Yes. You can play F1 25 without a steering wheel: EA documents gamepad controls for PlayStation and Xbox, plus keyboard controls for PC. If you already own a compatible controller, it is a sensible place to start; PC players can also try a keyboard without buying anything. Whether it feels as enjoyable or competitive as a wheel is personal—EA does not publish comparisons of enjoyment or lap times by input device.
What can you use instead of a wheel?
| Input | Availability documented by EA | Practical takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Gamepad | PlayStation and Xbox controls are listed in EA’s F1 25 controls hub. EA’s PC supported-devices listing for the 2026 update names DualShock 4, DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers: supported devices for PC. | A practical first choice if you already own a controller compatible with your platform. Check compatibility before buying one. |
| Keyboard | EA says, “Keyboard controls are supported (PC Only).” Its 2026 PC device list includes QWERTY, QWERTZ and AZERTY keyboards. | A no-purchase option for PC players. The cited documentation does not establish keyboard support on console. |
| Racing wheel | EA provides wheel controls and supported-device information through its controls hub and PC device listing. | An option for players who want a wheel setup, not a requirement for playing. |
For a controller, start with one you already have and confirm it works with your platform. Buying a new gamepad is unnecessary if your current one is compatible.
Will F1 feel good on a controller or keyboard?
That depends on your comfort with the device, your settings and what you expect from the driving experience. A wheel gives you a different physical way to steer; a gamepad or keyboard changes how you make those inputs. EA’s official materials establish that these options are supported, but do not show that one is more enjoyable or faster for everyone.
There is no documented universal lap-time ranking for wheel, gamepad and keyboard. If pace matters to you, judge the experience on your own platform and settings rather than assuming a particular input is automatically quickest.
#1 Best Overall
- RACE WITH REAL-TIME DATA - The built-in 4.3 inch IPS LCD display shows up to 69 critical telemetry items with dynamic skins that adapt to your game, giving you the same cockpit awareness as professional drivers so you can make faster, smarter decisions every lap in your sim racing setup.
- CARBON FIBER BUILT FOR SPEED - A genuine 21 layer carbon fiber faceplate delivers the perfect balance of rigidity and lightweight feel, ensuring every ounce of Force Feedback reaches your hands without distortion, so your formula wheel feels as responsive and precise as the real Ferrari SF1000 race car replica it was modeled after.
- TOTAL COMMAND AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - With up to 25 fully programmable action buttons including 7 rotary encoders, you gain unlimited configuration possibilities for every racing simulator scenario, letting you fine tune brake bias, differential, and engine modes without ever taking your eyes off the track or losing precious time.
- IMMERSIVE OFFICIALLY LICENSED DESIGN - Officially licensed by Ferrari with iconic labeling and authentic markings, this steering wheel delivers unrivaled realism whether connected natively or via wireless telemetry, transforming your sim racing cockpit into a true Formula One experience that looks and feels absolutely spectacular.
- PREMIUM MAGNETIC PADDLE SHIFTERS - Swap between the included 100% aluminum interchangeable magnetic paddle shifters for lightning quick gear changes, plus two customizable analog paddle shifters give you extra control for clutch biting points and advanced driving techniques on your racing wheel and pedals setup.
Which driving assists make learning easier?
EA’s F1 25 Accessibility Resources describes driving assists and simplified controls. Higher assist settings provide more assistance. Relevant options include:
- Steering assist: helps with steering and turns on braking assist, ABS and traction control.
- Braking assist: helps apply braking when required.
- ABS: helps prevent the brakes from locking up.
- Traction control: reduces the likelihood of losing traction under acceleration.
- Simplified controls: reduce the inputs and management needed for some actions.
A manageable starting point is to use the input you find comfortable and enable the assists that help you enjoy driving. If you want more direct control later, reduce assistance gradually. This is a beginner-friendly way to approach the available options, not a tested fastest-settings recipe.
Rank #2
- Official life-size replica of the steering wheel from the Ferrari SF-25 race car
- Interactive 4.3-inch / 109-mm IPS LCD display and 21 LEDs to display race information
- 25 action buttons and 7 encoders with authentic markings
- 100% carbon fiber faceplate: rigid and lightweight
- Super-responsive T-Chrono Paddles push/pull paddle shifters, plus customizable analog paddle shifters
Does the 2026 season content change the answer?
No: the wheel remains optional. EA’s beginner guide says the F1 25: 2026 Season Pack launched on June 3, 2026, and explains how to access its content in game modes. It also describes using controller buttons for new 2026 driving functions or enabling assists for those functions. See EA’s 2026 Season Pack tips and tricks.
EA also announced a later update to the 2026 Season Edition and Pack on September 7, 2026: F1 2026 Season September Update. Because updates can change details, check the current in-game settings or EA’s controls page for a specific binding or device’s current support.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Collector’s item. Detachable Ferrari 150th Italia racing wheel replica for the Thrustmaster T300RS (PS3 & PS4); T500RS (PS3, PS4, Xbox One & PC); and TX Wheel (Xbox One & PC), all sold separately
- A precise, robust and realistic racing wheel
- Full-size replica of the Formula 1 Ferrari 2011 racing wheel, under official license by Ferrari
- Reinforced scratched-brushed metal face is heavier and more solid compared to plastic, ensuring optimum stability and inertia
- Rubber-textured wheel offering a realistic and comfortable grip
Rank #4
- Immersive Gaming Experience: Perfect for Xbox and PC gaming titles, the Driving Force simulates the feeling of driving a real car with precision steering and pressure-sensitive pedals
- Premium Control: The Driving Force feedback racing wheel provides a detailed simulation of driving a real car, with helical gearing delivering smooth, quiet steering and a hand-stitched leather cover
- Customizable Pedals: These pressure-sensitive nonlinear brake pedals provide a responsive, accurate braking feel on a sturdy base - with adjustable pedal faces for finer control
- 900-Degree Rotation: Lock-to-lock rotation of the Driving Force means you can turn the wheel around two and a half times, hand over hand on wide turns - just like a real F1 race car
- Up Your Game: Take your racing simulation to the next level with Driving Force accessories like the Driving Force Shifter or desk and rig mounts
Rank #3
- Immersive Gaming Experience: Perfect for PlayStation 5, PS4 and PC gaming titles, the Driving Force simulates the feeling of driving a real car with precision steering and pressure-sensitive pedals
- Premium Control: The Driving Force feedback racing wheel provides a detailed simulation of driving a real car, with helical gearing delivering smooth, quiet steering and a hand-stitched leather cover
- Customizable Pedals: These pressure-sensitive nonlinear brake pedals provide a responsive, accurate braking feel on a sturdy base - with adjustable pedal faces for finer control
- 900-Degree Rotation: Lock-to-lock rotation of the Driving Force means you can turn the wheel around two and a half times, hand over hand on wide turns - just like a real F1 race car
- Up Your Game: Take your racing simulation to the next level with Driving Force accessories like the Driving Force Shifter or desk and rig mounts
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