Best Joysticks/ HOTAS for Elite Dangerous (2023)

Elite Dangerous is a popular space simulation game that offers players the chance to explore the vast galaxy and engage in thrilling combat, trade, and exploration. This game is set in a vast open-world galaxy where players can explore, trade, and engage in combat with other players and computer-controlled ships. It features a realistic representation of the Milky Way galaxy, with over 400 billion star systems to explore and interact with. Players can upgrade and customize their ships and participate in a variety of missions and activities, including mining, bounty hunting, and piracy. Elite Dangerous is known for its stunning graphics, immersive gameplay, and endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Many players choose a specialized flight stick, also known as a HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick), to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Why a good flight stick/HOTAS is important for Elite Dangerous:

Elite Dangerous is a space simulation game that requires players to fly and control their spacecraft in a vast and open world. The game offers players a high degree of control over their ship, and it is imperative to have a good flight stick to make the experience more enjoyable and immersive. In this essay, we will discuss the importance of a good HOTAS in Elite Dangerous and why it is an essential tool for players who are serious about the game.

The first and most obvious reason why a good HOTAS is important is that it provides more control over the ship. A HOTAS allows players to make fine adjustments to the ship’s trajectory, speed, and orientation, which are crucial for maneuvering and avoiding obstacles. It also allows players to execute complex flight patterns and movements that are not possible with a mouse and keyboard. The stick’s precision and sensitivity make it easier to fly the ship in a smooth and controlled manner, which is especially important in combat situations where players need to react quickly to enemy fire.

A solid HOTAS is vital since it improves the immersion of the game as a whole. Players get a sense of being in a real spaceship thanks to the game’s wide world and realistic physics model. The tactile feedback from the HOTAS adds to the immersion and realism of the game. Players can actually feel how the ship moves and reacts, increasing immersion and fun.

Combat is another aspect of Elite Dangerous that requires a good flight stick. Players engage in dogfights with enemy ships, and the stakes can be high. In these situations, precise control over the ship is critical, and a good flight stick provides players with the necessary level of control. The stick’s sensitivity and precision allow players to make quick movements, which are essential for evading enemy fire and engaging in dogfights. The stick’s tactile feedback also allows players to feel the movements of their ship, which can increase the level of immersion and make the experience more engaging.

Finally, a good flight stick can be a personal investment that improves the overall gaming experience. Players who take this game seriously will value the precision and control take this game seriously will value the amount of precision and control that a decent flight stick/HOTAS offers. Additionally, it creates a physical link between the player and their virtual spacecraft, which can enhance the overall game experience. For gamers who intend to spend a lot of time playing Elite Dangerous, a solid flight stick is also a wise investment because it can lower the danger of repetitive stress injuries, which are frequent when using a mouse and keyboard for prolonged periods of time.

In conclusion, a good flight stick is also an investment that can increase the overall enjoyment of the game and reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries. Players who are serious about Elite Dangerous will appreciate the level of control and precision that a good flight stick provides, and they will find that it makes the experience more enjoyable and immersive.

In this article will look at some of the best elite dangerous flight sticks available on the market.

Best HOTAS for Elite Dangerous (Editors Choice)

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The Thrustmaster T16000M FCS Hotas is a HOTAS and throttle set designed for use with space simulation games such as Elite Dangerous. Here are some of its key specifications:

1. Dual Analog Stick: The T16000M FCS Hotas features two analog sticks that offer a high level of precision and control. The sticks are also ambidextrous, making them suitable for both left and right-handed players.

2. Hall Effect AccuRate Technology: This technology provides a high level of precision and stability, ensuring that the sticks respond accurately to player movements. The technology also provides a lifespan of over 50 million operations.

3. H.E.A.R.T. Magnetic Sensors: The T16000M FCS Hotas uses magnetic sensors to provide players with a high level of precision and stability, ensuring that their movements are accurately reflected in the game.

4. Dual Throttle System: The T16000M FCS Hotas features a dual throttle system that provides players with a high level of control over their spacecraft’s speed and orientation. The system is also ambidextrous, making it suitable for both left and right-handed players.
5. 16-Bit Resolution: The T16000M FCS Hotas features a 16-bit resolution, which provides a high level of precision and control over player movements. This resolution ensures that players can execute complex movements and patterns with ease.

