Fanatec Pedals Compared – CSL LC vs CSL Elite V2 vs ClubSport V3
Today we take a deep dive into three popular Fanatec pedal sets, all equipped with load cells — the CSL Pedals LC, the CSL Elite V2, and the long-standing flagship, the ClubSport V3.
If you’re considering upgrading your pedals or entering the world of load-cell braking, this comparison will help you understand their differences in build, technology, driving feel, and value.
🧱 Build Quality & Design
Fanatec CSL Pedals LC
Released in 2021, the CSL pedals quickly became Fanatec’s best-selling budget option.
- Mostly metal construction, giving them a premium feel
- Modular design: 3 independent pedals mounted on a heel plate
- Clutch pedal can easily be removed
- Plastic pedal faces (the only notably cheap-looking component)
Despite the basic pedal faces, the overall structure feels solid and far from “toy-like.”
Fanatec CSL Elite V2
The Elite V2 pedals are a refined upgrade over the original V1s.
- Cast & machined aluminum structure
- Very durable – the set that will age best among the three
- Adjustable positioning for all pedals
- Comes with metal pedal faces with rubber dampening
- Includes: elastomers, stiffer preload spring, integrated load cell
These pedals look and feel premium, and the rubber-coated pedal faces add unexpected comfort.
Fanatec ClubSport V3
The oldest set, released in 2015 — but still an icon.
- Fully integrated brushed aluminum frame
- Red accents and sculpted design make them a visual showpiece
- Pedals cannot be repositioned without third-party mods
- Slightly more vulnerable to cosmetic scratches due to the finish
- Includes both metal and plastic pedal faces with multi-direction adjustment
Still one of the best-looking pedal sets ever made.
⚙️ Technology & Sensor Systems
CSL Pedals LC
- Hall sensors for throttle/clutch = dust & dirt resistant
- Load cell (approx. 60 kg) for the brake
- No built-in brake stiffness adjustments
- Modding required if you want a firmer pedal
CSL Elite V2
- Upgraded 90 kg load cell
- Hall sensors across all pedals
- Includes different elastomers & springs in the box
- Fully adjustable brake stiffness and pedal travel
ClubSport V3
- Adjustable 90 kg load cell via a simple tension wheel
- Degressive clutch mechanism to simulate a biting point
- Optional brake performance kit and damper kit
- Rumble motors on both throttle and brake — extra immersion
- Multiple pedal face styles included
This set is easily the most feature-rich.
🏎️ Driving Experience
CSL Pedals LC – “Solid and Sensible”
These pedals offer a huge leap over non–load-cell sets.
The braking difference alone is comparable to upgrading from a gear-driven wheelbase to a direct drive — truly night and day.
- Good modulation
- Inputs feel accurate
- Brake may feel too soft for ACC, too stiff for BeamNG
- Light shoes reveal the cheap pedal faces
A great all-rounder, especially for €200.
CSL Elite V2 – “Competitive Precision”
The Elite V2s strike a balance between comfort and adjustability.
- Rubber dampers on throttle and clutch improve feel
- Brake is more progressive thanks to spring + elastomer combo
- Easiest pedals to adapt to of the three
- Only downside: brake can register slight input from resting your foot
These pedals are made for racers who want performance without sacrificing comfort.
ClubSport V3 – “Immersive and Characterful”
The V3s have the most personality.
- Smoothest throttle travel
- Adjustable brake is easy, but even on max tension, still offers significant travel
- Rumble motors in ACC add fun immersion
- The degressive clutch truly elevates the BeamNG driving experience
- Overall the most enjoyable and immersive pedals of the three
They are not the highest performance choice — but definitely the most fun.
🔌 Compatibility & Connectivity
All three pedal sets:
- Can connect via USB
- Or RJ12, BUT console players must use RJ12 with a compatible Fanatec wheelbase
- Work on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox (depending on wheelbase ecosystem)
💰 Pricing
- CSL Pedals LC: ~€200 (€70 for base 2-pedal set)
- CSL Elite V2: ~€300
- ClubSport V3: ~€400
The Clubsport set costs double the CSL LC pedals — but the design and experience justify it for many drivers.
🏁 Final Verdict – Which One Should You Buy?
All three pedal sets are excellent — but for different users.
CSL Pedals LC
✔ Best value
✔ Perfect for beginners & budget-minded drivers
✔ Solid performance with minimal fuss
Great for: recreational sim drivers
CSL Elite V2
✔ Most adjustable
✔ Most durable
✔ Ideal for competitive racing
Great for: league racers & serious drivers
ClubSport V3
✔ Most immersive
✔ Most premium
✔ Degressive clutch + rumble = unmatched fun
Great for: sim drivers (not sim racers) seeking immersion
If I had to choose?
I’d personally pick the ClubSport V3, simply for the clutch feel, the rumblers, and the driving joy they bring. For me, that alone is worth the extra €100.
⏱️ Lap Time Results
- Fastest: ClubSport V3 (small margin)
- CSL Elite V2: only 0.04s slower
- CSL Pedals LC: ~0.4s behind
Differences are minor — driving adaptation played the biggest role.
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