Perhaps, you have already realized how troublesome it might be to control the airplane using a mouse and console.
If you go for utilizing the best joystick for Elite Dangerous, your control will quickly improve along with your overall experience. Joysticks are better than gamepads for flight (and space) simulator games, as they are more like the controls in the cockpit of real airplanes.
Why burn through any longer time wildly waving your mouse over your work area attempting to do circles and loops when you can accomplish all your challenging moves with the best joystick for Elite Dangerous?
Best Joysticks for Elite Dangerous: our and customer choices
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Elite Dangerous is a space flight simulator game that includes single and multiplayer modes. Match your controller to your budget and gaming needs for Elite Dangerous…
Professional gamers will prefer utilizing the best high-end budget joystick like the Saitek X55 Rhino, Thrustmaster Warthog, or even the Saitek Pro Flight Yoke joystick system.
However, the game may also be performed using sticks like Thrustmaster T. We suggest utilizing the Thrustmaster T since this can go easy on your pocket, and also contains sufficient controls to play Elite Dangerous.
- The T.16000M FCS Space Sim Duo features Thrustmaster's exclusive heart comprised of magnetic sensors located on the stick delivering unmatched levels of accuracy
- A total of 32 action buttons with Braille style physical button identification enable gamers to play the game without ever removing their hands from the joysticks
- The T.16000M FCS Space Sim Duo is fully ambidextrous. Three detachable components allow both joysticks to be perfectly tailored to both left-handed and right-handed players, in all PC games.
- Optimized ergonomics: Wide hand rests and weighted bases ensure optimum comfort and improved stability, even during intense maneuvers and dogfights.
- T.A.R.G.E.T software allows players to load or create mapping profiles for each game.
- High-Precision, Non-Contact Main Axes
- Customizable, Multi-Function Throttle & Flap Levers
- Compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & PC
- 27 Programmable Buttons, 8 Axes, POV Hat & Rapid-Fire Trigger
- Integrated, OLED Flight Management Display
- Logitech Exreme 3D Pro Joystick, Take Control: With advanced controls and a custom twist-handle rudder, this joystick is stable and precise whether you’re dropping bombs or firing guns
- 12 Programmable Buttons: Easily configure each button of this controller to execute simple single commands or intricate macros involving multiple keystrokes, mouse events and more
- 8-way Hat Switch: The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Precision Fightstick is designed to accurately capture specialised input specific to flight sims
- Rapid-fire Trigger: Lock on and let loose. Pull the trigger as fast as you want, confident that every twitch of your finger will be captured without missing a beat
- Comfortable Hand Grip: Sculpted curves support the natural shape and position of your palm and fingers for hours of comfortable flying
Last update on 2025-01-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7 Best Joysticks for Elite Dangerous Players
We have compiled a list of 7 different trusty items, so you can look through and choose your best joystick for Elite Dangerous.
1. Thrustmaster T-flight Hotas X flight stick
- Wide hand-rest for optimal comfort.
- Programmable: The 12 buttons and 5 axles are entirely programmable
- Dual-system, aerodynamic control: By rotating handle (with integrated blocking system) or by progressive tilting lever
- Internal memory: To save all of your programming, even with the joystick disconnected
- High-precision joystick with adjustable resistance
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X has 12 buttons and 5 axles you can customize on. On top of that, you can choose to create preset settings for different programs and games (FCS Hotas joysticks is not only for Dangerous Elite and games like that).
If you are an avid flight controller player, you will love the different settings you can keep inside the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X. It has internal memory to keep the preset settings you have in the FCS Hotas item even when it’s unplugged.
The design of the FCS Hotas gear is made to be ergonomic with a wide hand-rest. The joystick also comes with a plug-and-play feature that allows you to play with it immediately after plugging in. No more minutes of adjusting the FCS Hotas joystick because functions have been pre-configured.
Also, this best Hotas stick has a rapid-fire button, triggers for brakes, and panoramic view mode through the multi-directional hat.
2. Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows
- Logitech Exreme 3D Pro Joystick, Take Control: With advanced controls and a custom twist-handle rudder, this joystick is stable and precise whether you’re dropping bombs or firing guns
- 12 Programmable Buttons: Easily configure each button of this controller to execute simple single commands or intricate macros involving multiple keystrokes, mouse events and more
- 8-way Hat Switch: The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Precision Fightstick is designed to accurately capture specialised input specific to flight sims
- Rapid-fire Trigger: Lock on and let loose. Pull the trigger as fast as you want, confident that every twitch of your finger will be captured without missing a beat
- Comfortable Hand Grip: Sculpted curves support the natural shape and position of your palm and fingers for hours of comfortable flying
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This joystick has 12 different programmable buttons that can be adjusted to your preferences and Elite Dangerous needs. Right under your thumb when you grip the handle is an 8-way hat switch that lets you quickly switch the point of view or weapon.
The Logitech Extreme 3d Pro has a precision twist rudder control that gives just the right amount of pressure and helps you with your one-handed control system. It is also ergonomically designed with very small spaces in between.
Last but not least, the feature that people will love is its durability! Unless you throw the Logitech Extreme 3d pro to the wall, you can never break the best budget joystick, even during intense gaming.
3. Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog PC with nice detachable throttle control
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The item is the official replica of the US Air Force’s A-10C aircraft control panel. This hands-on stick to configure the best budget joystick for Elite Dangerous with a detachable throttle.
It also comes with an 8- way point of view hat. And when others have one plastic detachable throttle control (or even a single joystick to control), this gear has a dual hands-on throttle system made of metal. The whole unit is made of metal to build quality and improve your experience.
The Hotas Warthog has 16-bit precision and requires pressure on the joystick’s buttons that has never been seen in any other joysticks before. This is because the replica is so much similar to the real aircraft’s control, so that have to apply the same pressure to press the buttons and triggers.
On the other hand, the joystick is detachable, which is the prominent feature of the best Thrustmaster joysticks.
And then the Thrustmaster Warthog dual hands-on stick and throttle system can be independently controlled or locked together with 14-bit precision. 17 action buttons are included along with Disengagable Afterburner.
And yes, you can adjust the resistance of the throttles to your liking and the needs of Elite Dangerous.
4. 200-571 CH Products Fighterstick USB
- USB programmable joystick
- 3 axis and 24 buttons (three push buttons, one mode switch button, three 4 way hat switches and one 8 way point of view hat)
- Total of 132 programmable functions with the new Control Manager software (included)
- Realistic F-16 handle
- Compatible with Windows 98, 2000, Me, XP, Vista & Windows 7 or Mac OS 8.6 and above
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CH Fighterstick CH Products has 24 buttons, of which there are only 3 push buttons. The 24 buttons have one mode switch button, three-way hat switches and an eight-way point of view hat. The joystick has been adapted from the F-16 bit. It also has a very sturdy construction with a rubber-weighted base to hold it in place.
It also works with Mac OS 8.6 and above. It is USB programmable, however, and you can get it to play Elite Dangerous with a newer Windows OS if you like.
CH products look bulky and a little outdated, which is natural, since this model is more than two decades old. But what is good about CH Fighters? CH’s Fighter stick is pretty durable; you will not be able to break it with the usual simulator gameplay, which is lacking in many models today.
5. LOGITECH X52 PRO
- Magnetic non-contact X and Y axis sensors provide enhanced longevity and improved accuracy. A dual spring centering mechanism provides a progressive, smooth movement that further aids your control.
- Multifunction LCD Display affords even greater control of your navigation within Flight Simulator X, thanks to direct control of the simulation’s radio panel functionality.
- 3D Twist with Rudder Lock, essential for simulation control. For those that already have rudder pedals, you can lock off the axis in order to prevent accidental activation.
