I’ve loved racing games for years, dating back to the days of Gran Turismo on PlayStation 2.
I remember racing my dad on rally tracks for hours and having the time of my life. He was never much of a gamer, but in those moments, he was. Because of those heartfelt moments, racing has always held a special place in my heart.
That brings us to the modern technology of today. Racing simulation wheels and peripherals are at an all-time peak. With new competitors rarely entering the field, it’s an exciting time to see a company like Turtle Beach take the dive. Their launch of the VelocityOne racing wheel went well for the company’s first time, and now they’ve launched a shifter to expand their racing collection.
Introducing the VelocityOne Multi-Shift. A premium racing shifter that can be used as a 7-speed H-pattern or sequential shifter. With multiple knobs, a high/low switch for upwards of 14-gears, hall effect actuation, and more, this Xbox and Windows PC shifter is hitting the ground running.
Michael Hoglund
I’ve been gaming and playing on PCs and consoles for 30 years. I’ve been racing since the PlayStation 2 era and was once a top 100 driver in games like Test Drive Unlimited 2 and Forza Motorsport. Racing has, and always will be part of me.
This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Turtle Beach. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.
VelocityOne Multi-Shift review: The good
- Multiple shaft and knob options.
- Both sequential and H-pattern shifting.
- Analog hand brake mode.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne Multi-Shift
• Price: $129.99 at Amazon
• Dimensions: 206 x 133 x 148mm / 8.11 x 5.24 x 5.83in
• Weight: 1.76kg / 3.88lbs
• Features: Seven-speed gearbox, on-the-fly sequential mode switch, handbrake mode, high and low range gear button, hall-effect magnetic technology, versatile mounting options, swappable shift knobs, PC and Xbox connectivity.
There’s a lot to like about the VelocityOne Multi-Shift. That didn’t come as a surprise to me, given Turtle Beach has always had a reputation where they build upon their previous release, no matter what product line they’re working on. That resounding push for excellence has penetrated their racing wheel peripheral department.
Let’s start with the knob and shaft options; there are multiple styles to choose from that all come included in the box. Inside you’ll find three different lengths and two different knob styles; an everyday car look and a grip that fits the class of a genuine race car. Each of them fits those definitions well.
I much prefer the longer stick to the shorter one, but I’ve always preferred things like longer thumb sticks or a more oversized mouse pad. The general idea is that the greater the range of motion, the better the precision. While shifts should be quick, fast, and repetitive, meaning precision is less necessary, I found that sticking with the same style best suits my preferences for racing, 18-wheeling, and drifting.
The option to switch from sequential to H-pattern shifting on the fly was fantastic. There was no need to fiddle with extra options in the menu or reset key binds. A flick of the switch was literally all I needed to do to switch over. There’s also another switch that doubles the number of gears.
A high/low switch is present on the top face of the VelocityOne Multi-Shift to allow the H-pattern shifter to hit up to 14 gears. Hitting the button will swap from the first seven gears over to the remaining seven. An excellent option for 18-wheeling enthusiasts like myself.
The added hall-effect magnetic technology lifts the entire experience. Knowing that specific mechanical components won’t break down over time because they are being replaced by magnetic tech is soothing. While it’s been most beneficial to gamers in controllers, Hall-effect technology is the real deal and provides unparalleled, lasting components.
I mentioned that the VelocityOne Multi-Shift had a sequential mode, but I didn’t discuss the sequential brake option! A simple button press turns the sequential mode into an analog hand brake, which provides phenomenally precise braking control. I loved using it to drift in ways I have never been able to do with standard hand brakes or pedal brakes.
There’s something far more manageable and controllable when using a proper hand brake to glide. You’ll feel the power of a real drifter in the palm of your hand. Heck, get two, and you’ll have both the analog brake and a shifter!
The mounting features are also rock solid. It more than dealt with my desk via the clamp and racing rig with screws. No matter the setup, the Multi-Shift was stable throughout the entire experience, as if it were mounted right in my car.
VelocityOne Multi-Shift review: The bad
- Possible hitch when using sequential shift.
- No option to take the leather cover off.
Not everything is perfect, and neither is the VelocityOne Multi-Shift. While my complaints are narrow and few, they’re still worth discussing. Let’s break down what might hold potential buyers back.
First, I have a small issue with sequential mode. While it’s terrific in its own right, and I appreciate the fact I can switch between the two modes, it does come with a small hitch. Said hitch is literal, depending on use.
If you’re an aggressive player who pulls inside or pushes out during a shift, you might notice the shaft dragging across the opening of the closed H-pattern. Essentially, the sequential mode makes use of the third and fourth gear slots, the two gear options in the standard middle of the H-pattern. When sliding from the third slot down to the fourth, it’s possible you’ll notice the neutral slide opening on either side towards the left or right.
It’s small but noticeable if you’re overly aggressive in your shifting style. For my own purposes, I didn’t have an issue with it since my playstyle is more direct and on point. I just know there might be some folks who want to know about it, so I’m putting it out there.
My last complaint is the leather encasement. I wish there was an option to remove the leather sleeve and reveal the underside of the H-pattern. While I’m sure it’s nothing extraordinary, I’d like the option to unveil a more gearhead look on a device that otherwise seems to be all about possibilities.
VelocityOne Multi-Shift review: Final thoughts
You should buy this if …
✅ You want an affordable, next-gear feeling shifter
I can’t get over how good this device feels. Coming from the days of old Logitech shifters, it really ups the ante for what gamers should expect in a package for around $100.
✅ If you can’t decide between an H-pattern shifter, sequential, or analog brake.
This thing does everything you’ll want from a shifter unit. Even things you didn’t know you wanted, like analog braking. If you’re looking for features and want to get multiple experiences from one device, this is it.
You should not buy this if …
❌ You’re looking for the most premium experience.
There’s higher-end gear available, but that’s not what Turtle Beach is aiming for. They’re looking to tackle the entry and mid-level markets without breaking the bank. Landing affordable features in the hands of gamers.
❌ You want the best-performing H-pattern shifter or sequential
The VelocityOne is tackling both worlds for the price of one and does a fantastic job of doing so. However, if you’re just after a sequential shifter, you can pick up some cheaper modules that will match the performance of the Multi-Shift for less.
Honestly, the VelocityOne Multi-Shift surprised me. The device is a near-perfect fit for any serious racing rig, both small and big. The fact that it can be used with any system on a Windows PC makes it all the more worthy for someone who may change up their wheel experience on the fly. I have a few friends with more than one wheel they use depending on what they’re playing, making the multi-use Multi-Shift all the more remarkable.
For its price range, the VelocityOne Multi-Shift can’t be beat. I’m extremely happy to see Turtle Beach continue crafting their VeloctyOne racing lineup. After some initial launch hurdles with the racing wheel, the triumph of the Multi-Shift is welcoming for the future of the series. Keep it up, Turtle Beach; you’re doing great.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne Multi-Shift
A great shifter that will bring Xbox and Windows PC gamers up a gear. If you’re in the market for a premium shifter and can’t decide between an H-pattern or sequential, get the best of both worlds with the VelocityOne Multi-Shift. It’ll come in clutch.
