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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Yes—Chris Haye’s 2024 sim-racing button box is genuinely approachable. A Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder, arcade push buttons, a drilled project box, and a USB cable turn into a game-controller-style peripheral without a custom PCB or firmware. The hard part is accurate drilling, tidy wiring, and choosing controls that fit your simulator, not designing electronics.
The result is an inexpensive, GT3-inspired panel for headlights, wipers, pit limiter, ignition, brake bias, traction control, menus, and other functions that are awkward to reach on a wheel. It is a simple push-button pad, however—not a universal substitute for a programmable box with rotary encoders, LEDs, layers, or macros.
What a sim-racing button box does
A button box is a separate USB input device with dedicated physical controls mapped to simulator commands. It keeps frequently used functions off the keyboard and mouse and gives you tactile, spaced controls that are easier to find while wearing gloves or driving in VR. Typical assignments include:
- Headlights, wipers, ignition and starter
- Pit limiter, radio and pit-lane actions
- Brake bias, traction control, ABS and fuel mixture
- Engine maps, in-game menus and black-box navigation
- Camera, replay and other peripheral controls
Commercial panels make the same case for tactile access and reachability without looking; Ricmotech describes those goals for its SlimBox. A DIY panel will not automatically improve lap times, but it can reduce the need to hunt for a keyboard key.
#1 Best Overall
- CENTRALIZED SIM RACING CONTROL PANEL - Replace keyboard commands with a dedicated hardware control panel designed for simulation workflows. The PXN CB1 features 19 physical controls across 9 input types, enabling fast access to essential simulator functions. Supports up to 30 programmable inputs for full in-game customization and efficient cockpit operation.
- BUILT FOR MULTI-SIMULATION SCENARIOS - Designed for racing, trucking, flight, and farming simulators. The CB1 allows users to map frequently used in-game actions such as vehicle controls, system operations, and camera functions to physical inputs, improving responsiveness and reducing keyboard reliance during gameplay.
- STRUCTURED HARDWARE INPUT LAYOUT - Equipped with multiple control types for flexible mapping: Rotary encoders for precise adjustments; Toggle switches for system control; Push buttons for quick actions; Joystick for directional input; Dedicated system keys (ESC / ENTER / engine start). Each input can be independently mapped within supported simulation games.
- CUSTOMIZABLE RGB LIGHTING FOR VISIBILITY & IMMERSION - RGB lighting improves visibility of key controls in low-light environments and enhances cockpit immersion. Adjustable color and brightness can be configured directly on the device, allowing users to personalize their cockpit lighting for different setups and preferences.
- STABLE DUAL MOUNTING FOR DESKS & SIM RIGS - Designed for flexible installation across common simulator setups. Includes a tool-free clamp (supports surfaces up to 70 mm thick) and 100 × 100 mm VESA mounting compatibility for aluminum profiles, wheel stands, and cockpit-style setups. Provides stable positioning during simulation gameplay.
The shortcut: a Zero Delay USB encoder
The Zero Delay board replaces a custom circuit and button-scanning firmware. Each arcade button plugs into an input on the encoder through its pre-terminated harness, and the board connects to the PC by USB. In the basic setup, the operating system presents it as a generic game-controller-style device that a simulator can bind directly.
That is why the build needs no custom PCB, programming, or ordinary button soldering. You still need to verify the exact board’s connector style and input count: visually similar Zero Delay boards from different sellers are not guaranteed to be identical. “Plug and play” also depends on the particular board, Windows configuration, and simulator.
What Chris Haye built
Hackaday’s report, published August 14, 2024, describes black project boxes populated with arcade-style push buttons, a Zero Delay encoder, carbon-fiber-look vinyl and home-printed labels. Haye built or needed four boxes and used the encoder for the first three. The layout was intended to resemble a GT3 racing control panel.
Haye reported approximately £7 for an encoder, about £60 for the boxes in total, and roughly one hour per box. Those are historical project figures, not an August 2026 price or a guaranteed first-build schedule. The report does not specify every button model, enclosure dimension, hole template, shipping charge, tool cost or spare part. Read the original Hackaday project.
