Best controller for Flight Simulator?

[BigBadBaz]

Hi. I just bought Lock On: Modern Air Combat and I need a controller for it. I don't really know anything about joysticks/yokes, what to look for, what's considered goo, and I don't really even know much about flight simulators.

So my question is, what should I get? I don't care if it's a joystick or yoke, whatever's better. Although if I had to choose I'd probably say joystick with throttle. I don't even know enough to set a budget, so whatever you guys recommend and I'll decide from there.

One joystick which I thought is cool and seems to have a lot of nice functions is the Saitek X52 USB Flight Control Joystick, but I don't really know enough to know if it's any good.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

 

[diaz]

I just use a regular ol microsoft joystic from 5 years ago. Works great with flight simulator x, but I'd get an updated one if I was shopping for one...I'm thinking something with throttle and a couple thumb buttons..

-D

 

[JLK03F150]

I'm have never had a Saitek joystick so I don't know if they are reliable or not. That one does look nice though.

I've always been a fan of Logitech Wingman joysticks. I have an older Extreme 3D & an older Force 3D, both still going strong. Here's the current versions of each...
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...mpareItemList=N82E16826102204,N82E16826104049

 

[BigBadBaz]

Those Logitechs are cetainly cheaper, but I think I want something with a throttle.

Anyone have experience with the X52 or heard anything about it?

 

[BigBadBaz]

Bump

X52 vs. X52 Pro?

 

[grndragon57]

Both the X-52 and X-52 pro are good sticks. I use the X-52 and find it to be a very good stick for the Price. I've had my X-52 for almost two years and it is heavily used and Ive had no problems with it.

The major complaint I've heard about the X-52 is the spring tension being soft, it is softer than most sticks, but I don't find it to be a problem.

The ability to program the buttons for different profiles for different games is nice. I play IL-2, FSX, and FlightGear. The X-52 works well in all and I never have to touch the keyboard.

I went with the X-52 over the pro because it didn't seem to offer that much more for the extra cost.

 

[BigBadBaz]

Thanks for the reply.

I actually ordered the X52 Pro last night. One of the reasons I went for the pro is because they supposedly fixed the tension problem. Also because I like the looks better.

Thanks for all the help!!

 

[Joeteck]

I have the X52 and it is awesome, I also have all of those flight games. Heck I built a flight chair!

 

[Madef]

I prefer the thrustmaster cougar, I have an x52 and a cougar, and the x52 is sitting in the closet.
HOTAS Cougar

 

[BigBadBaz]

Thanks, that thing looks seriously messed up.

I actually already got the X52 Pro. It's a pretty cool controller but I am still working on setting up the controls for HOTAS. Unfortunately I can't find any X52 Pro profiles for LOMAC, so I'm trying to set it up for myself. Not so easy for a complete newbie. :

I also can't believe how many controls there are to fly in a simulator!! I guess it's closer to reality now.

 

[Madef]

Yep, the joystick and throttle each weigh about 8 pounds, I like the all metal construction. even the buttons are metal.
Try some of the flight sim forums. You can try cougar world (although it's for the cougar) I recall seeing posts for the siatek x52 posted there. Also check the official saitek forum.