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Best Joysticks For PC Gaming 2021

Selecting the best joysticks for pc gaming can be quite challenging. It is because there are so many products available on the market with thousands of them on amazon alone. This makes selecting the right joystick for your hands quite difficult. 

However, you shouldn’t worry about anything at all because we have got you completely covered with our detailed guide. After hours of study and careful analysis of different joysticks, we interviewed some users on different platforms. 

After gathering data from different sources and confirming the facts we were able to shortlist some joysticks. We hope this article will help you get the best joysticks for pc gaming without wasting a lot of time.

ModelShort DescriptionPrice
1. HORI PS4 HOTAS Flight Stick
Works on PC and PlayStation
Check Price
2. Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S.
RGB Backlighting. Also ideal for VR
Check Price
3. Thrustmaster TCA Sidestick Airbus Edition
4 swappable joystick head button modules
Check Price
4. Thrustmaster T.16000M FCS
T.A.R.G.E.T software for mapping profiles
Check Price
5. MAYFLASH Universal Arcade
Works on almost any gaming device
Check Price
6. Extreme 3D Pro Joystick
12 action buttons
Check Price

So without further ado, let’s jump into our list of recommendations and select a perfect joystick for your gaming. 

1. Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog

Starting our list of the best joysticks for pc gaming with one of the most well-known manufacturers. The Thrustmaster Hotas is just perfect for flight simulators because of its interesting features. 

The first thing that most people love about it is its decent style. The HOTAS resembles one of the most deadly fighter jets of the US Air Force, the A-10. Using this joystick will give you a sense of pride as if you are flying the aircraft in real. 

Apart from that, the build quality of this device is exceptionally well. it consists of high-quality plastic with super smooth movement in different directions. Moreover, the HOTAS features different control buttons that allow you to get the most out of your simulator. 

Apart from the high-quality joystick, the system also contains a premium quality throttle that will help you control the power of your aircraft during the game. The joystick handle is detachable and can easily be removed when required. 

Apart from that, the base of the stick is also detachable which allows you to store it easily whenever you are not using it. In addition to this, you can use it on your desk or install it for cockpit-style playing. 

The dual throttle provides maximum comfort to the player due to its excellent hand rest. 

Pros 

  • Excellent build quality 
  • decent performance
  • smooth movement of the stick and throttle
  • Satisfying switches 
  • stand firmly on the place you fit it

Cons

  • a bit pricey

2. Hori HOTAS Flight Stick

If the previously mentioned joystick didn’t impressed you much then don’t worry. We have another perfect device for you on our list of the best joysticks for pc gaming. The Hori PS4 HOTAS flight stick features an excellent design that provides smooth game control. 

The device comes as a separate stick and throttle to ensure a realistic environment while playing flight sim. Both the stick and the throttle possess an ultimate level of construction. It is quite long-lasting and will help you enjoy your games for years. 

Apart from that, both devices feature different control buttons that allow you to have full control. The best thing about it is that you can adjust the throttle and stick’s sensitivity. You can set the settings to your comfort level and get the most out of your devices. 

Moreover, the device features an integrated headset jack and vibration feedback mechanism. It provides an extremely realistic sensation to the player during the game. When it comes to compatibility, the Hori HOTAS can work with PlayStations and PC. 

However, if you are looking to buy one for your Xbox then this might not be a good choice. Overall there is nothing much to complain about. 

Pros 

  • Fantastic build quality 
  • Precise controls
  • Adjustable sensitivity and resistance 
  • Allows headphones installation 

Cons

  • Expensive  
  • Opposite L1 L2 and R1 R2 buttons mapping

3. Logitech G X56 HOTAS

Next up, we have Logitech’s G X56 HOTAS on our list of the best joysticks for pc gaming. It is also one of the highest quality devices that comes with some unique features. The first thing that we love the most about this joystick is its high-quality structure. 

It consists of premium quality material that makes it different from the rest of the available options. Moreover, the HOTAS provides excellent results due to its military-grade construction. It is mostly used by the military for training fighter pilots. 

Apart from that, you will get customizable options to set the device according to your needs and desires. Moreover, the device comes with a mini analog stick that enhances its overall performance. With this stick, you can control the different movements of the aircraft such as roll, pitch, and yaw axis. 

Apart from that, the stick is situated in a very convenient position that is very easy to reach while playing. In our opinion, RGB lighting gives next-level beauty to any gaming setup. To enhance your current setup’s beauty, the manufacturer has done a splendid job by adding cool RGB lights. 

Setting the light colors is extremely easy and can be done with the help of software. You can easily set it to match the rest of your gaming setup. Moreover, the device features a solid grip that helps you use it comfortably. You can play with it for hours and you won’t feel uncomfortable even for a moment. 

Pros

  • High-quality construction
  • Excellent response 
  • Works perfectly due to minimum input lag

Cons

  • The mode switch is a bit stiff

4. Thrustmaster TCA Sidestick Airbus Edition

 

If you are looking for something more stylish then consider the Thrustmaster’s TCA side stick. It also proves to be one of the best joysticks for pc gaming due to its unique features. The first thing that makes it stand out from the crowd is its remarkable build quality. 