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Rank #2
- 1. Compatibility: PXN CB1 racing button box is compatible with the PC and PXN V9 Gen2 steering wheel. It has plug -in functions and supports various popular racing simulators. It is seamlessly connected to Assetto Corsa, Iracing, Project Cars, Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator to ensure that you can play its functions to the greatest extent and significantly enhance your game experience on different platforms.
- 2. Programmable multi -function button: PXN CB1 is equipped with 30 programmable buttons for personalized control. Whether you need to move gear, navigation menu, or complex commands, you can configure each button to suitable for your preference, so as to provide greater flexibility and control during the game.
- 3. Easy to install: PXN CB1 adopts simple installation design and has simple settings. The button box installation seat can be firmly connected to your game table or any other surface, which can accommodate up to 7 cm thick. It can also be installed on a monitor or any compatible screw holes, simplifying the installation process and allowing you to enter the movement quickly.
- 4.PXN CB1 Dial switch: The switching switch of the link has a button -up/stop function of a button, and has an excellent metal contact with excellent conductivity and durability. This design can simulate the real racing experience by allowing you to easily control the engine power.
- 5. RGB lighting changes: The knob allows you to switch between seven lighting effects. When connecting to the racing base, you can customize other colors from the palette to produce an immersive racing atmosphere. It also supports adjustment of the lighting color and brightness, so that you can feel the different happiness of the game.
Parts and tools
| Item | Purpose | Check before buying |
|---|---|---|
| Project box or enclosure | Holds the controls and encoder | Internal depth, lid clearance and mounting options |
| Arcade push buttons | Primary inputs | Exact hole diameter, body depth and connector type |
| Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder | USB interface for simple button inputs | Input count, harness format and seller specification |
| Pre-terminated harness | Connects buttons to encoder inputs | Compatible plugs and a common/ground connection |
| USB cable | Connects the box to the PC | Connector type, length and strain relief |
| Vinyl and labels | Cosmetic finish and identification | Adhesion, contrast and legibility in dim light |
| Drill, bits, file or deburring tool | Cut and finish button openings | Correct bit size and safe support for the enclosure |
| Screwdriver, mounting hardware and cable ties | Secure controls, board and wiring | Clearance from the lid and conductive hardware |
Do not drill until the button specification is in hand. A button that fits the hole can still be too deep for the enclosure, and a latching or multi-position switch is not automatically compatible with a simple arcade encoder.
Plan the panel before drilling
Choose functions, not decoration
List controls you actually reach during a race, then put the highest-priority items where your hand finds them naturally. Separate potentially hazardous commands such as ignition or engine reset from frequently pressed buttons. Leave room for labels and for fingers wearing gloves.
Measure the enclosure and controls
Check hole diameter, center-to-center spacing, button-body depth, encoder-board height and USB-cable bend radius. Keep the board and wiring away from lid posts. A dry fit with the box closed is worth more than an attractive drawing that cannot physically assemble.
Plan mounting
A desk box can simply sit beside the wheel; an aluminum-profile rig needs a bracket, VESA plate or other restraint. The original project does not document a mounting system. Leave cable slack, add strain relief, and prevent the enclosure from rotating when a stiff switch is pressed.
Rank #3
- Durable Structure: The face plate of this sim racing button box is made of genuine carbon fiber material and the housing is full-metal unibody design.
- High Compatibility: This sim racing button box is compatible with various popular models of racing gaming. Driver-free plug & play.
- Multi-Function Buttons: 10 x Full-metal CNC-machined Buttons(with backlight); 3 x Premium Self-locking Metal Toggles(1 x Dust-proof Cover); 1 x Dedicated One-touch Start; 6 x Programmable Rotary Encoders (Press-enabled).
- Key Mapping: 32-key customizable profile. Allows you configure each button according to your preferences to provide greater flexibility during the game and enhance gaming experience.
- Easy to install: The bracket that comes with this sim racing game button box is very easy to install. Secure and adjustable.
Build procedure
- Mark the layout. Use measured center points or a template and confirm labels will remain readable from the driving position.
- Drill pilot holes, then final openings. Support the plastic, use the specified diameter, and deburr every hole so buttons seat flat and wires do not meet sharp edges.
- Install the buttons. Tighten retaining nuts firmly but do not deform the enclosure. Check each button’s travel.
- Connect the harness. Plug each connector into an encoder input and verify the common/ground connection. Do not force an incompatible plug.
