CAMMUS C5 vs CAMMUS C12: Which Direct-Drive Wheel Should New Sim Racers Buy?
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By cammusracing
Entry-level vs high-end SIM gear: CAMMUS C5 (5 Nm) vs C12 (12 Nm). Specs, pros/cons, budgets, desk vs rig use, upgrade paths—clear answers for new sim racers.
Who this guide is for (and why you should read it)
If you’re just getting into sim racing and you’re debating your first direct-drive wheel, this guide compares the CAMMUS C5 (entry level) with the CAMMUS C12 (high end) in plain language. You’ll learn how much torque you actually need, what fits a desk vs a cockpit, and where your money makes the biggest difference.
Quick verdict
- On a desk, first wheel? Go CAMMUS C5 for affordable direct-drive force feedback around 5 Nm (peaks reported up to ~6–7 Nm), compact form, and easier daily use.
- Built/buying a cockpit and want headroom? Choose CAMMUS C12 for 12 Nm constant torque, higher fidelity, and long-term growth without upgrading soon.
- How much torque do beginners need? Most racers are well-served by ~10–15 Nm; more is niche/pro use.
What changes between C5 and C12? (Specs that matter)
Motor & torque
- C5: Direct-drive, ~5 Nm constant (often cited with ~6–7 Nm peak in reviews). Great step up from gear/belt wheels; more detail and immediacy.
- C12: Direct-drive, 12 Nm constant torque; compact all-in-one design. Significantly stronger forces and detail headroom for future sims and cars without power steering.
Form factor & size
- C5: Ultra-slim integrated wheel+base (approx 278×265×82 mm, ~3.6 kg); very desk-friendly.
- C12: All-in-one but larger (~300×300×106 mm, ~4.8 kg); better suited to rigs/cockpits.
Mounting & ecosystem
- C5: Ships with T-brackets and supports desktop clamp/hard-mounting; ideal for first setups.
- C12: Typically bundled with T-bracket (desk clamp not always included but best for more stability), targeted at cockpit users.
Software & setup
Both support PC configuration and downloadable control software for FFB tuning and firmware updates.
What force feedback torque actually feels like (and how to choose)
- 5 Nm class (C5): Big jump over non-DD wheels—crisper road detail and car weight cues; comfortable for long sessions; less demanding on mounts.
- 10–12 Nm class (C12): Adds headroom for heavy steering loads, historic cars, and strong curb impacts while preserving fine detail. Many racers consider 10–15 Nm the “sweet spot.”
- Direct-drive vs belt/gear: DD communicates more nuanced detail with less drivetrain loss.
- Beginner tip: More torque isn’t automatically “more realistic”—use strength that lets you feel detail without wrestling the wheel.
Desk vs Cockpit: Which base fits your space?
- Playing at a desk? The C5’s compact body and lighter weight make clamping and daily removal easier. Less torque = less flex.
- Have (or planning) a rig? The C12 shines when hard-mounted to a solid cockpit; you can run lower in-game gain but keep high dynamic range for bumps and slides.
CAMMUS C5: Pros & cons for new racers
Pros
- Most affordable path to direct-drive; big upgrade over entry belt/gear wheels.
- Compact; great for desks and small spaces.
- Enough torque for mainstream sims; peaks reported up to ~6–7 Nm.
Cons
- Less headroom for heavy cars or strong FFB profiles.
Best for: First DD wheel, apartment/desk setups, budget builds.
CAMMUS C12: Pros & cons for ambitious beginners
Pros
- 12 Nm constant torque = excellent headroom and detail.
- Compact for its power; integrated design.
Cons
- Typically sold without a desk clamp; better for rigs. (Best with additional desk clamp)
- Higher price; requires sturdy mounting and careful FFB setup.
Best for: New racers building a cockpit, users who want to “buy once” and grow.
Price & value context in 2025
Entry-level direct-drive competition has heated up (new bundles around 9 Nm are appearing), which makes the C5 compelling for price-to-experience—while C12 still offers unusually high torque per dollar if you’re rig-mounted.
Recommendations by scenario
- Absolute beginner, no rig yet → C5. Start with ~40–60% strength, learn car control, upgrade pedals next.
- Beginner with cockpit or firm upgrade path → C12. Run conservative FFB (you can always turn it up later).
- Mixed desk + occasional rig use → Start C5; if you stick with the hobby and want stronger forces, resell and move to C12 later.
Setup checklist (save this)
- Mounting: Clamp (C5) or hard-mount (C12). Tighten all fasteners.
- Firmware & drivers: Install desktop manager and update firmware.
- First FFB profile: Start modest (e.g., 40–60% device strength), add detail with in-game gain—not just raw force.
- Test cars/tracks: Use a familiar combo; log changes.
FAQs
Is 5 Nm enough for drifting and GT racing?
Yes for most beginners; you’ll feel slides and curbs clearly. If you want heavier steering loads or vintage cars without power steering, 12 Nm adds realism headroom.
Does direct drive really feel different from belt/gear wheels?
Yes—DD transmits finer detail with less mechanical smoothing/loss.
Can I use these on a desk?
The C5 is designed with desk friendliness in mind. The C12 is best on a rigid cockpit; but can be used with a desk setup too.
Final call-to-action
Starting out? Pick the C5 for a compact, affordable DD start. Ready to commit with a cockpit? Step straight to the C12 for long-term headroom.