I have had my X-56 for about four years and it's a pretty good set up, I have the Logitech version - the Saitek version suffered from poor quality and provided them with a bad reputation. My stick broke a little over a year ago, when the lever switch broke, Logitech acted like they would fix it but gave me the run around, so I declined to send it to them to get fixed. I ordered a Win wing F-16ex and the difference is amazing, I ordered the base and stick and it cost as much if not more than the whole X-56 HOTAS did but I instantly fell in love with it. I intend to order the Winwing Orion 2 throttle with the F-15 throttle grips (I fly DCS exclusively, and everyone says between Virpil and Winwing they are the top of the line HOTAS set ups. For a mid level tier just above the X-56, I recommend the VKB hardware, they are made of plastic so not as expensive but still quality hardware.
Hey, this is an amazing review brother!! I purchased my set before Starfield was supposed to release originally and quickly sat them to the side when it was delayed haha! I am going to be pulling them out and setting them up shortly for that release!! A few questions, have you switched to new sticks since this video? I looked at the Virpil Alphas and potentially getting a dual-stick setup, I was going to do that once I got used to these haha, but that of course has been majorly delayed. But I want real tension, so thinking having a gearbox like the Virpil controllers will really give that feel I want! Although I am a newbie, I tend to go after the best experience possible when I jump into something which lead me to these as a pass-thru to make sure I enjoyed the genre. Lastly, is your desk designed for this style of gameplay, and if you don't mind me asking, what is it? I believe I recognized your mounts!
Chris, Thank you so much for watching! It helps as I am a new channel. I sub'd you as well because I see you do reviews. Its funny you mention Virpil because I upgraded to a pair of them after having them on order for like 4 months. But let me tell you something, the Virps are like BUTTTTAAAHHH. I use dual stick and throttle, and will review that set up. Pop in to our discord and I can talk to ya about all of this if you like! I flew with these for a year and it was fun, but you really want to have friends and product knowledge because your sim pit really needs to fit your playstyle and be well suited to the games you play. My desk is just a "gaming" desk I picked up for like 100$ off facebook marketplace and my mounts are knock off monster techs from amazon. I kept the set up simple and economic for the build in this video. discord.com/invite/sw33t
One thing I wish they carried over from the X-52 was the double pull detente on the trigger. Also, would have rather had a thumb hat on the stick instead of the ministick, though that's a minor complaint. A major issue I have had with the X-56 is that plastic gimbal. There was for a long time I had to set a dead-zone around it as the stick would register inputs in the very slight movement slop that gimbal allowed on even the tightest spring. Dead-zoning in DCS meant that the F-16 was registering much higher pressure by the time I moved the stick outside of the zone... it made fine controls a nightmare. Finally I powered it down to swap to the lightest spring in the box to see if it mitigated, and apparently I got a driver or firmware update at the same time because when I plugged in again, the computer no longer registered movement inside the slop zone. I took off the dead-zones and readjusted the curve and sure enough, I had extremely fine control with no random banking or pitching from resting inside the slop zone. I also kept the lightest spring on it because it was very easy on my wrists (30 years of gaming and programming is hell on the joints in the hands and arms).
I personally agree with the lack of double trigger. I had an x52 as well and really missed that feature. Glad to hear you fixed it! I didn't mind firmer so I stretched my spring out so it was tighter.
Well guess I'm keeping my X52. The moment you said 1 1/2 years use and buttons and led problems killed it for me. I've been using my x52 for 15 years and not a single problem. Just thought the extra throttle and buttons would have been nice.
I’ve had a t16000. And I quite loved it. The pedals weren’t the best but usable. That was 3 years ago. I’m now getting back into sims. And I can’t justify dropping money on a Virpil or winwing. I’ve ordered the X56 to try something new. Feel like imma take hit on the chin with it. But I’m going to try it.
@@motorolje1903 I will not lie. All the buttons are fairly nice, but the centering on the stick is super sticky. The t16000s centering was a lot better. If I had to do again. I would choose the t16000
"Remarkable system you have here... May I inquire about the typical investment associated with such advanced equipment? Pardon the rather direct question, but I'm genuinely curious.
Would you avoid buying these second hand? I currently play with two logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joysticks which do me fine but was wondering about a throttle and rudder aswell. In saying that too, they sit gethering dust most of the time until star citizen drops an update that brings me back for abit. Thanks for the video.
