Build your first home flight simulator setup for around $1,000. This free, curated shopping list includes everything you need to start flying in Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane—including a pre-built gaming PC, joystick, and headset. No computer building skills required.
This budget flight sim setup is perfect for student pilots preparing for their Private Pilot Certificate or Instrument Rating, sim enthusiasts getting serious about procedures, or real-world pilots looking to maintain proficiency at home. It's a single-monitor, joystick-based configuration that delivers solid value for the price.
Examples of what you can do with this flight sim setup:
Practice instrument procedures, avionics flows, and cockpit workflows
Fly anything from a Cessna 172 to a 737 or A320
Supplement your Private Pilot or Instrument Rating training at home
Fly online with live ATC on PilotEdge, VATSIM, or IVAO
Practice radio communications in a low-pressure environment
Run popular add-on aircraft, including study-level options like PMDG/Fenix (may require lower settings)
Compatible with: Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane, and other major simulators
What to expect:
Pre-built gaming PC included—no computer building skills required
Simple setup, minimal desk space required
Reliable flight controls for practicing procedures and basic hand-eye coordination
A solid foundation you can upgrade over time
Limitations to consider:
Not VR-ready — The included graphics card doesn't have enough horsepower for smooth VR. Stick with monitors for now.
Not for scenery / sightseeing — This setup prioritizes panel work and procedures over stunning visuals. If bush flying with beautiful scenery is your goal, consider a higher-end build.
No throttle quadrant or switch panels — This is a joystick setup. You can add throttle quadrants and button boxes later as you upgrade.
No dedicated rudder pedals — The joystick has twist-axis rudder control. For crosswind landings and single-engine GA, consider adding pedals ($100–150).
Ready for more? Our Mid-Range Flight Sim Setup (~$2,500) adds triple 32" monitors, a quality yoke, throttle quadrant with trim wheel, and rudder pedals with toe brakes.
This is a curated shopping list—you'll get direct links to purchase each component from US retailers. Want fully personalized recommendations? Consider our Pre-Purchase Consultation.
Our curated shopping list — you purchase directly from retailers
Estimated prices from US retailers (primarily Amazon). International customers: use these specs to find equivalent products from local suppliers. Does not include shipping, taxes, or import duties.
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No hardware or software included — this is a shopping list only. We don't use affiliate links; our recommendations are based purely on what we think is best.
Not sure which setup is right for you? Book a free consultation with our sim experts.
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This is a curated list of compatible hardware components with direct links to purchase from retailers. You get the specific product names, current prices, and purchase links for each component. No hardware or software is included — this is a shopping guide only.
The core components are required for the setup to work as intended, but items marked as "Optional" can be added later or skipped based on your budget and preferences. The estimated cost shown is for required items only.
Yes, but we recommend sticking with our tested combinations for guaranteed compatibility. If you're outside the US, you can use the product specifications to find equivalent items from local retailers. For personalized substitution advice, consider our Pre-Purchase Consultation service.
Our setups are compatible with all major flight simulators including Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS 2020/2024), X-Plane 12, and Prepar3D. The hardware works with any simulator that supports standard USB peripherals.
Yes, we regularly review and update prices and product availability. Each shopping list shows when it was last reviewed. If you notice an outdated price or broken link, you can report it directly from the page.
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