The joystick features a bluish and black theme with a minimal design that makes it look decent. Apart from the decent design and looks of the device, the minimal design allows you to play easily. 

All the buttons are placed close to each other which makes it highly suitable for not only skilled players but beginners as well. There are 17 action buttons in total that provide complete control over the system. 

You don’t need to use an additional device when using the Thrustmaster’s TCA sidestick. Moreover, the stick features 4 swappable buttons that makes it quite amazing. In addition to this, all the other buttons are completely mappable which gives a very good sensation. 

You can remap all the buttons and enhance the overall capability of the joystick. The throttle features a built-in thrust reverser mechanism and rudder control by rotating the sidestick’s handle. It provides a realistic experience during the games. 

Now you can play your favorite game whether it be Aces combat or DCS world without any issue at all. 

Pros 

  • Works surprisingly well for Microsoft flight simulator 
  • highly affordable stick for flight sims
  • Easy to install and use
  • Durable build quality 

Cons

  • Limited to PC only

5. Thrustmaster T16000M FCS

Next up, we have the Thrustmaster T16000M FCS on our list of recommendations. It is another excellent quality product from Thrustmaster that will completely amaze you with its performance. 

Apart from that durable build quality and excellent design, this joystick provides an excellent experience to console and PC gamers. 

It features a core that consists of highly reliable magnetic sensors. These sensors help the device to be stable during the game and provide the best of its performance. Apart from that, the accuracy of this joystick is of the next level. 

We have checked a bunch of these during our study and found the T16000 FCS quite amazing. Due to its magnetic sensors, it provides an un-matchable accuracy which gives it an edge over all other available options on the market. 

The device possesses 32 action buttons and each one of them possesses a braille-style design. It makes them very easy to use and not only this but these buttons are also very responsive. You will get timely outputs during the game which can prove a game-changer during competitive scenarios. 

Thrustmaster has done a splendid job by making their simulator stick compatible for all kinds of players. Unlike other joysticks that are only limited to left or right-handed people, T16000 can be adjusted for both types of people. 

Such capability of the device makes it a perfect choice and one of the best joysticks for pc gaming. 

Pros

  • Classic joystick look
  • comes with a lot of compatible accessories
  • smoother performance 
  • decent build quality 

Cons

  • A bit older design

6. Mayflash F500 Arcade FightStick

If you are not in the mood for some bulky joysticks then consider the Mayflash Joystick. It may not look very special to some people especially when you are playing mostly flight simulators. However, for some people, this is more than a gold mine. 

The smaller and lightweight design of the device allows it to be quite portable. However, it is quite durable at the same time which makes it very long-lasting. The joystick features a classical design that contains different buttons in a line. 

All these buttons are near to each other which makes playing very easy. Apart from that, the stick is of the appropriate size which feels very comfortable while gaming. Moreover, the pad allows a direct output to the headsets which enhances the overall gameplay. 

You can attach your headphones and listen to the audio directly from your gameplays. The device provides different speed settings that make it quite interesting. You can set it the way you want and make it suitable for your playstyle in almost no time. 

Lastly, the best thing about this device is its firmware upgrade. All of the latest firmware is available on the Mayflash.com website that you can download and upgrade your device easily. 

Pros

  • Perfect size 
  • Portable and reliable for most gamers
  • Affordable joystick
  • Excellent design

Cons

  • Not good for flight sims

7. Logitech Extreme 3D Pro

Logitech has plenty of decent options for those who are looking for the best joysticks for pc gaming. Extreme 3D Pro Joystick comes with a bunch of cool features that make it different from the rest of the market. 

The first thing that we love about this joystick is its excellent design. The stick features a black and white theme that gives it an amazing look. However, looks aren’t the only thing due to which we have selected this joystick for you. 

Of course, there are a few other things that make it quite interesting. Besides its decent look, the joystick possesses a remarkable structure that makes it quite a long-lasting device. The stick possesses a minimal design that is quite comfortable to hold. 

Apart from that, the stick possesses an excellent grip that makes it rest firmly in your hand. You can use it to play your favorite game for hours and won’t feel uncomfortable even for a while. Moreover, it has 12 different buttons that are fully customizable. 

It makes the gameplay relatively easier as compared to other sticks. Another best thing that we noticed during our research was the ultra-responsive feedback of the stick. 

It makes gaming fun due to lower input lag and increased performance. You can use it for all kinds of simulator-based games without any issue at all. 

Pros

  • Extremely comfortable grip 
  • excellent build quality 
  • reliable for a longer duration
  • minimum input lag

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer to fine-tune the setting during the game

Final Words

When looking for the best joystick for pc gaming you need to do some research. It may take you a while and can make the selection process quite difficult sometimes. However, you don’t need to worry about anything because we have got you completely covered with our article.

Having that said, you may have made your choice by now if you made it this far. However, if you are still not able to select the best one for yourself then we can help you further. According to our research and analysis, the HORI PS4 HOTAS Flight Stick is one of the best options available on the market. 

However, this item is a bit pricey which may not make it a suitable choice for most people. Besides that the Mayflash F500 Arcade FightStick is a decent option for those who love retro style joysticks for pc gaming. 

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