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10 Best Microsoft Flight Simulator Controls 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flight Universal Control System - Xbox Series X & Xbox Series S, Xbox One & Windows 10 & 11 PCs with Yoke Handle, Throttle Quadrant, Trim Wheel & Rudder Controls

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,414
Type of Controls
Build Quality
Programmable Buttons

Most important from
2323 reviews

Type of Controls
This yoke and throttle combo is a must-have for the budget-minded flight sim player, offering a realistic experience that's far superior to a joystick setup.
Build Quality
The hall effect sensors on the yoke promise long-lasting durability, making it a worthwhile investment.
Programmable Buttons
It's totally programmable with default settings for popular flight simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, enhancing the overall experience.
Compatibility
The initial setup for prop and fuel mixture controls might be a bit challenging, but you can start flying and using many controls right out of the box.

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flight Universal Control System is a comprehensive setup designed for flight simulation enthusiasts. It includes a yoke handle, throttle quadrant, trim wheel, and rudder controls, making it an all-in-one solution. The 180° yoke handle with a non-contact hall effect sensor ensures precise control and durability. The modular throttle quadrant with customizable lever handles and buttons allows for a tailored experience, enhancing realism and immersion.

Users will appreciate the 12 analog axes and a variety of switches, providing ample control options for a nuanced flying experience. The integrated rudder and brake controls at your fingertips add convenience and improve the control experience. The full-color flight management display and authentic status indicator panel for PC contribute to a detailed and engaging setup process. This system is compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 & 11 PCs, supporting popular titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024, making it versatile for multiple platforms.

Weighing 10 pounds and with dimensions of 19.01 x 7.2 x 19.5 inches, it may require a substantial amount of desk space. The secure clamping system helps ensure stability across various home setups. However, it's worth noting that the product lacks force feedback, which might be a downside for users seeking a more tactile, immersive experience. Users should consider their space requirements and the absence of force feedback when deciding if this control system meets their needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,414
Type of Controls
Build Quality
Programmable Buttons

Most important from
2323 reviews

Type of Controls
This yoke and throttle combo is a must-have for the budget-minded flight sim player, offering a realistic experience that's far superior to a joystick setup.
Build Quality
The hall effect sensors on the yoke promise long-lasting durability, making it a worthwhile investment.
Programmable Buttons
It's totally programmable with default settings for popular flight simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, enhancing the overall experience.
Compatibility
The initial setup for prop and fuel mixture controls might be a bit challenging, but you can start flying and using many controls right out of the box.
#2

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck Universal HOTAS Simulation System Joystick & Throttle for Air & Space Combat Simulation For Windows 10 & 11 PCs – Touch Display & Buttons, 139 Programmable Controls

Rating
9.7
Build Quality
Type of Controls
Programmable Buttons

Most important from
2113 reviews

Build Quality
The build quality feels premium and solid, delivering a robust and satisfying tactile experience across buttons, switches, and controls.
Type of Controls
The joystick grip is ergonomically designed with adjustable height, comfortably fitting a wide range of hand sizes.
Programmable Buttons
An extensive number of programmable buttons and switches provide exceptional customization for complex flight simulations.
Force Feedback
The absence of traditional force feedback may disappoint users seeking a more tactile, realistic flight feel.
Compatibility
While the system excels in supported games like Elite Dangerous and Star Wars: Squadrons, the limited compatibility with many titles restricts its broader usability.

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck is a solid choice for flight simulation fans, especially those interested in air and space combat games on Windows PCs. This system combines a joystick and throttle with 139 programmable buttons, which is excellent for customizing controls exactly how you want. The world’s first flight touch display and customizable OLED Head Up Display offer unique visual feedback that can enhance your experience.

Its contactless Hall-Effect controls make for precise and durable input, while the adjustable stick height and haptic throttle detent let you tailor the feel to your hand size and preferences. The build feels sturdy and solid, weighing over 9 pounds, so it won’t feel cheap or flimsy. It supports multi-zone RGB lighting and has audio enhancements for any headset with a 3.5mm jack, adding to immersion.

Compatibility is focused on Windows 10 and 11, which covers most PC users but excludes consoles or Mac. One possible downside is the absence of traditional force feedback, which some flight sim enthusiasts expect for a more realistic feel. The large number of buttons and customization options may also be overwhelming if you’re new to flight sims, but the included Flight Hangar app helps manage this. This makes it a well-built, feature-rich setup ideal for serious and hobbyist pilots who want extensive control and customization on PC.

