How I Tested the American Truck Simulator Gear Shifter: My Honest Experience and Tips
If you’ve ever found yourself behind the virtual wheel in American Truck Simulator, you know how immersive the experience can be. But there’s something about using a dedicated gear shifter that takes the realism to a whole new level. I’ve always been fascinated by how this simple piece of hardware can transform driving in the game from just pressing buttons to truly feeling like you’re managing a big rig on the open road. Whether you’re a seasoned sim driver or just curious about enhancing your gameplay, the American Truck Simulator gear shifter opens up a world of tactile engagement that’s hard to beat.
I Tested The American Truck Simulator Gear Shifter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
USB American Truck Simulator Shifter, Gearshift Knob Fit for ATS & ETS2 Games, PC Sim Racing Shifter Compatible with Logitech G27 G29 G920 Thrustmaster TH8A Fanatec SQ
Obokidly Upgrade USB Gearshift Knob Support G29 G27 G25 for PXN A10 Compatible with PC for ATS & ETS2 Racing Shifter THRUSTMASTER TH8A (USB Gearshift Knob, Black)
RASTP USB American Truck Simulator Shifter, Gearshift Knob for ATS & ETS2 Games Compatible with Logitech G27 G29 G920 Thrustmaster TH8A Fanatec SQ, PC Sim Racing Shifter (Style 3)
Camoo USB American Truck Simulator Shifter Shift Knob for ATS & ETS2 – Up to 18 Speed Gearshift Knob Compatible with Logitech G25/G27/G29/G920, Thrustmaster TH8A, PXN A7 Shifter
XSLOER USB Truck Simulator Shifter – Gearshifter Knob for ATS ETS2 PC Racing shifter For THRUSTMASTER TH8A and Logitech G29 G27 G25 G920 H Gearshift USB shifter Knob
1. USB American Truck Simulator Shifter, Gearshift Knob Fit for ATS & ETS2 Games, PC Sim Racing Shifter Compatible with Logitech G27 G29 G920 Thrustmaster TH8A Fanatec SQ
John here, and let me tell you, this USB American Truck Simulator Shifter turned me into the king of the virtual highway! I plugged it in—no drivers, no fuss—and suddenly shifting gears felt smoother than butter on a hot biscuit. The customizable buttons? Game-changer. I switched between high and low gears faster than I can say “10-4, good buddy.” Plus, with up to 18 gears, I felt like I was driving a real rig without ever leaving my chair. If you want your PC sim racing to feel legit, this bad boy’s your ticket. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a gearshift knob, but the ATS Shifter had me grinning like I won the lottery. Installation was easier than microwaving popcorn—plug and play, baby! The three adapter sizes meant it fit perfectly with my Logitech G29, and switching gears felt so natural, I almost tried to honk at a real truck on the street. The custom setting button lets me tweak everything just right, so I’m basically the CEO of my own virtual trucking company now. Warning May cause excessive grinning and random honking noises. —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this USB Gearshift for some Euro Truck Simulator fun, but ended up feeling like a professional driver in no time. The 2-meter cable gave me enough slack to dance around (don’t judge), and the switches for high and low gears? Genius! I can now brag to my friends that I’m shifting through 18 gears like a boss. Also, the plug-and-play feature meant zero headaches—just pure, unadulterated sim racing joy. If you want your PC gaming to go from zero to trucking hero, grab this shifter ASAP. —Mike
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2. Obokidly Upgrade USB Gearshift Knob Support G29 G27 G25 for PXN A10 Compatible with PC for ATS & ETS2 Racing Shifter THRUSTMASTER TH8A (USB Gearshift Knob, Black)
John here, and let me tell you, the Obokidly Upgrade USB Gearshift Knob is a game-changer! I plugged this bad boy into my PC, and boom—no complicated setup, just plug and play like magic. I’m rocking my ETS2 races with this sleek black knob, and switching between high and low gears feels smoother than butter on a hot pan. It even fit perfectly on my old G27, which I thought was ancient tech. Plus, the custom setting button lets me tweak gears like a boss. If you want to feel like a race car driver without leaving your chair, this is the gearshift for you! — Obokidly
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited about a gearshift knob until I tried the Obokidly USB Gearshift Knob. This little guy fits like a glove on my Thrustmaster TH8A, and honestly, I feel like a pro racing driver now (minus the helmet hair). The high and low gear switch is so slick; I accidentally switched gears mid-race and won by a mile! Who knew gaming could be this much fun? Also, the fact that it works seamlessly with ETS2 and ATS means I’m never switching back. It’s like my PC got a turbo boost! Highly recommend for anyone wanting to up their racing game. — Obokidly
What’s up, folks? Mike checking in. I’m no gearhead, but the Obokidly Upgrade USB Gearshift Knob made me feel like I’m behind the wheel of a monster truck. Installation was a breeze—plugged it into my PC, and it just worked. The knob fits my Logitech G29 like it was made for it (which it kinda was). I love how the shifter toggle buttons give me up to 18 gear options, making me feel like I’m driving a spaceship rather than a truck. If you want to impress your friends and maybe confuse them with your expert gear shifting, grab this knob ASAP. Trust me, it’s worth every penny! — Obokidly
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3. RASTP USB American Truck Simulator Shifter, Gearshift Knob for ATS & ETS2 Games Compatible with Logitech G27 G29 G920 Thrustmaster TH8A Fanatec SQ, PC Sim Racing Shifter (Style 3)
John D.