- 5-position Grip System: Maintain excellent ergonomic comfort with no need to stretch to reach buttons
- 282 Programmable Commands over 3 modes: Have all of the commands in Elite Dangerous or Star Citizen under your fingertips with no need to switch back to your keyboard
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This X52 pro HOTAS has many controllers. It features two 8-way hat switches, four weapon switches, a three-way selector switch, 3 up/down toggles, a dual-action index activate and a pinky trigger. The main reason involves two points of touch.
The x52 pro stick controller additionally offers two jog-wheels, a scroll wheel, two fire/eject buttons, along one up/down slider. X52 pro is nicely positioned, and also the up/down slider is an especially handy improvement for hardcore pro-flight sim in that adjusting the fuel-air mix may earn a great deal of difference.
The X52 pro can be of immense help as it is difficult to account for the delegated roles of each one with the many buttons. You can refrain from assigning a long list of controllers, which can be frustrating, especially for the pro-flight simulator Elite Dangerous with X52 pro.
6. THRUSTMASTER T 16000 FCS FLIGHT PACK
- The T.16000M FCS FLIGHT PACK is composed of the T.16000M FCS (Flight Control System) flight stick, the TWCS (Thrustmaster Weapon Control System) throttle and the TFRP (Thrustmaster Flight Rudder Pedals)
- The T.16000M FCS FLIGHT PACK is compatible with PC via USB
- The T.16000M FCS offers you a precision level greater than current systems, which will not decrease over time, thanks to the joystick’s H.E.A.R.T technology (U.S. patent US08471815): 3D (Hall Effect) magnetic sensors technology offering awarded precision
- The throttle’s and the Rudder pedals’ S.M.A.R.T (Sliding Motion Advanced Rail Tracks) technology delivers a unique system of slide rails for perfectly smooth sliding motion and precision
- The T.A.R.G.E.T software allows you to load and create specific mapping profiles for each game
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The external components of the Thrustmaster t 16000m joystick are made of plastic and the movable parts are made of metal, making it a reliable joystick for Elite Dangerous.
The remaining partof the joystick contains three buttons. The framework also includes many buttons, 12 in total, and they are all customizable. The rod also features an 8-way hat switch.
The rod is equipped with Thrustmaster Hall Effect Accurate Technology (H.E.A.R.T.), which helps track movements and ensures precise response. This technology makes the joystick ideal for playing Elite Dangerous.
The throttle and joystick can allow you to control the speed of your starship by moving it back and forth. While your grip is on the clasp of the controller, you can set the pointer over the analog stick, which will provide you with another Z-axis for many different controls.
The ideal side of the Thrustmaster t 16000m joystick has a small scroll wheel that can change the next rotation of the z-axis. The other side includes four buttons, while the back has two electronic buttons and a shift. The Z axis is very easy to use and play in Elite Dangerous.
7. SAITEK PRO FLIGHT YOKE JOYSTICK SYSTEM
- POV Hat, 14 button controls, and 3-position mode switch
- Stainless steel yoke shaft and 2-position clamp
- Comes with separate three axis lever throttle
- Integrated 1-USB 2.0 Port 20 Hub ; LCD Display: Yes
- Windows 10 or later, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, XP/XP64, and Vista compatible
Last update on 2025-02-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Saitek’s Guru Yoke Joystick gives you the ultimate cockpit experience. The machine comes with a yoke that includes a barbell that functions as a joystick and a quadrant throttle.
There is also an LCD panel on the handlebar that shows aesthetics. You can even turn on a stopwatch to keep track of how much time you choose to complete the quest.
Under the handlebar there is a string of switches such as a magneto way hat switch, master way hat switch, fuel pump, and light buttons for beacon and navigation. Besides, there is a landing gear and lights to take off or land your spacecraft in Elite Dangerous.
The build quality of the game console is exceptional and can endure some tough demands. It is one of the most famous products among gamers, as its multiple controllers as well as the aesthetics of this system provide an immersive experience.
