The Flight Simulator reboot has been taking off with players around the world, and with good reason. The game literally puts you into the cockpit in one of the most realistic experiences to date.
With the entire world at your disposal, Flight Simulator 2020 offers a realistic piloting experience designed to test your skills against real-time weather and traffic systems in a dynamic world.
And now, with the sim finally on Xbox Series X/S, console owners have a chance to see exactly why the title has legions of fans around the world.
To get you prepped and ready for take-off, we've put together our top picks for the best Flight Sim controllers- including budget, high end, and Xbox Series X compatible options.
So whether you're looking for a marvellous all-round choice with the Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog or a brilliant yoke controller with the Logitech G Saitek PRO, we've got you covered.
Best Controllers, Flight Sticks and Joysticks for Flight Simulator
- Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One
- Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog
- Thrustmaster TCA Yoke PACK Boeing Edition
- Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Yoke System
- Thrustmaster T. Flight HOTAS X
- Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick
- (Add-on) Thrustmaster TCA Quadrant Add-On Airbus Edition
Best Xbox Series X Compatible Flight Controller - Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One
click to enlarge
+ 7If you're looking to experience Flight Sim to the fullest on Xbox Series S/X this Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One could be a great call.
Ergonomic design. adjustable handle resistance, and wide and comfortable hand-rest combine, plus 14 action buttons make this a versatile piece of equipment for both Flight Sim and a number of other titles too.
For a great all rounder, you really can't go wrong here.
Best Flight Controller - Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog
click to enlarge + 7The Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog offers the full Flight Simulator experience, being a replica of the setup used in a U.S. Air Force A-10C attack aircraft. This stick and throttles control setup gives the most immersive Flight Sim experience possible and is in a class of its own.
The joystick features 19 action buttons, while the control panel includes a further 15 plus five Best Yoke Controller - Logitech G Saitek PRO
Thrustmaster TCA Yoke PACK Boeing Edition (Xbox Series X, PC)
click to enlarge + 7This officially licensed Boeying yoke and throttle quadrant is a must have for any rig.
It's a 1:1 replica inspired by the iconic Boeing 787 airliner and boasts immersive features such as a suspended pendul_r mechanism.
This is the kind of setup that will make you feel like you're in the real thing, and better yet, it works with both Xbox and PC.
Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Yoke System
click to enlarge + 7If you prefer using a yoke/wheel when playing flight simulators, look no further than the Logitech G Pro Flight Yoke System.
This setup includes a total of 25 programmable buttons and switch positions, allowing you to fine-tune your virtual cockpit however you like.
The pro-grade Logitech controller features a stainless steel elevator and control shaft, creating a durable setup designed to last for years to come.
Best Budget Controller - Thrustmaster T. Flight HOTAS
click to enlarge + 7If you want a proper HOTAS control system without spending almost £400, Thrustmaster also has the T. Flight HOTAS X, often referred to as the best flight control for those on a budget.
The T. Flight HOTAS X is perfect for those who want to plug in and play without worrying about fine-tuning. It features a detachable throttle, high-precision joystick, weighted base, wide hand rest and internal memory.
For just under £100, it's an absolute steal for a Thrustmaster control setup.
Best Affordable Joystick - Logitech Extreme 3D Pro
click to enlarge + 7If you just want the bare-bones setup without throttles or complex control panels, check out the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro joystick.
The precision twist rudder control gives you all the accuracy you need, while a comfortable hand grip ensures you stay happy the whole flight. With 12 programmable buttons and an 8-way hat switch, there are plenty of customisation options available.
Best Add On - Thrustmaster TCA Quadrant Add-On Airbus Edition (T.A.R.G.E.T Software) Compatible with PC (Windows 8)
click to enlarge + 7There are a load of additional pieces of gear you can add on to your existing controls, and this Thrustmaster TCA Quadrant Add-On Airbus Edition is yet another way to transform your setup to give an even more immersive and realistic experience.
The controls include trim, landing gear, auto brake and parking brake., and as usual there are a ton of programmable buttons and virtual buttons too.
You've even got 10 non-slip feet so there's little chance of this moving around on your desk or table.
A worthy addition!
Get Microsoft Flight Simulator
Of course, all of these products are irrelevant unless you buy the game.
Microsoft Flight Simulator's Standard Edition is available now from the Microsoft Store for £59.99, and it can also be played via Game Pass, which can be bought here, and you can also purchase it on physical media, although it does require ten separate discs to install...
The Deluxe Edition, which can be bought here, includes five additional airports and five additional planes.
The Premium Deluxe Edition includes everything from the Deluxe Edition, as well as five more airports and additional planes.
For more articles like this, take a look at our Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and Deals page.