I’m going traveling for a while and will be without my thrustmaster…
I guess I could use this time go back to basics, read a book, get back in touch with nature… to help with my msfs addiction 
But I am looking at options that can fit in my rucksack… Especially for you xbox users…
What is it like flying with the controller?? is it good?? How are all the controls and what not…
It kinda feels like I’ll be going back to the dark days of the arrow buttons…
The Xbox Contreller is fine if you spend your time working on a proper setting. If you’re into bush flying, i’ve done a set which i use as a basis for all my bush or STOL planes, then if needed i adjust to the single one by doing some little change here and there. I can even slip with this setup, which is something many users will tell you is really hard without rudder pedals. Give it a ride if you want and let me know if you’re fine with it, for me it works really well ( i’ve done this setup after 400 hours of flight time with an Xbox controller ).
I’m happily flying on an Xbox controller. The only thing I didn’t like was the default button assignments, so i created a custom profile that is more like the old default FSX assignments. You likely won’t get the same fine tuning on the tiny control sticks as you would on a full sized yoke, but you can get use to it and try the Xbox control assistance in the assistance options. The only time it seems tricky to me is on landing, but even that isn’t that bad.
I’m actually using a cheap wired third party Xbox style controller, not an official Xbox controller. Now that I also sometimes fly VR, I’m debating keeping it that way instead of eventually getting a better setup.
It takes my a while to hit the sweet spot for landing on the vertical axis. Usually is something that i fine tuning on sensitivity for many planes, the weight is a huge factor to take into account. For example, the Savage Carbon by GotGravel is really light and i need a bit more twitchy input on Y axis if i want to make smooth landings at stall speed. Once you have a base set and a good understanding on how the sensitivity options work it’s pretty easy to make the needed adjustement. For every change i do i test it on my default testing airport ( for me it’s NZTL in New Zeland ) doing 2-3 circuits in clear weather.
Yep, I used to use an Xbox controller on my laptop while traveling all the time. Made my own assignments, but, it worked great.
Thanks heaps for the replies guys, I think I’m going to get a second hand one and yeah…
Maybe this is my opportunity to just do some vfr flying…
How is it regarding pmdg and the likes
Cheers for that mate, I’m definitely going to be getting one tomorrow…
Hey,. What is you set up/button maps for it?
So used to the thrust master, what do you have for throttles, trim etc
It can be done. Especially if you have a mouse and keyboard too. But even with the controller alone. It was programmed to work on Xbox so it gets things done. Sometimes even better than other ways, often not as good.
But I find I always have an Xbox controller in use at all times for various MSFS related things on Xbox or PC. It has a LOT of buttons to map and various triggers and sticks. Comes in handy for many an aircraft, even just for an odd task or two, or for a redundant button that is easier to reach. And you know it will always be MSFS compatible!
It is better than it has any right to be because they spent some real time and effort getting MSFS to work on it. Still not an optimal control, but it does everything you need it to do.
How does the controller work with a PC? I thought about the wireless version but is it as useful as the wired one?
It is plug and play or Bluetooth with default controls built in. You can map your own profiles from there.
I’m on Xbox and have used the controller when playing via an iPad also. Works just fine. Default controls, basic flight input. Easy transport. No complaints
Wireless is the way to go. Versatile and not antiquated
I use a controller (default settings) and have no issue flying. I use a mouse and keyboard too, but just added another joystick for the Flyinside Bell 206 only. For me less is more and the controller forces you to pay more attention when trying to land what ever aircraft your flying. It’s a test of your prowess with the controller and hand eye coordination. It’s fun. lol
I’d recommend the Turtle Beach React-R pad. It’s got more buttons than a standard Xbox controller and is a lot cheaper! It doesn’t feel quite as well-built but it’s handled the abuse I’ve given it since February. Plug ‘n’ play so nice and easy! It’s not wireless but I fail to see what real difference it makes.
Thanks, is there a specific version of the Xbox controller that works best with MSFS?
I recently bought a brand new logitech X56 rgb hotas, I also have the turtlebeach flightstick and a thrustmaster hotas one.
I always fly with the xbox elite 2 controller tho, pure laziness I think…
For sure. I tried a cheap version that didn’t work well, if at all.
I upgraded to this, and have been very happy with it. $65 on Amazon back in April.
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Stellar Shift - Wireless & Bluetooth Connectivity - New Hybrid D-Pad - New Share Button - Featuring Textured Grip
No. But just get the official Microsoft official controller. Again I recommend wireless.
Don’t buy some cheap knock off brand. Build quality is poor, among other issues.
Funny you should ask… I set up this web page years ago. Still do pretty much the same thing in MSFS. Sadly Asobo didn’t carry through FSX’s multiplayer push-to-talk feature, good thing is, you can use that button for something else.
I have set up my controller for MSFS, I’ll look up those settings later (and maybe update my website a bit from nearly 15-20 years ago now, lol!)
If you REALLY want to push the boat out, for GA flying when travelling this looks pretty epic (with an equally epic price though!):
