8 Great PC Joysticks and Yokes for Flying




BEST ENTRY-LEVEL YOKE

Pro Flight Yoke System

LOGITECH

  • Added realism
  • Smooth yoke and throttle controls
  • Included desk clamps for mounting
  • Some quality-control issues

Key Specs

  • Compatibility: Windows
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Key Features: Stainless steel yoke shaft, three lever throttle

If you’ve been spending time using simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator, you may have noticed that a wide variety of planes don’t actually use a HOTAS system. Instead you’ll find something that looks a lot more like a steering wheel, called a yoke. If you’re specifically seeking accurate simulation for popular, real-life aircrafts like Cessna civilian planes or Boeing jetliners, a yoke controller is the way to go.

A great starting yoke is the Logitech Pro Flight Yoke System. The steel yoke shaft ensures that controlling pitch and roll feels great, with smooth action and resistance. Together with the included three-lever throttle controls, flying through the sky feels a lot more real.

 

BEST PREMIUM YOKE

Alpha Flight Controls

HONEYCOMB AERONAUTICAL

  • Excellent build quality
  • Smooth yoke action
  • Built-in switch panel
  • Throttle quadrant sold separately

Key Specs

  • Compatibility: Windows, macOS
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Key Features: Steel yoke shaft with 180 degree rotation, on-panel switches

In the world of at-home flight simulation, no other brand enjoys the respect and popularity that Honeycomb Aeronautical does. Known for their sleek and realistic products, any piece of Honeycomb equipment will help elevate an at-home flight simulation setup. But their best piece of flying gear is the Alpha Flight Controls yoke and switch panel.

At a glance, it may seem simpler than other options on this list, but this yoke has more to it than meets the eye. The yoke control itself is stellar, with realistic resistance and feedback. The console, which features red LED backlighting, has nine switches and an engine ignition, all of which are solid and tactile.

The only real downside here is that there is no included throttle quadrant.