Ever felt like your virtual truck just isn’t *feeling* right on the open road? That little plastic shifter might be the culprit. For many American Truck Simulator players, the default gear shifter can feel a bit… well, basic. It works, but it doesn’t always give you that satisfying click and resistance that makes you feel truly connected to your rig.
Choosing the right shifter can be a real head-scratcher. There are so many styles and features out there, from simple USB shifters to more complex H-pattern setups that mimic real trucks. You want something that feels authentic, improves your gameplay, and doesn’t break the bank. It can be tough to know where to start, and you don’t want to end up with a shifter that’s more frustrating than fun.
But don’t worry, fellow truckers! By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what to look for. We’ll break down the different types of shifters, highlight what makes a good one, and help you find the perfect match for your gaming setup. Get ready to upgrade your hauling experience!
Top Shifter For American Truck Simulator Recommendations
- The ATS Shifter comes with customized button , allows you to use switches to quickly switch between high and low gears. It supports up to 18 gears and also includes custom setting button for personalized preferences, offering a seamless and immersive gameplay experience.
- aikeec USB shifter is designed specifically for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) and American Truck Simulator (ATS) games or FIA ETRC 18 WOS .Versatile Compatibility: Our USB Gearshift is compatible with popular racing wheel models such as Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920, Thrustmaster TH8A.
- The American truck simulator shifter provide three different sizes of adapter accessories to ensure compatibility with other brand models shifter shalft . If you require a different adapter size, simply replace the 10mm or 12 mm adapter plugs with the appropriate size.
- Easy Installation with Plug and Play: The USB Gearshift comes with an upgraded 2-meter long cable, including an independent USB connection. Plug and play without need of driver , , only supports PC windows system Set up steps: →①Open the game settings in ETS2/ATS: Options → Controls (Keyboard → Select "Add joystick/controller") →②Select "Transmission H-Shifter" →③Choose the "Shifter layout" (Eaton Fuller 10/13/18 speeds) →④Set "Shifter Toggle: 1 Joy Button 1" for the first switch →⑤Set "Shifter Toggle: 2 Joy Button 2" for the second switch →⑥Enable "Shifter Toggle use Switch Mode"
- Works with G29 and G920 Driving Force Racing Wheels Driving Force shifter is designed for both G29 and G920 Driving Force racing wheels, to enhance the latest PC and console racing titles. Add Driving Force shifter to your racing wheel setup to complete your racing rig for a more realistic experience.
- Quality Construction With a solid steel gear shaft, Driving Force shifter is built for precision racing and long-lasting reliability. The knob and boot are covered in high-quality, hand-stitched leather, giving it a look and feel similar to a high-performance race shifter and giving you a more comfortable, durable experience.
- Six-Speed Shifter with Push-Down Reverse The six-speed “H” shifter moves fluidly and solidly clicks into each gear, helping you execute smooth, accurate gear transitions on hairpin turns and straightaways.
- Secure Mounting Durable built-in clamps and bolt points allow Driving Force shifter to be mounted securely to a table or racing rig, to minimize shifting or wobbling during aggressive race maneuvers.
- Compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/7, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 consoles, and games that support Logitech force feedback racing wheel
- Widely Compatible: USB simulator shifter for THRUSTMASTER TH8A and Logitech G29 G27 G25 G920 H Gear,fit for ETS2 and ATS games hobbyists.
- Realistic Gaming Experience: The USB gearshifter is made of high quality materials, light weight, beautiful and durable, comfortable to operate, high sensitivity and realistic appearance, which increases the realistic feeling of the gaming environment.
- Quick Switching:The high gear and low gear handball head can be used as a switch to quickly switch between high-speed gear and low-speed gear, including two switchers, up to 18 gears.
- USB Plug and Play:On your Windows PC , USB Truck Simulator Shifter is recognized as soon as you plug it in. There are no drivers to install. It's basically a two-button controller, with each switch handling one button. You need to set it up correctly in the emulator before it will be recognized.
