Why You Should Buy A Sim Racing Dashboard

If you’ve already got a decent sim racing setup with a solid wheel and pedals, but you’re still relying on your keyboard for critical in-game functions, it’s time to upgrade. Sim racing dashboards from Apex Sim Racing offer you the extra buttons, switches, and dials you need to take full control of your race. Let's dive into why a dashboard is essential for both casual and competitive racers.

 --> SHOP DASHBOARDS <--

Extra Buttons: Why They Matter

Cheaper sim racing wheels often come with limited buttons, which can restrict your control over critical functions during a race. Even if you don’t use every button all the time, having them easily accessible is far better than fumbling with hotkeys or a mouse. With a sim racing dashboard, you can map essential controls across all cars and wheel setups, making your rig as versatile as possible.

You're always going to need functions like:

• Engine Start + Ignition
• Radio switch for team communications
• Toggling overlays like Crew Chief or lap data

And let's be honest—trying to use a keyboard or mouse while wearing racing gloves? Not ideal. A dashboard makes those controls much easier to reach, and it’s VR-friendly too. You can’t exactly reach for a keyboard when you’re immersed in a virtual cockpit, but having a fixed button box helps you develop the muscle memory you need for seamless racing.

VR-Friendly and More Accessible

One of the biggest perks of a sim racing dashboard is how well it integrates with VR setups. When you can’t see your keyboard or mouse, reaching for them becomes nearly impossible. Dashboards provide a fixed, reliable place for your controls, allowing you to focus solely on the track.

In racing sims like iRacing, ACC, and AMS, there are far more key binds than you’d think:

• Crew Chief commands for asking about fuel, tires, and cars around you
• Managing pit stop details like tire changes, fuel adjustments, or windscreen tear-offs
• Car-specific functions such as wipers, lights, or ignition
• View controls for adjusting your field of view (FOV), moving mirrors, or unlocking overlays

With a dashboard, these functions are a simple button press away—no more fumbling for keyboard shortcuts in the middle of a race.

Customization for Critical Controls

Not all controls need a simple button. Sometimes, you need more specialized inputs like dials, rotary switches, or toggles. Dashboards offer the perfect balance between accessibility and customization.

For example:

• Brake bias adjustments can need to change between corners—having a dial makes this quick and easy.
• Rotaries are great for managing things like traction control or ABS settings.
• Toggle switches work well for controlling things like lights, wipers, or even ignition sequences.

Some buttons need to be within easy reach, while others can be placed further away based on their urgency during the race. This is where Apex Sim Racing’s dashboards really shine, giving you complete flexibility to set up your rig just the way you like it.

Key Features of Apex Sim Racing Dashboards

Apex Sim Racing offers a variety of dashboards, each designed to maximize your control and immersion. Here are our models:

• Asetek Dashboard
• Simucube / OSW / VRS Dashboard – Ideal for those with high-end systems, offering a clean layout with plenty of customizable buttons.
• Simagic M10 Dashboard – A versatile and robust dashboard that fits perfectly with Simagic setups.
• SimLab P1-X Dashboard – Made with lightweight, durable carbon, offering excellent control for serious sim racers.
• Thrustmaster T - Series Dashboard - Designed specifically for Thrustmaster wheelbases, this dashboard is easy to integrate and features an ergonomic layout that improves your control during intense racing sessions.
• Accuforce Dashboard - Built for compatibility with Accuforce systems, this dashboard is packed with easy-to-reach buttons and dials, ensuring you have the controls you need right at your fingertips, no matter how demanding the race gets.
• Moza Dashboard r5, r9, r12 - Compact yet powerful, this dashboard offers seamless compatibility with Moza’s R5, R9, and R12 wheelbases. It's the perfect blend of simplicity and functionality for Moza Racing users.
• Moza Dashboard r16, r21 - 

• Designed for the higher-end R16 and R21 Moza wheelbases, this dashboard provides a more advanced setup with added controls for racers who want maximum customization and control over their in-race adjustments.

Pair these dashboards with our DDU/PCW displays for on-screen telemetry or stream deck button box mounts for even more control customization.

Enhanced Communication and Pit Management

Dashboards don’t just improve your car control—they streamline your communication and pit strategies as well. In a race, you might need to:

• Change voice chat settings on Discord (mute, deafen, or disconnect)
• Communicate with your pit crew about fuel levels or tire conditions
• Manage overlays to keep track of your race data

Having dedicated buttons for these functions is a lifesaver, especially when reaction time counts. Forget scrambling for the right keyboard shortcut—everything is just a button press away on your dashboard.

Is a Sim Racing Dashboard Worth It?

If you’re serious about sim racing, a dashboard is an absolute game-changer. It enhances immersion, provides faster access to critical controls, and can even improve your race performance by reducing distractions. Whether you’re in VR or just want a more streamlined experience, an Apex Sim Racing dashboard is a no-brainer.

Conclusion

Upgrading your sim rig with an Apex Sim Racing dashboard not only elevates your control but also improves the overall racing experience. From critical car functions to easy access for pit strategies and communication, dashboards are essential for serious racers. Be sure to check out our stream deck mounts and DDU/PCW displays to complete your setup and take your immersion to the next level.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between a sim racing dashboard and a button box?
A dashboard typically offers more buttons, dials, and switches, giving you faster access to a broader range of controls compared to a simple button box.

2. Are Apex dashboards compatible with all setups?
Yes, Apex Sim Racing offers dashboards compatible with Fanatec, Simucube, Simagic, and Moza Racing systems.

3. Can I use a sim racing dashboard in VR?
Absolutely. Dashboards are perfect for VR, providing fixed, tactile buttons you can use without seeing them.

4. What’s the benefit of using dials and rotary switches on a dashboard?
Dials and rotary switches offer finer control over settings like brake bias, traction control, or fuel mix, making them perfect for real-time adjustments during a race.

5. Are there affordable dashboard options?
Yes, the SimLab P1-X Dash Board Pods offer a budget-friendly, modular solution without compromising on functionality.