Flying in general is far more intuitive - the stick gives great feedback and better precision for manoeuvring.

For what it's worth I have the Thrustmaster Warthog, here are some thoughts on switching to a HOTAS setup from KB/Mouse: Potentially slightly off topic (as its about switching to a HOTAS rather than the gear itself) but - It's definitely worth trying. Although there are many people out there who rave about the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro, a few trusted friends have told me that they really struggled with it. The Saitek FLY 5 looks like a good option, but I'm worried it would tip over.

The Thrustmaster T.16000M is supposed to be a great sub-$100 joystick (technically speaking), but design-wise it looks clunky and the button placement is less than ideal (both on the stick and on the base). I really like the look of CH products and with my $100 price limit I could probably pick up a Combatstick, but can I use this as is? Without the twist in the joystick, how would I roll? Therefore this price limit removes the X52 Pro, X55 and Warthog from contention for now. If I really get into using a a joystick/HOTAS, I'm happy to spend big when PU launches. As I don't really know whether I'll be able to adjust to it, I would like to set a price limit of $100 on whatever I buy.

If the X52 is not a good option and people want to suggest something else, I have been doing a lot of research online (of both standalone joysticks and HOTAS setups) and have had the following thoughts: However, major design flaws or shoddy build quality are definitely a concern for me. Never having used a HOTAS before, I will probably not be as discerning as most people, so slight imperfections will probably not bother me.

The X52 has very mixed reviews, so I am quite unsure about whether or not to purchase it. If anyone currently owns an X52 or has extensive experience with HOTAS in general, I would love to hear your opinions. Would an X52 be a good option for someone new to the whole joystick/HOTAS setup? I have been able to find a second-hand Saitek X52 in great condition for around $100 (a new one from the cheapest store + delivery would cost $170 in Australia). I've never used a joystick or HOTAS before in my life, but I'm looking to take the plunge for SC.

Saitek x52 pro star citizen profile map