Thrustmaster T248 Bus Simulator 21 -
Here’s a useful, balanced review of the Thrustmaster T248 specifically for Bus Simulator 21 (and 21 Next Stop). It focuses on what matters for bus driving, not just racing.
Final Tip
If you already own a T248, go into the wheel’s internal settings (hold MODE + left paddle) and set the pedal mode to “Normal” (not “Linear” or “Advanced”). That softens the brake response for bus driving.
Bottom line: A capable wheel for BS21, but it’s a race car part dressed up for public transit duty.
Dynamic Force Feedback is a core feature of the Thrustmaster T248 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. that is officially supported in Bus Simulator 21 .
This system allows you to adjust the intensity of the force feedback directly on the wheel's built-in screen with three preset modes:
FFB 1: Delivers force feedback 100% proportional to what the game requests.
FFB 2: Provides enhanced force feedback for better control during skids.
FFB 3: Offers boosted force feedback, allowing you to clearly feel environmental effects such as curbs or varying track surfaces. Key Specifications for Bus Simulator 21 The Thrustmaster T248 is highly versatile for simulation games, featuring:
Interactive Dashboard: An integrated screen that can display more than 20 types of telemetry information.
25 Action Buttons: Includes two dual-position encoders, which are useful for mapping the many secondary controls required in a bus, such as doors or lights.
Hybrid Drive System: Uses a mixed belt and gear mechanism that is roughly 70% more powerful than previous hybrid models like the T150.
T3PM Pedal Set: Features magnetic technology and four distinct pressure modes on the brake pedal for precise stopping. T248 (Playstation / PC) - Simracing - Thrustmaster
The Thrustmaster T248 is a versatile racing wheel that, while designed for high-performance racing, provides a deep and immersive experience for heavy-vehicle simulations like Bus Simulator 21. Its hybrid drive system and extensive button mapping make it an excellent choice for managing complex bus operations. Core Hardware Compatibility
The T248 is officially licensed for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 and is fully compatible with PC.
Hybrid Drive System: Combines belt and gear mechanisms for force feedback that is 70% more powerful than previous models like the T150. thrustmaster t248 bus simulator 21
25 Action Buttons: Includes dual-position encoders and magnetic paddle shifters, providing ample physical controls for bus functions like doors, kneeling, and indicators.
T3PM Pedal Set: Features magnetic pedals with four distinct pressure modes for the brake, allowing for realistic heavy-vehicle stopping distances. Initial Setup and Installation
To ensure the T248 works correctly with Bus Simulator 21, follow these foundational steps: T248 (PS4/PS5/PC) - Thrustmaster Support
3. The Pedals: The T3PA Set
The T248 comes with a 3-pedal set (Gas, Brake, Clutch).
- The Brake Pedal: This is the standout feature. The brake pedal has a progressive resistance spring (it gets harder to press the further you push). In a bus, smooth braking is essential to keep passengers happy. This pedal allows for much finer control than a controller trigger.
- The Clutch: Unless you are a hardcore simulation fan, you will likely drive automatic. However, if you choose to drive manual, the clutch is functional and responsive.
3. What’s Less Ideal
- No force feedback benefits: Bus Simulator 21 has very basic FFB. You’ll feel some centering spring and light rumble, but none of the detailed road feel racing games provide.
- Wheel size: The T248 is a compact 11″ wheel – smaller than a real bus steering wheel. It can feel a bit toy-like for large vehicle simulation.
- Button layout: The wheel has plenty of buttons, but they’re designed for racing. You’ll need to get creative mapping things like door controls, kneeling, and the ticket printer.
Conclusion: Route Cleared for Departure
The Thrustmaster T248 transforms Bus Simulator 21 from a relaxing map-exploration game into a genuine vehicle operation simulator. The heavy torque, the magnetic brake pedal, and the 25 available buttons turn the virtual cabin of a MAN Lion’s City or a Blue Bird school bus into an extension of your living room.
Stop using a keyboard. Throw away the Xbox controller. Mount the T248 to your desk, map your doors to the D-pad, and enjoy the most immersive bus driving experience available in 2024-2025.
Final Rating for Bus Sim 21 Compatibility: 9.5/10 (Deducted half a point for the lack of a dedicated turn signal stalk, easily fixed with a mod or add-on.)
Drive safely, and watch your mirrors.
The Thrustmaster T248 is a versatile hybrid-drive racing wheel that offers a significant immersion upgrade for Bus Simulator 21
players on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Its combination of 25 action buttons, magnetic pedals, and an interactive dashboard makes it well-suited for managing a bus's complex dashboard functions. Setup & Configuration Setting up the
for Bus Simulator 21 requires specific attention to input mapping and calibration to ensure the pedals and steering work correctly.
My T248 is not recognized, does not turn on or its calibration is incomplete
The Thrustmaster T248 is an officially supported hybrid racing wheel for Bus Simulator 21, providing a significant immersion boost over a standard controller. Its hybrid drive system—a mix of belt and gear mechanisms—delivers realistic force feedback that allows you to feel the weight of the bus and road textures like potholes or curbs. Key Features for Virtual Bus Drivers
25 Action Buttons: This high button count is perfect for mapping complex bus functions such as opening specific doors, deploying ramps, kneeling the bus, or toggling interior lights. Here’s a useful, balanced review of the Thrustmaster
Integrated Dashboard: The built-in LCD screen can display real-time telemetry like your current gear or speed, keeping your eyes on the road rather than the HUD.
T3PM Pedal Set: These magnetic pedals offer high precision and adjustable brake pressure, which is crucial for making smooth, passenger-friendly stops at bus stations.