Here's my thing baza, if I'm trying something new I usually go down to Microcenter and get a protection plan for if it breaks *assuming they sell it* if I bought a pair of these used I wouldn't pay more than 100 for good condition and you really should run a calibration test prior to the payment.
I first thought about just to buy the thrustmaster airbus stick for flight simulator ... But I think this is more fun for a longer time ... I hope without a cool installation you get it on you table it could be good to handle. A nice table you got there. :) Thanks for the review.
Do you still think that its worth it? currently (in Australia) its on sale for $399 AUD or should I save that and get the new Turtle Beach HOTAS which is $699 AUD I want to use it on DCS (F18) and also use it in War thunder coz why not.
The two silver 8 wayt hats on the throttle are mushy and very inaccurate. Press up, you might get left or right. They are kinda weird too depending on throttle position because the angle changes.
Keep away from them. My first set crapped out one week after warranty. No help of course. I bought another set, fucked up after 3 months. Because I had lots of Spares, I fixed the Joy stick myself. Tonight it Died again. Most problems are with the Rudder controls. My first set I bought during Covid $750.00 second set $425.00. I never heard about Virple.
Permatex makes a white lithium all purpose grease that would work for plastic to metal or metal on metal. I would apply lightly and avoid electronic components.
@@TANIL-X good point, honestly I didn't grease those in the year I flew on them. I just kept them dust free and clean. Do you have a grease recommendation I can pass on when I get this question?
@@JSW33Tit’s designed super naively but priced 2 categories above what it should be. the centering mechanism is just a spring pressing on a plastic plate. any scratches on that plate will create tiny jumps when you try to have any fine control. the twist requires a death grip to be properly used, so it will strain your wrist quickly. btw: the mold of the stick is from the unmoving, force-sensing X65, they didn’t care enough to give either the X55 nor the X56 a real mold to have a smaller, realistic grip. even Shaquille ONeil would think it’s comically large the throttle is built cheap af, but is kinda cool for the money. when paired with ANY other stick
if you're in the market for an affordable stick, just buy it already, if you don't need some fancy metal one for 500 bucks, buy this, it even has rgb xd
From the outset I quickly became dissatisfied with the use of static inset images while describing the various controls. It's not necessarily obvious just what is being referred to. Why not use actual video, where you point out each control being discussed and demonstrate its action? The final segment of operating various switches went some way to redeeming this presentation. It would have been better to do that earlier, during the actual discussion. Video and audio working together imparts information much more assuredly. Cheers!
Thank you for sharing your perspective. It would certainly be important that the content is comprehended. However, at this price point, I would argue that the target audience would know some basic terminology that is being referenced. In good faith, I would not recommend that viewers invest $250 on a hotas if they have not done some personal research or experienced if they even like this type of game play. Nonetheless, perhaps targeted views would help avoid confusion for those who are unfamiliar.
Anyone looking for this setup I have one that is practically brand new! Only played with them for about an hour and then upgraded to the VKB dual stick setup, so my X56 is just setting there and should go to a good home!
I don't know why people buy this cheap renamed junk from Saitek...? just because it says Logitech??? already a year old and two buttons broken???? I don't understand, I really don't!!! There are two types of companies which I will now call “Logitech” and “VKB”. The first one lost a lot of quality and the other one was "famous" because of its cheap and sloppy workmanship... The roles were swapped The last "good" Logitech setup was the Forcefeedback 940 HOTAS with pedals, and not that garbage from Saitek that creaks, grinds, buttons fall out if you look at them for too long, etc. I would rather take the “new products” from VKB, which have considerably better quality, and that is very important! Can be dismantled for cleaning, converting, tuning and repairing if necessary
great feedback, man! Logitech actually bought Saitek a long time ago and inherited the x52 and x56 platform. So basically the Saitek ones are old and the logi ones are new. I think the benefits of this product for most are function and price range. A good VKB setup is looking like at-least 350-400 and that's before mounts.
@@dealwolfstriked272 I can concur. TBH the desk came from FB marketplace. I didnt wanna pay the premium for a "gamer" desk. but I would like one that goes up and down. I am also thinking of just making a cockpit
I have had my X-56 for about four years and it's a pretty good set up, I have the Logitech version - the Saitek version suffered from poor quality and provided them with a bad reputation.
