To all you elite dangerous gamers, if you need to succeed in exploring those galaxies, you’re going to need joysticks that get the job done.
You don’t want lagging Hotas when you need to be dominant in space. The controllers for elite dangerous come with different packages.
I’m going to review our special selection of Elite Dangerous Joysticks that give you a superior elite gaming experience. For those of you who want a sneak peek at the game plot, I have included a short description near the end.
Why You Need Specific Controllers For Elite Dangerous?
You may be thinking, “Why can’t I just play with a random controller?”. Well, here’s why.
Ever plugged a controller into its port and your system totally rejected or just couldn’t recognize it?
Yeah, that’s the kind of thing that happens when you get a joystick that’s not supported for a particular game.
In fact, it is such a common problem that ‘Elite Dangerous joystick not working’ is trending on Google search. I know, right?
To avoid finding yourself in a gamer’s nightmare, all you have to do is get the best Hotas for Elite Dangerous.
Nine times out of ten, you’d actually have to do little or no configuring and that’s because you got a controller made for the game. No system runs with a device that it isn’t compatible with. There’s no point in expecting yours to be any different.
Buyer’s Guide: Requirements for a good controller?
You shouldn’t be spending your money on something that can’t get the job done. You need to get the best joystick for the game you want to ace!
How do you know you’ve gotten your hands on one? Look for the following attributes.
- It’s precise and has a quick response time.
- It’s comfortable to maneuver and to operate.
- It’s able to perform the functionalities needed for the game in question.
- It’s easy to install
- It’s simplistic and easily programmable. Too much technical complexity will exhaust you.
In Elite Dangerous, you will be exploring the galaxy. So you need a controller that paves the way for smooth navigation. Sometimes, a perfectly programmed controller is what you need to move up the ranking.
One thing about the Elite Dangerous that we can all agree on – It’s impeccably realistic. You’d be making a lot of selections and taking a lot of real-time decisions. You need a controller that supports its hardcore gaming needs.
The joysticks I am going to review are tried and tested. That being said, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Don’t settle for a cheap joystick that wouldn’t last a week. Elite Dangerous is quite addictive a game and you don’t want a controller that was produced with low-quality materials ruining your day
Interesting find, gaming monitor for 1080 Ti
Best Joystick For Elite Dangerous – Top Hotas Controllers Reviewed in 2021
01. Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X Flight Stick – Editor’s Pick
You’re going to be playing with your hands, right? Thrustmaster’s got you covered on this one as the device comes with a great hand rest. It’s entirely programmable, supporting plug and play, and lets you install with ease.
It comes at 4.7 pounds out of the pack and the throttle is designed to make you comfortable during gameplay. It’s detachable, coming with internal memory and adjustable resistance that gives you that ‘aha!’ feel.
There’s also a weighted base to improve stability. I was afraid to get this online but it hasn’t developed a problem since it arrived. This controller keeps you in charge. It’s one for the money.
Features at a glance:
- It’s entirely programmable
- It sports a plug and plays functionality
What We Like
- It has a very solid base.
- The buttons are so comfortable to use.
What We Didn’t Like
- The cable is a bit short.
- It gets quite sticky after some time
In summary, the manufacturers didn’t go wrong on the simplicity of this controller, definitely a great deal for the money!
02. Saitek PS28 X52 Flight Control System
If you needed illuminated buttons, you got one. Shipping at 4.2 pounds and coming with an LCD multifunction display, it has sure earned its spot on this list.
You should control your game, that’s why you need a controller, right?
The Saitek features a progressive throttle and a spring force that improves your control. It’s entirely programmable, and its handle adjustment system aims to give you a good grip.
Its precision centering mechanism is definitely one to get for your hardcore gaming needs. I have to give it to the quality of the materials.
I didn’t expect this much but I have completely blown away on this one. There’s also a forum for you to post your queries and get real-time answers.
Features at a glance:
- A precision dual spring centering mechanism.
- A five position handle adjustment system
- A 3D twist with Rudder lock
What We Like
- Compatible with latest versions of Windows.
- Comfortable with the illuminated buttons adding the needed sparkle.
- Great set with the buttons allowing for improved flexibility.
What We Didn’t Like
- The joystick is a bit stiff.
- Some aspects of the programs are too technical.
In summary, it takes a little time to get around, but once that’s out of the way, the Saitek is an enjoyable piece.
03. Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog PC
Have you ever fantasized about holding an actual aircraft throttle? Even if it wasn’t on your mind before, sounds awesome, right?
Well, what if I told you, you could have one and also play Elite Dangerous with it?
