Best Setup For Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Top Picks & Guide

Ever feel like you’re hitting every banana peel and falling off Rainbow Road no matter how hard you try in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? You see those top players zoom past, seemingly glued to the track. It’s frustrating when your kart feels slow or your steering is just… off. Choosing the best kart, tires, and glider can feel like a massive puzzle with a million pieces. You want to race to win, but knowing which combination actually helps you corner tighter and boost faster is the real challenge.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a setup good for different play styles. Stop guessing and start dominating those races! By the end of this post, you will understand the key stats and know which parts will give you the edge you need to finally snag that first-place trophy.

Top Setup For Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1
EPOCH Games Mario Kart™ Racing Deluxe - Super Mario Vehicle Obstacle Course with Mario and Luigi Figures - Perfect Action Tabletop Game for Ages 5+
  • Game includes easy-to-assemble obstacle course with dual lane track. Track features lap counter with 6 challenging obstacles and two kart figures including Mario and Luigi!
  • Place karts at the starting line to begin. Use the manual buttons and levers to complete challenging obstacles and work to stay in your lane on the track! Maneuver your kart figure through tight turns, over wobbly bridges and up a hill climb as you compete to reach the finish!
  • Master each obstacle and compete to complete 5 laps against your opponent!
  • Competitive, tabletop game that builds skill and dexterity and develops concentration!
  • TM & 2021 Nintendo.
SaleBestseller No. 2
PURBHE Switch Steering Wheel for Nintendo Switch, Racing Wheel to Play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Compatible with JoyCon, Nintendo Switch 1 Accessories Gift for Mario Kart - 2 Pack Switch Wheels
  • 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐥 - Get ready to transform your gaming sessions into an exhilarating racing adventure! This Switch nintendo Steering Wheel is 100% compatible with Switch Joy-Con (including the OLED model),Enhance your mario kart 8 deluxe gaming experience!
  • 𝟐 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐥 - Support two Nintendo JoyCons play at same time for Mario kart 8 deluxe game.Ideal family game nights or competitive races with friends, this set includes 2 steering wheels so everyone can join the fun! Get ready to drift, boost, and claim first place in style!
  • 𝐄𝐫𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝 - Nintendo steering wheel is ergonomically designed to enhance your gaming experience. Multiple support points are strategically placed on the back and sides of the wheel to distribute the force of your hands, reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions.
  • 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐁𝐒 -The Race Wheel built to last, are made of US-standard ABS environmentally friendly materials,ensuring a premium touch, exceptional durability, and a safe, eco-friendly design. High quality material provide a smooth gaming experience!
  • 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝟖 - No complicated setup steps! Simply slide your Joy-Con into the steering wheel, and you’re ready to race. It’s that easy – perfect for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe gamers of all ages.Add to cart this two sets steering wheel now and get ready to claim first place!
Bestseller No. 3
GH 4 Pack Switch Steering Wheel Compatible with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Racing Wheel Accessories Compatible with Nintendo Switch/Switch OLED Joy Con Controller (Black x2, Red and Blue)
  • Multi-angle X,Y,Z axis movement will greatly enhance your stearing experience; Innovative firm grips design minimizes hand fatigue while holding it long
  • Bulging design of SL & SR buttons could avoid button stuck in, Inside the slot there are 2 rubber pads to prevent controller from falling
  • 100% high quality nitendo mariokart 8 deluxe driving wheels for joy cons controller, brought by top manufacturer, with fast and stable delivery
  • Small size, 4.72 inch, designed for kids under 10,Made of ABS resin, resistent against dropping and high temperature
  • Inside the package: 4 pack ninentedo swtich race gaming wheels for joycons controllers drive Games, Packaged product for friends or family gift
Bestseller No. 4
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]
  • Hit the road with the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 and play anytime, anywhere! Race your friends or battle them in a revised battle mode on new and returning battle courses
  • Play locally in up to 4-player multiplayer in 1080p while playing in TV Mode. Every track from the Wii U version, including DLC, makes a glorious return
  • Plus, the Inklings appear as all-new guest characters, along with returning favorites, such as King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr.