6. 16 Action Buttons and 4 Switches: The T16000M FCS Hotas features 16 action buttons and 4 switches, providing players with a high level of control and customization options. The buttons and switches can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

7. Ergonomic Design: The T16000M FCS Hotas is designed for comfort and ergonomics, ensuring that players can use it for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.

8. Compatibility: The T16000M FCS Hotas is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10. It is also compatible with the T.A.R.G.E.T. software, which allows players to customize the control system and create macros.

Overall, the Thrustmaster T16000M FCS Hotas is a high-quality flight stick and throttle set that provides players with a high level of control, precision, and customization options in Elite Dangerous and other space simulation games. Its hall effect technology, dual analog sticks, and dual throttle system provide players with a high level of control and immersion, making it an essential tool for serious players.

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The Logitech G X52 Pro is a HOTAS designed for use with space simulation games such as Elite Dangerous. Here are some of its key specifications:

1. Dual-Spring Mechanism: The Logitech G X52 Pro features a dual-spring mechanism that provides players with a high level of resistance and control, ensuring that their movements are accurately reflected in the game.

2. RGB Backlit Buttons: The X52 Pro features RGB backlit buttons that can be customized to match players’ preferences. This feature makes it easier for players to find and use the buttons they need during gameplay.

3. Adjustable Handle Height: The handle height on the X52 Pro can be adjusted, allowing players to customize the stick to their preferred position. This feature helps to reduce hand fatigue and discomfort during extended gameplay sessions.

4. Precision Targeting: The X52 Pro features a precision targeting button that provides players with a high level of accuracy when aiming at targets in the game. This button can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

5. Ergonomic Design: The X52 Pro is designed for comfort and ergonomics, ensuring that players can use it for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.

6. Compatibility: The X52 Pro is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10. It is also compatible with Logitech’s Gaming Software, which allows players to customize the control system and create macros.

7. Cable Management System: The X52 Pro features a cable management system that helps to reduce clutter and keep cables organized. This feature makes it easier for players to set up and use the stick, as well as making it easier to store when not in use.

Overall, the Logitech G X52 Pro is a high-quality HOTAS that provides players with a high level of control, precision, and customization options in Elite Dangerous and other space simulation games. Its dual-spring mechanism, RGB backlit buttons, and adjustable handle height make it an essential tool for serious players. Its compatibility with Logitech’s Gaming Software and its cable management system make it a convenient and user-friendly option for players of all levels.

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The Saitek X-55 Rhino is a flight stick and throttle set designed for use with space simulation games such as Elite Dangerous. Here are some of its key specifications:

1. Dual Analog Sticks: The X-55 Rhino features two analog sticks that offer a high level of precision and control. The sticks are also ambidextrous, making them suitable for both left and right-handed players.

2. Dual Throttle System: The X-55 Rhino features a dual throttle system that provides players with a high level of control over their spacecraft’s speed and orientation. The system is also ambidextrous, making it suitable for both left and right-handed players.

3. 15 Buttons and 3 Switches: The X-55 Rhino features 15 buttons and 3 switches, providing players with a high level of control and customization options. The buttons and switches can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

4. 5-Position Handle Adjustment: The handle on the X-55 Rhino can be adjusted to five different positions, allowing players to customize the stick to their preferred position. This feature helps to reduce hand fatigue and discomfort during extended gameplay sessions.

5. Precision Targeting: The X-55 Rhino features a precision targeting button that provides players with a high level of accuracy when aiming at targets in the game. This button can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

6. Ergonomic Design: The X-55 Rhino is designed for comfort and ergonomics, ensuring that players can use it for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.

7. Compatibility: The X-55 Rhino is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10. It is also compatible with Saitek’s Smart Technology (SST) software, which allows players to customize the control system and create macros.

Overall, the Saitek X-55 Rhino is a high-quality flight stick and throttle set that provides players with a high level of control, precision, and customization options in Elite Dangerous and other space simulation games. Its dual analog sticks and dual throttle system provide players with a high level of control and immersion, making it an essential tool for serious players. Its compatibility with Saitek’s Smart Technology software and its ergonomic design makes it a convenient and user-friendly option for players of all levels.

