Are you an avid gamer seeking the ultimate joystick experience on your PC? Look no further, as we present to you the 8 Best Joystick PC for 2023. In this ever-evolving world of gaming technology, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest equipment that can enhance your gaming performance. Whether you are into flying simulators, racing games, or exploring virtual worlds, having a high-quality joystick can significantly elevate your gameplay. We have carefully selected and reviewed the top joysticks available in the market, considering their features, durability, and overall user experience, to provide you with an expert guide on the best options for 2023. Get ready to take your gaming adventures to the next level with these top-of-the-line joysticks.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Take control with the Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro USB Joystick for Windows. This joystick offers advanced controls and a custom twist-handle rudder for stable and precise gameplay. With 12 programmable buttons, you can easily configure commands and macros. The 8-way Hat Switch is designed for flight sims, while the rapid-fire trigger allows for fast and accurate shooting. The comfortable hand grip ensures hours of comfortable gaming. It is compatible with Windows and has a sleek black design. Overall, the Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro USB Joystick is a reliable and affordable joystick for gaming enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Logitech Exreme 3D Pro Joystick
- 12 Programmable Buttons
- 8-way Hat Switch
- Rapid-fire Trigger
- Comfortable Hand Grip
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.20Lx8.80Wx8.40H
Pros
- Stable and precise controls
- Customizable buttons and macros
- Comfortable hand grip
- Compatible with Windows 11
- Long-lasting durability
Cons
- Throttle control could be better
- Awkward setup for games using keyboard
- Not wireless
The Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro USB Joystick is a reliable and affordable joystick for gaming enthusiasts. With advanced controls, customizable buttons, and a comfortable hand grip, this joystick offers a stable and precise gaming experience. While the throttle control could be improved and the lack of wireless connectivity is a downside, this joystick is still a great option for those looking to enhance their gaming experience. Whether you’re dropping bombs or firing guns, the Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro USB Joystick will take your gaming to the next level.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightstick is a universal simulation controller joystick designed for air and space combat simulation games. It is compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Windows 10, and Windows 11 PCs. With high-precision, non-contact main axes and customizable multi-function throttle and flap levers, this joystick provides a realistic and immersive gaming experience. It features 27 programmable buttons, 8 axes, a POV hat, and a rapid-fire trigger, allowing for enhanced control and versatility. The integrated OLED flight management display and intuitive flight configuration wheel make navigation seamless. Its ambidextrous design caters to both fighter jets and airliners, and the adjustable RGB lighting adds a visually appealing touch. With its solid build quality and accurate performance, the Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightstick offers excellent value for money.
Key Features
- High-Precision, Non-Contact Main Axes
- Customizable, Multi-Function Throttle & Flap Levers
- Compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & PC
- 27 Programmable Buttons, 8 Axes, POV Hat & Rapid-Fire Trigger
- Integrated, OLED Flight Management Display
- Intuitive Flight Configuration Wheel
- Touchpad Navigation Sensor for Full Cursor Control
- Ambidextrous Design for Fighter Jets & Airliners
- Adjustable RGB Lighting
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 6.46L x 8.54W x 9.07H
Pros
- High-precision and non-contact main axes
- Customizable throttle and flap levers
- Wide compatibility with Xbox and PC
- Extensive programmable buttons and axes
- Integrated OLED flight management display
- Intuitive flight configuration wheel
- Ambidextrous design for versatile use
- Adjustable RGB lighting adds visually appealing touch
Cons
- Stick resistance can be too high at times
- Yoke may be sticky and not smooth
- Throttle may separate from the device
The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightstick is a well-built and feature-rich joystick for air and space combat simulation games. With its customizable controls, extensive button mapping options, and compatibility with both Xbox and PC, it offers a versatile gaming experience. The high-precision main axes and integrated OLED display enhance immersion, while the adjustable RGB lighting adds a visual flair. However, some users may find the stick resistance to be too high, and there have been reports of the yoke being sticky and the throttle coming off. Nonetheless, considering its overall performance and value for money, the Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightstick is a solid choice for enthusiasts seeking a realistic and enjoyable gaming experience.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Thrustmaster T16000M FCS USB Flight Stick offers precise control and versatility for PC gaming. With its H.E.A.R.T technology, it provides a high level of precision that won't decrease over time. The joystick is fully ambidextrous and can be customized for left-handed or right-handed use. It features 16 action buttons, an 8-way Point of View hat switch, and 4 independent axes including twist rudder. The T.A.R.G.E.T software allows for specific mapping profiles for each game. Overall, the Thrustmaster T16000M FCS USB Flight Stick is a great option for gamers looking for a high-quality and customizable joystick.
