Hello all, still researching. Based on precision/accuracy alone which is the better stick? With some consideration to quality/feel. Thrustmaster T16000, Logitech X56, or Turtle Beach V1 flight stick?
Hi slid3show.
If you’re prepared to spend X56 type money, the VKB Gladiator NXT Evo actually costs a little less than the Logitech, and is in a completely different league to all the sticks you mentioned.
This is because instead of a cheap ball and socket plastic gimbal, it has a much better designed cam type gimbal (still in plastic, albeit good quality quality ABS, but then again this is VKB’s entry-level model). It has contactless sensors, proper ball bearings, adjustable springs and adjustable dry clutches to give a smooth and damped precision feel that completely eludes the other sticks. VKB’s build quality, longevity and serviceability is also way, way beyond the others mentioned.
It comes with powerful configuration software, which allows you to adjust curves and sensitivity in different ways and calibrate everything on the stick, including the LED colours and responses. There is a throttle slider built in to the base, twist control for rudders if needed and plenty of hats, buttons and encoders, so more than enough to get you flying in its most basic form. If you want to add more axes, buttons and functionality at a later date or as budget allows, you can get additional NXT modules from VKB, which can operate either stand-alone or mounted on one or both sides of the Gladiator.
For more info, just search VKB Gladiator on r/hotas or google “VKB Gladiator vs…” for lots of YT videos. Here is one example: 2022 HOTAS ROUNDUP! (12 Systems, Sticks & Combinations) - YouTube
Further to the above, I just noticed your question carries the XBox tag - of all the sticks mentioned including the Gladiator, only the Turtle Beach will work with the XBox.
Yes, I know about compatibility, and about VKB. I should remove the tag. Thanks for commenting.
I used a X56 for more than a decade and am very happy with it. It is very versatile both in- and outside of MSFS.
I keep hearing about build and quality issues but I never had any issues. It might be a generational thing, on account of the whole Saitek/Logitech takeover but thats a different story.
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The X-56 is far superior to the T16000. I bought the latter but very quickly upgraded to an X-56. The T16000 is really a beginners HOTAS whilst the X-56 is more mid range.
The throttle of the X-56 is pretty decent. The stick isn’t as good but its still ok. I will upgrade to a Virpil set up at some point when I can afford it.
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Cant recommend the T16000. My first one, the throttle gave out around one year ago, so a buddy of mine gave his T16000 to me. Now the rudder input is erratic which is quite common i think on the T16000
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My experience with the T16000 is not very satisfying.
The stick on its own is ok, but has only limmited options, compared to my former Saitek X-52 pro which died after over 10 years of excellent service.
The throttle is useless , especialy when in need for precision operations ( e.g. formation flying)
Rudders work, but only after I replaced the standaard grease on the rails and spray it with WD40 every now and then.
I’ll keep using the TM throttle but only for it’s buttons and hat switches.
The Saitek throttle is still connected btw because this one survived all thos years of service.
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Thanks a ton, y’all.
A little backstory. I do now have an Xbox that I foolishly purchased for MSFS. I’m in the market for a new HOTAS.
TM has dropped two or three Xbox yokes/sticks, plus added the TPR pedals, as long as it’s ran through the hub in the base of the newly compatible peripherals in the last 6 months. They’re actively working on Xbox compatibility…from the top of the line down.
Logitech has wheels that are Xbox compatible, and the new dedicated cloud device for Game Pass. So, they have a relationship.
I should have bought a PC. I had no idea about the lack of peripherals. I’m gonna give it until fall. If TM releases an Xbox T16000 first, they’re gonna get my money… Logitech, they get it. If neither does, and TB doesn’t release a throttle, I’ll finally make the jump to PC.
It’s a bit speculative, but I think my reasoning’s sound. Especially on Thrustmaster. Just researching, but not wasting y’all’s time. Something’s gonna happen by fall. Thanks again.
The VKB is very nice, but once you add the throttle, out of my price range. Not really considering it because of my above post. I expect Xbox compatible versions of the above mentioned sticks. Not so much VKB, although I haven’t looked into them that much.
Last resort, I’m gonna switch to PC, then the VKB set will definitely be out of my price range. I do appreciate the suggestion, though. You’re not wrong. Just doesn’t work for my situation.
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