If you’re new to flight simulation and feeling unsure about which hardware to choose for your setup, don’t worry… you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, I’ll walk you through a brief overview of the components and hardware I’ve used in my own flight sim cockpit, along with some great alternative options I’ve come across and can confidently recommend.
This guide is designed to help you get started with building your shopping list, and kick off your simulator project. Keep in mind, though, that this list is just a starting point and based on my personal experience—there are plenty of other products out there worth exploring.
Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
I am not employed or sponsored by any companies that are mentioned in this guide. These products are pictured for illustration and education only. I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and earn from qualifying purchases.
Let’s begin with…
THE COMPUTER
An essential component of the flight sim is the PC. It is responsible for powering your flight simulation software and the additional flight sim gear that you purchase. You want a powerful computer to get the best experience.
Check out my post on “How To Choose The Right Computer“
CHECK OUT THESE COMPANIES
Visuals: What Are Your Options?
When it comes to visuals for your flight sim, there are four main options: TVs, computer monitors, projectors, or VR headsets.
TVs and Monitors: I’ve used 60 Hz 55” 4K TVs and 165 Hz 32” curved gaming monitors. Both options offer excellent picture quality and are easy to set up. While the TVs provide a more immersive experience due to their larger screen size, gaming monitors are great if you also plan to use your setup for other games, like racing simulators.
VR and Projectors: VR headsets and large projection screens can provide a unique and immersive experience, but they can be more complex to set up.
Yokes: Which One Should You Get?
The yoke is a crucial part of your flight simulator cockpit setup. Here are some options:
If you prefer a joystick, check out the HOTAS lineup by Thrustmaster and Logitech, including options like the Airbus sidestick and the Thrustmaster Warthog.
Rudder Pedals: What's Available?
Rudder pedals are essential for realistic control. Here are some options:
Throttle Quadrants: Which One Is Right for You?
Throttle quadrants can vary based on the type of aircraft you simulate. Here’s what I’ve used:
Honeycomb Bravo Throttle: Versatile for different types of aircraft.
Desktop Aviator Push-Pull Throttle Quadrant: Great for Cessna 172 or any single engine aircraft.
Logitech Throttle Quadrant: Suitable for any single-engine aircraft.
Switch Panels: What Are the Options?
Switch panels enhance the realism of your simulator.
FLIGHT INSTRUMENT AND GAUGES
There are a few different ways to add flight instruments and gauges to your flight sim. The way I do it is using a separate 23″ monitor with a DIY Panel Mask overlay. (To learn more about the panel mask click here)
I also use an iPad that is mounted on my panel for some of the gauges.
Other options for adding gauges include:
- buying a premade panel mask
- purchasing individual gauge panels or
- keep it simple with a single device that allows you to adjust most of the gauges in the simulator
1. Separate Monitor: Use third-party programs like Air Manager or BajuSoftware Panel Builder to display instruments on a separate monitor or tablet. You can use touchscreen or add a Panel mask for controllability.
2. Individual Gauge Panels: Companies like Logitech and Sim Kits offer various gauge options.
3. Keep It Simple: A Single Device
Propwash Simulation makes an encoder panel so you don’t need to use the mouse. You can control your Heading Bug, VOR’s, Altimeter, Directional Gyro and ADF card in one place.
The Knobster is a single knob that allows control of every dial, rotary switch and knob on your cockpit panel in the simulator. This is great for someone that doesn’t want a bunch of different hardware on the desk and enjoys a minimalist simulator setup.
Avionics: What Are the Best Options?
Several companies offer avionics hardware for flight sims:
Logitech, Propwash Simulations, Real Sim Gear: My top 3 sources. Each offers excellent options for building your avionics stack.
G1000 OPTIONS
Glass Cockpit: What Are the Choices?
For a glass cockpit simulator, consider the following hardware and software:
1. Budget-Friendly – Using Tablets: Use apps such as Simionic or Air Manager to download glass panels on different size tablets and phones.
2. Hardware Kit: Simionic makes G1000 bezels for iPads to pair with their PFD and MFD apps.
3. Plug and play G1000 units:
- FlightSimBuilder
- RealSimGear
- Virtual Fly
OTHER HARDWARE FOR ENHANCING YOUR EXPERIENCE
FSX Dual-GA
A GREAT ACCESSORY FOR GENERAL AVIATION PILOTS. CONNECT 1 OR 2 AVIATION HEADSETS TO THE SIM.
Lightspeed Zulu 3
THESE ARE THE HEADSETS I USE WHEN I FLY IN THE REAL WORLD AND IN THE SIM. EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE AND HIGH QUALITY.
Buttkicker Gamer Pro
THIS ADDS INSTANT IMMERSION TO YOUR GAMEPLAY. YOU WILL FEEL THE BASS AND VIBRATIONS OF THE AIRCRAFT.
Trackir 5
GREAT FOR SINGLE MONITOR SETUPS. THIS INFRARED CAMERA TRACKS THE POSITION AND ORIENTATION OF YOUR HEAD AND THEN SENDS THAT DATA TO THE SIM.
Stream Deck
THIS CAN BE USED TO EASILY ACCESS AND CONTROL VARIOUS FUNCTIONS WITH DEDICATED BUTTONS.
Leobodnar BU0836X
A USB INTERFACE BOARD TO CONNECT BUTTONS, POTENTIOMETERS, SENSORS, ROTARY ENCODERS AND SWITCHES TO THE SIM.
Final Thoughts
Building your flight sim can be overwhelming with the vast array of available hardware. Start small with the essentials like a good computer, yoke, throttle, and rudder pedals. Gradually add new components as you go along.
Happy flying!