- How to set:①Open the ETS2 / ATS game settings: Option "Controls"(Keyboard→Select Add Joystick Controller Name) →②Transmission H-Shifter →③Shifter layout (ATS:Eaton Fuller 10/13/18 speeds.ETS2:ZF 16/12 SCANIA/VOLVO12+2 Speed)→④Shifter Toggle:1 Joy Button 1→⑤Shifter Toggle:2 Joy Button 2→⑥Shifter Toggles use Switch Mode √
- G113 high and low gear handball head, suitable for players who modify G25 / G27 / G29H gear ETS2 & ATS, can use the switch to quickly switch between high and low gears, including two switchers, up to 18 gears. Please note that the gear pattern printed on the ball is 13 gears
- Independent USB cable, plug and play, easy to install, only supports PC windows system if you get problem when shifting between high and low gear such as blue switch does not work please take refference for the attached file on listing
- Applicable to modified G25 / G27 / G29 / G920 H gear
- Open the ETS2 / ATS game settings: option → Control → tick the use of the switch gear switch → set the gear switch 1 and 2
- 【Quick Switching】High and low gear handball head, allows you to use switches to quickly switch between high and low gears. Including two switchers, up to 18 gears
- 【Wide Applicability】Applied to ETS2& ATS games. Applicable to modified G25 /G27 /G29 /G920 Thrustmaster TH8A and Fanatec SQ
- 【 High Quality】The simulator shifter is made of high-quality materials,comfortable feel in hand,and enhances the gaming experience
- 【 Easy to install】Independent USB cable, plug and play. Only supports PC windows system
- 【Set Up Steps】Open the ETS2 / ATS game settings: option → Controls(Keyboard→Select add joystick controller name) → Select Transmission H-Shifter → Select Shifter layout (Eaton Fuller 10/13/18 speeds)→Shifter Toggle:1 Joy Button 1→Shifter Toggle:2 Joy Button 2→ Shifter Toggle use Switch Mode
- ✅【Ultimate compatibility for seamless integration】:This PC Truck Simulator Shifter is specifically designed for ATS, ETS2, and FIA ETRC 18 WOS games, compatible with Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920, Thrustmaster TH8A, PXN A7 Shifter and other shefters with shaft diameter less than 12mm.
- ✅【Authentic Truck Driving Experience】:The USB simulator shift lever is made of high-quality materials, with a non-slip leather texture grip and a polished top finish for a comfortable grip. The weighted design and high sensitivity allow you to easily switch gears, recreating the control feel of a real truck shift.
- ✅【Flexible high and low gear shifting】:Equipped with dual toggle switches, you can quickly switch between high and low speed gears, supporting up to 18 gears, and equipped with user-defined buttons, allowing you to customize the gear layout in the game to meet your personalized driving preferences.
- ✅【Complete accessories】:Package includes 1 shifter, 1 adapter plug, 2 hexagonal wrenches, and equipped with four different sizes of adapter accessories are available to ensure compatibility with other brand models shifter. If you need a different adapter size, simply replace the adapter plug with the corresponding size.
- ✅【Plug-and-Play Setup with Zero Hassle】: Comes with 1.5m USB cable, no driver required, only supports PC windows system. Set up steps: →①Open the game settings in ETS2/ATS: Options → Controls (Keyboard → Select "Add joystick/controller") →②Select "Transmission H-Shifter" →③Choose the "Shifter layout" (Eaton Fuller 10/13/18 speeds) →④Set "Shifter Toggle: 1 Joy Button 1" for the first switch →⑤Set "Shifter Toggle: 2 Joy Button 2" for the second switch →⑥Enable "Shifter Toggle use Switch Mode”
- 【 Made for Truck Sim Fans 】This USB Truck Simulator Shifter works right out of the box with american truck simulator pc, ATS, and ETS2. Perfect for sim racers who want a real truck feel without the hassle.
- 【 Shift Like a Pro Trucker 】 Weighted design + leather-texture grip = that satisfying "click" of a real 18-speed truck transmission. The ats shifter helps you nail every gear change, whether you're hauling freight or cruising cross-country.
- 【 High/Low Range at Your Fingertips 】 Dual toggle switches let you instantly switch between high and low gears. Customize buttons in-game to match your driving style – because your usb shifter should work the way YOU want.
- 【 Plug & Play in Minutes 】 No drivers, no guesswork. Just plug the USB shifter into your PC, open ATS/ETS2 controls, and map your gears. Works with Logi-tech G25/G27/G29/G920 & Thrust-master TH8A – seriously, it's that easy.
- 【 Built to Last, Backed by Support 】 Solid ABS + aluminum alloy construction handles daily sim sessions. If anything feels off, our US-based support team has your back – because a great USB Truck Simulator Shifter should come with great service.
- Upgraded Design: The Kelegaan USB ATS shifter features a premium anti-fade polished finish and supports up to 18 gears with customizable buttons for quick switching. Made from durable ABS and aluminum alloy, it offers a comfortable grip and seamless plug-and-play setup. Compatible with G25/G27/G29 and TH8A shifters, it enhances your gaming experience with true immersion.
- Wide Compatibility: Specifically designed for American Truck Simulator (ATS) and Euro Truck Simulator (ETS2), this shifter is highly versatile. It’s compatible with a variety of popular racing wheel models, such as Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920, and Thrustmaster TH8A.
- Realistic Experience: USB Truck Simulator shifter,the external black leather material and the included adapter accessories in 3 different sizes ensure compatibility with other shifters.Ats shifter, it supports up to 18 gears, with adapters available in 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm sizes, making it easy to switch between different shifter brands.
