Best Joysticks and Flight Sticks You Can Find in 2023

Are you a fan of flight simulators and aircraft games for PC? Whether you want to test your piloting skills as a fighter jet pilot or cruise through the galaxy, you’ll need to find the best joystick if you want the most out of your airborne gaming experience. Use this guide to find the best flight stick for your interests and budget.

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Last update on 2023-05-23 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Joystick for PC Games

Joysticks aren’t just great for flight simulators; they can actually work for a wide range of games, such as some FPSs where you can jump into a jet or helicopter. A dogfight in deep space might also call for better precision and a more realistic feel than what’s offered by a mouse and keyboard. A reliable and programmable joystick is a great investment for some gamers, but it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics of the controls, configurations and features of joysticks and flight sticks before you buy.

Throttle Control

A large advantage to any joystick is a throttle. This is a lever that can be pressed forward or pulled backward to make the vehicle you are piloting speed up or slow down. Throttles can be either integrated on the base of the joystick itself or come as a detached control.

Having a separate throttle control can be beneficial in a number of ways. Your hands do not have to be so close together; instead, you’ll have a more natural, ergonomic feel. With the best joystick for certain games, you may not need to use your keyboard or mouse at all!

With a detached throttle, you also usually get more buttons than if you were using a mouse or a throttle on the base of a joystick. The downside to having a detached throttle is that it’s generally much more expensive.

Gameplay Setups

There are a variety of different setups you can have while playing your favorite game or simulator. Here are the most popular:

• HOTAS: Hands on Throttle and Stick. This means that you are required to use one hand on the throttle and one hand on the joystick at all times (if you are to use all the buttons on the joystick). This can include detached throttles.
• HOSAK: Hands on Stick and Keyboard. This setup may be beneficial if there is no throttle at all or when more buttons are necessary than what is on the joystick setup.
• HOSAM: Hands on Stick and Mouse. This configuration can be ideal for those who want more flight precision. If you’ve already found the best gaming mouse, then you may feel more comfortable with an ambidextrous joystick.
• HOSAS: Hands on Stick and Stick. This is similar to HOSAM, but with more realism and accuracy. This setup will also give you plenty of buttons.

There is no hard and fast rule about which one is best. It is your personal choice according to which you feel most comfortable with.

Button Configuration

Button configuration and layout is very important for many games; this is especially true for flight simulators. A lot of gamers enjoy having a separate control for throttle as it offers more versatility at your fingertips. Though many people still prefer the best gaming keyboard for PC games, a specialized stick and throttle set for flight and space simulators can mean all the difference in a dogfight!

Z-Axis and Hat Switch Control

“Z-Axis” means twisting the stick to the left or right. This controls the yaw in flight and space simulators. If a joystick does not have this functionality, a lot of people use pedals instead. Although they’ll cost extra, pedals can have the added functionality of strafing (moving sideways) or moving forward and backward. “Hat switch” is a directional control much like the D-Pad on console controllers. They commonly provide point-of-view control so you can switch between different camera angles.

11 Best Joysticks and Flight Sticks

Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog Joystick

The Best Joystick for Flight Simulators

Thrustmaster makes some amazing joysticks, and they are a name you can trust if you are in need of a HOTAS stick. Our top option from the company is the HOTAS Warthog, a high-end flight stick that’s a replica of the A-10C.

With a total of 19 buttons including an 8-way POV hat, this flight stick has enough hats and pinkie push buttons to please almost anyone. This stick is constructed from metal, so it’s built to last, and as a bonus, the handle is detachable so you can use this one with the Cougar. We also appreciate how stable this stick is at over 6 pounds, so it’s not going to slide around on you although there are handy holes on each corner for mounting as well.

From the magnetic sensor system to those pinkie push buttons, you really can’t go wrong with the HOTAS Warthog if you want an accurate stick that outdoes the rest. It comes with a 2-year warranty, and there’s a Warthog bundle with the stick and dual throttle available if you are looking for a matching set.

