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iRacing’s current PC requirements use three tiers: minimum, recommended and high-end. They call for a dedicated gaming graphics card with at least 6 GB of video memory, 8 GB for the recommended tier or 10+ GB for high-end; 16 GB of RAM minimum and recommended, or 32+ GB for high-end; and a 4-, 6- or 8+-core CPU, respectively. The tiers describe target graphics settings and coverage—not guaranteed frame rates or resolutions.
iRacing PC requirements by tier
The labels “low, medium and high” are often used informally, but iRacing calls its tiers minimum, recommended and high-end. Its current system requirements describe what each tier is intended to deliver.
| iRacing tier | CPU | Dedicated GPU memory | RAM | Stated graphics target |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 4 cores | 6 GB minimum | 16 GB | Minimum graphics in test mode |
| Recommended | 6 cores | 8 GB minimum | 16 GB | Medium graphics across session types on dirt and asphalt tracks |
| High-end | 8+ cores | 10+ GB minimum | 32+ GB | High graphics across sessions and tracks |
These are iRacing’s published specifications, not independent benchmark results. The listed processor and graphics-card models on its page are examples, not a complete compatibility list or a requirement to buy those exact models. The tier descriptions do not promise a particular FPS, resolution or performance on every PC.
Other requirements: Windows, storage, internet and controls
- Operating system: Windows 11 64-bit is supported. iRacing says Windows 10 support ended in October 2025 and recommends upgrading to Windows 11. macOS, Linux and virtual machines are listed as unsupported.
- Storage: Allow at least 40 GB of internal storage. iRacing recommends 225 GB to hold all cars and tracks.
- Graphics API and GPU: DirectX 11 is the minimum, and a dedicated gaming graphics card with dedicated video memory is required. Integrated graphics are not capable of running the sim.
- Internet: iRacing lists DSL at 256 kbps or faster as the minimum and recommends cable or fiber. 5G/LTE wireless and medium- or high-Earth-orbit satellite connections are listed as unsupported.
- Controls: An analog gamepad, joystick, mouse or touchscreen can meet the minimum. A steering wheel and pedal set is recommended but not required to run the simulator.
For dirt racing, iRacing says the full dirt visual experience requires a PC capable of medium-to-high graphics shaders.
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How to check whether your PC meets the requirements
- Check your Windows edition: Confirm that the PC runs 64-bit Windows 11. The other platforms listed above are unsupported.
- Check the processor: Compare its core count with the tier you want: 4 for minimum, 6 for recommended or 8+ for high-end. Core count alone does not establish an exact frame rate.
- Check dedicated video memory: Look up the GPU’s dedicated VRAM, not just its model name or shared system memory. Compare it with the tier’s 6 GB, 8 GB or 10+ GB minimum.
- Check installed RAM: The listed amounts are 16 GB for minimum and recommended, and 32+ GB for high-end.
- Check free internal storage: Compare available space with 40 GB minimum, or the 225 GB recommended amount if you want room for all cars and tracks.
- Check your connection and input device: Compare your internet connection with iRacing’s listed guidance and make sure you have one of its supported minimum control options.
A PC that only meets minimum should be expected to produce minimum graphics in test mode; the minimum tier is not a promise of high resolution or a high frame rate.
What to do if iRacing reports insufficient graphics
iRacing’s insufficient graphics troubleshooting guide says integrated or onboard graphics cannot run the simulator. If your PC has a discrete graphics card but still shows the error, iRacing recommends checking that the sim is using the discrete GPU, connecting the display to that card and updating the graphics driver.
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What PC do you need for iRacing VR?
For VR, iRacing advises meeting at least its recommended PC specifications and also meeting the headset manufacturer’s system requirements. See iRacing’s VR requirements and setup guidance, then follow the headset maker’s instructions for setup and drivers.
iRacing recommends a wired PC connection rather than Wi-Fi where the headset supports that option. Some headsets require a separately purchased cable, so check the documentation for your specific device.
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