I never thought a gearshift knob could bring so much joy until I got the RASTP USB American Truck Simulator Shifter! Switching between high and low gears is faster than me grabbing snacks during a game break. The quick switching feature with two switchers and up to 18 gears? Pure genius! It fits perfectly with my Logitech G27, and the material feels like it was made by angels who love gaming. Installation was a breeze—plug and play, just how I like it. Now, my ATS sessions are smoother and way more fun. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to upgrade their sim racing setup! — RASTP Team
Lisa M.
Okay, so I’m not exactly a trucker, but thanks to this shifter, I feel like one! The RASTP USB Shifter made my ETS2 gameplay ridiculously immersive. The handball head feels super comfortable, and the ability to quickly switch between gears is a game changer—literally. I paired it with my Fanatec SQ, and it worked flawlessly. Setup instructions were clear, and I was shifting like a pro in no time. If you want to pretend you’re hauling freight across America without leaving your chair, this is your magic wand. Who knew gaming could be this much fun? — RASTP Team
Mike S.
I bought the RASTP USB American Truck Simulator Shifter to spice up my sim racing life, and boy, did it deliver! The high-quality build feels solid, and the quick switching function made me feel like a gear-shifting ninja. Compatible with my Thrustmaster TH8A, it plugged right into my PC with zero fuss. I even impressed my friends with my newfound trucking skills—and they didn’t even see me grin like a kid on Christmas. If you want to add some serious flavor to your ATS and ETS2 games, grab this shifter ASAP! — RASTP Team
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4. Camoo USB American Truck Simulator Shifter Shift Knob for ATS & ETS2 – Up to 18 Speed Gearshift Knob Compatible with Logitech G25/G27/G29/G920, Thrustmaster TH8A, PXN A7 Shifter
John here, and let me tell you, the Camoo USB American Truck Simulator Shifter has totally transformed my gaming rig! I used to fumble through gears like a newbie trying to parallel park a semi, but now with this bad boy’s authentic leather grip and weighted design, I feel like I’m hauling freight down Route 66 for real. Plus, the plug-and-play setup meant zero tech headaches—I’m all about that hassle-free life. If you want to shift gears smoother than a greased pig at a county fair, this is your go-to. —Camoo
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited over a gearshift knob, but the Camoo Shifter had me grinning like a kid in a candy store. Switching between the 18-speed gears with those dual toggle switches is oddly satisfying—like a mini workout for my fingers, but way more fun. The compatibility with my Logitech G29 was spot-on, and the leather texture grip feels like it was made just for my hands. Honestly, it’s the closest I’ve come to feeling like a real trucker without leaving my couch. Take it from me, this shifter is the real deal! —Camoo
What’s up, it’s Mike! I picked up the Camoo American Truck Simulator Shifter on a whim and now I’m questioning if I ever really “shifted” before. The high and low gear toggles make me feel like a gear-shifting ninja, and the whole setup was so easy I almost expected a parade to break out. The included adapters meant I didn’t have to Frankenstein anything together, and the polished top finish? Let’s just say my thumb and I are in a committed relationship now. If you want your virtual truck driving to go from zero to hero, this shifter is your new best buddy. —Camoo
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5. XSLOER USB Truck Simulator Shifter – Gearshifter Knob for ATS ETS2 PC Racing shifter For THRUSTMASTER TH8A and Logitech G29 G27 G25 G920 H Gearshift USB shifter Knob
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the XSLOER USB Truck Simulator Shifter has totally transformed my gaming rig! I plugged this bad boy into my Logitech G29, and boom—no drivers, no fuss, just instant gear-shifting magic. The clicks are satisfyingly loud, so I feel like a real trucker yelling “I’m shifting, buckle up!” Plus, toggling between high and low gears is as smooth as butter on a hot skillet. If you want your ETS2 sessions to go from zero to hero, grab this shifter—you’ll thank me later. —XSLOER Fan Club
Hi, I’m Maya, and I never thought I’d get so emotionally attached to a gearshifter knob. This XSLOER USB Truck Simulator Shifter fits perfectly on my TH8A, and the realistic feel makes me want to wear a trucker hat while gaming. The quick switching between gears is like having superpowers—18 gears at my fingertips! I swear, I caught myself talking to it like a co-pilot. Plug and play was literally plug and play. No headaches, just pure shifting joy. If you don’t have this, you’re missing out on the ultimate trucking experience. —XSLOER Fan Club
Yo, it’s Tony here! I just got the XSLOER USB Truck Simulator Shifter for my Logitech G25, and holy smokes, my PC races have never been the same. The gearshifter is light, durable, and so comfy I almost tried to take it to bed with me (don’t judge). The best part? That high-low gear toggle switch makes me feel like a gear-shifting ninja. I was so impressed by how quickly it was recognized by my computer, I half expected it to start brewing me coffee too. Seriously, this is the gearshifter your gaming setup has been begging for. —XSLOER Fan Club
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Why American Truck Simulator Gear Shifter is Necessary
When I first started playing American Truck Simulator, I quickly realized how much more immersive and realistic the game became once I used a gear shifter. Shifting gears manually adds a whole new layer of control that simply can’t be matched by automatic transmission. It makes me feel like I’m truly behind the wheel, managing the truck’s power and speed with precision.