- Secure the encoder. Use standoffs, adhesive mounts or a printed bracket so the PCB cannot touch conductive hardware or move inside the box.
- Apply the finish. Vinyl can be fitted after test-drilling; trim openings carefully. Use high-contrast labels rather than relying on the carbon-look surface.
- Test with the lid open. Connect USB and check every input before committing to final cable routing.
- Map the simulator. In the game’s controller settings, select a command, press its physical button, save the profile and test it on track.
- Close and mount the box. Keep wires clear of the lid, provide strain relief and position the panel within reach without releasing the wheel.
Testing and compatibility
Test the hardware outside the simulator first. Windows’ controller test tools can show whether each input changes state. The device may appear under a generic name, and button numbering can vary by encoder and operating system. Then bind one simulator command at a time and save a dedicated profile.
This evidence is centered on PC sim racing. Do not assume support for every simulator, game, operating system or PlayStation/Xbox console. A game can limit recognized controllers, reject a particular input type, or contain conflicting bindings even when Windows sees the button.
Where the simple design stops
Rotary encoders
Brake bias, ABS, traction-control and menu knobs often need rotary encoders that generate directional pulses. A button encoder is not automatically suitable for them; use a controller and firmware that explicitly support rotary inputs.
Switches
A momentary toggle returns to its resting state, while a latching toggle remains electrically active. Simulators interpret those states differently. “Fits the hole” does not mean “works for this command.”
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- 【Broad Compatibility】PXN CB1 sim racing button box for pc compatible with multiple games: Farming Simulator Series, Euro Truck Simulator 2, American Truck Simulator, Forza Motorsport, Assetto Corsa, Assetto Corsa Competizione, F1 Series, Dirt Rally 2.0, WRC Series, etc. This racing simulator button box supports PC/Computer and PXN V9 GEN2 pc steering wheel. PXN CB1 control button box is compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11,plug and play, will bring you better gaming experience.
- 【30 Programmable Buttons】PXN CB1 multi-function racing button Box is with 30 programmable buttons for personalized control. You can set each button according to your personal preference, obtaining greater flexibility and control in the game. Functions like turn signals, wipers, cruise control and horns can be set to simulate real driving conditions more naturally. Linkage Lever Button, One-Button Start/Stop Engine Simulating Real Racing Controls. The contact points are made of metal, offering excellent conductivity and wear resistance.
- 【Customize your own RGB】By rotating the knob, you can switch 7 lighting effects. When the control box is connected to the wheel base, you can customize more colors in the palette to create your own racing atmosphere. It also supports both color and brightness adjustment.
- 【Ergonomic Design】Industrial-Grade ABS Panel of PXN CB1 button box sim racing control box for pc with a Fine Texture. ABS is mainly made from resins and is processed through more than 10 procedures, offering excellent mechanical properties, low-temperature resistance, wear resistance, recyclability and better longevity. Easy to install, supports various installation methods and can be fixed on the table by clamps, providing flexibility and convenience, supports table thickness within 2.76inches(70mm).
- 【Quality Customer Service】“PXN Wheel” APP is designed for high configuration pc racing wheel's setting on cell phones. Please download the [ PXN Wheel ] APP from the App Store or Google Play to get better gaming experience for the PXN CB1 farm simulation controller. This racing button box usb racing simulator games for pc has Friendly and Easy-to-Reach Customer Service. If need further information or any problem, please contact us directly(Contact Seller), Fengying will reply soon.
LEDs, layers and custom logic
Backlighting, push-and-turn controls, shift layers, macros, multi-position switches and more inputs point toward a programmable controller. AMSTUDIO documents both an easy Zero Delay design and a 32-function Arduino Pro Micro approach at its button-box projects page.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.DIY or buy?
