Tubular vs Extrusion Sim Rigs — Which One Should You Buy?

When asked online “What sim rig should I buy?”, you’ll often hear the same answer:

“Get an extrusion profile rig — they’re simply better.”

But as is often the case, the answer isn’t black and white. Both tubular rigs and extrusion profile rigs have their strengths and weaknesses.
Let’s look at the major differences between the two so you can make the right choice for your setup and use case.

⚙️ Configuration & Adjustability

One of the biggest differences between the two types of rigs lies in adjustability — especially around the wheelbase mount.

• Tubular rigs:
  Most models don’t allow for height adjustment of the wheelbase tray. You can tilt it up or down slightly, but that’s it. For taller drivers, this can mean the wheel ends up too low or too high, depending on the seat position.
• Extrusion rigs:
  These shine in this area. The wheelbase tray slides freely up or down along the aluminum rails, allowing perfect height and angle adjustment for any driver.

For average-height drivers like me, most tubular frames work fine, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you want full ergonomic control.

📏 Footprint & Space Usage

Generally speaking, tubular rigs are smaller than extrusion profiles — though there are exceptions.

For example:

• My Playseat Trophy and SimXpro GTRS have roughly the same footprint.
• However, in most cases, extrusion rigs take up more space due to their rectangular structure and extended side rails.

If you’re short on space or moving your rig often, tubular frames have the advantage here.

⚖️ Weight & Portability

The lightness of rigs like the Playseat Trophy makes them easy to move and store.
You can simply flip it up and park it against a wall when not in use — something much harder to do with an extrusion rig.

However, note that not all tubular rigs are lightweight:

• Cheaper models are lighter than aluminum profile rigs,
• But premium tubular frames can actually weigh more than some extrusion models.

So if portability matters to you, check the specs before you buy.

🧍 Stability & Sturdiness

Here’s where extrusion rigs really stand out.

Because they’re built as a single solid frame, they’re incredibly rigid.
Tubular rigs, especially cheaper ones, are often two-piece constructions, and that joint can cause flex or lift during hard braking.

For instance:

• The Playseat Trophy doesn’t suffer from this.
• The Next Level Racing GTRacer, however, can lift slightly in the middle under heavy braking.

🔩 Build Details Matter

Even in extrusion rigs, stability depends on how beams are attached:

• My setup has six attachment points (two per side and two at the back) — solid and stable.
• Some brands use only two triangular connectors on top, which can lead to wobble from strong force feedback.

💅 Style & Design

When it comes to looks, tubular rigs often take the win.

Their rounded, fluent forms look sleek and sporty — they resemble actual race car frames.
Extrusion rigs, while functional, tend to look bulkier and more industrial.

For partner acceptance, the tubular design definitely scores higher points.

🧰 Accessories & Expandability

This is one area where extrusion rigs dominate.

• With tubular rigs like the Playseat Trophy, you’re limited in what you can add. Even something simple like a cup holder often isn’t available as an official accessory (though you can 3D-print one).
• With extrusion rigs, the sky’s the limit. There are mounts, trays, arms, brackets, keyboard and monitor holders — everything you can imagine.

If you enjoy customizing and upgrading your setup, extrusion rigs are the way to go.

🚀 Future-Proofing

If you plan to expand your setup over time — motion platforms, Buttkickers, flight gear — an extrusion profile rig is the smarter investment.

• Tubular rigs: rarely compatible with motion platforms or advanced mounts.
• Extrusion rigs: modular and fully compatible with most motion systems and accessories.

For example, Next Level Racing’s GTTrack can use a motion add-on, but the Playseat Trophy simply can’t.

So if you want a setup that can grow with your hobby, go for extrusion.

💰 Pricing & Value

A lot of people say the prices between the two types are “similar,” but that’s not always true.

Let’s look closer:

• Entry-level extrusion rigs (e.g., 4080 models) start around €400.
• Tubular rigs can cost the same or more — €600+ when you include a decent seat.

Remember, the seat often accounts for more than half the total cost, so your final price heavily depends on which seat you choose.

🏁 Conclusion

So… which is better — tubular or extrusion?

👉 There is no single best choice.

It all depends on your priorities:

Preference	Best Choice	Why
Style & Design	🟢 Tubular	Sleeker look, smaller footprint
Adjustability & Customization	🟢 Extrusion	Modular, fully configurable
Portability	🟢 Tubular	Lighter and easier to move
Stability	🟢 Extrusion	Rigid one-piece construction
Accessories	🟢 Extrusion	Huge ecosystem of add-ons
Future-Proofing	🟢 Extrusion	Ready for motion, Buttkickers, expansions
Price (entry level)	⚖️ Tie	Depends on included seat

If you value simplicity and aesthetics, go tubular.
If you want versatility, modularity, and long-term flexibility, go extrusion.

As I always say — you and only you can decide what fits your space, your needs, and your budget.

Personally?
If I had to keep just one, it would be the extrusion rig — mainly because I change hardware often, everything mounts easily on it, and yes… I can’t live without my cup holder. ☕