Rating
9.7
Build Quality
Type of Controls
Programmable Buttons

Most important from
2113 reviews

Build Quality
The build quality feels premium and solid, delivering a robust and satisfying tactile experience across buttons, switches, and controls.
Type of Controls
The joystick grip is ergonomically designed with adjustable height, comfortably fitting a wide range of hand sizes.
Programmable Buttons
An extensive number of programmable buttons and switches provide exceptional customization for complex flight simulations.
Force Feedback
The absence of traditional force feedback may disappoint users seeking a more tactile, realistic flight feel.
Compatibility
While the system excels in supported games like Elite Dangerous and Star Wars: Squadrons, the limited compatibility with many titles restricts its broader usability.
#3

Logitech G PRO Flight Yoke System, Professional Simulation Yoke and Throttle Quadrant, 3 Modes, 75 Programmable Controls, Configurable Knobs, Steel Shaft, USB, PC - Black

Rating
8.5
Type of Controls
Build Quality
Programmable Buttons

Most important from
2777 reviews

Type of Controls
The Logitech G PRO Flight Yoke System delivers exceptional accuracy and realism for its price, making it a solid choice for flight simulation enthusiasts.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive, with a steel shaft and sturdy construction that enhance the overall experience.
Programmable Buttons
With 75 programmable buttons and customizable knobs, the system offers great flexibility for various aircraft functions.
Compatibility
The setup is straightforward with USB connectivity, making it easy to integrate into any PC-based flight simulation setup.

The Logitech G PRO Flight Yoke System stands out as a strong choice for both novice pilots and seasoned flight simulation enthusiasts. Its realistic yoke design helps users develop their piloting skills, making it a great addition for anyone looking to immerse themselves in flight simulation. One of the biggest advantages is the stainless steel shaft, which enhances durability and ensures smooth, accurate control, crucial for a realistic flying experience.

With 75 programmable controls available through its various buttons and configurable knobs, this system allows users to customize their setup to suit a wide range of aircraft functions. This level of customization can greatly enhance the experience, especially for those who like to delve into detailed flight simulations.

The product also features a solid build quality, including a robust desk clamp that provides stability during use, ensuring that the yoke stays securely in place while flying. Compatibility with PC systems means that it can be easily integrated into a home simulation setup, which is another strong point.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the product offers numerous programmable buttons, the learning curve might be steep for complete beginners, as they might need some time to figure out how to set everything up properly. Additionally, the yoke's size and weight may not be suitable for all desk setups, particularly if space is limited or if users prefer a more portable option.

Rating
8.5
Type of Controls
Build Quality
Programmable Buttons

Most important from
2777 reviews

Type of Controls
The Logitech G PRO Flight Yoke System delivers exceptional accuracy and realism for its price, making it a solid choice for flight simulation enthusiasts.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive, with a steel shaft and sturdy construction that enhance the overall experience.
Programmable Buttons
With 75 programmable buttons and customizable knobs, the system offers great flexibility for various aircraft functions.
Compatibility
The setup is straightforward with USB connectivity, making it easy to integrate into any PC-based flight simulation setup.

Buying Guide for the Best Microsoft Flight Simulator Controls

Choosing the right controls for Microsoft Flight Simulator can greatly enhance your gaming experience. The right controls can make the difference between a smooth, immersive flight and a frustrating one. When selecting flight simulator controls, it's important to consider your level of experience, the type of aircraft you prefer to fly, and the level of realism you want to achieve. Here are some key specifications to consider when making your choice.
Type of ControlsThe type of controls you choose is crucial as it determines how you interact with the simulator. Common types include yokes, joysticks, and HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) systems. Yokes are typically used for flying commercial and general aviation aircraft, providing a realistic experience for those types of planes. Joysticks are more versatile and can be used for a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets. HOTAS systems offer a high level of control and are ideal for those looking to simulate military or advanced aircraft. Choose the type that aligns with the aircraft you enjoy flying the most.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the controls. High-quality materials like metal and high-grade plastics ensure durability and a more realistic feel. Controls with better build quality tend to last longer and provide a more immersive experience. If you are a frequent flyer in the simulator, investing in a well-built control system can be beneficial. For casual users, a mid-range build quality might suffice.
Number of AxesAxes refer to the directions in which the controls can move. More axes allow for more precise control over the aircraft. Basic joysticks might have three axes (pitch, roll, and yaw), while more advanced systems can have additional axes for throttle, rudder, and other controls. If you are looking for a more realistic and detailed flying experience, opt for controls with more axes. Beginners might find fewer axes easier to manage initially.
Programmable ButtonsProgrammable buttons allow you to customize your controls to suit your flying style. These buttons can be assigned to various functions such as landing gear, flaps, and other aircraft systems. Having more programmable buttons can enhance your control and efficiency during flights. If you prefer a highly customized setup, look for controls with a higher number of programmable buttons. For those who prefer simplicity, fewer buttons might be more manageable.
Force FeedbackForce feedback provides tactile sensations that mimic the forces experienced in real flight, such as turbulence and resistance. This feature can significantly enhance the realism of your flight simulation experience. If you are looking for the most immersive experience possible, controls with force feedback are a great choice. However, they tend to be more expensive and may not be necessary for casual users.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to how well the controls work with your computer and the flight simulator software. Ensure that the controls you choose are compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator and your operating system. Some controls may require additional drivers or software to function properly. Checking compatibility beforehand can save you from potential headaches and ensure a smooth setup process.

FAQ