Key Features
- Compatible with PC via USB in Windows
- Precision level that won't decrease over time
- Fully ambidextrous joystick
- 16 action buttons with physical button identification
- 8-way Point of View hat switch and 4 independent axes
- T.A.R.G.E.T software for specific mapping profiles
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 8.18Lx9.44Wx7.79H
Pros
- High level of precision
- Ambidextrous design
- Customizable mapping profiles
- Responsive controls
Cons
- Button visibility in dimly lit rooms
- Throttle stickiness
- Compatibility issues with Windows 11
- Drift issue on z-axis
The Thrustmaster T16000M FCS USB Flight Stick is a versatile and precise joystick for PC gaming. While it has some drawbacks such as button visibility in dimly lit rooms and compatibility issues with Windows 11, its overall performance and customizable features make it a great choice for gamers. The stick’s ambidextrous design and responsive controls provide an immersive gaming experience. However, the persistent drift issue on the z-axis is a notable flaw that should be addressed. Despite this, the Thrustmaster T16000M FCS USB Flight Stick offers a high level of precision and customization options, making it a solid option for gamers seeking a quality joystick.
Overall Score: 9/10
Experience retro arcade gaming with the SPEEDLINK SL-650212-BKRD Competition PRO EXTRA USB Joystick – Anniversary Edition. This digital USB joystick is perfect for arcade and retro games, featuring a nostalgic design taken from the original Competition Pro's arcade machine stick. The anniversary edition includes a games collection with 20 retro games for download. With its black color and dimensions of 4.65Lx3.78Wx5.12H, it not only looks great but also delivers a high-quality gaming experience. Compatible with both PCs and Android devices, this joystick is a must-have for retrogamers everywhere.
Key Features
- Digital USB Joystick for PCs and Android Devices
- Perfect for Arcade and Retro Games
- Nostalgic Design Taken from the Original Competition Pro's Arcade Machine Stick
- Anniversary Edition Includes Games Collection with 20 Retro Games for Download
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 4.65Lx3.78Wx5.12H
Pros
- Great build quality
- Works with MAC Mini M1
- Rapid fire built-in
- Ambidextrous design
- Compatible with emulators
Cons
- Toggle is clicky and mechanical
- Tight stick movement
- Bad micro switches
The SPEEDLINK SL-650212-BKRD Competition PRO EXTRA USB Joystick – Anniversary Edition offers a superb gaming experience for retro enthusiasts. With its nostalgic design, this joystick provides the perfect feel for arcade and retro games. It offers great build quality, compatibility with various devices and emulators, and comes with a collection of 20 retro games. While some may find the toggle clicky and the stick movement tight, these are minor drawbacks compared to the overall performance and enjoyment this joystick provides. Whether you’re reliving the glory days of the Amiga, ST, C64, or Spectrum, or simply looking for a high-quality joystick for arcadey gaming, the SPEEDLINK SL-650212-BKRD is a fantastic choice.
Overall Score: 7/10
Experience classic gaming with the Rii Game Controller. This retro USB controller is designed for PC, Raspberry Pi, Windows, MAC, Liunx, and Android GP100. With a simple USB plug and play setup, you can easily connect it to a USB port without installing any additional drivers or patches. The controller features high sensitivity buttons for precise control, including 6 fire buttons, a 'Start' button, a 'Select' button, and a motion control cross. It is compatible with most game emulators, making it perfect for old school gaming. The grey color adds a touch of nostalgia, while the 1.5-meter external cable ensures flexibility during gameplay. With friendly customer service and a worry-free 1-year warranty, the Rii Game Controller is a reliable choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Compatible with various operating systems
- Simple USB plug and play
- High sensitivity buttons for precision control
- Works with most game emulators
- 1.5-meter external cable for flexibility
- Friendly customer service and 1-year warranty
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 4.72Lx3.15Wx1.18H
Pros
- Easy setup with USB plug and play
- High sensitivity buttons for precise control
- Works well with game emulators
- 1.5-meter cable provides flexibility during gameplay
- Friendly customer service and 1-year warranty
Cons
- Not built to last
- Directional cross is stiff
- Some issues with diagonal input
- Buttons and D-Pad can be mushy
- Lacks sensitivity for precise movement
The Rii Game Controller is a decent choice for retro gaming enthusiasts. With its compatibility with various operating systems and game emulators, it offers a nostalgic gaming experience. The easy USB plug and play setup, high sensitivity buttons, and 1.5-meter cable enhance the overall gameplay. However, it falls short in terms of durability and precise movement. The buttons and D-Pad can be mushy, and some users reported issues with diagonal input. Despite its faults, its affordable price, retro design, and reliability of customer service and warranty make it worth considering for casual emulator usage. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for retro gaming, the Rii Game Controller is worth a try.
