Fly High with the Best PC Flight Controls
-
Logitech G Saitek PRO PC Flight Control -
Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog PC Flight Control -
Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S Throttle & PC Flight Control -
Thrustmaster FCS HOTAS PC Flight Control -
Logitech G Saitek PRO PC Flight Control
Flight control devices are designed to let you control flight simulators and similar programs with as much realistic detail as possible. In addition to these controllers, you can also purchase foot pedals, dashboard switches, and other hardware to complete the simulation experience. Initially, it’s best to focus on just the best control devices offering an overall realistic look and feel. The number of buttons and similar options are important since these devices fully replace a mouse and keyboard while playing a game or enjoying a simulation. Yokes and sticks are the two primary types of flight controls available and you can find excellent examples of both designs from a variety of manufacturers.
We’ve chosen the following as the best PC flight controls in 2022 because they offer realistic flight simulation and gameplay thanks to designs that authentically mimic the controls of an actual airplane. Both yokes and flight sticks are included, and these models have at least nine programmable buttons and switches to give you the most authentic experience currently possible. With a little guidance we've supplied to you in this guide, we trust that you will find the best flight control for your future flight simulations.
Comparing the Best PC Flight Controls of 2022
Logitech G Saitek PRO PC Flight Control - Best PC Flight Control Overall
Although there are a number of great flight control devices on the market, this one is arguably the best yoke-design model. While most of this controller is made from plastic, it has a stainless steel main shaft to ensure durability and keep it operating reliably for a long time. You get 25 buttons on the main controllers which are all programmable with the included software from Saitek, while the yoke itself has axis controls for elevation and aileron control.
The hat switch is perfect for POV control within the cockpit of your simulation or flight game. The separate three lever controller for throttle let you easily control your wing flaps and prop pitch, plus you can mount it in any location at your desk. The yoke connects to a simulation module that includes 10 flight instrument panels which relay different information while playing a flight simulator. These panels include gauges such as airspeed and attitude indicators, an altimeter, and engine gauges. All of this comes together to create a remarkable simulation of flying an airplane.
Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog PC Flight Control - Runner Up
This is probably one of the best flight control sticks on the market, combining a great overall design with a multitude of input buttons to flesh out your flight simulation experience. If you're interested in a realistic experience while flying a commercial airliner in a simulation, then you'll probably prefer a controller with a "yoke" design. However, for a flight stick which simulates action in a jet fighter or similar vehicle, this is a great option.
The stick is sturdy and well-built, with a comfortable design and 17 buttons. It also includes magnetic sensors and a solid coil spring for great responsiveness and control.An eight way POV hat control gives you a cockpit view in a game or simulator as well as two other eight way hats, a four way hat, trigger, and four other programmable buttons. The included control panel provides throttle control and 15 additional buttons and switches so you don't need a mouse or keyboard.
Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S Throttle & PC Flight Control - Honorable Mention
There's definitely a lot to like about this flight control stick, starting with its axis sensors and adjustable force requirements. You can choose from four different springs which control how much pressure is needed on the stick which itself features multiple buttons, two hats, and a trigger. There's also a separate thrust control unit which has two thrust controls for dual-engine fighters, although you can lock them together for single-engine jets.
There are numerous buttons and switches on the thrust controller, giving you total freedom from a mouse and keyboard, plus a backlit throttle base for easy readability in any setup. The flight stick and thrust control are both durably built and easy to put away when they’re not in use. It's a pretty tough call between this flight stick and the Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog, so your own personal preference will probably determine which model is better for you.
Thrustmaster FCS HOTAS PC Flight Control - Consider
The cost of a flight stick can be a serious barrier to someone interested in trying out this type of controller for the first time. However, with this model you can experience a quality flight stick without breaking the bank. The flight stick has dual sensitivity for both twisting and pushing it in any direction and is very accurate, plus it has adjustable resistance so you can get it just right for you. The throttle is detachable, ergonomic, and large enough for a realistic feel along with 12 programmable buttons.
The hat control is perfect for panoramic view and the included trigger can be used for brakes in a commercial simulation or to fire weapons in a military title. The weighted base helps keep the stick stable during use, and this pick has a large hand rest for operator comfort in even the most intense flight situations. While this model works perfectly with a PC, it’s also compatible with the Playstation 4 video game system and includes buttons specifically for use with a PS4.
Logitech G Saitek PRO PC Flight Control - Best PC Flight Control
If you’re interested in a simulated Cessna flight experience, then this is probably the best option currently available, though it’s still a great choice for general use. It includes a 1:1 scale replica of the yoke found in Cessna’s light aircraft, offering an incredibly accurate experience for simulated Cessna flight. The yoke offers a 180 degree turn radius, 90 degrees in either direction, which makes banked turns easy.
A stainless steel shaft offers excellent durability and stability, plus the yoke includes an eight way hat switch, a three-position switch, two programmable buttons, and three rocker switches. This yoke also provides a three-lever flight throttle which makes it easy to control thrust, flaps, and other flight systems. Three two-way rocker switches are included with the throttle quadrant, and both the throttle quadrant and yoke include clamps to secure them onto a desk or other surface for great stability during use.