Pros:

• 3D magnetic sensors
• 19 action buttons
• 8-way point of view hat
• Outstanding build quality

Cons:

• The style isn’t for everyone

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Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick

The Best Cheap Joystick For PC

Whether you need a mouse, keyboard or controller, Logitech generally has something in their arsenal for everyone. That includes folks looking for a great gaming joystick like the Extreme 3D Pro, an affordable alternative with an 8-way hat switch.

Logitech put a lot of thought into the design of this stick and consumers found it comfortable and precise. There’s an 8-way switch and 12 programmable buttons in key positions and a rapid-fire trigger that will help raise your kill count. The button placement is excellent, and the twist handle rudder is a nice touch as well.

The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro is a great entry-level joystick that provides a lot of bang for your buck. While not quite in the “Pro” class, we think you will be surprised by how well this one performs given the price tag.

Pros:

• 8-way hat switch
• Throttle control
• Budget-friendly price tag
• 12 programmable buttons

Cons:

• Some software issues

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Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas 4 Flight Stick

The Best Joystick for Elite Dangerous

Thrustmaster has a stick with a price point and style for everyone. In this case, it’s the T.Flight Hotas 4, a mid-range system with a neat trick. While it functions in a similar fashion to our other throttle & stick systems, this one has a detachable throttle.

The T.Flight HOTAS 4 gives you the feel of being in the cockpit with a real-size throttle that snaps loose from the stick. There are a total of 12 action buttons and 5 axes which makes it an excellent option for games like War Thunder, EVE Valkyrie VR or Star Citizen. Other features to note include a dual rudder system and a small switch that lets you go from PC to PS4 mode.

This is an excellent setup for beginners with its large hand rest and multidirectional hat switch. The PC/PS4 switch is definitely a perk as well, and it’s stable whether both pieces are together or placed separately. On the downside, the connecting cable isn’t that long so kept that in mind if placement is critical in your gaming set up.

Pros:

• 12 buttons
• Break-away design
• Multidirectional hat switch
• PS4 switch

Cons:

• Cable length
• Some compatibility issues

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Logitech G PRO

A Very Good and Practical Flight Yoke System

If you are seeking a well-built and easy-to-use system for your flight simulations, Logitech G PRO Flight Yoke System is something to seriously consider. This device offers numerous advantages, such as 75 programmable controls and 3-position mode switch. Also, there is a throttle quadrant included in the package, which is fitted with configurable throttle knobs that bring a more realistic feeling and raise the bar even higher.

On top of that, this yoke system also offers great compatibility and can be used with both Windows and Mac computers. Equally importantly, it is very robust, due to the stainless-steel yoke shaft that brings much-needed protection, without sacrificing the great accuracy of the device.

Logitech G PRO Flight Yoke System comes with a two-year warranty; it features USB2.0 connectivity and is equipped with a two-position desk clamp for easier finding of the perfect position.

All in all, there is everything needed for a good user experience. Therefore, if you are after one of the best flight yoke systems, Logitech G PRO is the device to look for.

Pros:

• Reasonably priced
• 75 programmable controls
• Well-built
• Easy installation
• Responsive

Cons:

• No backlighting

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Logitech G Saitek X52 Pro Flight Control System

A Programmable Pro Level Flight System

Our second pick from Logitech is at the opposite end of the pricing spectrum. The Saitek X52 is a high-tech flight stick with a dual-spring system that will look classy on a desktop and can do things other sticks only dream about.

This combo set has illuminated buttons and an LCD built into the throttle that can give you stats in an instant. It has an adjustable throttle dial while the stick has 3D twist rudder controls with a lock switch. It’s safe to say it’s quite comfortable as well considering it has an adjustable handle with five positions. The build quality is excellent, and the dual-spring system ensures the stick returns to neutral every time.

This slick set from Logitech is ideal for games like Elite Dangerous and a solid system overall aside from some quality control issues. You may have problems getting the proper drivers for your system as well, so keep that in mind if you are game that finds themselves easily frustrated.

Pros:

• Adjustable handle
• Centering system
• Separate throttle / resistance control
• LCD display

Cons:

• Software issues
• Quality control

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Logitech G X56 VR Compatible HOTAS Joystick

The Best Joystick for Space-Based Games

If you play space-based games, you don’t want a replica stick and need something that can handle the rigors of space warfare. The Logitech G X56 fits that bill, and while it’s expensive, it has features you won’t find on other joysticks. This is basically an updated version of an older G X56 joystick.