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The Thrustmaster Warthog is a high-end flight stick designed for use with space simulation games such as Elite Dangerous. Here are some of its key specifications:

1. Dual Throttle System: The Warthog features a dual throttle system that provides players with a high level of control over their spacecraft’s speed and orientation. The system is also ambidextrous, making it suitable for both left and right-handed players.

2. Metal Construction: The Warthog is built with metal components, providing it with a high level of durability and a solid feel during gameplay.

3. 19 Action Buttons: The Warthog features 19 action buttons, providing players with a high level of control and customization options. The buttons can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

4. 4-Way Hat Switch: The Warthog features a 4-way hat switch that provides players with an additional level of control and precision. The hat switch can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

5. Dual-Spring Mechanism: The Warthog features a dual-spring mechanism that provides players with a high level of resistance and control, ensuring that their movements are accurately reflected in the game.

6. Adjustable Handle Height: The handle height on the Warthog can be adjusted, allowing players to customize the stick to their preferred position. This feature helps to reduce hand fatigue and discomfort during extended gameplay sessions.

7. Compatibility: The Warthog is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10. It is also compatible with Thrustmaster’s T.A.R.G.E.T. software, which allows players to customize the control system and create macros.

Overall, the Thrustmaster Warthog is a high-quality flight stick that provides players with a high level of control, precision, and customization options in Elite Dangerous and other space simulation games. Its dual throttle system, metal construction, and 19 action buttons make it an essential tool for serious players. Its compatibility with Thrustmaster’s T.A.R.G.E.T. software and its adjustable handle height makes it a convenient and user-friendly option for players of all levels.

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The CH Products Pro Throttle is a high-end flight throttle designed for use with space simulation games such as Elite Dangerous. Here are some of its key specifications:

1. Programmable Buttons: The Pro Throttle features 8 programmable buttons, providing players with a high level of control and customization options. The buttons can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

2. Precision Control: The Pro Throttle features a precision control system that provides players with a high level of control over their spacecraft’s speed and orientation.

3. Throttle and Micro-Stick: The Pro Throttle features a micro-stick, providing players with an additional level of control and precision. The micro-stick can be programmed to perform specific actions in the game, allowing players to tailor the control system to their preferences.

4. Dual-Spring Mechanism: The Pro Throttle features a dual-spring mechanism that provides players with a high level of resistance and control, ensuring that their movements are accurately reflected in the game.

5. Compatibility: The Pro Throttle is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10. It is also compatible with CH Products’ Control Manager software, which allows players to customize the control system and create macros.

Overall, the CH Products Pro Throttle is a high-quality flight throttle that provides players with a high level of control, precision, and customization options in Elite Dangerous and other space simulation games. Its programmable buttons, precision control system, and dual-spring mechanism make it an essential tool for serious players. Its compatibility with CH Products’ Control Manager software makes it a convenient and user-friendly option for players of all levels.

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Best pick

The Thrustmaster Warthog is often considered the best flight stick for Elite Dangerous due to its high level of precision, control, and customization options. It features a dual throttle system that provides players with precise control over their spacecraft’s speed and orientation, as well as a wide range of programmable buttons that can be tailored to individual preferences. The Warthog also features high-quality construction with metal components, providing a durable and reliable gaming experience. Its compatibility with a range of space simulation games, as well as its compatibility with Windows operating systems, make the Warthog a versatile and convenient option for serious players. Overall, this flight stick provides players with an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the world of space simulation. With these specs, Thrustmaster Warthog secured the spot to be the best pick.

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Budget Pick

The Thrustmaster T16000M FCS Hotas is considered a budget pick flight stick due to its relatively low cost compared to other high-end flight sticks while still offering many of the features and performance desired by flight sim enthusiasts. It has a wide range of customizable options and is compatible with multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. It also has a precision twist rudder control and dual-system aerodynamic control, making it a good choice for both beginner and advanced players.

In conclusion, the best elite dangerous flight stick depends on the player’s preferences and budget. Budget-friendly options like the Thrustmaster T16000M FCS Hotas and Logitech G X52 Pro offer great value for their price, Each of these flight sticks offers a high level of control, precision, and customization options, making them essential tools for serious players. It is important to consider the specifications of each flight stick, such as the number of programmable buttons, the type of control system, and compatibility with software, to ensure that the flight stick is a good fit for individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best Elite Dangerous flight stick will provide players with an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the world of space simulation.

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