Getting a new stick, which is best?

[Sel94]

I'm finally upgrading from a Saitek AV8R, and I thought I'd ask which stick is best for FC2. I was thinking the X-52, but please recommend anything better. It doesn't have to be cheap, but I would prefer to stay under $200. Thanks.

[SAM77]

Got an X52 Pro.

Had it for 2.5 years and mainly used it for IL2 before DCS came out.

Works great for me.

Still functions well except for the rotaries on the throttle which need a deadzone.

 

After 2.5 years it is still very usable and reliable enough for me. I consider myself not heavy handed but in IL2 I really really worked the joystick so while it is a lil stiff it still works great and needs no deadzone adjustment for X Y and Z axis.

 

Only one of my rotaries needs a deadzone and thats my only gripe with it after 2.5 years

 

I would say get the X 52 PRO as it is a cheap and somewhat reliable entry into the HOTAS world.

 

I need to replace my X52 Pro but I would only get a TM Warthog to replace it with.

The other HOTAS cost more than a X52PRO and from what i can gather I dont think the gaming experience is that much better to justify the extra $$$$ for anything other than a TM Warthog.

 

Hope that helps

[Deigs]

I agree with everything SAM77 has said. The X52 Pro is what I would buy in that $200ish price bracket and have been using it for about 2 years now. I love the functionality of the X52 Pro and the only thing I would even dream of replacing it with would be the HOTAS Warthog and I think when I jump to the Warthog later this year I'm going to miss the large amount of buttons I have access too.

 

If it broke tomorrow. I would buy another one, hands down the best asset in my sim hardware.

[happyslayeruk]

Another vote for the X52 Pro here. I've had mine for 2 years and not had a problem with it yet.

I love the MFD when using it during FSX being able to control the AP,Nav and Comms without having to open the radio panel is great. I wish somebody with the skills could do something with the MFD for FC2 as some have with F4 and IL-2.

The programming SW is great too, if a little daunting at first.

[Sel94]

I guess it's settled then, I'll get the X52 Pro. Thanks for all the info.

[MTFDarkEagle]

Yep, agreed on the x52 pro.

[Boulund]

I case you need another push I also agree on the X52 Pro :D

[531-Ghost]

Personally, if it were me and I was looking for the most programable Joystick / HOTAS on the planet, I'd go with CH Products.

[Squid_DK]

Personally, if it were me and I was looking for the most programable Joystick / HOTAS on the planet, I'd go with CH Products.

 

Having used CH products for more or less since the gameport fighterstick got available I have toi agree, they are etremely good quality controllers, and affordable, and as an extra bonus the software is exceptionally easy to use. I never had any issues with any CH gear, and I currently use the Fighterstick, Pro Throttle, Pro Pedals and Throttle quadrant. (All USB and running via externally powered USB hub.

 

Staffan

[Feuerfalke]

+1 to the two posts above.

 

CH has a decent and longliving hardware and nice programming software, that is suited for quick programming as well as complex scripting.

 

As Danish_Squid already posted, they also come in single controllers, so you can decide yourself, which stick or throttle you want.

 

If you want it a bit more luxurious (and more expensive), I recommend to wait for the Thrustmaster Warthog.

[Squid_DK]

To follow up, I have decided to try the Warthog HOTAS, I really want a dual throttle both for DCS/FC2 but also for FSX. And I guess I could come up with some programming for Steel Beasts Pro PE.

 

Staffan

[Succellus]

CH is very good, i used my pro pedald for 3 years when they started spiking.

Changed the pots and rewired to have toe break, the hick was the fact they where too clse toghether. The FX pro (FF joy) lasted 3 years too, which is very good for an oldd FF joy.

So CH althought ugly is reliable and have a good durability.

But i changed to cougar and i have no problem with then also, i m looking for the Warthog somewhere next year. I prefer to have a lot of little white rats to work and squeak their opinions if its worth or not to switch my hall modded cougar.

Never used saitek so i can t compare.

[Steel Jaw]

I have the x52 pro and the cougar. programming for the cougar is superior.