The Best HOTAS For The Thargoid War In Elite Dangerous

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The Best HOTAS For The Thargoid War In Elite Dangerous

As a long-time Elite Dangerous pilot with countless hours spent traversing the vast expanse of space, I can wholeheartedly vouch for the game’s incredible immersion and the importance of having a reliable HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) setup. My journey began with the basic controller setup, but that quickly grew tedious as I delved deeper into the world of space exploration, trading, and combat.

In modern gaming, flight simulators such as Microsoft Flight Simulator and racing games like Forza have sparked renewed interest in specialized controllers like flight sticks and steering wheels. However, another type of controller, HOTAS or Hand On Throttle and Stick, has yet to achieve widespread popularity. Although not necessary for beginning play in Elite Dangerous, using a HOTAS significantly enhances the flying experience and adds to the game’s immersion.

In Elite Dangerous, no matter if you enjoy high-speed combat in a Vulture or prefer the role of a space trucker with a Type 9, there are HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) setups designed to make your gaming experience more realistic and engaging. These pre-built configurations serve as an excellent starting point. However, they only scratch the surface of what’s possible. Custom and DIY solutions can significantly enhance your cockpit setup for a more immersive Elite Dangerous adventure. This guide offers a variety of options to improve your flying controls, catering to most pilots’ needs.

The Best HOTAS For Elite Dangerous in 2024

The Thrustmaster T16000M HOTAS may not be the flashiest or ground-breaking choice, but it’s a dependable and wallet-friendly option for Elite Dangerous players. This model is available in several versions, with the one featuring rudder pedals being another contender. However, for most pilots, the primary HOTAS version will be the superior pick.

If you’re transitioning from using a mouse and keyboard or even a controller to a HOTAS (Hands on Throttle and Stick) setup like the T16000M, it may take some effort at first. But once you’ve built up muscle memory for the assigned functions, flying will feel more intuitive and engaging. The joystick’s 3D magnetic sensors offer exceptional accuracy, a fact that long-term users can verify. Moreover, this joystick is designed to be used by both left- and right-handed users. However, some may find the throttle uncomfortable in their right hand if they choose to fly with their left hand.

When it comes to the throttle, it grants precise speed management and operates smoothly throughout its entire range. Nevertheless, making small adjustments could result in a slight hitch. Yet, for the majority of Elite Dangerous players, they’re usually at maximum throttle, idling, or reversing instead.

The Logitech G X56 joins us as a longstanding crowd pleaser, appealing to various flying game enthusiasts. Ideal for intermediate pilots aiming to enhance their HOTAS experience without committing to high-end models like the Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog.

The G X56 joystick, similar to the Thrustmaster T16000M, is constructed entirely of plastic. Nevertheless, its sophisticated design includes rubberized grips on the joystick and throttle, as well as metal-like accents surrounding the action buttons, imparting a more upscale appearance. In contrast to employing a magnetic sensor, this joystick utilizes a ball and socket mechanism to detect movement, which may result in some durability concerns over time. However, unless you apply excessive force to the joystick, these potential issues are unlikely to pose a concern for most users.

The joystick and throttle offer seamless control with a wide range of motion, while adjustable spring tension lets you customize the pressure for a perfect fit. The G X56 is a dream come true for button enthusiasts: it’s packed with buttons, switches, and analog sticks. At first use, this abundance of controls might feel overwhelming. But as experienced Elite Dangerous pilots can attest, it won’t be long before you find yourself running out of space to assign more controls. Fortunately, the X56 has no such limitations.

The Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog is an ideal piece of equipment for Elite Dangerous pilots longing for a top-tier experience. This setup was meticulously designed by the Thrustmaster team in collaboration with the sim community. Although $550 may appear expensive for some, it represents a reasonable price point within the realm of premium and specialized options. For many Elite Dangerous enthusiasts, the Warthog offers an exceptional value with minimal compromises.

Instead of any other HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) devices, the Warthog stands out with its all-metal construction. The sense of luxury and durability it provides while in space exploration is unmatched. From the joystick and throttle to each button on the Warthog, using it is an enjoyable experience. Even when not in use, the metal flip switches stimulate the brain pleasantly. Its longevity is guaranteed due to its metal construction and careful assembly, although this also makes it a significantly heavy gaming accessory.

