Simagic Alpha Evo Review: Smooth, Smart, and Seriously Impressive
Sarah Nocchi
After years of waiting, Simagic has dropped their latest direct drive wheelbase: the Alpha Evo. With updated internals, a new encoder, and serious claims around smoothness and fidelity, this wheelbase enters the mid-range DD ring swinging.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the unboxing, the full install onto my Next Level Racing F-GT Pro rig, and compare the Alpha Evo directly against the Fanatec DD1, Moza R12, and Simucube 2 Pro. Let’s find out if the Alpha Evo is worth your attention (and your money).
👉 Watch the full video review below:
First Impressions & What's in the Box
Simagic graciously sent me a full setup for my new F-GT Pro build, which includes:
- Alpha Evo (12Nm)
- GT Neo steering wheel
- P1000 modular pedals
- Neo X Hub & dual paddle module
- P330R flat-bottom wheel
The Alpha Evo comes in three variants:
The Sport and Standard look identical, while the Pro is considerably larger/longer. Keep in mind the above pricing is without any tax or shipping included.
Installing the Alpha Evo on the NLR F-GT Pro
Mounting was quick and easy. The Alpha Evo allows front, bottom, or side mounting (or desk - but that's probably only viable for the 9nm version - or if you have a heavy, steel desk that can take the torque). One unfortunate design change from the previous line of Alphas is that front mounting now requires a separate $49 bracket. They did away with the four holes on the front. Maybe for aesthetic reasons? Who knows.
The compact design helps with clearance, and the new active cooling vent at the back keeps it running cool even under load. That being said, I've never had a problem with any of my wheelbases getting too hot.
What’s New in the Alpha Evo
Simagic rebuilt this wheelbase from the ground up. Highlights include:
- Zero-cogging motor – minimal mechanical resistance, super smooth feel
- 21-bit encoder – over 2 million points of resolution per rotation
- DFDF algorithm – Dynamic Force Domain Filter improves realism and smoothness
- Improved quick release and heat management
- Telemetry-based light ring surrounding the QR
Cogging Comparison Test
Simagic is making a big deal out of the zero-cogging tech in this wheelbase, and they are right to do so, because it actually is noticeable impressive. I tested the Alpha Evo back to back against these other wheelbases:
- Fanatec DD1 (5 year old version, with QR1): Grindy and notchy. Noticeable resistance during rotation.
- Moza R12: Mechanical feel, especially during slow turns.
- Simucube 2 Pro: Easily the smoothest of the bunch, but the Alpha Evo is surprisingly close.
The Alpha Evo felt significantly smoother than both the DD1 and the R12, making it a serious competitor even at a lower price point. But that's cogging, with the motors off. Let's test it for real.
First Drive in iRacing
I tested the Alpha Evo in iRacing using the BMW M2 CS Racing at Okayama. I used the iRacing base profile in Simagic's Simpro Manager software and transferred those settings into the other wheelbases (things such as damping, friction, etc). I put all wheelbases as their max torque in their software, and only adjusted the level to be identical in iRacing.
Initial impressions:
- Extremely smooth rotation
- Clean, detailed road feedback
- High input precision, no latency
The new DFDF force feedback algorithm and low inertia motor clearly shine here. The feel is immersive and reactive, with excellent detail coming through the wheel. This feels more expensive than the price point it's offered at.
The Light Ring isn't a Gimmick
The new addition of the light ring that surrounds the quick release is so nice! Others have said it's a gimmick, but it's not. When set up correctly, it can actually give you helpful signals. For example. in the BMW M2 CSR, I don't want to get too much into the ABS, if at all. I set up the software so that it flashes orange at me whenever it comes on. That's really helpful when you pair it with realizing how much brake pressure you're applying that makes it come on - learning that, and not doing it again on the next lap.
You can also have it flash at you when there's other track events like yellow flags, white flag, and that kind of thing. I'm actually surprised we haven't seen this innovation on wheelbases before!
About That 21-Bit Encoder
The 21-bit encoder offers 8x the resolution of an 18-bit encoder. So that 3-bit difference actually is much more than what it sounds like. While the real-world difference is subtle, like comparing 4K to 8K, the increased smoothness and precision can enhance your consistency and long-term experience.
More importantly, it makes the Alpha Evo future-proof. There’s no reason to upgrade from a resolution standpoint anytime soon.
Back-to-Back Wheelbase Comparisons
Alpha Evo vs. Moza R12
The Alpha Evo is noticeably smoother and more immersive. With the MOZA R12, if I really focus on what I'm feeling through the steering wheel, I do think it feels more mechanical. So it's more of a question about how realistic it feels, versus how much feedback I'm actually getting. It's not making me drive any worse - it's just a little less immersive. At the end of the day, it probably comes down to the level of smoothness.
Alpha Evo vs. Simucube 2 Pro
The ultimate test! It almost feels unfair to compare the two, but this could be Simagic's biggest advantage (value). Simucube still wins on pure balance and realism, but the gap is smaller than you’d think. Alpha Evo feels much closer to the 2 Pro than it does to the R12. The fact that the Evo costs as much as it does, in comparison to the 2 Pro, is game-changing value. So why go with the Simucube instead of the Alpha Evo? The main advantage of the premium price point of the 2 Pro is that of its durability and strong warranty, making it a long term investment. The Alpha Evo only comes with a 1-year warranty, which isn't very confidence-inspiring.
Alpha Evo vs. Fanatec DD1
No contest. The DD1 feels older, grainier, and less refined, even with more torque, at 20nm. The Simagic Alpha Evo clearly outperforms it in realism and road feel.
Final Thoughts
The Simagic Alpha Evo delivers an impressive blend of performance, smoothness, and forward-looking technology at a price that’s hard to beat.
👍 What I Liked:
- Top-tier smoothness and zero-cogging
- High encoder resolution
- Versatile mounting options
- Excellent FFB algorithm and road feel
- The light ring is a unique, innovative addition
- Competitive price point
⚠️ What to Watch:
- Only 1-year warranty
- Front mount sold separately
- Watch for international shipping costs - try resellers in your country if you are having to pay high shipping fees
At under $600, the Alpha Evo offers serious value. If you’re upgrading from an older DD base or stepping into direct drive for the first time, this should be at the top of your list. It's the most bang for your buck right now.
Looking to buy the Simagic Alpha Evo? Get 3% off with discount code SARAH!