Overall Score: 6.2/10
The PC Joystick is a USB game controller with vibration function and throttle control, designed for use with Windows PC/Computer/Laptop. It offers a realistic flying experience with its vibration function and is compatible with popular flight games such as World of Tanks, War Thunder, and Microsoft Flight Simulator. The joystick features rapid fire trigger, 4 axis controlling, 8-Way hat switch, and 12 programmable buttons for an immersive flying experience. It has a comfortable and ergonomic design, with precise throttle control for agile operation. The joystick comes with 4 power-grip suction cups for secure placement on smooth surfaces. However, it does not support force feedback and is not compatible with Mac, Apple computers, Apple equipment, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, or Switch consoles. Overall, it is a decent joystick for casual flight gaming on a Windows PC.
Key Features
- Vibration function for a realistic fly experience
- Compatible with popular flight games
- Rapid fire trigger and programmable buttons
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Precise throttle control
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.28Lx7.28Wx8.86H
- Size: 18.5 x 18.5 x 22.5 CM
Pros
- Realistic fly experience with vibration function
- Compatible with popular flight games
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Precise throttle control
Cons
- No force feedback support
- Not compatible with Mac, Apple devices, PS3, PS4, Xbox One, or Switch
The PC Joystick offers a decent flying experience for casual gamers. It provides vibration function for added realism and has a comfortable ergonomic design. The joystick is compatible with popular flight games and offers precise throttle control. However, it lacks force feedback support and is not compatible with Mac or console gaming. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable joystick for casual flight gaming on a Windows PC, the PC Joystick is worth considering.
Overall Score: 8/10
The IFYOO VONE 2.4G Wireless Game Controller is a versatile gaming controller compatible with various platforms including PC, Steam, PS3, and Android devices. It features a state-of-the-art 2.4G wireless technology for a seamless gaming experience and comes with a skin-like finish for great control and comfort. The controller also has dual rumble motors for immersive gameplay, a Turbo Function for quick actions, and light up ABXY buttons for added style. With a 600mAh rechargeable battery, it offers up to 15 hours of continuous playtime. The package includes the controller, user manual, micro-USB cable, 2.4GHz receiver, and two joystick caps. However, it's important to note that it doesn't support Xbox 360, Xbox One, Mac OS, and PS4. Overall, the IFYOO VONE 2.4G Wireless Game Controller offers a reliable and enjoyable gaming experience.
Key Features
- Play Across Platforms: Compatible with PC, Steam, PS3, and Android devices
- Play Wirelessly: Utilizes 2.4G wireless technology for a wire-free gaming experience
- Unparalleled Design: Skin-like finish, dual rumble motors, Turbo Function, and light-up buttons
- 600m Ah Rechargeable Battery: Up to 15 hours of playtime with smart auto-sleep function
- Package Includes: Controller, user manual, micro-USB cable, 2.4GHz receiver, and joystick caps
Specifications
- Color: Red
- Joystick Caps: 2x White
Pros
- Versatile compatibility with multiple platforms
- Wireless technology for freedom of movement
- Comfortable design with rumble motors and light-up buttons
- Long battery life with smart auto-sleep function
Cons
- Not compatible with Xbox 360, Xbox One, Mac OS, and PS4
- Thumbsticks may not be smooth for some users
- Limited compatibility with certain Android devices
The IFYOO VONE 2.4G Wireless Game Controller is a reliable and affordable option for gamers who want versatility and convenience. Its compatibility with various platforms, wireless technology, and comfort-focused design make it a solid choice for both casual and avid gamers. The controller’s long battery life and smart auto-sleep function ensure uninterrupted gaming sessions. However, it’s important to note the limitations in compatibility with Xbox, Mac, and certain Android devices. Overall, the IFYOO VONE 2.4G Wireless Game Controller provides an enjoyable gaming experience with its reliable performance and attractive features.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Thrustmaster USB Joystick is an entry-level joystick designed for PC gaming. It features a point of view button for easy camera control and immersive gameplay. With 3 axes and 4 buttons plus a trigger, it offers complete control for gaming. The ergonomic handle with an enlarged rest ensures optimal comfort during long gaming sessions. The joystick also has a weighted base with non-slip rubber pads for perfect stability. It is compatible with various games, including racing and flight simulators. The Thrustmaster USB Joystick is a budget-friendly option for gamers looking for a reliable and functional joystick.