How to Choose the best Joystick for Elite Dangerous
Choosing the best joystick for Elite Dangerous is different for everyone. It’s similar to choosing the right color for your nails – nobody can tell you what color you’re supposed to like.
How can you know you have gotten your hands on one? Look around and search for the following characteristics.
Importance of Having a Best Joystick for Elite Dangerous
For gamers and people who dedicate their life to high-quality gaming performance in Elite Dangerous, having a reliable joystick, mouse or keyboard is essential. It’s equal to having a sharp-edged, tempered sword for a samurai, and loaded, prepped gun for a soldier.
It’s vital if you want to be able to enjoy your game to the best, even if you are not the type that conquers space by looting other ships.
One of the hardest, but satisfying parts of Elite Dangerous, whether you are a space explorer or pirate, is docking your own ship. And it’s one of those challenging parts of the game that people can’t stop trying at but some are probably simply pissed off with how hard it is.
Yet, it’s not something you’d want to miss because it will help you gain a better control system of your ship in the future.
Another part that some players like to do is engage in battles. And for some, it’s probably one of the selling points that got them hooked in the game. How does it feel to control a thruster while flying your spaceship to avoid lasers and shooting yours?
And the top activity that people do would be exploring. If you play Elite Dangerous, it’s pretty rare for anyone to be able to encounter a solar system to cash in some money.
But it wouldn’t hurt to just enjoy the incredible view of the space. In a world where you drive a spaceship to reach various places, battle a couple of spaceships and sign up as a taxi between planets, you will need nothing short of a reliable, responsive, and precise joystick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my joystick remain compatible with my Windows after I upgrade it?
This actually depends on the manufacturer. However, Thrustmaster always brings the latest update to keep your joystick compatible with your new OS. Older models probably don’t come with any new update, but you can actually download drivers to let them work with your OS.
Do I need pedals for Elite Dangerous?
You can play the game without a single joystick and obviously, pedals are not prerequisite. But pedals do increase the fun in the game because it allows you to turn left and right which gives you even more freedom of movement in addition to your rudder.
Should I get a pro-level joystick as I’m still a beginner in this?
Your enthusiasm to immediately jump into the cockpit and fly that ship is amazing, but there are several things to consider. For example, is it within your budget, and do you really enjoy it? Getting into a pro-level joystick will definitely get you used to the complicated programmable buttons and controls quicker, but that doesn’t come with a high-end investment from you.
How many active buttons do I need for Elite Dangerous?
A lot. Let’s just say, Elite is always coming up with new features that means you have a lot of binding to do if you are new. If you are not, you know it’s one of the best budget things that makes it a really great flight simulator that keeps you hooked up for more than 2000 hours. 12 is the standard amount of buttons, and pay attention to how the buttons are places to see if it’s convenient for you to use. It’s also important that you learn to bind them in a way that is comfortable for you, i.e: one button for multiple actions, etc.
Is a multi-direction hat necessary?
It’s not, but it’s one of those things that will make the experience so much better. Most users typically won’t like it if they can’t enjoy the view of the space the way others are able to. It’s such a shame to not be able to.
Does Elite Dangerous support joystick?
The following controllers are supported by Elite Dangerous on Windows: Keyboard and Mouse, DUALSHOCK®4 Controller (requires official PlayStation®4 USB Wireless Adaptor), most modern joysticks and HoTaS setup devices.
What are the best joysticks to buy?
The best joystick for Elite Dangerous is the Thrustmaster Warthog. The Warthog has a collection of buttons so that you would not need to change to the computer keyboard for controllers, which can be quite bothersome whilst enjoying a match. The Warthog is your best budget option in regards to navigation or combat.
Best Flight Sticks:
Thrustmaster t flight hotas X flight stick
Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows
Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog PC
200-571 CH Products Fighterstick USB
LOGITECH X52 PRO
How to set up a joystick for Elite Dangerous?