Hybrid Drive FFB: Provides approximately 3.5 Nm of torque, offering enough resistance to simulate the heavy steering feel of a large transit vehicle. Optimal Setup for Bus Simulator 21
To get the most out of your T248 in the city of Angel Shores or Seaside Valley, follow these configuration tips: T248 (Playstation / PC) - Simracing - Thrustmaster
The Ultimate Driving Experience: Thrustmaster T248 Review for Bus Simulator 21
As a gamer, there's nothing quite like the thrill of getting behind the wheel of a virtual vehicle and hitting the open road. For fans of simulation games, Bus Simulator 21 is a popular title that allows players to experience the joys and challenges of driving a bus in a realistic and immersive environment. But to truly get the most out of this game, you need a high-quality gaming peripheral that can deliver a realistic and responsive driving experience. That's where the Thrustmaster T248 comes in.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Thrustmaster T248 and how it performs with Bus Simulator 21. We'll examine the features and specifications of this gaming peripheral, and discuss how it can enhance your gameplay experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, this review will help you decide if the Thrustmaster T248 is the right choice for your Bus Simulator 21 gaming needs.
Thrustmaster T248: Features and Specifications
The Thrustmaster T248 is a gaming steering wheel and pedal set designed to deliver a realistic and immersive driving experience. This peripheral is designed to be compatible with a wide range of games, including Bus Simulator 21. Here are some of the key features and specifications of the Thrustmaster T248:
- Steering Wheel: The T248 features a 24.8 cm diameter steering wheel with a 240-degree rotation range. The wheel is made of high-quality materials, including a genuine leather-wrapped rim and a sturdy metal frame.
- Force Feedback: The T248 features a powerful and precise force feedback system, which provides a realistic and immersive driving experience. The system uses a combination of motors and gears to deliver a smooth and responsive feedback experience.
- Pedals: The T248 comes with a set of three pedals, including an accelerator, brake, and clutch. The pedals are designed to be adjustable and feature a realistic feel and response.
- Compatibility: The T248 is compatible with a wide range of games, including Bus Simulator 21, and can be used on both PC and console platforms.
Bus Simulator 21: Gameplay Experience with Thrustmaster T248
So, how does the Thrustmaster T248 perform with Bus Simulator 21? In our testing, we were impressed with the level of realism and immersion that this peripheral delivered. Here are some of our key findings:
- Realistic Steering: The T248's steering wheel delivered a remarkably realistic driving experience, with a smooth and responsive feel that perfectly captured the handling characteristics of the buses in Bus Simulator 21.
- Force Feedback: The T248's force feedback system was superb, providing a nuanced and realistic feedback experience that allowed us to feel every bump, corner, and braking maneuver.
- Pedal Response: The T248's pedals were also impressive, with a realistic and responsive feel that made it easy to control the bus's speed and acceleration.
Advantages of Using Thrustmaster T248 with Bus Simulator 21
There are several advantages to using the Thrustmaster T248 with Bus Simulator 21. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Improved Realism: The T248 delivers a remarkably realistic driving experience, which can enhance your enjoyment and immersion in Bus Simulator 21.
- Increased Control: The T248's precise and responsive controls make it easier to control the bus and perform complex maneuvers.
- Enhanced Gameplay: The T248's force feedback system and pedal response can help you to improve your driving skills and increase your overall gameplay performance.
Conclusion
The Thrustmaster T248 is a high-quality gaming peripheral that delivers a remarkably realistic and immersive driving experience. When used with Bus Simulator 21, this peripheral can enhance your gameplay experience and provide a level of realism and control that's unmatched by standard gamepad controls. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, the Thrustmaster T248 is a great choice for anyone looking to take their Bus Simulator 21 gameplay to the next level.
Pros and Cons
Here are some of the key pros and cons of using the Thrustmaster T248 with Bus Simulator 21:
Pros:
- Realistic and immersive driving experience
- Precise and responsive controls
- Adjustable pedals and steering wheel
- Compatible with a wide range of games and platforms
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- May require some setup and calibration
- Limited compatibility with certain game genres
System Requirements
To use the Thrustmaster T248 with Bus Simulator 21, you'll need to meet the following system requirements:
- PC: Windows 10 or later, Intel Core i5 or equivalent, 8 GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or equivalent
- Console: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Bus Simulator 21 Gameplay Tips
Here are some gameplay tips for Bus Simulator 21:
- Start slow: Take your time and get used to the handling characteristics of the bus.
- Use your mirrors: Check your mirrors regularly to stay aware of your surroundings.
- Follow traffic rules: Obey traffic laws and regulations to avoid fines and penalties.
Thrustmaster T248 vs. Other Gaming Peripherals
The Thrustmaster T248 is just one of many gaming peripherals on the market. Here's how it compares to some other popular options:
- Thrustmaster T300: The T300 is a more advanced version of the T248, with a 28 cm diameter steering wheel and a more powerful force feedback system.
- Logitech G29: The G29 is a popular gaming steering wheel and pedal set that's designed for use with a wide range of games, including Bus Simulator 21.
- Fanatec CSL Elite: The CSL Elite is a high-end gaming steering wheel and pedal set that's designed for professional sim racers and gamers.
Overall, the Thrustmaster T248 is a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their Bus Simulator 21 gameplay experience. With its realistic and immersive driving experience, precise and responsive controls, and adjustable pedals and steering wheel, this peripheral is sure to deliver hours of fun and engaging gameplay.
If you are looking for a review of the Thrustmaster T248 specifically for Bus Simulator 21, you are likely deciding if the upgrade from a controller (or an older wheel) is worth the money.
Here is a practical, usefulness-focused review based on how the wheel performs in the specific context of driving heavy vehicles in BS21. Final Tip If you already own a T248,