  • Players can choose a new Smart Steering feature which makes driving and staying on the track easy for novice players and kids even at 200cc
Bestseller No. 5
Orzly Steering Wheels for Nintendo Switch & OLED Console JoyCons, Racing Wheels for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe [Mariokart Switch Steering Wheel Joycon Controller Attachment Accessories]-TWIN PACK [2X Black]
  • BLACK WHEEL TWIN PACK: This Pack Contains 2x Black Wheel attachments for Nintendo Switch JoyCons*. (each wheel can fit either joycon, and these black wheels even look great on either the grey, red, or blue joycons!)*
  • PERFECT FOR MARIOKART: Orzly Steering Wheels allow you to have a truer driving experience when playing on your favourite Nintendo Switch racing games
  • EASY TO USE: Simply slide your joy-con controller into the central panel of the steering wheel attachment, to become a fully compatible racing wheel for all steering wheel compatible games on the Nintendo Switch
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Joy-Con controllers are not included and are only shown in images for illustrative purposes only
  • Designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch. For our full range of Nintendo Switch accessories, search 'ORZLY SWITCH' in the Amazon search bar (above)
Bestseller No. 6
APTGAME Steering Wheel Table for Nintendo Switch/Switch 2 JoyCon, Switch Racing Wheel Stand for Mario Kart World 8 Deluxe with 4 Suction Cups,switch 2 accessories for Kids&Adults Playing Kart World
  • Works with all Switch models & Switch 2. Adjust with spacer plate for different Joy-Cons.
  • Motion-sensing steering for realistic control in Mario Kart World, Asphalt 9, and other racing games.
  • Ergonomic design: 180° rotation, auto-recenter, anti-slip, and balanced for long sessions.
  • Quick snap-on installation without tools. Secure with suction cup base and play instantly.
  • No complicated setup steps! Simply slide your Joy-Con into the steering wheel, and you’re ready to race. It’s that easy – perfect for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe gamers of all ages.Add to cart this two sets steering wheel now and get ready to claim first place!
Bestseller No. 7
Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Luigi Mini Anti-Gravity Rc Racer 2.4Ghz, with Full Function Steering Create 360 Spins, Whiles & Drift!Up to 100'. Range - for Kids Ages 4+
  • Ever wonder what would happen if your Mario Kart RC got struck by lightning? It would shrink down of course!
  • Race in standard mode or flip into anti-gravity mode
  • Perform drifts and tricks at the press of a button
  • With full function steering, create 360 spins, wheelies and drift! - Up to 100 ft. Range
  • 8 x AA Batteries required (Not Included). Suggested for kids ages 4 and up.
SaleBestseller No. 8
Nintendo Switch™ - Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe Bundle
  • Nintendo Switch bundle includes a console, the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game, and 12 months of Nintendo Switch Online. This bundle has everything you need to start playing right away, including a Nintendo Switch system with Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con controllers. Plus, enjoy an added value of $79.98* with a full game download for the full Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game and a 12-month Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership**. You can start multiplayer races right out of the box—just pass a Joy-Con controller to a friend and play together on the same system. Or pick up more controllers (sold separately) and get up to 4 people in on the fun.
  • Play at home or on the go with one system - The Nintendo Switch system is designed to go wherever you do, instantly transforming from a home console you play on TV to a portable system you can play anywhere. So you get more time to play the games you love, however you like.
  • Race with Mario and friends anytime, anywhere! Burn rubber across Mushroom Kingdom raceways—underwater, in the sky, upside-down in zero-g, and past the finish—for the win! Get revved up for local multiplayer***, online**** in-game tournaments, a revamped battle mode, and more!
  • Race players around the world with Nintendo Switch Online - With the included Nintendo Switch Online membership, up to 12 people can play together online in Grand Prix, VS Race, and Battle modes. Plus, you can enjoy online play in other multiplayer games like Splatoon 3. A membership also includes access to a library of 100+ classic Super NES, NES, and Game Boy games, exclusive special offers, and more.
  • Home of Mario and friends! Nintendo Switch systems are home to games like Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD, Super Mario Odyssey, Minecraft: Mario Edition, and more. And don’t forget series like Animal Crossing, The Legend of Zelda, Splatoon, Pikmin, and beyond!

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Setting Up for Victory in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Getting ready to race in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is exciting! A good setup makes the game much more fun. This guide helps you choose the right gear so you can zoom past your friends.

