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Thrustmasters are good sticks, but you get what you pay for. You WILL have Z-Axis issues. It's inevitable. The fix is actually quite simple, despite how complicated it looks. But still, it's a pain to take your sticks apart just to clean off that pot. Sometimes your screws will be stripped as well, and you can't even get them off. They are cheap, and that's that. Good for a budget, but you will have to put the work into them to fix that Z axis. Once you swab off that pot though, they will work great, and they are good starter sticks for sure.
True, though I've recently found that it's totally not necessary to disassemble the whole thing, just the stick part to expose the hat, then lube as usual. It's incredibly simple and fast and it is also lasting a lot, it's been several months now. After being used to completely disassemble it, it's such a relief. I'm very very temped to upgrade to this model though, hoping to get more accuracy and control.
WOW, just what I needed ... I've watched plenty of your ship videos and they are excellent, much appreciated. But THIS !!! Dude. I've got 2 Gladiators sitting here mounted and I have been dreading having to set these up in Star Citizen ... where to begin ? These bindings files along with the poster layout is going to save me sooo much time and discouragement. You and Buzzzkiller have done a lot of leg work here for me. Thanks so much !
These sticks are incredible. They greatly add immersion to an already immersive experience that is Star Citizen. I upgraded from the T16000's in 2021 and it was a night and day difference. I can't recommend these stick enough.
I wish I researched more before I bought my T16000. I don't know why anyone would by a Thrustmaster stick after seeing the reviews on VKBs. The quality looks really good for the price and I like that they are user-repairable.
13:00 I'm glad you pointed out that the springs can break, and that yours did break. Berks biggest complaint about the Virpils is that his springs broke, as if no other stick makers springs have a chance of breaking. I havent had that problem with mine but i also know i can easily get replacements if needed.
Wow, this is by far the most comprehensive review i've seen. explains what each button is, what functions it could be used for. a teardown/open view of the stick, etc... really surpasses every other reviewer out there.
You are the MVP! I was frustrated by the fact that I couldn't actually mess with these irl before dropping that much cash; but this video made me confident enough to push buy; honestly VKB needs to buy the rights for the video and put it on their site! thanks man!
Thanks for this review! I ordered these a few days ago and the feature that really made me feel like I was missing out was the dry clutch and ability to remove the spring to make the left stick a throttle. I was really happy to hear they have that option as I thought that was only available with the gunfighters. I’m not 100% sure I’ll use it but it’ll be nice to have it as an option. I feel a lot better about buying them now. Thanks again!
@chrishoppner150 A lot of airsofters learned the hard way that high quality plastics beat the pants off mid and low quality metals. There's a reason they make things like riot shields, ballistic goggles, and polymer framed guns out of "plastic". It all boils down to what you actually use and how tight your tolerances are.
agreed on the grip size and palm rest, the stick is small for people with big hands, i took the rests off and used some foam seal tape to give my hands a padded rest, works great
Actually bought these during Christmas, love them, but it was hard figuring out how to configure them, thank god I found your videos or I would probably still be struggling!
Thanks for the great review :) I use mine no for over a year and only had 2 issues: - The rubber-pads on the palm rest got lose. I had to glue it down again. - The stick itself is mounted on the base with only 3 screws in ABS-plastic threads. So carry the stick only by the base, never carry the stick with "the stick", because the plastic thread came lose on my stick.
I'm on youtube at least once a day, this is the first video from you that UA-cam has displayed in my feed in over half a year. I actually thought YT unsubbed me, but I checked and , I was still subbed. It might be a settings problem on my end though, happy easter anyways.
I have had 2 for about 4 months now, love them. I want the Virpil because they are more space-like, have the rgb, and have a better quality. But that $1000+ price tag is going to be hard to swallow some day. Awesome video man. !!! VKB !!! Send this man some upgrades so we can get some more reviews of your stuff out there. I actually might take the small step of upgrading my bases if i can get a good review for them & be convinced.
A good dive on the pedals is needed. There are only a couple videos that kinda explain the pedals. How easy is it to find true center? How comfortable are they with leg placement? Do they slide on the floor accidentally? As you can tell I have questions lol. Thanks for the work you do for the community and I look forward to more tech reviews!
This is a massive advertisement for Star Citizen. Just looking at this makes me want to play Star Citizen. It's a damn shape that the buy in is thousands of dollars instead of just 60.
I got the VKB gladiator premiums after watching your previous unboxing and a few other reviews. Absolutely fantastic sticks. Thanks for the vid and for helping the community be informed.
Probably the highest quality video you've produced yet, great work! I'd like to see your take on additional modules and the Gunfighter gimbal, as I have considered them quite a few times at this point.