This two-piece system is packed with high-tech features including RGB lighting and a mini analog stick on both the throttle and joystick. They give you an extra measure of control in your favorite space sim, and the button placement is ideal for virtual reality games as well. The accurate stick has a 16-bit elevator, and aileron axis with hall-effect characters and the buttons are configurable on both units. The throttle unit has a tension adjuster, and both have large bases to keep them steady on your desk. We also like the fact you can adjust the resistance on the stick through a simple 4-spring system.

While we don’t have a full count on those buttons, there are plenty of them, and the mini analog sticks will add a new dimension to your gameplay. The Logitech G X56 a solid stick overall, but the quality control can be an issue along with jittering in some cases due to its power-hungry nature. Considering the price tag, it’s a stick you’ll want to test drive thoroughly out of the box.

Pros:

• Mini analog sticks
• Customizable buttons
• Adjustable stick tension
• Slick design
• VR compatible

Cons:

• Quality control
• Ghosting/Jitters (power hungry)

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Thrustmaster TCA Officer Pack

The New Sense of Reality

Thrustmaster TCA Officer Pack Airbus Edition, as its name suggests, is a combined work of both Airbus and Thrustmaster that gathered their resources in order to create as realistic as possible flight control and provide the customers with the amazing flight simulator experience. In other words, if you want the best joystick out there, for your flying adventures, you may be pretty sure that this device will do more than a great job.

To begin with, this pack offers a great ergonomic and fully modular design that, among others, allows you to swap any of the four head button modules. Moreover, it comes fitted with a built-in throttle, 28 programmable buttons (12 on the joystick and 16 on the throttle itself), as well as a very neat rudder control that is equipped with the locking mechanism, which allows you to lock it with a simple handle rotation.

The throttle itself comes with two navigational axes and offers multiple controls that allow for great usability and provide plenty of options during takeoff/landing, but more importantly, flight itself.

Thrustmaster TCA Officer Pack Airbus Edition is fully compatible with T.A.R.G.E.T Software; it is fitted with contactless magnetic sensor technology and overall provides a great flight experience that makes it a desirable option for everyone that wants to live through the civil aviation in the best possible way.

Pros:

• Modular design
• Excellent build quality
• Ambidextrous design
• Very good customization options
• Realistic performance

Cons:

• None

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Thrustmaster T.16000M FCS HOTAS

The Best Joystick for Star Citizen

At first glance, the Thrustmaster T.16000M looks like it belongs in a different tier than other stick-thruster combos with RGB lighting or metal frames. Well, it would be a mistake to overlook this flight stick if you like buttons and are looking for a HOTAS with hall-effect tech.

One of the highlights of this gaming joystick are the buttons along with the overall layout. Thrustmaster used a braille-style system which makes keys easy to identify and there are 16 of them placed strategically around the stick. It also has four independent axes along with a twist rudder. The comfortable low-profile throttle has an additional 14 buttons and an adjustable sliding rail system with 80mm of travel.

The Thrustmaster T.16000M may look a little cheap, but it feels good in the hand is sturdy although a bit light compared to similar combos. The button placement on the stick won’t be for everyone, but it’s perfect when you are playing games in VR.

Pros:

• 8-way POV hat
• Sliding rail tracks
• Mini analog stick

Cons:

• It’s light
• Button layout

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Gladiator NXT

A Perfect Flight Simulation Companion

If you are into flight simulations and want to experience and perform the air or space acrobatic stunts in the best possible way, Gladiator NXT joystick is the tool for you.

With this device, you are getting an excellent design, as well as a great build quality that together with a very good overall performance and the long list of features make Gladiator NXT one of the best joysticks available.

When talking about its characteristics, you should know that this device comes with a dual-action trigger; that it is fitted with seven, Japanese made, ALPS buttons (four on the grip and three on the base), as well as a throttle wheel and two rotary encoders. Moreover, there are also multiple programmable LEDs, gimbal mechanisms with three different spring levels, lockable twist axes, and much more.

