Which joystick is best for PC gaming and flight simulators?

[charlesrich]

I’m searching for a good joystick for racing games and flight sims. What brands or models offer the best precision, build quality, and compatibility?

 

[AnnP111966]

If you really want precision + long term build quality, I’d go for something like a HOTAS setup from Thrustmaster the T.16000M FCS or even the Warthog HOTAS (if you don’t mind spending more). The T.16000M is often recommended because it’s accurate enough for flight sims + versatile enough for racing games. Build feels solid. And drivers are stable on PC.

 

[jimmy]

I’m more on a budget, so I picked up Logitech extreme 3D pro a while ago. For the price it punches way above its weight. For casual flight simming or racing, it’s more than enough. Sure, it’s not ultra-premium metal or anything, but it does the job and for the money, can’t complain.

 

[TaylorTravels]

If you want something that doesn’t break the bank but still gives you reliable control and good precision, Thrustmaster T‑16000M FCS HOTAS Controller is a solid pick. I fly combat sims and sometimes use it for racing games it works well in both. It’s lighter than Warthog (so less “cockpit vibe”) but way better control than the cheap stuff. Great for someone who wants balance.

 

[Emmawoods]

Look, if you really want to feel like you’re piloting a jet and you don’t care about spending big get the Warthog (or anything close). Spending a few hours with a soft joystick after that feels… depressing. If you’re serious about sims, don’t cheap out. Mid-range stuff is okay for casual games but don’t expect “real feeling” in intense dogfights.

 

[captainghost]

People forget it matters what kind of games you actually play. If you only occasionally hop into a flight sim or want something for arcade-style flying / racing, a lighter joystick (or even a controller/gamepad) could do just fine. But if you want immersion, realism, precise control (like in sim-racing or flight), then going for something built for realism Warthog or T-16000M is worth it. Don’t ignore how much time you spend flying.