ThrustmasterHotas Warthog is the official replica of the joystick in the A10C aircraft that belongs to the US air force. Neat, right?
One of its main attractions is the full metal joystick handle that you can detach from the main body. Besides the stick, you also get a throttle to give you the ultimate gaming feel.
Features at a glance:
- Two throttles along with a hand rest
- A five coil spring
- 3D sensors
- Customizable LED lights
- 18 buttons providing a full range of controlling options
What We Like
- Precise controls
- Sturdy build
- The firmware can be upgraded
- Does not lose smoothness and accuracy over time
What We Didn’t Like
- You’ll need a certain amount of strength to operate the Hotas Warthog. It’s a heavy duty controller with a solid body
If you have only tried wobbly sticks before, the Hotas Warthog might take some getting used to. But once you’ve found the right grip, it’ll be smooth and persistent, giving you the best value for your money.
04. Logitech G Saitek X52 Flight Control System
Logitech G Saitek X52 Flight Control System This one is made for real flyers. That’s what you’re going to be doing in the Elite: Dangerous so it should be one to look out for.
It ships at 5.8 pounds and has a multifunction display. So you’re literally going to be interacting with this joystick.
There are also illuminated buttons, but this time you get to choose if you want red, green or amber. It comes with progressive throttling and a scroll wheel, all to improve control and stability.
There’s also a precision centering mechanism and the controller’s compatible with all Windows OS versions. It’s very solid out of the pack.
I wasn’t a Pro or anything when I got this so this completely took care of my beginner needs.
Features at a glance:
- It’s multifunction LCD display keeps you in control of the game.
- Programmable software with access to controls.
- Progressive throttle with resistance adjustment
What We Like
- Its light weight enhances portability.
- Its resistance provides for increased stability
What We Didn’t Like
- The software drivers came with a few bugs, they had to be updated online
- It’s a bit difficult to fasten to a desk
In summary, the fantastic fight stick makes it great for the elite dangerous. The product quality is more than okay for the price.
5. Logitech 963290-0403 Extreme 3D Pro Joystick For Windows
This controller comes in shades of silver and black and has an appealing design. It comes with an entirely customizable program that allows you add several commands to a button and make changes to sensitivity.
The little secret to enjoying this joystick is, to keep the profiler program running and you wouldn’t have calibration issues. It has 8 buttons and an internal spring that produces the force keeping everything working.
You’d need to maintain high altitudes in the elite dangerous, the 2 trigger buttons and the lever help with that.
Okay, I have to admit here, I was a bit intimidated by its buttons but after a few tries, I got used to the flow. It’s designed to last so you can kiss your repair hassles goodbye.
Features at a glance:
- 3D Pro Twist handle.
- Entirely programmable buttons
What We Like
- It’s very stable and provides a great range of motion.
- The analog throttle keeps you in control
- It’s supported by all versions of the Windows OS
What We Didn’t Like
- The buttons are great but they could have added more.
- The grip is a bit reduced because of the rough stick
In summary, for the price, you’re getting this and the range of controls the device affords you, it’s totally worth the price.
06. Thrustmaster T.16000M FCS
There are 16 action buttons on this one. No, that’s not a typo. You’re thinking it’d be difficult to remember which does what?
That’s not a problem. This 3 pound controller comes in such a style that it would leave you amazed at the genius that went into this project. The magnetic sensors located on the stick and just every bit of technology incorporated in the controller produces a very sensitive device.
There are 4 independent axes and the buttons are so designed that each has a unique job. There’s also an 8 way point of view hat stick. Believe me, you’d need this when navigating those galaxies.
Features at a glance:
- Compatible with all Windows OS versions
- Incision of HEART( Hall Effect Accurate Technology) makes its precision one to kill for.
What We Like
- It’s not heavy, yet very stable and portable
- It’s entirely programmable, and there are no problems when doing this.
What We Didn’t Like
- The joystick gets sticky after some time.
- There are no switches to turn off the lights
In summary, it’s well worth the price.
7. 200-571 CH Products Fighterstick USB
The CH Fighterstick comes with 24 buttons and a handle. To be honest, it doesn’t look quite as sharp as the other joysticks. But if you want something that will give you a realistic feel with mind-blowing controls and will last you years, this is a good investment.
In Elite Dangerous, this joystick will give you first-rate control over the fixed weapons. It’s very compact and not difficult to use.
The build is plastic. But in no way does it feel cheap. There are rubber pads underneath the hand rest for convenience.
However intense your game gets, the controller will not move across your desk.
The buttons are comfortably placed with almost no resistance. It’s a classic, muscular stick with modern features.
