The 7 Best Rudder Pedals
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in July of 2020. Flight simulator rudder pedals are made to mimic the actual mechanisms used on real planes, which require more precision and simultaneous inputs than a flight stick alone can manage. By allowing you to use your feet, these accessories create an experience that can't be matched by traditional controllers. Whether you are an enthusiast or beginner, you'll find a choice here that will fit your needs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Logitech G Pro
2. VKB T-Rudder MK IV
3. Thrustmaster TPR
Editor's Notes
September 04, 2020:
Recent advances in hardware technology and simulation software have made flight simulators more popular than ever. Some titles are so popular, in fact, that their releases make everyone want to purchase one. You might find it difficult to obtain these in-demand items sometimes, especially immediately after new software releases. Rest assured that even though the current demand for them may make them difficult to obtain at present, that just means that the genre is growing and not going away any time soon. With the recent gain in popularity, there has never been a better time to get into flight sims. This list will almost certainly be expanding in the near future.
Any of these choices offer the same basic functionality, which is to mimic the control of your virtual plane's ailerons and elevators. When deciding which one is right for you, consider the kind of games you are interested in and like to play. Some of them, like the CH Products 300-111 or the Logitech G Pro are very versatile and work well with any flight sims. Others like the Saitek Pro Flight or Redbird Alloy RD1 are more geared for specific types of planes. Also make sure not to be confused by the very close naming scheme of Thrustmaster's two offerings on the list, the Thrustmaster TFRP, and the Thrustmaster TPR.
It's an understatement to say that peripheral controls like these add to the immersion. Using rudder pedals along with a joystick or other flight simulation controls completely changes your level of involvement with the game. The action of moving your feet and legs while having both hands on separate controls is a completely different sensation than using both hands on a game controller. It's a more complete experience and one that requires individual customization of the accessories. While the items all feature adjustability, most of them are difficult to find in most retail stores, which makes them impossible to physically test. We've tried to break down what makes each model stand apart to help you decide which choice is right for you.
Special Honors
MFG Crosswind Milan Flight Gear began as a hobby in 2011 when the company's owner found current offerings to be lacking in quality. Since then, the founder has increased his knowledge and continues to improve on the design, functionality, and durability of his products. This intrepid entrepreneur has a background in aviation and grew up with a family immersed in planes and piloting. These products are very limited, but worth it if you can get a hold of one. mfg-sim.com
4. Thrustmaster TFRP
5. Redbird Alloy RD1
6. Saitek Pro Flight
7. CH Products 300-111
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.