SimNet SSQ-1 Review: A $159 Sequential Shifter Tested
Quick summary· AI-generated
The review covers the SSQ-1's stainless steel and CNC-aluminum construction, Hall effect sensor, and key feature: five swappable shift ball types that alter shift feel and sound. Darin Gangi tests setup on both PC (USB) and console platforms (Fanatec/Thrustmaster compatibility), demonstrates mounting options (direct aluminum profile or optional A-PHS plate for rally/drift rigs), and evaluates shift feel across different ball options in iRacing and Assetto Corsa Rally. The verdict frames it as a solid value pick for rally and drift drivers, particularly console users, with good build quality and more adjustability than the price suggests.
Excerpt from Inside Sim Racing
SimNet’s new SSQ-1 doesn’t lock you into one shift feel. It ships with five different types of shift balls, so you can change how every shift feels and sounds, all for $159. In this SimNet SSQ-1 review, Darin Gangi tests every ball option, sets it up on PC and covers console use, and takes it into iRacing and Assetto Corsa Rally.
The short version: it’s a solid, well-built sequential with a good shift feel and more adjustability than its price suggests. It makes the most sense for rally and drift drivers who want a dedicated sequential, and for console racers on a Fanatec or Thrustmaster base. Watch the full review below, or read on for the breakdown.
Watch: This $159 Shifter Surprised Me… Here’s What SimNet Did
SimNet SSQ-1 Review: Specs and Build Quality
The SSQ-1 is built from stainless steel and CNC-machined aluminum. A Hall effect sensor handles the shift inputs, and a separate switch in the handle gives you an extra input you can program in game.
Spec SimNet SSQ-1
Type Sequential
Construction Stainless steel and CNC-machined aluminum
Shift sensor Hall effect
Detent system 5 interchangeable shift ball types
Handle height adjustment 25mm
Extra input Programmable switch in the handle
Connectivity USB (A to B cable included), plus a port for supported third-party wheelbases
Net weight 1.5kg
Approximate size 295mm tall, 145mm wide, 62mm deep
Price $159
Specs from the SimNet SSQ-1 product page(opens in new tab) at Sim Motion.
The handle is easy to adjust and swappable. It works with SimNet’s soft grip, and SimNet’s handbrake lever extension also fits if you want the shifter to sit taller.
The handle accepts SimNet’s soft grip, and the handbrake lever extension adds height if you want it taller. SimNet SSQ-1 Review: Mounting, PC, and Console Setup
Mounting
You can bolt the SSQ-1 to a shifter plate from the bottom, or mount it straight to a piece of aluminum profile, which is how Darin prefers to mount his shifters. The bolts, T-nuts, and hex wrenches you need are in the box.
If you’re building a rally or drift setup, SimNet also offers an optional A-PHS mounting plate that holds the SSQ-1 and a SimNet handbrake together as one unit. According to SimNet’s authorized US retailer Apex Sim Racing(opens in new tab), the plate flips for right-hand or left-hand drive layouts.
PC Setup
On PC, the SSQ-1 connects with the included USB A to B cable. Darin found it close to plug and play. In SimNet’s software, you can adjust the shift activation…
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