Setting up a desktop flight simulator is one of the easiest and most common configurations. However, there are a few important things to consider to ensure you get the best experience. In this post we’ll dive into the details.

First, think about your end goal and your experience level. Are you a real-life pilot or a simulator hobbyist? Do you want a basic setup or aim to replicate a specific aircraft with detailed panels and switches? Do you want to fly multiple aircraft or use VR? Answering these questions will help you determine the hardware you need for a desktop flight simulator.

Next, consider your space and how you’ll mount everything. Decide whether you’ll have a dedicated desk for your flight sim or if you need to move the setup on and off your desk. If you’re building a custom desk, consider its style and size to ensure it accommodates all components, including your mouse and keyboard.

   Monitors and Displays 

If you plan to buy or build a panel for the flight instruments and avionics, you’ll need to raise the monitor(s) so that you can see over the panel. Options include:

– Adjustable Monitors: Some monitors can lower and raise on their own.

– Monitor Risers: Simple stands to elevate your monitor.

– Adjustable Monitor Arms: More flexible and adjustable.

– TVs: Large TV screens offer more screen space and built-in speakers, which can eliminate the need for a separate sound system if you don’t really care to have one. 

   Organizing Hardware on Your Desktop Flight Simulator   

You can arrange your hardware in two main ways:

– Free Placement: Place each component anywhere on the desk that’s comfortable for you. Some companies make desktop flight simulator stands to pair with the products which provides a stable, elevated mounting position.

– Mounting in Panels: I recommend buying or building a custom panel to mount your hardware because it increases immersion, reduces the need for multiple mounts,  simplifies setup changes, and makes it easier to move your setup if needed.

   My Budget Desktop Flight Simulator Setup  

Here’s a look at a previous version of my simulator from years ago. The desk is 5 feet long and 2 feet wide. The basic hardware I used with this simulator is a yoke, throttle, rudder pedals, and a cheap handmade instrument panel constructed from foam board.

With this setup I was able to do entire flights without using the keyboard and mouse!

Using tablets, I can switch between glass cockpits and analog gauges, controlling everything via touchscreen or physical switches and encoders.

Final Tips   

1. If your desktop flight simulator has a lot of hardware and requires multiple USB ports to be available, consider mounting a powered USB hub to the back of your panel. Plug all component cables into the hub, then connect a single cable from the hub to your computer. This simplifies cable management and makes it easy to move the panel if needed.

2. Consider securing your rudder pedals to prevent them from sliding. Options include screwing them down, using Velcro, or finding another method that suits your setup.

3. Get creative and make a panel for your desk! Search forums, groups, or YouTube videos for inspiration. The more you personalize your setup, the more immersive and enjoyable your flight sim experience will be.