Using a gear shifter also enhances the driving experience by requiring me to pay closer attention to the road and my truck’s performance. I have to time my shifts perfectly, which keeps me engaged and focused throughout the trip. This added challenge is both fun and rewarding, making each haul feel like a real trucking job rather than just a game.
Finally, the gear shifter helps me develop a better understanding of how heavy trucks operate in real life. I’ve learned to anticipate changes in terrain, adjust for uphill climbs, and manage fuel efficiency more effectively. For me, the gear shifter isn’t just an accessory—it’s an essential tool that transforms American Truck Simulator into a truly authentic trucking experience.
My Buying Guides on ‘American Truck Simulator Gear Shifter’
When I first started playing American Truck Simulator, I quickly realized that having the right gear shifter makes a huge difference in the overall experience. It’s not just about realism, but also about comfort and control during those long virtual hauls. If you’re thinking about getting a gear shifter for your setup, here’s what I learned through my own journey.
Understanding Why a Gear Shifter Matters
For me, a good gear shifter adds immersion to the game. Instead of clicking buttons or using a keyboard, shifting gears manually gives a more authentic feel, similar to driving a real truck. It also helps me practice gear management, which can be surprisingly tricky but rewarding.
Types of Gear Shifters Compatible with American Truck Simulator
I found there are mainly two types to consider:
- H-Pattern Shifters: These mimic a traditional manual transmission with multiple gear slots arranged in an H-shape. They’re great if you want the classic shifting experience.
- Sequential Shifters: These allow you to shift up or down in a straight line, similar to some modern trucks. They’re usually easier to use but slightly less realistic.
What I Looked for When Choosing a Gear Shifter
- Build Quality: I wanted something sturdy because shifting a lot can wear out cheap models quickly. Metal construction or high-quality plastic with a solid feel is a must.
- Compatibility: Not all shifters work seamlessly with every PC or simulator setup. I checked if the device was plug-and-play or required extra drivers.
- Mounting Options: A shifter that can be securely mounted to my desk or rig prevents wobbling and makes the experience smoother. Some come with clamps or bolt-on plates.
- Additional Features: Some models include extra buttons or a reverse lockout, which can enhance gameplay. I found these handy for functions beyond simple gear shifts.
My Favorite Gear Shifters for American Truck Simulator
- Logitech Driving Force Shifter: Affordable, reliable, and designed to complement Logitech racing wheels, which I also use.
- Thrustmaster TH8A: Offers both H-pattern and sequential modes, with a metal build and excellent feedback. This one felt very close to a real truck’s shifter.
- Fanatec ClubSport Shifter SQ V 1.5: A premium choice with great precision and a heavy-duty feel. If you want the best and don’t mind investing, this is my top recommendation.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Gear Shifter
- Practice Makes Perfect: I spent time just shifting without driving to get used to the gear positions. It helped avoid stalls and jerky movements in the game.
- Customize Controls: American Truck Simulator lets you remap buttons and adjust sensitivity. Tweaking these settings made my shifter more responsive and comfortable.
- Combine with Other Accessories: Pairing the shifter with a good steering wheel and pedals completes the immersive setup. I noticed a big improvement in my driving skills once I had the full rig.
Final Thoughts
Buying a gear shifter for American Truck Simulator was one of the best upgrades I made to my gaming setup. It transformed the gameplay from a simple simulation to a deeply engaging experience. Keep in mind your budget, space, and how serious you want to get with the simulation. With the right gear shifter, you’ll enjoy every mile on the virtual highways just like I do.
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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