bHaptics TactSuit Air Review – A Wireless Step Into Sim Racing
Quick summary· AI-generated
The TactSuit Air is bHaptics' entry into sim racing—a lightweight, wireless haptic vest with 16 actuators on the Air model (8 front, 8 back) that connects via Bluetooth and integrates with SimHub to map engine RPM, gear shifts, and traction-control events to tactile feedback. The reviewer tests it without VR to assess standalone sim-racing value, finding the actuators surprisingly powerful. The vest offers customizable haptic intensity across front, back, and optional sleeves, with a simple (if inconsistent) software interface.
Excerpt from Sim Tourist
bHaptics is a known player already in a lot of different niches but decided to have a go at the sim-racing market with a tactile vest to immerse players to the fullest in their driving experience. The TactSuit Air is the company’s first attempt to enter the sim racing market.
Design and Build Quality
The TactSuit Air comes in two versions:
Pro – 32 haptic reactors
Air – 16 haptic reactors (the one I tested)
You can choose between two color schemes:
White & black
Red & black with gray accents
At first glance, I thought it was a rigid, armor-like vest — but it’s actually lightweight and flexible, built from breathable fabric.
The Velcro badge on the chest can be customized with your own patch, a fun personal touch.
Layout of Haptic Reactors
8 actuators on the front
8 actuators on the back (closer together toward the center)
Adjustable side straps for a snug fit
Even with my larger waist, the vest fit comfortably. The battery, Bluetooth module, and control electronics sit neatly in a rear module at the top of the back.
Connectivity – Clean and Cable-Free
One of my favorite aspects: no messy cables.
Traditional systems like the NLR HF8 often require:
A USB connection
Separate audio cables
A control box
With the TactSuit Air, everything runs via Bluetooth.
It includes a small Bluetooth dongle, or you can use your PC’s built-in Bluetooth.
You can also connect with a 3.5 mm audio jack via a VR headset, but I recommend Bluetooth — it works flawlessly.
This makes setup so much simpler and keeps your rig clean.
Software – bHaptics Player and SimHub Integration
The first step after unboxing is installing the bHaptics Player software. It allows you to:
Pair the vest and optional sleeves
Test the actuators
Manage integrations with supported games
However, most of those games are not mainstream racing titles — but that’s where SimHub comes in.
bHaptics provides a SimHub plugin, allowing you to map game telemetry (RPM, gear shifts, traction control, etc.) to haptic effects.
The interface is simple — even a bit inconsistent at times — but functional. You can toggle effects and adjust intensity for the front, back, and sleeves individually.
Pro tip: Start with fewer effects active. Too much vibration at once can feel chaotic.
Testing the TactSuit Air in Sim Racing
Although it’s advertised as “VR-exclusive,” I tested it without VR to see how it performs for sim racing.
Right away, the actuators feel surprisingly powerful — even if…
Comments (0)
No comments yet.