Key Features
- Point of view button for camera control
- 3 axes and 4 buttons plus trigger
- Ergonomic handle with enlarged rest
- Weighted base for stability
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 9.45Lx6.50Wx6.50H
Pros
- Affordable price
- Analog handbrake for racing simulators
- Compatible with various games and platforms
Cons
- Lacks advanced features
- Some compatibility issues with certain games
The Thrustmaster USB Joystick is a great entry-level option for gamers on a budget. It offers solid performance and comfortable gameplay with its ergonomic design. The analog handbrake feature is a bonus for racing enthusiasts. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end joysticks, it delivers reliable control and immersion in gaming. The joystick’s compatibility with various games and platforms further adds to its appeal. Overall, if you’re a casual gamer or just starting out with flight or racing simulators, the Thrustmaster USB Joystick is a worthwhile choice.
Buyer's Guide: Joystick PCWhether you're a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, a joystick for PC gaming can enhance your gameplay experience and provide immersive control. With a wide variety of options available in the market, choosing the right joystick can be a challenging task. But worry not, because we're here to guide you through the exciting world of joysticks. Take a look at our comprehensive buyer's guide below:
Joystick PC Buyer's Guide:
1. Determine your gaming needs:
- Understand the type of games you frequently play on your PC. Different joysticks cater to various genres, such as flight simulators, racing games, or combat simulations.
- Consider the level of complexity and customization options you desire. Some joysticks offer programmable buttons and adjustable sensitivity, providing greater control customization.
2. Compatibility with your PC:
- Ensure the joystick is compatible with your PC. Most modern joysticks connect through USB ports, making them compatible with a wide range of operating systems.
- Check for specific software or drivers required for optimal performance. Make sure they are compatible with your PC's operating system.
3. Durability and build quality:
- Look for a well-built joystick that can withstand extensive gaming sessions. Pay attention to the build materials, such as sturdy plastic or metal components.
- Check customer reviews to get an idea about the joystick's durability and overall quality.
4. Ergonomics and comfort:
- Consider the joystick's design and ergonomics. Look for a comfortable grip and conveniently placed buttons for extended gaming sessions.
- Test the joystick if possible or read user reviews to ensure it fits comfortably in your hand and offers a fatigue-free gaming experience.
5. Button and axis customization:
- Determine the number of buttons and axes you require for your gaming preferences. Some joysticks feature additional programmable buttons, enabling you to map various functions and macros.
- Consider whether you need a separate throttle control or extra buttons for specific game genres.
6. Feedback and precision:
- Check the joystick's feedback mechanism, such as force feedback or haptic feedback. These features can enhance your experience by providing realistic vibrations and resistance.
- Look for a joystick with precise movements and sensitivity adjustments to ensure accurate control in-game.
7. Wired or wireless connectivity:
- Decide whether you prefer a wired or wireless joystick. Wired joysticks generally offer lower latency and uninterrupted connectivity, while wireless joysticks provide greater freedom of movement.
8. Price and budget considerations:
- Determine your budget for a joystick PC. Set a price range that suits your requirements while ensuring you get a product with the desired features.
- Consider the value for money, as more expensive options may provide better durability, additional features, or superior build quality.
9. Warranty and support:
- Check the manufacturer's warranty and after-sales support offered with the joystick. Ensure you have access to assistance or replacement options if needed.
10. Research and compare:
- Perform thorough research and read reviews from credible sources to make an informed decision. Compare various models and brands to find the best joystick that suits your preferences and requirements.
—
Frequently Asked Questions about 8 Best Joystick Pc for 2023
Joysticks are especially popular for flight simulators, space exploration games, racing games, combat simulations, and arcade-style games.
Most modern joysticks connect through USB ports, making them compatible with a wide range of PCs. However, it’s important to ensure compatibility with your specific operating system.
Wireless joysticks provide greater freedom of movement, but wired joysticks generally offer lower latency and uninterrupted connectivity.
The number of buttons required depends on personal preferences and gaming genres. Basic joysticks usually have around 6-8 buttons, while advanced models may offer more programmable buttons.
Expensive joysticks often provide better build quality, durability, and additional features such as force feedback or customizable buttons. However, it ultimately depends on your needs and budget.
The lifespan of a joystick can vary depending on its quality, usage, and care. However, a well-maintained joystick can last several years.
Joysticks designed for PC gaming may not be compatible with gaming consoles. Make sure to check the compatibility specifications before purchasing.
If your joystick malfunctions or stops working, refer to the manufacturer’s warranty and support options. They can guide you through troubleshooting steps, provide repairs, or offer replacements if necessary.
While primarily designed for gaming, joysticks can also be used for non-gaming purposes, such as controlling certain software, robotics, or flight simulations for training purposes.
Reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into a joystick’s performance, durability, and overall user satisfaction. It is advisable to go through multiple reliable sources for a balanced perspective.
