Are you diving into the world of flight simulation and torn between a yoke and a joystick for your setup?
We’ll help make this decision easy for you in this guide.
We’ll consider factors such as your budget, available space on your desk, and the type of aircraft you’re flying. Let’s get started!
Budget: The Make-or-Break Factor
This may answer the question right away as to what equipment you should buy: Joysticks are generally much cheaper than yokes.
If your budget is under $50, then you will almost certainly need to go with the joystick path.
It’s possible to find used yokes for under $100 (typically the Logitech brand). For a new, low-end yoke, you will generally want to have a budget of at least $100.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Joysticks: $30-$200+
- Yokes: $100-$400+
Remember, quality matters. A higher-end joystick might outperform a budget yoke.
Also remember that most yokes won’t come with integrated throttle and rudder functions, while many joysticks do. So using a joystick can significantly reduce the overall cost of your simulator hardware.
Desk Space: Size Matters
How much space do you have on your desk?
A joystick has a smaller footprint than a yoke, so if you have limited space and a small desk, then a joystick is probably the right choice.
Also consider if you would like to be able to easily use your keyboard while you are flying. The yoke would be mounted right in front of you, where your keyboard would typically go.
Some yokes might allow you to mount a keyboard on top in different ways (such shown below with Velcro). Or you could purchase hardware to mount your keyboard/mouse on a stand.
But generally, it will be more difficult to type while you’re using a yoke instead of a joystick.
Some people who like to multitask on their simulator during long flights, like airliner simulation flights, may find it frustrating to have a yoke in the way.
Under Desk Mount
There’s actually another way you can address this downside of the yoke.
An under desk mount allows you to attach your yoke and throttle below your desk, so the upper surface remains clear for your keyboard and mouse.
Here are a few examples:
- Honeycomb Under Desk Mount by FlightSimBuilder
- Honeycomb and Logitech Under Desk Mount by Meza Mount
However, even with an under desk mount, the yoke will still be between you and your keyboard. So it won’t be quite as ergonomic as putting a joystick off to one side.
Storage + Convenience
Will you need to frequently put your flight simulation controls away when you’re not using your simulator? If so, a joystick may be the best choice for you.
A yoke needs to be mounted to your desk with clamp-type mounts, and these are less convenient than simply moving your joystick off to the side or putting it in the closet.
If you have a desk which is used solely for your flight simulator, then this is not a factor.
Aircraft: Matching Reality
Are you trying to simulate a specific type of aircraft? Yokes are generally more common, but the following types of aircraft use stick or side stick types of controls:
- Cirrus
- Airbus
- Diamond aircraft
- Most experimental, aerobatic, and glider aircraft
- Helicopters (they actually use a unique control called a cyclic, although a joystick comes closer to matching the feel than a yoke)
If you fly one of these aircraft, it’s a pretty sure bet that you should start with a joystick, because it will most closely match what you’re flying. And it can certainly be used for other types of aircraft as well, making it the more versatile option.
Rudder Pedals: An Important Consideration
Why talk about rudder pedals in an article about yokes and joysticks?
Well, if you’re not ready to purchase rudder pedals quite yet with your current budget, then that would be another good reason to go with a joystick. Most joysticks have a twist axis that will allow you to control the rudder. This means that you don’t necessarily need a dedicated set of rudder pedals.
That being said, there are still a lot of advantages to having rudder pedals from a muscle memory standpoint, especially if you’re training for real-world flying.
Handedness: A Minor Factor
Should whether you’re left-handed or right-handed be a factor?
For most setups, it’s not a significant consideration. Many yokes and joysticks are designed to be used with either hand.
However, if you have a strong preference, it’s worth checking the specific model you’re interested in to ensure it will be comfortable for you to use.
Handedness can be a significant factor for certain joystick models like the Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick).
What’s a HOTAS?
HOTAS stands for “hands on throttle and stick.”
How does a HOTAS system differ from a regular joystick? Let’s break it down.
HOTAS joysticks have two separate components:
- A joystick for primary flight control
- A separate throttle unit with additional controls
Regular joysticks, on the other hand, are typically standalone units. They may have a small throttle lever on the base or none at all.
This particular HOTAS configuration features a separate throttle unit that is typically positioned to the left of the main joystick. For right-handed users, this setup mimics the layout in many real aircraft cockpits. However, left-handed users may find it less intuitive or comfortable.
While the T.Flight HOTAS can be used by left-handed pilots, it’s not ideal and may require some adaptation. If you’re left-handed and considering this type of HOTAS setup, it’s worth exploring if there are left-handed versions available or if you’re comfortable with the standard right-handed configuration.
Conclusion: Making Your Choice
Ultimately, the choice between a yoke and a joystick comes down to your specific needs, budget, and the type of flying you plan to do. Here’s a quick summary:
Choose a yoke if:
- You primarily fly general aviation or Boeing-style aircraft
- You have the desk space and budget
- You prioritize a realistic “hands on yoke” feel
Choose a joystick if:
- You’re on a tighter budget
- You have limited desk space
- You fly a variety of aircraft types, including those with sidesticks
- You want the option of rudder control without pedals
There’s no “wrong” choice – both options can provide an excellent flight simulation experience. As you progress in your sim journey, you can always upgrade or add to your setup.
Happy flying!
