Flight and space simulators have been around for a long time and have a huge number of fans. Naturally, companies like Logitech and Thrustmaster began to create peripherals to make gamers feel like they were in control of their favorite aircraft. The latest version of Microsoft's 37-year-old Flight Simulator series has finally been released, leaving many new and experienced gamers looking for the best controls to create the most realistic experience possible. Here is our list of the best throttle and flight stick kits for Microsoft Flight Simulator and most other simulators.
Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog
Image via ThrustmasterThrustmaster has the most entries on this list, which should come as no surprise to longtime flight and driving simulator fans. The company has a reputation for making some of the best joysticks and steering wheels on the market, including some used by the US Air Force. The Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog set is a joystick and throttle system based on the controls of the USAF A-10C attack aircraft. This is one of the more expensive items on this list, but the high quality and durable design of the set is worth the higher cost. The joystick weighs around 14 lbs and is mostly made of metal. It includes 55 programmable action buttons and two four-way hat switches with integrated push buttons. The included push and pull throttle system is designed for advanced precision and control. it uses a dual accelerator system that allows independent control of two motors. The throttle also has 17 programmable action buttons, an afterburner notch, and two hat switches for spin control, mouse control, and point of view control.
Logitech G X56 HOTAS RGB
Image via Logitech G4Like the Thrustmaster Warthog, this HOTAS set from Logitech is a bit pricey and based on military gear controls. The stick and throttle were both designed for use with VR games like Elite: Dangerous. The devices can create an immersive feel in most games, including Microsoft Flight Simulator. The stick features an analog stick at the thumb to allow for better steering control. The throttle has a dual throttle system that allows independent control of 2 different motors. In total, the complete set includes five hat switches and 31 programmable buttons as well as three different control modes. What makes this set very unique and popular with hardcore simulation players is the fit. The handle and throttle can have their tension adjusted to give players greater control.
Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS X
Image via ThrustmasterThe T.Flight HOTAS X is an inexpensive joystick and throttle with many of the same features as more expensive kits. The kit comes in a single attached platform instead of having separate platforms for the throttle and stick. Fortunately, the throttle is detachable, allowing players to place the two separate controllers where they are most comfortable. This stick set features z-axis rotation for better control. The station has a switch that allows players to toggle z-axis control between the stick and throttle. The complete set includes 12 programmable buttons and five programmable axes. Players can set up multiple control profiles and switch between them with a mapping button featured on the station.
Logitech G flight insert
Image via Logitech GLogitech's Flight Yoke features 25 programmable buttons and switches and five-axis control. The system will appear very familiar to longtime flight simulator enthusiasts. The system was designed to simulate the controls of the most common commercial and private aircraft. The yoke has also been designed to be modular, making it compatible with all other flight accessories offered by Logitech G. The steering gear shaft is made of stainless steel and precision bearings to give a smooth feel and realistic. The center of the yoke also has a stopwatch to allow players to time each other. The throttle that can come with the yoke has three detachable and fully programmable levers with detachable buttons. Other controllers can also be added if necessary.
Thrustmaster T.16000M FCS HOTAS
Image via ThrustmasterThis expensive system from Thrustmaster comes in a few different kit combinations, all designed for combat or space flight sims. The throttle has 14 programmable buttons and an 8-way hat switch. It has five axes of control and side rails to give players smooth and precise control. The stick uses magnetic sensors to create a very smooth, friction-free feel to the controls. The stick also has a coil spring to create firm tension. The stick and the station it sits on have 28 combination programmable buttons and an eight-way hat switch for point-to-go view control. The stick is ambidextrous and has three removable parts that allow it to be easily reconfigured.