My stick broke a little over a year ago, when the lever switch broke, Logitech acted like they would fix it but gave me the run around, so I declined to send it to them to get fixed. I ordered a Win wing F-16ex and the difference is amazing, I ordered the base and stick and it cost as much if not more than the whole X-56 HOTAS did but I instantly fell in love with it. I intend to order the Winwing Orion 2 throttle with the F-15 throttle grips (I fly DCS exclusively, and everyone says between Virpil and Winwing they are the top of the line HOTAS set ups. For a mid level tier just above the X-56, I recommend the VKB hardware, they are made of plastic so not as expensive but still quality hardware.
The build quality isnt the best but its fun for a budget option. I use a Virpil as my main stick
I'm planning on building a submersible and these look perfect for it! Lots of controls 👍
A better option than their xbox controller that's for sure.
pretty sure it was a Logitech F710 @@JSW33T
just dont use carbon fiber and you should be good!
Hey, this is an amazing review brother!! I purchased my set before Starfield was supposed to release originally and quickly sat them to the side when it was delayed haha! I am going to be pulling them out and setting them up shortly for that release!! A few questions, have you switched to new sticks since this video? I looked at the Virpil Alphas and potentially getting a dual-stick setup, I was going to do that once I got used to these haha, but that of course has been majorly delayed. But I want real tension, so thinking having a gearbox like the Virpil controllers will really give that feel I want! Although I am a newbie, I tend to go after the best experience possible when I jump into something which lead me to these as a pass-thru to make sure I enjoyed the genre. Lastly, is your desk designed for this style of gameplay, and if you don't mind me asking, what is it? I believe I recognized your mounts!
Chris, Thank you so much for watching! It helps as I am a new channel. I sub'd you as well because I see you do reviews. Its funny you mention Virpil because I upgraded to a pair of them after having them on order for like 4 months. But let me tell you something, the Virps are like BUTTTTAAAHHH. I use dual stick and throttle, and will review that set up. Pop in to our discord and I can talk to ya about all of this if you like! I flew with these for a year and it was fun, but you really want to have friends and product knowledge because your sim pit really needs to fit your playstyle and be well suited to the games you play. My desk is just a "gaming" desk I picked up for like 100$ off facebook marketplace and my mounts are knock off monster techs from amazon. I kept the set up simple and economic for the build in this video. discord.com/invite/sw33t
guys, I can't see the hotas in G-Hub. Please help!
@@mostwanted2000 G hub?
One thing I wish they carried over from the X-52 was the double pull detente on the trigger. Also, would have rather had a thumb hat on the stick instead of the ministick, though that's a minor complaint.
A major issue I have had with the X-56 is that plastic gimbal. There was for a long time I had to set a dead-zone around it as the stick would register inputs in the very slight movement slop that gimbal allowed on even the tightest spring. Dead-zoning in DCS meant that the F-16 was registering much higher pressure by the time I moved the stick outside of the zone... it made fine controls a nightmare. Finally I powered it down to swap to the lightest spring in the box to see if it mitigated, and apparently I got a driver or firmware update at the same time because when I plugged in again, the computer no longer registered movement inside the slop zone. I took off the dead-zones and readjusted the curve and sure enough, I had extremely fine control with no random banking or pitching from resting inside the slop zone. I also kept the lightest spring on it because it was very easy on my wrists (30 years of gaming and programming is hell on the joints in the hands and arms).
I personally agree with the lack of double trigger. I had an x52 as well and really missed that feature. Glad to hear you fixed it! I didn't mind firmer so I stretched my spring out so it was tighter.
Well guess I'm keeping my X52. The moment you said 1 1/2 years use and buttons and led problems killed it for me. I've been using my x52 for 15 years and not a single problem. Just thought the extra throttle and buttons would have been nice.
Really good review, this is one of the HOTAS I have in mind for my next upgrade 😀
For jets and planes it is a really awesome economy option. I had a lot of fun in my year on this thing!
I’ve had a t16000. And I quite loved it. The pedals weren’t the best but usable. That was 3 years ago. I’m now getting back into sims. And I can’t justify dropping money on a Virpil or winwing. I’ve ordered the X56 to try something new. Feel like imma take hit on the chin with it. But I’m going to try it.
How was it?
@@motorolje1903 I will not lie. All the buttons are fairly nice, but the centering on the stick is super sticky. The t16000s centering was a lot better. If I had to do again. I would choose the t16000
We need a review on that desk/hotas setup
"Remarkable system you have here... May I inquire about the typical investment associated with such advanced equipment? Pardon the rather direct question, but I'm genuinely curious.