| Route | Best for | Trade-off | Price evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zero Delay DIY | Push buttons, low cost, custom layout and appearance | Manual drilling, generic feel, limited advanced inputs | Haye reported about £7 per encoder and about £60 for several boxes in 2024; current prices are not established |
| Arduino or programmable DIY | Rotary encoders, LEDs, layers and custom behavior | Firmware, wiring and debugging work | AMSTUDIO’s 32-function example uses an Arduino Pro Micro |
| Apex Sim Racing Slim Racer | Compact finished panel | Less layout freedom and no fabrication project | Several configurations displayed at $90 when checked; verify current stock and price at Apex Sim Racing |
| Ricmotech SlimBox | Slim labeled panel with encoder functions | Higher cost than basic DIY | Up to 21 game functions; see Ricmotech for current details |
| Sim Motion Racebox GTR-CF | Stream Deck users wanting illuminated tactile controls | Requires compatible Stream Deck ecosystem; page showed sold out when checked | Displayed $179; specifications and stock at Sim Motion |
| Asetek Forte GT Button Box | Premium integrated steering-wheel hardware | Not a low-cost standalone enclosure | Displayed $329 before sales tax; PC compatibility at Asetek |
Choose the Zero Delay route when ordinary push buttons and customization matter most. Choose Arduino when the input behavior matters as much as the enclosure. Buy when predictable finish, mounting, support and saved time outweigh the project’s cost advantage.
Troubleshooting
A button does not register
- Confirm the USB cable and board power.
- Reseat the connector and verify the common/ground wire.
- Inspect the button terminals and test the button itself.
- Check the input in Windows before changing simulator bindings.
- Bind the correct controller and button in a fresh simulator profile if necessary.
An input is permanently active
Look for a shorted connector, damaged button, pinched wire, incorrect common terminal or an unsuitable switch type. Disconnect the suspect control and reconnect one component at a time.
Windows works but the simulator does not
The game may be listening to another controller, have an unsaved profile, contain a duplicate binding, reject that input for the chosen command, or impose a controller limit. Reset or create a profile and bind controls individually.
Best Value
- COMPATIBILITY & CONTROL INTEGRATION: Experience ultimate control in your simulations with the PXN CB1 Button Box – fully programmable buttons and switches put all essential functions at your fingertips. All inputs can be mapped in your simulation software, reducing reliance on a keyboard or in-game menus. Suitable for truck, racing, and farming simulators. Driver-free connection to PC, or connect directly to PXN V9 GEN2, VD Series (VD4, VD6, VD10), and V10 PRO/Ultra racing wheel bases.
- MULTI-TYPE INPUT SYSTEM: Equipped with 19 Buttons across 9 switch types, the CB1 provides up to 30 programmable inputs for engine, lighting, traction, and auxiliary functions. This layout enables precise and flexible configuration across a wide variety of simulation titles. Note: Initial in-game button mapping is required for optimal accuracy.
- FULL SWITCH LAYOUT OVERVIEW: Includes: 2 pushable rotary encoders, 6 momentary buttons, 2 latching buttons, 1 covered toggle switch, 1 engine start button, 1 ESC button, 1 ENTER button, 1 directional joystick, 1 momentary toggle switch, and 3 latching toggle switches.
- ADJUSTABLE RGB BACKLIGHTING: Most buttons feature RGB halo lighting (excluding the joystick). Color and brightness can be modified using the “HANDLE + ABS/TC” key combination. A rear lighting switch provides quick on/off control, allowing you to match your setup’s visual style.
- VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: The CB1 Button Box offers flexible installation with 9 mounting holes on the back. It can be securely attached to a desk or steering wheel stand using the included metal desk clamps (supports up to 70mm thickness) or mounted to a stand via pre-drilled 100mm x 100mm VESA holes, ensuring a stable and adaptable setup.
The lid will not close
Check board height, button-body interference, wires crossing posts and USB bend radius. Reposition the board or choose a deeper enclosure; do not crush the harness against the lid.
The panel looks good but feels cheap
That is a legitimate trade-off. Hackaday’s report highlights the GT3-style appearance but does not claim premium tactile quality. Arcade buttons are inexpensive and easy to wire, not necessarily comparable to automotive-style or high-end sim controls.
Verdict
This is an easy electronics project, not automatically a one-hour first project. With parts ready and a repeatable layout, an experienced builder may approach Chris Haye’s estimate; a first build should allow extra time for measuring, drilling, testing, sourcing and mistakes. The Zero Delay design remains compelling for a customizable push-button panel. Move to an Arduino or buy a finished unit when rotary controls, lighting, advanced logic, mounting hardware or guaranteed support are central to the brief.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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