergonomic and grippy, designed for long races.
• Billet Aluminium Body: Rigid main structure that resists flex for durability.
• Forged Carbon Fibre Plate & Paddles: Lightweight and strong materials used where weight and feel matter most.
• Industrial-Grade M12 Connector: Ensures a reliable and secure connection to your rig or USB adapter.

Together, these materials create a professional motorsport aesthetic and a build quality that feels at home on high-end direct drive setups, making the Stealth wheel a premium choice for serious sim racers.

Controls & Interface

Buttons, Encoders & Paddles

The VPG Stealth is equipped with a variety of controls designed for maximum efficiency:

• Two thumb rotary encoders for quick adjustments.
• Three front ELMA rotary encoders with RGB LED rings, each featuring multiple individually controlled LEDs for live telemetry cues.
• Illuminated push buttons for actions like spotter toggles or race functions.
• Dual clutch paddles and an additional paddle, providing a mechanical shifting feel with adjustable bite points.

The layout of the rotary encoders and paddles is intuitive, allowing easy access during intense racing moments. This thoughtful design promotes seamless control without unnecessary hand movement.

Stealth Lighting System & Telemetry

One of the standout features of the Stealth wheel is its innovative Stealth Lighting System. Instead of relying on a standard numeric dash display, the wheel incorporates 37 individually controllable RGB LEDs that are mapped to telemetry parameters through SimHub compatibility. This system can be configured for:

• RPM/Shift Lights: Indicated via the top LED bar.
• Telemetry Feedback: ABS, traction control, low fuel, and more through the encoders’ LED rings.
• Flag and Spotter Indicators: Utilizing side LED strips for quick visibility.

This immersive visual layer enhances the sim racing experience by immediately conveying critical data without the need to divert attention to separate displays, allowing for a more focused driving experience.

Installation & Compatibility

Connecting the VPG Stealth wheel is straightforward, requiring just a single USB cable that typically combines coiled and linear designs. It plugs into a powered USB hub or directly into a PC. The wheel is compatible with most wheelbases via quick-release hubs that accommodate both 70 mm and 50 mm bolt patterns. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with telemetry software like SimHub for LED mapping.

Most users will find the setup to be plug-and-play, allowing for easy import or creation of LED and telemetry profiles without extensive configuration, making it accessible even for those less tech-savvy.

Performance & Driving Experience

On track, the Stealth wheel delivers a responsive and comfortable experience. The grips remain secure even during extended sessions, and the strategic placement of buttons and encoders minimizes hand movement away from critical steering inputs. Many users quickly adapt to the LED telemetry, which aids in making split-second decisions without the distraction of bulky external displays.

The paddles and clutch system offer solid tactile feedback with minimal play, contributing to an overall feel of precision that is often lacking in cheaper alternatives. This attention to detail significantly enhances the driving experience, especially during competitive racing scenarios.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• ✔ Premium build materials — carbon fibre and billet aluminium create a professional feel.
• ✔ Stealth Lighting System — advanced RGB telemetry that stands out from typical button-only wheels.
• ✔ Ergonomic layout — grips, paddles, encoders, and buttons are easy to reach.
• ✔ SimHub compatibility — great customization for LED telemetry mapping.

Cons

• ✘ No integrated numeric screen — some users may prefer an LCD dash for detailed data.
• ✘ Premium price — quality and features come at a cost that may be high for casual racers.
• ✘ Advanced features may overwhelm beginners — LED telemetry and customization tools have a learning curve.

Conclusion

The VPG Stealth Sim Steering Wheel is a high-end, visually striking, and feature-rich piece of equipment that elevates sim racing controls beyond basic button arrays. Its innovative Stealth Lighting System, combined with high-quality materials, positions it as a strong contender for racing setups that prioritize intuitive telemetry feedback without the clutter of multiple external displays. While its price and complexity may be daunting for casual users, serious sim racers seeking tactile control and instant visual feedback will find the Stealth wheel to be a compelling choice for an immersive driving experience.