Thrustmaster T-Flight Stick X VERDICT

Cover the essentials and a little more on a budget

THRUSTMASTER $85

6While it’s tempting to drop hundreds on building a setup, the same fundamentals can come in significantly less. The Thrustmaster T-Flight Stick X is the proof, packing all the core functionality you need when sky-bound but available at a price that won’t dig into your savings. You can find this all-in-one joystick as low as $70, including a stick, throttle, and the buttons you need to take your experience beyond a keyboard and mouse.

The T-Flight Stick X has been on the market for a decade, but its dated hardware doesn’t fall short on the latest simulators. The stick will handle all essential control surfaces for flight, with relatively accurate input and adjustable resistance control. It also has 12 remappable buttons for primary controls, while its integrated throttle slider allows you to control speed. You even have a top-mounted hat switch for looking around Microsoft Flight Simulator’s stunning vistas.

The classic phrase “cheap and cheerful” best fits the T-Flight Stick X. While relatively durable, its all-plastic design isn’t winning awards. The stick dead zone also means this isn’t as precise as alternatives on this list, with smaller movements often not registered. It’s not going to blow you away, but it’s still hugely preferable over using a mouse and keyboard. But most of all, it costs less than most new games, while many budget alternatives remain out of stock.

If you call yourself a gamer but only rarely play games that need a joystick, this one is a great choice. You might be surprised at how useful these really are!

Affordable 90 Features all essential controls