What joystick should I buy?

[wealthysoup]

Im looking for a joystick with trim control and possibly twist rudder I'm not wanting to spend too much on it and after about 3 hours of searching i've only found 2 with trim controls which i havn't liked the look of very much.

[FS_Pilot]

I used to use a FF2 but it gave up the ghost after years of faithfull service. I am now using a Saitek X45, it took a bit of getting used to but it has all the bells and whistles you will ever need. It comes with programmable software that allows you to configure it to your needs. It will give you over 100 possible button and wheel combinations. Check out their website at www.saitek.com

[beaky]

Said it before, and I'll say it again- the Saitek X45 is a lot of product for the money. Been beating mine up for over a year now, and it's still working great. There's a new version of their throttle/stick combo out now, called the X52. Not sure how they compare price-wise, but I've heard the X52 is very nice also.

[Ivan]

Will be my next stick i think (X45)

Feels solid, but could be somewhat heavier IMO, as the throttle is a little stiff to move.

[FS_Pilot]

Ivan, there is a Friction screw under the Throttle Base you can adjust to loosen the pressure and make it lighter to move.
Allen

[Ben_M_K]

I have the Microsoft Force Feeback 2, but I usually use my CH Yoke and CH Pedals, VERY realistic and fun!

[Hai Perso Coyone?]

Use your keyboard

[Ivan]

Does the x45 have a separate power wire, or is it USB powered (as adapters tend to get broken wires here...)

[FS_Pilot]

It is USB powered. Just plug it in and off you go. Setup your assignments in FS2004 and your ready. if you want programmable buttons you can also install the saitek software to give you more options. But the standard assignment setup in FS2004 is usally enough.

[flying_callow]

hey

i have just got the x52 joystick today and can say that it is worth every cent it cost ($200AU) and that anyone who is thinking about getting it should

from andrew.

[Katahu]

Ivan, there is a Friction screw under the Throttle Base you can adjust to loosen the pressure and make it lighter to move.
Allen

WHAT?!

A friction screw?

I never knew that. I shouldn't have never thrown away that manual. I'm the kind of guy who thinks I can learn without the manuals.

[FS_Pilot]

You can always download another copy of the manual from the www.saitek.com site.
Allen

[4_Series_Scania]

Just thought I'd pop up & advise against any form of "Gameport" type stick, go for USB!

Why? Games such as Battlefield 2 require USB joysticks and don't work correctly with the older gameport technology.

If anybody can tell me how I can get my gameport stick (M$ FF) to work with Battlefield 2, they'd make me a happy man!  ::)

[Wing Nut]

Saitek Evo works pretty good for me...  :)

[Ivan]

Gameport is for home made rudder pedals and a separater throttle unit if you have the need (2x analog axis).

For the rest: use USB, as you can use way more buttons on them