Features at a glance:
- 8-bit precision
- 3 axis
- 2 year warranty
- Compatible with a variety of systems
What We Like
- It’s very lightweight but with a well-constructed base and hand rest
- Precise and realistic
- Programmable software gives you the option to input more customized functions
What We Didn’t Like
- It’s kind of large. If you have small hands, you might have some problems accessing all parts of it.
In summary, the Fighterstick is a reliable controller for the long-term.
Elite Dangerous – Saitek vs CH HOTAS Setup
Frequently Asked Questions On Elite Dangerous Hotas Controller
Q: Do you need distinct throttles?
Though some controllers separate throttles to allow for enhanced gameplay, it’s not necessary. You should be more concerned about the range of travel a particular controller offers you. Just like everything out there, it’s better to always pick quality over quantity.
Q: Do You Need More Buttons?
It depends on the controller. There’s no point getting a 20 button controller that’s not well spaced and doesn’t allow for identification. More buttons may equal increased functionality, but it makes no sense if you can’t access it. You should go for a controller with a great grip and one that doesn’t make navigation seem like a chore.
Q: What’s The Rotation Craze About?
You’re actually getting access to the x,y and z axes. You’re going to be doing very wide ranges of motion in the elite dangerous so you should get a joystick that’s got you covered. You don’t want to get on the game and discover you can’t make a clockwise turn.
Q: Does Cheap Mean Crap?
Not in the controller industry. There are key features you should look out for in every controller. Most manufacturers deliberately jack up their prices to make their products look higher in quality but upon research, you discover you can actually get a better deal. So, it’s not a bad thing to look around a bit.
About Elite Dangerous
Elite Dangerous is a space adventure video game developed by Frontier Developments. It actually features the scientifically accurate galaxy giving it a realistic feel. It’s an offshoot of the Frontier First Encounters published by the same developers.
It’s been released on the Microsoft Windows and Xbox One platforms with an upcoming release later this year on the PlayStation 4. The game supports virtual reality devices and sports single and multiplayer modes, so yes, bring your friends aboard!
Elite Dangerous Game Plot
It’s set in the year 3303, you start with a spaceship and a little amount of money and you’re left all alone in this humongous galaxy, the Milky Way. You get to choose your survival tactics, so you can go clean by trading or dirty by stealing.
And yes, you can employ these tactics in the multiplayer mode. There are three major factions, the Empire of Achenar, the Galactic Federation, and the Alliance of Independent Systems. So get on one of them, win your missions and get rewarded.
The triple elite status is the highest rank and definitely one you’d want to aim for. Believe me, it comes with some juicy rewards.
Verdict
You needed the best hotas for elite dangerous? Now you have 7 to choose from. Anyone who’s buying a joystick for the first time needs to understand some things. It’d be difficult transitioning.
Trust me, after using just a keyboard and a mouse for years, getting a joystick felt like too much stress. But, just be ready to give it time. And it’s okay to spend a little time reading this out.
At the end of the day, you know the kind of controller that’d make you jump in ecstasy. Every joystick up there has its own distinguishing quality. But, you need to know what you need. That’s the first step. There’s one thing you can be sure of if you’re looking for the best joystick particularly for Elite Dangerous, it’s been covered in this post.
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Sources and References
- https://blog.us.playstation.com/2017/05/16/elite-dangerous-touches-down-on-ps4-june-27/
- https://news.xbox.com/2015/06/18/xbox-head-into-the-known-with-elite-dangerous/
Will any of the above joysticks work if I play Elite of a PS4.
If not, can you make a recommendation please
I’m using a VKB Kosmosima stick and the throttle from the latest Logitech X-56 HOTAS. I can’t stress enough how good the VKB is for space sims like Elite Dangerous. I think any good HOTAS throttle will do, but the more buttons and switches, the better. I’d like to buy a heavier throttle for my rig so it doesn’t slip around on my desk. The Virpil throttle would be fantastic for me.
Hi Scott, thanks for your feedback. You can consider the Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog too. Its a beast. Have a look. Please check our number 3 product review.
You forgot to mention the software for the CH Fighterstick is terrible. It is 2020 and CH is still using software from the 90’s. I want to spend my time playing-not trying to learn programming code to set this stick up. Hell,they could at least include a few pre configured binds to get you going quickly. Great hardware- the software sucks.
Just bought the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X Flight Stick because of this recommendation. Do you have any guides on best button configurations for Elite Dangerous?
Hi Gustavo, Hope you are safe and well during this pandemic. Please check the Elite Dangerous Offical website for recommended controller settings. Thank you.
I personally like the Thrustmaster T16000M FCS HOTAS the best out of all of them. It’s outlasted my x52 and x56.