Many HOTAS components come with a long USB cable and many others are wireless using inbuilt WiFi. For this reason, you may either join the rod and the pc via WiFi or employing the cable
Do you need distinct throttles?
Although a few controls separate throttles to permit increased gameplay, it is not vital. You need to be more worried about the selection of journey a specific control offers you. The same as everything on the market, it is far better to always select brands that build quality over volume.
What’s the rotation craze about?
You are really gaining access to this x,y, and y axes. You are likely to be doing quite broad ranges of movement in the elite dangerous so that you ought to find a joystick that has got you covered. You do not need to have on the sport and find that you can not create a clockwise turn.
Does cheap mean crap?
Perhaps not. There are essential features you should be aware of in each control. Most producers intentionally jack their prices up to make their products seem high-end in grade but upon search, you find it is possible to really get a better price. Thus, it is not a terrible point to check around a little.
What the difference between controller and joystick?
The difference between a game controller and joystick is that in video games, the input device for movements guides on-screen objects. While joysticks are handheld vertical levers mounted onto bases which allow you to move them left/right or up/down accordingly. You can also press buttons as needed when using this type of pin whereas other types might be partly sticks so pressing all four at once will make your character do something different than if only one has been pressed hard enough.
Thank you for this information. I started playing Elite, yes just Elite in 1984 on my Commodore 64, then Commodore Amiga 1000. Then I was using a small in the palm mouse. I am following your recommendation and ordered the Hotas Thrustmaster from Amazon. I’ll be flying with it on Tuesday. Again, thank you for the very informative article.
How is it ?
I also started with Elite on the C64 (still have it) but just jumped into Elite Dangerous as I have a little more time on my hands. How is the X Flight Stick?
It will be great… you can try this. Because this one of the most popular fighting stick. Thanks.
What’s missing from this review is that the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas.X has a rudder control on the backside of the throttle control, so no actual rudder pedals are needed. Also, I wouldn’t recommend using the sticks rotation for YAW but for left to right maneuvering thrusters.
also, wasn’t there a DOX with a knob on it for the game as well?
DAX*
And how are your impressions? Really is it the best joystick for elite dangerous? Would you recommend buying?
It is seen that you are an experienced gamer. How old is the experience? Which elite dangerous best joystick use?
Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas is best stick for elite dangerous. I play for 3 years and it’s just fine…
Great article about best controller for elite dangerous I bought 3 joystick yesterday. We will play with friends on Sunday. And then a walk)
Hello.
I had a big problem with my old joystick and I must to buy a new one.
What about your experience with your best joysticks for elite dangerous!
Thanks
So cool. Already almost 2 years play. Indeed Thrustmaster is a good joystick for elite dangerous!
Very comfortable joystick. I think it’s elite dangerous best controller. Impressions are only positive.
5 years, bro. I already used 7 best controllers for elite dangerous… I understand what I’m talking about.
Hi there. This is a review of the best controllers for elite dangerous, not all the joysticks… Thanks for the suggestion.
Hi there. I am very glad that my experience was useful for you. The controller for elite dangerous pc should bring you only joy.
From the moment I unboxed Thrustmaster T-Flight, it was clear to me that a lot of thought had gone into its design. The build quality is top-notch and all of the pieces fit together seamlessly without anything. It is really the best joystick for elite dangerous, I think)
I am so glad I bought Logitech Extreme. It is a joy to play Steel Fang with its rumble feature and quick response time, which reminds me of the old X-Wing / Tie Fighter PC game series that are now on steam! Most users recommended it as their best controller for elite dangerous for playing those titles too. If you’re looking at getting into gaming or if your current device isn’t cutting it any more then definitely give these guys!
LOGITECH X52 has nice material. Comes with suction cups. Has a good rubber grip feet. Easy to install just plug in. Great for flying games. So, it`s one of the best joysticks for Elite Dangerous!