While piloting the Warthog in-game, its precision is unmatched with minimal deviations from your movements. Yet, following prolonged dogfights or extended cargo missions, you may encounter arm fatigue due to the substantial resistance of both the throttle and joystick. Although tiring may seem undesirable, for an authentic simulator experience, this sensation is remarkably satisfying.

Regrettably, the selection of budget-friendly HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) setups is limited, and even those options can be quite pricey. However, I would highly recommend considering the Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas 4 as a top pick under $100. This setup delivers a superior HOTAS experience at an economical cost compared to other alternatives. Additionally, it is compatible with Playstation consoles for gamers using that platform.

The T.Flight HOTAS set, unlike others mentioned in this guide, is designed as a single, cable-connected unit. This feature allows users to place it next to each other or opt for a more conventional setup, provided they are comfortable with the cable running across their desk. For gamers utilizing PlayStation in a living room setting, this configuration offers convenience since the device can be used in the lap without requiring a table or desk.

Using T.Flight for Elite Dangerous will bring about significant advancements in gameplay experience with a controller. However, it won’t match the precise controls of other HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick) setups mentioned. The throttle is a clear example, featuring just three distinct positions: maximum speed, neutral, and reverse full. This setup does have its merits; the neutral position conveniently enables pilots to halt their engines without an additional button press.

The Thrustmaster T16000M Flight Pack is identical in most aspects to our top recommendation, but it comes with added rudder pedals. Although rudder pedals may appear unnecessary for some, they significantly enhance the control of your spaceship in Elite Dangerous when used as an upgrade.

The T16000M’s rudder pedals merit the same acclaim as its throttle and joystick. They offer an optimal balance between easy movement and sufficient resistance, enabling accurate and fine-tuned turns. Adapting to these pedals requires some effort initially, with a moderate learning curve. However, once mastered, they significantly enhance performance in intense dogfights and landing maneuvers.

For those unfamiliar with Elite Dangerous, this alternative control setup might raise some eyebrows within the community. However, it’s an exceptional choice for players who enjoy lengthy cargo hauls or managing an Orca as a cruise liner, regardless of current profitability. The Logitech G Pro Flight Yoke offers a distinctive flying experience unlike any other HOTAS or joystick, providing you with the sensation of piloting a spaceship like Captain Malcolm Reynolds from Firefly.

The Logitech G Pro Flight Yoke is primarily designed for use with Microsoft Flight Simulator. Yet, it’s possible to adjust settings and make some modifications for Elite Dangerous operation. Nevertheless, we don’t suggest this controller for combat situations due to its relatively slow turning speed, which could lead to potential risks.

As a dedicated flight simulator enthusiast, I can tell you that the Logitech G Pro Flight Yoke is an affordable yet impressive piece of hardware. Its collection of features and robust construction give it a premium feel. However, this yoke lacks rudder control out of the box, so investing in some rudder pedals is essential for an authentic flying experience, be it in the vast expanse of Elite Dangerous or the more familiar skies of Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Key Factors To Consider When Choosing HOTAS For Elite Dangerous

  • Features: While most HOTAS have similar features, having a couple of extra buttons or the addition of rudder pedals can make your flying experience momentously better from one HOTAS to another. Finding the perfect balance of enough features so that you don’t find yourself reaching for your keyboard half the time playing but not so much that you are overwhelmed will ensure that the HOTAS is a good fit for you.
  • Price: HOTAS setups can quickly get incredibly expensive, so it is essential to determine a budget before starting your search, and keep in mind you don’t have to go for the highest-end setup from the start, even though it does look cool.
  • Build Quality: Unlike traditional gaming controllers, HOTAS and flight sticks almost ask you to move them around aggressively, especially in a dogfight, so having a HOTAS that can hold up to a fair amount of abuse, regardless of the price point, is vital.

FAQ

Q: Does Elite Dangerous support joysticks?

In Elite Dangerous, various controller configurations are well-supported, ranging from mouse and keyboard to HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick) and custom DIY setups. While there may be a learning curve to adjust controls to your preference if you opt for less common options, the game offers numerous pre-set control schemes for more popular choices.

Q: What is the best handling ship in Elite Dangerous?

Based on the tasks you intend to perform and your preferences for a spacecraft, the Viper or Federal Corvette could be your ideal choice. If your goal is engaging in intense dogfights, then the Viper’s superior capabilities would serve you well. However, if you seek a versatile ship with exceptional handling skills, the Federal Corvette is an excellent alternative.

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2024-07-22 23:06