Moza ESX on Xbox: compatibility explained for Moza wheelbases

Moza ESX on Xbox: how compatibility with wheelbases really works

Wondering whether the Moza ESX works on your Xbox in combination with a Moza wheelbase? You are not alone. On Reddit and in sim racing communities this question comes up almost daily. That makes sense, because Moza handles Xbox support differently compared to many other sim racing brands.

In this blog we explain it clearly. No assumptions or half answers, but straightforward information based on official manufacturer data and real world questions from the community.

Why is there so much confusion about Moza and Xbox?

With most brands, console compatibility is built into the wheelbase itself. Moza takes a different approach.

• The Xbox license is built into the steering wheel, not the wheelbase
• Not every Moza wheel is Xbox compatible
• Without the correct wheel, the Xbox will not recognise the setup

This last point is where most confusion comes from.

What exactly is the Moza ESX?

The Moza ESX steering wheel for Xbox is a round add on steering wheel with an integrated Xbox license chip. This chip allows the Xbox to recognise your complete Moza setup as officially compatible.

Important to know: the ESX is currently the only Moza steering wheel with Xbox support. All other Moza wheels are PC only.

Which Moza wheelbases work with the ESX on Xbox?

Important: Xbox compatibility is version dependent

Not every Moza wheelbase automatically works with the ESX on Xbox. Compatibility depends on both the model and the hardware version. Older versions do not support Xbox, even when combined with the ESX.

The overview below shows which versions are officially compatible:

Please note: if you own an older Moza R9 V1, R16 V1 or R21 V1, it will not work on Xbox. This is a hardware limitation and cannot be resolved with firmware updates or adapters.

Moza R3 (PC + Xbox)

• Officially Xbox compatible
• Delivered as a complete bundle including the ESX wheel
• Works out of the box without additional components

The Moza R3 PC & Xbox bundle is the easiest and safest choice if you want to race on Xbox without hassle.

Moza R5

• PC only by default
• Xbox compatible when combined with the ESX
• ESX is purchased separately

The Moza R5 bundle is popular among sim racers who want more power while staying flexible between PC and Xbox.

Moza R9 V2 and V3

• PC only by default
• Works on Xbox when used with the ESX
• A popular upgrade for dedicated sim racers

With the Moza R9 wheelbase combined with the ESX, you get a serious direct drive setup on Xbox.

Moza R12

• PC only by default
• Works on Xbox when used with the ESX
  
• More than enough power for console racing

In short:

• No ESX wheel = no Xbox compatibility
• With the ESX wheel = Xbox works as expected

Does Moza work on PlayStation?

No, Moza currently does not support PlayStation consoles. This applies to all wheelbases and steering wheels.

Which Xbox games work with the Moza ESX?

• Forza Motorsport
• Forza Horizon
• Assetto Corsa Competizione
• Modern F1 games

The Xbox recognises the ESX as an officially licensed steering wheel, so compatibility is not an issue.

Common misunderstandings

• My R9 is Xbox ready by default only with the ESX add on wheel
• Every Moza wheel works on Xbox only the ESX does
• The license is in the base no, it is in the wheel

Which setup do we recommend?

• Beginner: Moza R3 PC & Xbox bundle
• Intermediate: Moza R5 or R9 with ESX
• Advanced: Moza R12 with ESX

If you race exclusively on PC and do not need Xbox support, there is also the Moza R3 PC only bundle.

Conclusion

The Moza ESX is the key to Xbox compatibility within the Moza ecosystem. Combine this wheel with the correct and compatible wheelbase and you get a powerful, modern direct drive setup on console.

View the Moza ESX steering wheel for Xbox or contact us for personal advice. In our showroom we are happy to let you experience the difference for yourself.