Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx Steering Wheel

Zen’s Simwheels was founded by Zen Metternich (21) from the Netherlands. With a background in Spatial Design and a passion for sim racing, he decided in 2020 to design his own sim racing wheel, as none of the existing wheels fully met his needs. This led to the creation of Zen’s Simwheels, a company specializing in custom sim wheels, button boxes, stickers, upgrades, repairs, and sim racing consultancy. Zen values both aesthetics and quality, working closely with customers to create products that perfectly match their needs.

We first met Zen in person two years ago at the ADAC Simracing Expo in Dortmund. He was walking around with a small suitcase, showing us the prototype of the UNIFLEX ELITE, among other things. Based on the feedback he received, the V2 was later put into production. Although we always stayed in close contact, a review of the UNIFLEX ELITE V2 never happened at the time.

Around Black Friday 2024, we finally received a UNIFLEX ELITE V2, primarily for creating social media content. At the same time, its successor, the UNIFLEX ELITEx, was announced. Now that we have both wheels in hand, this review will include a special ‘ELITE V2 vs ELITEx’ section, highlighting the differences between old and new.

The Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX ELITEx Steering Wheel is available through their webshop, starting at €1,139.00 and going up to €1,334.00, depending on the selected options. We received the most fully equipped version, featuring four paddles, a dual-clutch system, and an adapter. Additionally, Zen’s Simwheels offers free engraving of a personalized text on the dash plate around the screen and on top of the steering wheel. All prices in the webshop include VAT and shipping costs.

Packaging and Contents

We received the UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel one day after shipping via PostNL. The packaging immediately stands out. While some brands opt for a sleeve with technical specifications, Zen’s Simwheels keeps it sleek and functional. The box looks solid and professional, leaving a great first impression.

Upon opening, we’re greeted by a flyer with a QR code that links directly to the online manual—a modern and efficient solution. We also find a thank-you card, a large sticker, and a small bag containing stickers for the push buttons and encoders, along with a plastic tweezer for precise application. The steering wheel itself is covered by a layer of bubble wrap. Not the most luxurious solution, but it does the job.

After removing the protective layer, the UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel is revealed, carefully encased in high-quality black foam. In a cutout within the foam, we also find the USB data cable, along with two small bags: one containing M5 bolts and nuts, and another with two springs to adjust the resistance of the dual clutch. A well-thought-out package with solid contents, fully in line with Zen’s Simwheels’ approach—focused on quality and functionality.

The Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx Steering Wheel

The Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx is designed for demanding sim racers, offering a combination of advanced technology and a modular design. This makes it seemingly suitable for various racing classes, from GT to Formula cars.

The core of the steering wheel consists of an aluminum housing with a carbon fiber front plate. The ergonomically shaped grips are made of molded silicone, providing a firm and comfortable hold. With a diameter of 300 mm and a weight of approximately 1,500 grams, it aims to deliver a realistic and well-balanced steering feel.

Frontside
The front of the steering wheel features a 4.3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 800×480 px and a refresh rate of 60 fps. This screen can display real-time telemetry and essential racing data using the pre-programmed dashboard template. It is designed for optimal readability under various lighting conditions and works seamlessly with software like SimHub. Surrounding the screen are 20 RGB LEDs arranged in a 4x2x8x2x4 pattern.

On either side of the steering wheel, there are a total of ten programmable push buttons, five on each side. Positioned at thumb height are two 7-way multi-directional joysticks, one on each side. Below the screen, five rotary encoders with click functionality allow for quick adjustments, such as brake balance or fuel strategy. Additionally, the push buttons feature RGB lighting, enabling visual feedback based on in-game events or personal preferences.

Backside
On the back of the steering wheel, there is an aluminum modular quick-release interface, allowing a quick-release system to be mounted. Positioned at fingertip height on both sides of the adapter are the shift paddles. Above these shift paddles, each side features an additional module identical to the shift paddles, which can be assigned to an in-game function. Both modules are magnetic and equipped with powerful N52 magnets. Below the shift paddles, there are two analog clutch paddles, with interchangeable springs to adjust resistance. All modules are made of aluminum and finished with carbon fiber paddles.

ELITE V2 vs ELITEx

The Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel is the successor to the UNIFLEX ELITE V2, bringing various improvements and innovations that elevate the driving experience. Zen’s Simwheels has carefully listened to community feedback and incorporated these insights to better align the wheel with the needs and demands of sim racers.

Below is an overview of the key upgrades and enhancements. Later in the review, we’ll dive deeper into these changes and compare them to the V2 steering wheel.

