This compact controller combines a flight sim yoke and throttle for an impressive handheld experience.
Flight simulation games often leave players wondering how anyone can manage them with just a standard controller. It’s a valid concern, especially as these games become increasingly complex and tailored for those equipped with full yoke and throttle setups. However, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your beloved PC controller to enjoy these immersive experiences.
Honeycomb, a well-known name in the flight sim controller arena, has introduced an innovative solution for gamers seeking a more intuitive way to control their flight simulations without transforming their workspace into a full cockpit.
The Honeycomb Echo Aviation controller, priced at $149.99, offers a more budget-friendly alternative compared to the brand’s yokes and throttles, which can exceed $300. While it may not provide the same level of realism, it delivers essential functionality for flight sim enthusiasts without monopolizing your desk space.
Initially announced in November, the Echo Aviation controller is now available for purchase directly from Honeycomb.
Designed with “flight simmers on the go” in mind, this controller also appeals to those who may not want to invest in the brand’s more comprehensive gear or even the top-tier joysticks. Currently, it’s only compatible with PC, as there’s no official licensing for Xbox or PlayStation, but a console version could be on the horizon.
The Echo Aviation controller comes with a convenient carrying case and connects to your PC via a wireless USB dongle. Despite its compact size, Honeycomb has packed a wealth of features into this controller. It may have a unique look, but it’s functional.
On the left side, you’ll find a standard thumbstick and face buttons, along with a secondary thumbstick for accessing key controls. The right side features four dedicated throttle panels with removable tops, allowing you to customize them based on the aircraft you’re piloting through the virtual skies.
At the bottom, there are three dedicated levers for flaps, landing gear, and parking brake, plus a trim slider on the far right to help maintain your aircraft’s course. Instead of the back buttons typical of most pro gamepads, this controller includes Hall effect rudder pedals for yaw control.
This isn’t the controller to choose if you’re looking to boost your kill-death ratio in a shooter like Battlefield 6. The throttle levers might not be much help in a firefight, but since you can pilot jets in that game, who knows? The entire setup is programmable, giving you the flexibility to tailor it to your preferences.
Currently, the Honeycomb Echo Aviation controller is exclusively available on Honeycomb’s website, but it’s likely to appear on other online retailers soon. There’s even a listing on one major site, though stock isn’t available yet, indicating it could be coming shortly.
Having previously reviewed Honeycomb’s Alpha XPC and Bravo flight sim controllers, I found them to be incredibly customizable and high-quality, even if I struggled to use them effectively. As someone who fancies themselves a top pilot in the galaxy but lacks flight sim expertise, I’d feel much more comfortable with a controller like the Echo.
If you prefer to stick with traditional controllers for now, there are plenty of great options available for PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch 2.
