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Throttles: Your essential buying guide
Start with compatibility for your platform and games, then compare the number of throttle axes, programmable buttons, switches and hats. Also consider whether you want a single throttle lever, dual throttles for multi-engine control, or a quadrant-style layout for civil aviation sims.
A standalone throttle can be a useful upgrade if your flight stick has limited throttle control or you want more realistic power management. It lets you separate steering and engine inputs, which can make flight, space and combat sims feel more controlled.
A gaming throttle often refers to a single hand-operated unit, commonly used in HOTAS setups. A throttle quadrant usually has multiple levers, which can be useful for aircraft with separate engine, propeller, mixture or flap controls, depending on how the game supports them.
Some throttles are PC-only, while others may work with specific consoles when paired with compatible flight control hardware. Always check the stated platform support and whether the throttle needs a particular base, flight stick or software to function.
They can be. Detents help you feel key positions such as idle, afterburner or reverse thrust where supported, while resistance adjustment can make the lever feel lighter or firmer. These features are worth comparing if you want more tactile control.
Gaming throttles vary from compact add-ons to more advanced units with multiple axes and extensive switch panels. The right choice depends on the type of sim you play, your available space and the controller equipment you already own.
For fast jets, combat sims and space sims, a HOTAS-style throttle with hats, toggles and thumb controls can keep key inputs close to hand. For civil aviation, a quadrant with several levers may be more suitable for managing engine power and related controls.
If you fly a mix of aircraft, look for a layout that can be reassigned easily in-game. Extra buttons are useful, but only if their placement feels natural during play.
Confirm whether the throttle supports your PC, console or wider controller ecosystem. Some models connect independently by USB, while others are designed to work with matching flight sticks or control bases.
Also check whether configuration software is needed for profiles, lighting, calibration or advanced button mapping. This matters if you plan to switch between several sims.
A basic throttle may offer one main axis and a small number of buttons, while more advanced models can include dual levers, rotary dials, slider controls, hat switches and toggle banks. More inputs can reduce keyboard use, especially in detailed simulators.
Think about which controls you use most often, such as flaps, trim, landing gear, comms, target selection or view controls. Prioritise a throttle that puts those actions within easy reach.
Throttle feel can vary, so compare features such as adjustable tension, detents, lever travel and grip shape. A longer, smoother throw can help with fine adjustments, while firmer resistance may suit players who prefer a more deliberate input.
Measure your desk or cockpit frame before choosing. Some throttles are compact enough for a desktop, while others may be better suited to clamps, mounts or a dedicated sim rig.
A throttle is often one part of a larger setup, alongside a flight stick, yoke or pedals. Matching your throttle to the way you fly can help you avoid paying for controls you will not use, or missing inputs you will need later.
If you are still building your setup, compare throttles alongside other game controller options so your controls work together comfortably.
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