• Lighter and sleeker housing: The wheel has a completely new design, making it not only lighter but also more modern in appearance.
• New grip and ergonomic thumb support: The grip has been improved, and the ergonomic thumb rest is now made of molded silicone.
• Subtle cutout on the Dash Plate: A small cutout at the bottom of the Dash Plate gives it a cleaner design and better ergonomics.
• Improved buttons and controls: The button panels have a more refined look and offer a smoother press response.
• Latest ZS N52 shifters: The shift paddles now feature ZS N52 mechanisms with dampening for a softer and quieter shifting experience.
• Stronger aluminum couplings: Instead of 3D-printed couplings, aluminum versions are now used.
• Enhanced rotary knobs: The front rotary knobs provide more grip and improved feedback.
• New ‘funky’ paddle caps: The redesigned paddle caps offer extra grip and tactile feedback.
• Upgraded internal electronics: The electronics have been fully revamped for more efficient power and data management.
• Support for QR USB and 4-pin JST connector: With the addition of QR USB and a 4-pin JST connector, the wheel is ready for the upcoming P-TQR system, Zen’s Simwheels’ own quick-release system.
• New sticker set: The stickers now feature a clear design with black icons and text for better readability and aesthetics.
• Aluminum threaded quick-release hub: The aluminum hub now has threading, making it easier to attach a quick-release.

Assembly

We mount the Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel on our Simucube 2 Sport wheelbase, attaching a Simucube Quick-Release to the aluminum hub on the back. This is easy to do using the included M5 bolts. While the Quick-Release can be mounted directly onto the steering wheel, we choose to use a hub between the wheel and the wheelbase. This provides a bit more space and better suits our setup. After mounting, we connect the wheel’s data cable and plug the USB connector into an available port on our USB hub. Finally, we configure the Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel in SimHub.

Software

The Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel is essentially plug-and-play and works seamlessly with SimHub. Zen’s Simwheels provides a clear online manual that explains step by step how to easily add and configure the wheel in SimHub.

Adding the UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel is quick and straightforward, requiring just a few clicks to get it up and running. We start by installing the latest version of SimHub to ensure full compatibility. The wheel is immediately recognized, and in just a few simple steps, you can configure the display and LEDs to your liking.

For the display, we use the standard pre-programmed template dashboard from Zen’s Simwheels, which is already integrated into the wheel. As dashboards and LED profiles become more advanced and complex due to SimHub’s extensive customization options, nearly every well-known brand now has its own Discord server for support. Zen’s Simwheels also has an active Discord community where dashboard templates and LED profiles can be developed and shared.

To calibrate and adjust the dual clutch, we need to use DiView or Freejoy software. This separate software allows us to modify the PCB for analog output adjustments. In reality, this step isn’t necessary, as the dual clutch is already well-calibrated out of the box. However, if we want to tweak the bite point or set the modules to dual mode, we need to do this through DiView or Freejoy. The manual provides clear instructions and links to download the required software. For us, the default settings work perfectly, so we leave everything as it is.

Driving with the Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx Steering Wheel

Once the wheel is fully set up and all functionalities are configured in SimHub, we’re ready to hit the virtual track with the UNIFLEX-ELITEx from Zen’s Simwheels. For this extensive test, we use the wheel across various GT3 cars in both Assetto Corsa and Assetto Corsa Competizione.

The first impression is immediately positive as soon as we grab the wheel. Weighing around 1.5 kg, it doesn’t feel too heavy, especially considering its solid build quality and high-end materials. This weight actually contributes to a stable and robust feel, allowing force feedback to be transmitted precisely and in detail from the wheelbase. Even when reducing the power to around 10 Nm, the wheel remains a direct and responsive extension of the sim.

The hand grips, made of premium silicone, feel comfortable and provide excellent grip, both with and without gloves. Thanks to their ergonomic shape, they fit naturally in the hand, allowing us to complete long stints effortlessly without experiencing fatigue or loss of grip.

Front control
The front of the Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx wheel exudes quality. Every component—from the push buttons to the aluminum rotary encoders—feels solid and premium. The 7-way switches are smartly positioned just beside the grips, allowing us to operate them easily with our thumbs while keeping a firm hold on the wheel. They function smoothly and respond instantly, enabling quick and precise adjustments between different functions. If we want to use the 7-way switch as a rotary dial, we do need to briefly adjust our grip with our thumb and index finger.

The push buttons provide a firm and satisfying click with every press, delivering excellent tactile feedback during a race. The rotary encoders beneath the screen also feel well-engineered, turning smoothly with a distinct click for each step, making it easy to adjust settings with precision. The push buttons are placed conveniently, so they can be used without letting go of the wheel. Only for the five encoders in the middle do we need to momentarily release our grip.

A great extra feature is that both the push buttons and the five central encoders are telemetry-controlled. In SimHub, we can fully customize the LEDs around these buttons, setting them up for flag warnings, spotter notifications, or other crucial race info. This not only enhances our awareness while driving but also boosts immersion.

The wheel comes with a well-designed set of stickers to label the buttons and encoders. A cool detail: the text on these stickers is cut out transparently. This means that when the LED lights up, the function of the button or encoder subtly illuminates—a thoughtful and stylish touch that works exceptionally well on the UNIFLEX-ELITEx.

The integrated 4.3-inch screen is perfectly sized and easy to read while driving. Brightness and contrast can be adjusted easily via SimHub. Even at maximum brightness, the display remains clear and legible. Colors are vivid and sharp, and with a refresh rate of 60 fps (60 Hz), everything runs smoothly with no noticeable lag. However, it’s important to note that a SimHub license is required to push data to the screen at 60 fps (60 Hz). If using the free version of SimHub, the refresh rate is limited to a maximum of 10 fps (10 Hz).

