Rudder pedals are indispensable if you fly helos in DCS. You simply can’t control them properly otherwise. Same for WW2 birds. For modern jets, they are slightly less important since these jets automatically translate stick movement to the rudders as well to achieve the desired effect. This does not mean you don’t need them, it just means you can map it to some other axis on your HOTAS.
But I still recommending getting pedals because you need them for taxiing and many of the premium joysticks (like the Warthog) don’t have a twist axis which can be used for yaw control.
Anyway, you need pedals if you are even half-way serious about DCS. So here are my top recommendations.
1. Best Mid-Range Option/ Best Overall
- Self-centering pedals with adjustable damping / Foot rests adjust to fit all sizes and include...
- Precise rudder and braking control / Tension adjustment - choose resistance to suit the way you fly
The default best go-to rudder pedal for most flight and space sims. its middle of the road when it comes to price and performance, so casual users cant go wrong with it.
- The best bang for your buck. These are the standard option that will fit most users.
- The movement is smooth and works well for WW2 planes, helos and jets alike.
- The build is sturdy enough, considering the price.
- Footrest is adjustable. This is a big plus.
- They have toe brakes which is another plus.
- You can adjust the tension quite easily using the big dial at the centre. It’s a pretty consumer friendly product.
- The biggest issue with the Logitechs is that they tend to move around so you will need to secure them to the ground. Maybe by using something like the Wheel Stand Pro or a DIY solution.
2. Best Entry Level
- Designed for all users; Compatible on PC with all joysticks on the market; Also compatible on PS4...
- Ergonomic design allowing you to put your entire foot on the pedal, thanks to the heel-rests;...
You cant be blamed for not wanting to splurge on rudders. If you are looking for a cheap, entry level solution then you just found it!
- These are the best entry level, budget rudders for DCS and any other flight sim for that matter.
- If you don’t intend need something, then this is a great option.
- Build quality is fine fore the price.
- They don’t feel cheap even though the price is quite low.
- They have toe bakes so that’s good too.
3. Premium Options
The MFG Crosswind and Thrustmaster TPR are the super expensive ones. They are indeed the best, but I can’t really recommend them at that price.
I don’t think it’s all that important to have the best rudder in the market. You are better off spending any extra money on the joystick, throttle, VR headset and GPU. Once you have the absolute best in these other departments, then you can splurge on rudders.
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