Key Features to Look For in Your Setup

When buying accessories for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, focus on these important features:

Comfort and Grip

  • Ergonomics: Look for controllers or steering wheels that feel good in your hands. If they fit well, you can play longer without your hands getting tired.
  • Material Texture: Grippy materials stop your hands from slipping, especially during intense races.

Responsiveness and Accuracy

  • Low Latency: This means the time between you pressing a button and the action happening on screen is very short. Fast response is crucial for drifting and dodging items.
  • Button Feel: Buttons should click or press clearly. Mushy buttons can make precise steering difficult.

Compatibility and Power

  • Nintendo Switch Compatibility: Ensure any controller or wheel explicitly states it works perfectly with the Nintendo Switch and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
  • Battery Life (for wireless items): Long battery life means fewer interruptions during your Grand Prix.

Important Materials for Longevity

The materials used affect how long your gear lasts and how it performs.

Controller Shells

Most good controllers use durable ABS plastic. This plastic resists scratches and light bumps. Avoid very cheap, flimsy plastic shells; they break easily.

Analog Sticks and Triggers

The sticks you use for steering must be made of strong materials. High-quality rubber or textured plastic on the sticks provides better traction for your thumbs. Metal components inside offer better long-term reliability compared to all-plastic parts.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all accessories are created equal. Pay attention to what makes a setup great or frustrating.

Quality Boosters

  • Official Nintendo Products: Nintendo’s own Pro Controllers often offer the best build quality and compatibility. They usually provide a superior gaming experience.
  • Adjustable Sensitivity: Some steering wheels allow you to change how sensitive the steering is. This lets you fine-tune control for different skill levels.

Quality Reducers (What to Avoid)

  • “Stick Drift”: Cheap analog sticks often wear out quickly, causing your character to steer even when you are not touching the stick. This seriously reduces quality.
  • Heavy Input Lag: If a controller has poor wireless connection or cheap internal electronics, the delay (lag) will make complex maneuvers impossible.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This determines the best gear for you.

The Casual Player

If you play occasionally with family, basic Joy-Cons or simple, smaller third-party controllers work well. They are easy to use and store.

The Competitive Racer

Serious players need precision. A full-sized Pro Controller or a dedicated racing wheel is recommended. Wheels truly capture the feeling of racing and offer finer control over drifting.

Multiplayer Setup

If you host many local multiplayer sessions, make sure you have enough comfortable, working controllers. Having four matching, reliable controllers instantly improves the experience for everyone.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Setting Up Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Q: Do I need a special steering wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

A: No, you do not need a wheel. You can play perfectly fine with the standard Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller. Wheels are just for fun and a different style of play.

Q: What is the best controller for a small child?

A: Smaller, official Joy-Cons are often easiest for small hands. Alternatively, look for third-party “mini” controllers designed for kids.

Q: How do I fix Joy-Con drift in the game?

A: Drift is a hardware issue. You must either send the Joy-Con for repair or purchase a new controller. Software fixes rarely solve true stick drift.

Q: Can I use PlayStation or Xbox controllers?

A: Generally, no. The Nintendo Switch only officially supports Nintendo-made controllers or licensed third-party controllers made specifically for the Switch.

Q: Is a Pro Controller better than using two Joy-Cons separately?

A: Yes, for most adults, the Pro Controller offers better comfort, battery life, and more precise sticks than using the two small Joy-Cons.

Q: What makes a steering wheel “good” for this game?

A: A good wheel has strong force feedback (it shakes when you hit something) and pedals that feel responsive, not squishy.

Q: How many controllers can I connect at once?

A: You can connect up to eight controllers to the Nintendo Switch console for multiplayer fun.

Q: Will a wired controller perform better than a wireless one?

A: For competitive play, wired controllers eliminate any possibility of wireless interference or battery issues, offering maximum stability.

Q: What accessories help with long play sessions?

A: A comfortable Pro Controller and a charging dock for your Joy-Cons will keep you in the game longer without needing breaks.

Q: Should I buy a cheap knock-off controller?

A: It is usually better to invest in a slightly more expensive, reputable brand. Cheap controllers often fail quickly or have poor responsiveness, ruining the racing experience.