LED lighting is another strong point of the UNIFLEX-ELITEx. Brightness is excellent, and colors display exactly as configured. The 4x2x8x2x4 LED layout around the screen is fully customizable in SimHub. Each LED can be linked to the telemetry data of our choice. SimHub offers excellent support, with a wide range of LED profiles and dashboard templates to choose from.

Rear control
One of the first things we notice about the Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX-ELITEx steering wheel is the solid build quality of the modules at the back. The shift modules are positioned perfectly at our middle fingers. They have a short and crisp throw, allowing for quick and precise gear changes. They also provide a satisfying click for feedback without being overly loud.

Above the shift modules, there are two additional paddles that look and function similarly. These can be used for DRS or navigating menus quickly. Thanks to their smart placement, we can easily operate them while racing.

Below the shifters, we find the wheel’s two analog modules. These naturally have a longer throw and feel smooth in use. The default springs provide quite a bit of resistance, making them feel somewhat stiff at first. Fortunately, Zen’s Simwheels includes a pair of lighter springs. With the lighter option, the analog paddles operate much more smoothly, allowing for finer control—ideal for race starts. The contactless Hall effect sensors ensure everything is registered seamlessly and without friction.

Like other high-end wheels, the analog modules can be configured in multiple ways: as a dual-clutch, an analog input, or even as extra button inputs. We prefer the dual-clutch functionality, especially for race starts. Calibration and adjustments require the use of DiView or Freejoy software, which we find a bit cumbersome. However, once properly set up, there’s no need to adjust them further.

Both the shift and analog modules are equipped with carbon paddles. The analog paddles are adjustable, whereas the shifter paddles are fixed. That said, we don’t really miss the adjustability—the paddles feel great and are well-suited for both larger and smaller hands.

ELITE V2 versus ELITEx
As mentioned earlier, we had the luxury of receiving both steering wheels from Zen’s, making it ideal for a direct one-on-one comparison. While the V2 wheel was already well received in the sim racing community, the Zen’s Simwheels ELITEx wheel takes things to the next level in terms of detail and usability.

The completely redesigned housing not only makes the wheel lighter but also sleeker and more modern. The improved grip and ergonomic thumb rests, made from molded silicone, provide a much more comfortable and natural hand position—especially during long racing sessions. The subtle cutout in the Dash Plate contributes to the streamlined design while also offering more hand space. Additionally, the button panels have been refined; they look more elegant and feel smoother and more precise. The new ZS N52 shifters further enhance the experience with a dampened, quieter shifting action.

Beyond the improved design and comfort, the technical upgrades represent a significant step forward. The previously 3D-printed clutch modules have been replaced with solid aluminum versions, improving durability and making the unit feel more robust. The upgraded rotary encoders and redesigned ‘funky’ switch caps provide better grip and clearer feedback, making them more intuitive to use.

Internally, the electronics have been completely redesigned and optimized for more efficient power and data management. With support for QR USB and a 4-pin JST connector, the ELITEx is future-proofed for use with the P-TQR system. However, we can’t fully evaluate these aspects since we don’t have the equipment to measure the electronics, nor have we received the P-TQR system from Zen’s (yet).

Finally, the new stickers with black icons and text give the wheel a clean, modern look, while the aluminum threading in the hub ensures a sturdy and easy-to-mount quick-release attachment.

In short, an impressive upgrade that is immediately noticeable when racing.

Conclusion

We thoroughly enjoyed driving with the Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX ELITEx steering wheel and immediately noticed the improvements over the V2 model. Zen’s has clearly listened to the community, and the ELITEx is, in our opinion, a strong evolution of their high-end wheel.

In terms of size, the wheel strikes a nice balance between a GT-style and Formula-style design. It’s sturdy yet lightweight, allowing vibrations and force feedback to come through effectively. The hand grips feel comfortable and provide excellent grip, whether you’re wearing gloves or not.

The input options are more than sufficient and well-positioned. The push buttons offer a firm click for immediate feedback, while the rotary encoders turn smoothly and provide satisfying clicks with each step. Both the buttons and encoders are telemetry-controlled and can be assigned in SimHub to functions like flag warnings, spotter alerts, or other essential race information.

The screen is well-sized, offering a sharp and bright display with good black levels. The LEDs around the screen are bright, and the colors are displayed accurately. Additionally, both the screen and LED customization options in SimHub are extensive.

The shifter modules and optional modules are easy to operate and provide a pleasant click without being overly loud. The clutch paddles feel solid, and with the lighter springs, we found the optimal resistance for precise control. However, we do find it inconvenient that a separate software tool is required to calibrate and adjust the dual-clutch functionality.

All in all, Zen’s has developed an excellent successor to the V2. In our opinion, the ELITEx is a versatile and high-quality steering wheel!

Excited after reading our review? The Zen’s Simwheels UNIFLEX ELITEx Steering Wheel is available via the Zen’s Simwheels webshop, starting at €1,139.00 and going up to €1,334.00, depending on the selected options. All prices in the webshop include VAT and shipping.

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