Would you avoid buying these second hand? I currently play with two logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joysticks which do me fine but was wondering about a throttle and rudder aswell. In saying that too, they sit gethering dust most of the time until star citizen drops an update that brings me back for abit. Thanks for the video.
Here's my thing baza, if I'm trying something new I usually go down to Microcenter and get a protection plan for if it breaks *assuming they sell it* if I bought a pair of these used I wouldn't pay more than 100 for good condition and you really should run a calibration test prior to the payment.
@@JSW33T grand thank you
Great review! Just added this to my cart thanks to your review. Btw what game are you playing in the video?
Join us at discord.gg/sw33t we play Warthunder and Star Citizen. Let's talk before you make final decisions if you want!
Star Citizen
I first thought about just to buy the thrustmaster airbus stick for flight simulator ... But I think this is more fun for a longer time ... I hope without a cool installation you get it on you table it could be good to handle. A nice table you got there. :) Thanks for the review.
Have fun man! Amazon usually has very affordable desk mounts that are universal!
@@JSW33T thx - I have a look for it (first time I get one like that - only got a steering wheel longer time ago ... but thats another story ;) )
@@MagiXtube are you going to play a flight sim or space sim?
First flight simulator... Maybe later space stuff 😁 ... PC & PS5 ... By the way ... Do you stream on twitch too?
@@MagiXtubeI used to, now I just make youtube videos
Nice video man! Im getting this setup was wondering what did you bind strafe up and down to?
It's a good one if you arent working with a huge budget. I bound strafe up and down to the thumb stick
I must be a yeti. My hands cover it perfectly
You must my friend!
I like your desk setup what the name of it?
Do you still think that its worth it? currently (in Australia) its on sale for $399 AUD or should I save that and get the new Turtle Beach HOTAS which is $699 AUD I want to use it on DCS (F18) and also use it in War thunder coz why not.
Hello from the US bro! I think it's better than turtle beach but you should look into a company called VKB.
I want a Titanfall game, that's just titans, using these controllers
Dude that would be rad
I’m pretty sure the original Xbox had a game like that
@@belindacook4943 the original Hawken on steam but the new one doesnt have PVP
look mechwarrior
Hi, would you ever do a tutorial of how to set up the x56 in star citizen?
Come on down to the discord and I'll teach ya how! Discord.gg/sw33t
I love mine but it is my second one since my first stick broke in the twist.
Feel like it might break again.
My man how hard u tweaking that thing :)
The two silver 8 wayt hats on the throttle are mushy and very inaccurate. Press up, you might get left or right. They are kinda weird too depending on throttle position because the angle changes.
yeah I always use hats as 4 way because I PVP alot
Thumb tends to hit hats when trying to push the button at the top of the stick.
I agree with this, the right grip is too long
You got a nice game desk. Where have you bought it.
Its kinda an amalgamation of desks and trays and mounts that I have slowly put together. A lot of people ask me this!
i want to buy these but i worry im gonna have issues, do you know how consistently good units get sent out?
If you have a microcenter near you, they have a 2 year replacement plan. I don't know your price point but VKB is also a good option.
@@JSW33T i grabbed a vkb gladiator nxt evo scg premium, long ass name but very nice quality! just a bit tedious to set up in software lmao
VKB is the bomb man
@@FoxSock
You should come fly with us at Discord.gg/sw33t
@@FoxSock
@@JSW33T ive joined but i dont actively play any of the games listed lol, waiting to get a star citizen starter pack so i can get back into it
What’s your desk?
are these force feedback or is that even a thing in flight sim rigs?
no but Joysticks with metal gymbles have similar features that will increase in tension the harder you push
Keep away from them. My first set crapped out one week after warranty. No help of course. I bought another set, fucked up after 3 months. Because I had lots of Spares, I fixed the Joy stick myself. Tonight it Died again. Most problems are with the Rudder controls. My first set I bought during Covid $750.00 second set $425.00. I never heard about Virple.
Virpil makes my main stick and they are so gorgeous.
What mount is that
which grease oil we should use for maintenance?
Permatex makes a white lithium all purpose grease that would work for plastic to metal or metal on metal. I would apply lightly and avoid electronic components.