As already mentioned, Gladiator NXT offers very good performance, in the level with Thrustmaster Warthog, if not better, and altogether brings a lot for its price, making it a pretty good deal out there. It is a solid option for HOSAS setups; it offers ease of use and basically has everything that the more demanding flight simulation enthusiasts might need. All in all, an excellent tool for incredible stunts is here.

Pros:

• Well-designed
• Good quality plastic
• Gimbal mechanism with three different spring levels
• Feature-rich
• Dual-action trigger
• Fairly priced

Cons:

• None

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VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Base and Grip

A Flight Simulation Must Have Tool

Virpil is a familiar brand in the flight simulation gaming, where it’s excellent quality products (grips, bases, throttles, etc.), with a high level of customization, have gained a large number of fans and followers and VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Base and VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Grip are no exception to that tradition, and have just continued that path of success and great quality products.

These two devices deliver great precision, excellent durability, and most importantly, impressive performance. Reasons for that are numerous and among other include metal design, sensor fidelity, as well as a ton of features that include stick mounted brake handle, characteristic for Eastern European aircraft, two-stage trigger, fold-down the trigger, numerous multiway hats, and much more.

How refined these two devices are, is probably the best shown by the fact that the VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Base unit includes 35 switches, three different pairs of springs (light, standard and heavy), as well as four types of cams that depending on the base use, can provide linear force or completely remove it from the equation.

T-50CM2 grip is made out of high-quality plastic and is very similar to the Sukhoi T-50 stealth fighter design. The base itself offers two external ports (USB and AUX) and is compatible with other manufacturer’s grips such as Thrustmaster Cougar, Warthog, etc. In other words, great customization options are guaranteed with this pair.

All in all, if the best flight simulation experience is what you are looking for, in the first place, VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Base and VPC MongoosT-50CM2 Grip are definitely the devices for you.

Pros:

• Very good customer support
• Excellent customization options
• Ergonomic
• Great performance
• Precise
• Durable
• Very good VPC Configuration Tool software

Cons:

• None

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Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One

One of the Best Budget-Friendly Joysticks Out There

Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One is an affordable and well-built flight controller that is compatible with both Windows and Xbox, offering a great range of use, and more importantly, a very good flight experience. Of course, you shouldn’t expect miracles, because this is still a cheap model, which means that certain sacrifices had to be made, and the whole feeling certainly isn’t as with the high-end models. However, you are getting an ergonomic design, adjustable resistance, as well as smooth gameplay, which is more than enough for any beginner, or occasional flight simulator fan.

Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One has a sturdy build and features a dual rudder system. Moreover, there is also the five-ax movement, 14 action buttons, as well as a dedicated trigger button, and a multidirectional HAT switch that brings great maneuverability.

Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One is a detachable system, with good customization options and overall good-quality build, which is more than enough for this class of device. Meaning, if you are looking for an affordable, yet still pretty decent HOTAS for your flight adventures, Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One is more than a good option.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Sturdy
• Adjustable resistance
• Smooth performance
• It can be used as a single device or two of them

Cons:

• Short cable
• Problematic button remapping

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Fly to Victory With the Best Joystick for PC Games

There’s nothing like a joystick and throttle set to make you feel more in control during a flight simulator or spacecraft game. Are you looking for a simplistic joystick or a more authentic model flight stick? Perhaps dual wielding joysticks may be your choice of arsenal? Whatever you like, there are options out there.

For a cheaper entry level joystick, the Logitech Extreme Pro 3D Joystick or Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X Flight Stick are affordable choices. For mid-tier joysticks and throttles, the Thrustmaster T.16000M FCS HOTAS and the CH Products Pro Throttle USB are both decent. For high-end enthusiast control options, you probably can’t beat the Saitek Pro Flight X-52 Rhino HOTAS or Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog Joystick (while they may be more difficult to get your hands on, they can provide a more immersive, dynamic experience).

If you’re a game and simulator enthusiast, you might already have a racing wheel for driving simulators, good PC controller or gaming keyboard for MOBAs and MMOs. If you’re hoping to conquer adversaries in the sky, the best gaming joystick for your playstyle will also feel right at home on your desk.