DescentBB

Alright, I made this out of my simple curiosity.

Do you use a joystick? If you do, do you prefer it and what brand? If you had to recommend a brand to someone who uses a Dell Inspiron 1750 with Windows 7 (x64) and multiple USB ports, what brand would you say is best (for Descent 3)?

I'm curious simply because I've been thinking about going from mouse to joystick, never used one before but I could learn. And I want to know what type I should get. I was thinking about possibly getting the X52 Joystick, it seems to have more buttons then I would need, but at the same time was wondering if D3 would even support it. So, instead of buying and risk failing, I came here. The only place I know that would help me with this question. :)

I use a Saitek x52 myself. D3 does support it. So does FreeSpace and its sequels, if you play that as well.

I'm fairly certain that retail D1 and D2 will support the x52 as well, considering it's complicated enough to require its own drivers.

Drivers don't bother me. I've installed many, for differing hardware xD I just want one that has that good \"feel\" to it, is smooth during game play, and won't chop around or lag when scrolling/button mashing.

I've got an older Saitek Cyborg USB stick that I use for D2 because the hand support is adjustable for my smaller hand, but it's not sold anymore. It has the best \"feel\" since it's has a circular gimbal. I also have a CH Products Combatstick I use for flight sims because I have the throttle quad, rudder pedals and yoke and they all play nice together with the Control Manager Software. My one gripe with the Combatstick is that it is TALL and I need to put some kind of support to raise my hand up so that all the buttons are easily accessible with the thumb. I do like the thumb hat switch on the Combatstick. It has good skin grip for maneuvering my Pyro in the heat of combat in D2 and D3.

MS 3d Pro with convertor

Myself I use this. It's a Generic Chinese stick imported by PowerWave.

It's sturdy and well made but it's a little stiff and the rubber collar at the bottom which absorbs excess force makes it a bit harder to aim. It could also do with a little more weight in the base for stability.

I would recommend you go with a Saitek or the Logitech Xtreme 3D over cheaper options if your budget can cover it. Otherwise this Chinese stick is a reasonable option and works with D3 perfectly.