- Easy to Use: To set up the shifter in ETS2/ATS, follow these steps: Options → Controls → Keyboard → Select the joystick controller name → Transmission H-Shifter → Shifter layout → Eaton Fuller 10/13/18-speed → Shifter toggle 1: Joy button 1 → Shifter toggle 2: Joy button 2 → Enable “Shifter Switch Mode” for seamless operation.
- Comprehensive After-Sales Support: The package includes a detailed English user manual with illustrated instructions for easy setup. If you encounter any issues, feel free to contact our support team. We’re available 24/7 to resolve any problems.
Get a Grip: Your Guide to American Truck Simulator Shifters
Ready to ditch the keyboard and mouse for a more realistic trucking experience in American Truck Simulator (ATS)? A good shifter can totally change the game. It makes you feel like you’re really behind the wheel, shifting gears just like a pro. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect shifter for your ATS adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an ATS shifter, keep these important things in mind:
- Realism: Does it feel like a real truck shifter? Look for shifters that mimic the weight and resistance of a real gear stick. Some even have a satisfying “clunk” when you shift.
- Durability: You want a shifter that lasts. Check reviews to see if other players have had problems with it breaking.
- Customization: Can you change things like the shift knob or the way the gears feel? Some shifters let you swap out parts to make them your own.
- Compatibility: Make sure the shifter works with your computer and ATS. Most USB shifters are plug-and-play, but it’s always good to check.
- Number of Gears: Do you want a simple 5-speed or a complex 10-speed shifter? More gears mean more realistic shifting, especially for heavy trucks.
2. Important Materials
What your shifter is made of matters a lot. It affects how it feels and how long it will last.
- Metal: Many high-end shifters use metal. This makes them feel sturdy and premium. Aluminum and steel are common. Metal parts usually mean a more durable shifter.
- Plastic: Most entry-level shifters use plastic. It’s lighter and cheaper. Good quality plastic can still feel decent, but it might not be as tough as metal.
- Rubber/Silicone: These materials are often used for grip on the shift knob. They feel nice in your hand and stop your hand from slipping.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a shifter great or not so great.
- Build Quality: A well-built shifter feels solid. There’s no wobble or looseness. Poorly built ones feel cheap and might break easily.
- Haptic Feedback: Some advanced shifters can vibrate or give you feedback when you shift. This makes the experience much more immersive.
- Ease of Use: A good shifter is easy to set up and use. You shouldn’t need to be a computer expert to get it working.
- Software Support: Some shifters come with software. This software can help you adjust settings. Good software makes a big difference.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with brands that are known for making good gaming peripherals. They usually have better quality control.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you actually use your shifter? Think about what kind of trucking you do in ATS.
- Everyday Driving: If you just cruise around and deliver cargo, a basic, realistic shifter is perfect. It adds a fun layer to your game.
- Realistic Simulation: If you want the most realistic feel possible, look for shifters with many gears and authentic feedback. This is for players who love the details of trucking.
- Modding: Some players love to use mods in ATS. Make sure your shifter works well with different trucks and gearboxes from mods.
- Learning to Drive: For new players, a shifter can help you learn how real trucks work. You’ll understand gears and clutch use better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in an ATS shifter?
A: The main features are realism, durability, customization options, compatibility with your system, and the number of gears it offers.
Q: What materials are common in truck shifters?
A: Common materials include sturdy metal like aluminum or steel for a premium feel, and durable plastic for more affordable options. Rubber or silicone is often used for grip on the shift knob.
Q: How does build quality affect a shifter?
A: Good build quality means the shifter feels solid and reliable, without wobbling. Poor build quality can make it feel cheap and prone to breaking.
Q: What is haptic feedback in a shifter?
A: Haptic feedback means the shifter can vibrate or give you tactile sensations as you shift, making the game feel more real.
Q: Is a shifter necessary for American Truck Simulator?
A: No, it’s not necessary, but it greatly improves the realism and enjoyment of the game for many players.
Q: Can I use an ATS shifter with other driving games?
A: Yes, many shifters are compatible with other PC driving simulators like Euro Truck Simulator 2 or even racing games.
Q: What is the difference between a 5-speed and a 10-speed shifter?
A: A 5-speed shifter has fewer gears, usually for lighter trucks. A 10-speed shifter has more gears, mimicking the complex gearboxes found in heavy-duty trucks for a more realistic experience.
Q: Do I need a special steering wheel to use an ATS shifter?
A: No, you can often use an ATS shifter with just a keyboard and mouse, or with a separate steering wheel. However, using it with a steering wheel provides the most immersive setup.
Q: How do I connect an ATS shifter to my computer?
A: Most ATS shifters connect via USB. You simply plug it into a USB port on your computer, and ATS usually recognizes it automatically.
Q: Where can I find reviews for ATS shifters?
A: You can find reviews on gaming websites, YouTube, and online retailer pages. Reading reviews from other players helps you understand real-world performance and potential issues.