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Next Level Racing HF8 Pro Review — More Power, More Comfort… But Worth It?

ByNeo Sphinx

The Next Level Racing HF8 Pro promises to be a worthy upgrade to its predecessor, the HF8. After two years of using the original model, I was eager to find out if the Pro version really delivers on its promises of more power, faster response, and better comfort. Spoiler alert — it’s both impressive and a little frustrating.

🪑 Design & Comfort Improvements

At first glance, the HF8 Pro looks similar to the original, but the differences become clear once you sit down.
The most noticeable change is the SimAero mesh fabric used for the upholstery — a much softer and more breathable material than the faux leather on the first HF8. It feels cooler, looks more premium, and makes long sessions noticeably more comfortable.

The bolsters are 3 cm slimmer, making the mat fit better in tighter racing seats, and the foam padding under the calves has been widened slightly for better support. There’s also a bit more thickness in the lower section, which helps hide the haptic motors better.

🧊 Bonus: On hot days, the breathable mesh fabric keeps your back much cooler than before.

⚙️ Connectivity & Setup

Just like the original HF8, the HF8 Pro connects via USB-A or a 3.5mm audio jack. Both cables are a generous 2.5 meters long, and you also get an audio splitter to connect a headset directly.
Setup is truly plug-and-play — one cable for power and one for your PC or console. Both SimHub and Next Level Racing’s HFS software detect it instantly.

🧩 The console connection works via audio output from your controller, though this limits the range of sensations compared to using PC telemetry.

🔊 Power & Performance

Here’s where the real upgrade shows. The HF8 Pro’s haptic motors are said to have:

  • ⚡ 400% more power
  • 💪 200% more torque
  • ⚙️ 60% faster reaction times

Now, marketing percentages aside — the difference is very noticeable. The rumble when shifting gears or riding curbs feels crisper, faster, and stronger. Acceleration feedback is more pronounced, and even subtle rev vibrations are more immersive.

With the SimHub software, this becomes an even better experience. The distinction between left and right vibrations is sharper, and every feedback event feels snappier than before. The official HFS software is simpler to use, but SimHub gives far more customization for those who want to fine-tune the response.

🏎️ For PC racers, the HF8 Pro feels like a genuine step forward.
🎮 For console players, the improvements are limited due to the reliance on sound output only.

🖥️ In-Game Testing — Racing & Sim Tourism

In Assetto Corsa Competizione, the difference in response and strength was immediately noticeable. The added haptic detail really helps convey the sensation of shifting and surface textures.

In BeamNG, the experience was even better. Driving through winding mountain roads, the added realism was incredible — every bump, shift, and impact had depth.
That said, for competitive sim racing, some may find the increased vibration slightly distracting or overpowering compared to wheel force feedback. But for Sim Tourism — driving for immersion and scenic exploration — it’s absolutely fantastic.

💡 The extra power transforms the HF8 Pro into a tool for fun and immersion, not just performance.

🎮 Console Limitations

When using the HF8 Pro on console through the audio output, it becomes apparent that this setup is limited. The vibrations are tied to the game’s sound rather than actual telemetry, so you mostly feel the engine rumble and gear shifts — not road texture or surface detail.

It’s more of a “vibration massage” than a dynamic driving feedback system. If you’re console-only, the HF8 Pro might not justify its €279 price tag. But if you plan to use it with a PC and SimHub, that changes the game entirely.

🧰 HF8 Pro vs. Bass Shakers

Compared to a bass shaker setup, the HF8 Pro offers:
✅ Easier installation
✅ Better left-right and front-rear separation
✅ Works even on foldable or space-saving rigs

However, bass shakers still deliver more raw power and can make your entire rig resonate — something the HF8 Pro can’t fully replicate.
Also, while functional, the HF8 Pro doesn’t look as clean as integrated haptic systems. It’s a mat on your seat, and that might bother users who care about aesthetics.

🧾 Verdict — Small Upgrades, Big Impact (Mostly)

The Next Level Racing HF8 Pro is a smart, well-thought-out evolution of an already excellent product.
Everything that mattered — power, comfort, responsiveness — has been improved. It remains one of the easiest ways to add full-body haptics to your setup without needing complex installation or expensive rigs.

If you already own the original HF8, the upgrade might not be essential — the improvements are great, but not revolutionary.
If you’re new to haptics or want to improve comfort, however, the HF8 Pro is an excellent entry point.

⭐ Verdict: A worthwhile upgrade if you’re on PC, but not a must-have if you’re console-only.
💰 Price: ~€279 (less at dealers)
🧩 Compatibility: PC, PS5, Xbox, with best experience on PC + SimHub

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