@@JSW33T why people recommend PTFE instead of grease? Liquid or normal grease matter? Which one should I apply?
@@TANIL-X good point, honestly I didn't grease those in the year I flew on them. I just kept them dust free and clean. Do you have a grease recommendation I can pass on when I get this question?
@@JSW33T any german brand grease
what desk mounts are you using?
I just got some generic universal mount from Amazon for these but they worked great. I ended up keeping them and reusing them next to my Virpil mounts
what button do u use for rudders?
I would use the twist function if you dont have pedals! Don't forget to subscribe, my friend!
X56 sucks. It will never center and will always have excess play in the center position which causes the need for a large dead zone.
It's certainly a budget option. It's nothing like a high end stick
@@JSW33TIt should be cheaper than the T16000m. Build quality is ass. I can’t believe it’s over $250.
@@Chibbs.E I do think the X-56's MSRP is too high. I think 100-150 would be fair. I also think T16's are high too considering the twist axis issue.
@@JSW33Tit’s designed super naively but priced 2 categories above what it should be.
the centering mechanism is just a spring pressing on a plastic plate. any scratches on that plate will create tiny jumps when you try to have any fine control.
the twist requires a death grip to be properly used, so it will strain your wrist quickly.
btw: the mold of the stick is from the unmoving, force-sensing X65, they didn’t care enough to give either the X55 nor the X56 a real mold to have a smaller, realistic grip.
even Shaquille ONeil would think it’s comically large
the throttle is built cheap af, but is kinda cool for the money. when paired with ANY other stick
My man Robert does not have the hands of a yeti
What game are you playing?
star citizen
Support Window 11?
I am running windows 10
yes
if you're in the market for an affordable stick, just buy it already, if you don't need some fancy metal one for 500 bucks, buy this, it even has rgb xd
It's a great economy option. Many hours of fun
From the outset I quickly became dissatisfied with the use of static inset images while describing the various controls. It's not necessarily obvious just what is being referred to. Why not use actual video, where you point out each control being discussed and demonstrate its action?
The final segment of operating various switches went some way to redeeming this presentation. It would have been better to do that earlier, during the actual discussion. Video and audio working together imparts information much more assuredly.
Cheers!
Thank you for sharing your perspective. It would certainly be important that the content is comprehended. However, at this price point, I would argue that the target audience would know some basic terminology that is being referenced. In good faith, I would not recommend that viewers invest $250 on a hotas if they have not done some personal research or experienced if they even like this type of game play. Nonetheless, perhaps targeted views would help avoid confusion for those who are unfamiliar.
My button activate without a touch
Someone help
Anyone looking for this setup I have one that is practically brand new! Only played with them for about an hour and then upgraded to the VKB dual stick setup, so my X56 is just setting there and should go to a good home!
How much 😂
@@xander_vanhorn I would like to get at least $150 - shipping.
VKB is the bomb
@@kevinm3751still got em?
It's a complete copy paste of the Saitek Rhino x 55 with a blue light and the sofware is pretty outdated!!! stop deleting my comments
Never deleted any comments sir! Imo most joystick software is mega outdated even VKBs is like that
I don't know why people buy this cheap renamed junk from Saitek...? just because it says Logitech??? already a year old and two buttons broken???? I don't understand, I really don't!!!
There are two types of companies which I will now call “Logitech” and “VKB”.
The first one lost a lot of quality and the other one was "famous" because of its cheap and sloppy workmanship... The roles were swapped
The last "good" Logitech setup was the Forcefeedback 940 HOTAS with pedals, and not that garbage from Saitek that creaks, grinds, buttons fall out if you look at them for too long, etc.
I would rather take the “new products” from VKB, which have considerably better quality, and that is very important! Can be dismantled for cleaning, converting, tuning and repairing if necessary
great feedback, man! Logitech actually bought Saitek a long time ago and inherited the x52 and x56 platform. So basically the Saitek ones are old and the logi ones are new. I think the benefits of this product for most are function and price range. A good VKB setup is looking like at-least 350-400 and that's before mounts.
Stick sucks but throttle is superb IMO. BTW what desk is that in video?
@@dealwolfstriked272 I can concur. TBH the desk came from FB marketplace. I didnt wanna pay the premium for a "gamer" desk. but I would like one that goes up and down. I am also thinking of just making a cockpit
@@JSW33T thanks for answer.
@dealwolfstriked272 don't forget to sub!