Every sim racer hits the same decision point sooner or later. Do you start from scratch and build your own setup, or buy a turnkey racing simulator that arrives ready to drive? Both options deliver realism and immersion, but they appeal to very different kinds of drivers. One gives you complete control over every bolt and wire, while the other gives you guaranteed performance with zero hassle.
At Speednation, we work with both types of customers every day. Some enjoy the challenge of tuning, testing, and refining their rigs piece by piece. Others just want a clean, professional system that works flawlessly from day one. The key is understanding which camp you fall into.
Why Build Your Own Simulator?
Building your own racing simulator is the mechanical equivalent of cooking from scratch. It takes time and patience, but the satisfaction of crafting something that feels exactly how you want is unmatched.
A build-your-own racing simulator gives you total freedom of choice. You can pair any direct drive base with your preferred pedals, cockpit, and display system. It’s ideal for tinkerers who like to swap hardware as new technology arrives. You also control the budget. You can start with a core setup and expand over time, upgrading pedals, adding motion, or switching to a triple-monitor configuration later.
That flexibility comes at a cost. DIY builds require proper tools, calibration knowledge, and cable management skills. Wheel bases generate serious torque, and poor mounting or misalignment can lead to instability or component wear. Software setup can also be demanding, with firmware, profiles, and drivers all needing to communicate perfectly.
For many enthusiasts, that process is part of the fun. If you enjoy adjusting pedal pressure curves, experimenting with force feedback, and learning through trial and error, building your own simulator offers deep satisfaction. It’s hands-on, creative, and endlessly customisable. Just be ready to spend as much time with an Allen key as you do on the track.
Why Choose a Turnkey Simulator?
A turnkey racing simulator takes the opposite approach. Instead of sourcing every part and learning setup from scratch, you buy a pre-engineered system that’s fully configured and tested. It’s the quickest route from purchase to performance.
Speednation’s turnkey systems arrive with all hardware and software professionally integrated. Every connection, driver, and calibration step is handled by our in-house technicians. You unpack the rig, connect the power, and start driving. For customers who value time, reliability, or professional presentation, it’s a no-brainer.
The benefits go beyond convenience. Pre-built systems are assembled for structural rigidity, pedal alignment, and ergonomic accuracy. Monitors are positioned for correct field of view, and performance profiles are optimised for the included PC hardware. Each simulator is tested under load before shipping, ensuring stable, consistent operation.
A ready-to-race simulator is also easier to maintain. If anything goes wrong, you have full support from Speednation’s technical team rather than a scattered collection of manufacturer helplines. For businesses, coaching programmes, or sim centres, turnkey systems provide predictable performance without the downtime of constant tinkering.
The only trade-off is flexibility. Turnkey rigs come with a fixed specification, though small adjustments can often be made before delivery. In return, you get guaranteed results, expert build quality, and a simulator that simply works.
Our Top Turnkey Simulator Picks
After extensive in-house testing, these systems stand out for reliability, realism, and value. Whether you’re chasing pole position or professional-grade immersion, each one represents a different level of commitment and capability.
Limited Edition Turn-Key Performance Simulatior
Built for drivers who want elite performance without the elite price tag, our Turn-Key performance Simulator delivers professional-grade hardware in a complete, ready-to-drive package. It uses a Next Level Racing GT Track cockpit paired with the MOZA R9 V3 Direct Drive base and triple Samsung Odyssey G5 monitors for smooth, immersive visuals.
The system includes MOZA ES wheel, SRP pedals, and a sequential shifter, all mounted and pre-configured. Optional upgrades include a high-end gaming PC with RTX 5070 graphics and full installation service.
This one-off build combines performance, comfort, and exceptional value, making it perfect for serious racers who want the full experience with minimal setup time.
Turn-Key Formula Simulator
If single-seater precision is your passion, the Turn-Key Formula Simulator captures the feel of an F1 cockpit at home. Built around the Next Level Racing F-GT PRO Black Edition chassis, it features the MOZA R12 Direct Drive base, CRP2 pedals, and FSR 2 steering wheel for precise, balanced control.
The package includes a Samsung 57" ultrawide display, a high-performance PC, and accessories pre-loaded with drivers and software. Build time is typically one to three weeks, with professional installation available for Auckland customers.
Designed for those chasing realism in open-wheel racing, this setup blends raw power with refined ergonomics for true Formula-level immersion.
Turn-Key Apex Simulator
The Apex Simulator delivers serious capability at a more accessible price point. Centred around the MOZA R5 wheelbase and GT Track chassis, it includes the HGP shifter, HBP handbrake, and Samsung G5 34" ultrawide QHD display.
Every system arrives with a gaming PC preloaded and optimised, so you’re race-ready within minutes. It’s a practical balance of performance and value, ideal for drivers who want a professional-quality feel without building from the ground up.
The Apex is compact, powerful, and ready for expansion, making it one of the best turnkey choices for home or club use.
Turn Key Enduro Simulator
The Enduro simulator is built for drivers who live for long stints and full immersion. Centred around the Moza R9 direct drive wheelbase, CRP2 pedals, and Next Level Racing GT Elite chassis, it delivers endurance-level strength, smooth handling, and race-ready realism.
Triple 32" Samsung Odyssey G5 QHD monitors wrap around your field of view, powered by a custom Playtech gaming PC for crisp performance and seamless motion. Every input, every corner, feels precise and controlled.
This setup is made for endurance; from the ES1 racing seat and surround sound system to the full cable-managed cockpit that keeps everything clean and comfortable through hours of driving. Built to handle long sessions without compromise, the Enduro combines comfort, clarity, and control for drivers who want to go the distance.
Which Option Fits You?
Both paths lead to serious performance; the difference lies in how much control you want over the process. If you enjoy fine-tuning, experimenting, and evolving your rig over time, building your own system will keep you busy and satisfied. If you want a simulator that’s fully functional on day one, a turnkey racing simulator offers unmatched convenience and reliability.
Here’s a quick comparison to help guide your decision:
|
Factor |
Build-Your-Own |
Turn-Key Simulator |
|
Setup Time |
High |
Low |
|
Customisation |
Unlimited |
Moderate |
|
Cost Control |
Variable |
Fixed |
|
Support |
Self-managed |
Full Speednation support |
|
Ideal For |
Hobbyists, experimenters |
Professionals, time-poor racers |
Still not sure which route suits you best? Our team can walk you through the pros and cons in person and show you exactly what a turnkey simulator looks and feels like. Visit our showroom or get in touch to talk about setups, options, and upgrades that fit your goals.
FAQs
What’s included in a turnkey simulator?
A ready-to-race simulator typically includes the chassis, wheelbase, pedals, display, gaming PC, and peripherals. Every system is assembled, calibrated, and tested by the Speednation team before delivery.
How long does a turnkey build take?
Most systems are ready within one to two weeks, depending on component availability. Speednation also offers professional sim installation across New Zealand for those who want a complete, ready-to-drive experience.
Is there a performance difference between DIY and turnkey systems?
Not in the core hardware itself. Both can use identical components. The difference lies in tuning, calibration, and integration. Turnkey rigs are tested to work perfectly from day one, while DIY setups depend on the user’s skill in assembly and software configuration.
Can Speednation install a simulator in my home or business?
Yes. We offer professional sim installation throughout Auckland, including delivery, assembly, calibration, and testing.