This is my "history" of building my virtual cockpit. I started with the low priced + low fidelity (not every button works) like the F-15C, MiG-29, Su-33, and A-10A (basically under $15 per plane but 50% off on Steam sales). Watched a few vids and realized my 15y old Saitek Cyborg Gold USB is pathetic so initially started investing for an acceptable HOTAS (ie. Logitech X56 Rhino). Watched some videos where TrackIR is very handy (about $150 in Amazon) for looking around and keeping visual tracking on target(s). Bought rudder pedals eventually for easier steering. BONUS: there is an F-4E and F-22A community mods that are free provided you have required module (F-22A requires F-15C).
Worry the about the other DLCs later on (unless you have the moolah). The HOTAS and TrackIR makes it easier to fly. Remembering the "How To" from plane to plane is a different story. Also provided link to Key Caps of "Grimm Reapers" from YouTube to ease HOTAS configuration.
Key Caps: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1g7op9YxNbWi8fogam0tK0yer1rRCLe7A
Happy flying!