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The Best Joysticks for Gaming with Precision

A girl wearing white headphones and using a joystick to play a game on her monitor.
WeAre/Shutterstock.com

Joysticks are the perfect accessory for gamers who are seeking a more immersive experience. They allow you to simulate flights and come equipped with special inputs and other intricate commands. The technology alone will have you believing that you are aboard a high-speed military-grade aircraft! Here are some fantastic joysticks we recommend for your next virtual flight.

Purchasing a Joystick

When you are shopping for the perfect joystick for your gaming setup, consider these important factors:

  • Programmable Buttons: Joysticks come with a unique layout of buttons that allow you to program their commands. This design can execute simple and complex actions with incredible efficiency.
  • Ergonomic Hand Grip: The shape and grasp of a joystick should feel comfortable while you are gaming for hours at a time. It conforms and adapts to the structure of your hand, providing you with optimal support continuously.
  • Stabilization: Joysticks require extra stabilization so that you can perform intricate commands while the device itself will remain securely in place. This ensures that your joystick won’t tip over or slide all over the place while you are using it.

Best Overall: THRUSTMASTER TCA Sidestick Edition

A joystick with a grey base and black handle that features textured indicators on the buttons.
THRUSTMASTER

In terms of performance, you won’t find a more versatile and user-friendly joystick than this option from THRUSTMASTER. It includes 17 action buttons with textured identification markings. You can modify the joystick to correspond with piloting or co-piloting configurations. It also features a lockable twist rudder so that you simulate a commercial flight more authentically.

Best Overall

THRUSTMASTER TCA Sidestick Edition

Utilizing magnetic technology to ensure optimal precision.

Best for VR: Logitech Pro Flight X56

A black and blue joystick with matching throttle.
Logitech

This military-grade joystick is the perfect option for VR gaming. It is one of the most authentic simulators on the market. It features an intricate control system capable of producing vertical, horizontal, and lateral movements with incredible precision. The controls are also customizable, which allows you to practice your piloting skills and become an expert.

Best for VR

Logitech Pro Flight X56

The ultimate simulator for aspiring combat pilots.

Best Ambidextrous Design: THRUSTMASTER T16000M FCS

A black joystick with yellow accents that features an ambidextrous handle.
THRUSTMASTER

This is an ambidextrous joystick that comes with three removable components, which helps accommodate both left-handed and right-handed gamers. It also consists of 16 action buttons along with an ergonomic trigger for greater comfort and ease of use. This joystick delivers pinpoint accuracy and precision without causing any fatigue to your hands and wrists.

Best Ambidextrous Design

Thrustmaster T16000M FCS

Easily switch between left-handed and right-handed use.

Best Premium Option: CH Products Fighterstick USB

A black joystick with buttons on the top of the handle.
CH Products

This joystick is incredibly high-tech because it comes with advanced programming software, which gives you total control over button assignments and other inputs. In fact, it features 132 programmable functions, which is more than most joysticks. It also offers a simple plug-and-play installation so that you can begin using it immediately.

Best Premium Option

CH Products Fighterstick USB

A joystick that's compatible with most operating systems.

Best Value: Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Precision Fightstick

A reliable and high-tech joystick that anyone can afford.
Logitech

If you are searching for an ultramodern joystick at a budget-friendly price, then look no further. With programmable controls and a rapid-fire trigger, you can immerse yourself while dominating the skies. The joystick also features accurate throttle settings, which will make the experience a lot more fun and realistic.

Best Value

Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Precision Fightstick

A joystick that provides you with optimal control.

Nick Pappas Nick Pappas
Nick Pappas is a freelance writer for LifeSavvy from South Bend, IN. He earned his bachelor's degree in English and has written content and short stories for ABC57 News and Kansas City Voices. Away from the computer, you can find Nick traveling and filmmaking, though his interests are constantly changing! Read Full Bio »
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