I got my first Gladiator this April (23) and been blown away how good it is. Just heard today that the omni thottle I otdered has shipped so just in time for Starfield launching next week.
Watching through this review and randomly seeing my crappy video being featured at 14:45 was pretty cool. I just made it to showcase the function of the dry clutch to a buddy of mine, but it somehow ended up on VKB's Gunfighter product page for a while as well😂 Great review, looking forward to your Gunfighter Mk.IV review as well to see how they compare in feel and function to these.
I just want to add input that as someone who has average/smaller hands the Gladiators are very comfortable and don't involve any stretching or reaching for out of the way buttons. People in my situation who have used the x52 HOTAS will know what I mean, and the Gladiators feel much sturdier as well. I would also like to add that it is possible to mount Omni-throttle necks to both sticks in the HOSAS setup without losing any functionality or precision. I really like the look and feel of having both sticks canted in, and the alternative neck pieces are relatively cheap and easy to swap if you change your mind either way.
This stick looks like it would be a good replacement for my Logitech X52 Pro HOTAS. And the sounds are just so crisp even with headphones on and way better than my current one. Definitely wish listing this and those mounts
Bought it for flight and smooth controls, but damn I ended up enjoying more the amount of keybinding I could put on! Have and love this same set up! 10/10 srsly with tobii SC is so much fun.
Probably one of the best and most comprehensive reviews i've ever seen for anything, will definitively be getting these once star citizen gets to a more completed state and i can actually fly the ship i own.
I'm rocking 2x 16000m because I already had one from a decade ago. Man the bit about removing the spring from the throttle and making the other heavy sounds really awesome. I want that
Another great thing about VKB is their excellent customer support. Twice, I have had one of their products break due to my own stupidity (a set of pedals I stepped on too hard, snapping a ball bearing in half, and my NXT EVO stick where I broke off a plug during assembly), and both times, they sent me spare parts in the mail at no cost to me.
I was looking for this video from you a few days ago. I was going back and forth whether I wanted to buy these or keep holding off. I ended up ordering a premium stick before leaving to visit family over Easter. I'm glad to see that you still recommend the sticks after so long of use. When I get the stick, I'm unsure whether I'll keep my old stick (Thrustmaster Airbus) to fly HOSAS or replace it and keep using stick and keyboard. Needless to say, I'll be going over keybindings when I get the stick regardless
I did a fair bit of research, read the subreddits, watched other UA-cam videos, but this one really spoiled me on the explanation of mechanics and what to watch out for. I did end up purchasing the Gladiator NXT with the upgraded grips, I am in love and I really appreciate this video being here. It wouldn't let me use the Subliminal coupon code with the black Friday sale, but I will be using it on my next purchase.
I was using the free-wheeling wheel (on the right) for mining and I didn't like it. Did not think about using the middle throttle. Will give it a go! I really like using the F1 F2 F3 buttons for the actives on the mining gadgets!
This is such an incredible video for general knowledge of sticks but also specifically information on the EVOs themselves. I have never played any sort of flight/space sim before and was super interested for the longest time but was always discouraged by only playing MnK which severely limited my experience. I put about 10 hours into Elite Dangerous and tried playing a bit of ARMA before becoming frustrated with how many buttons I needed to press while needing to maintain precision which I could not seem to achieve. I decided recently to finally delve deep into the world of flight sim and bought a HOSAS setup exactly the same as the one you're showing off (now glad I decided to go with premium). It has not come yet and I am brimming with anticipation so this video is great for me to know what to expect. I was very worried about the playability of other flight sim games with a HOSAS setup, but after hearing you say there is a lock plate included to turn it basically into HOTAS I audibly cheered. Thank you for the video, good sir. I will likely be consuming more content from you as the delivery date of my sticks draw ever near.
I'd absolutely love to see the GNX module video. It's something I've considered adding for a dedicated mining/salvage module, if it can be setup for that.
I've had them for about a year now, only issue was I broke a spring during a dog fight. My premium version came with extra springs with different tensions. It took 3 minutes to replace. Aaamazing.
My son had the thrustmasters. They're good for the price EXCEPT the twist axis broke within the first month. I have two Gladiators and they're holding strong and have been amazing for the year I've owned them.
A year later and this is the best hardware review I've ever seen. I can't/won't wait to tear through the rest of your content. Insta-sub'd and Thank you, sir!
I just ordered a gladiator NXT Omni left and NXT EVO right handed premium using your discount code. So pumped! Thanks for the great video! Sup helpful in getting someone who was formerly too afraid to buy joysticks get into the market! Going to use your key bindings too!
Super useful. I'm brand new to SC, despite pledging way back in November 2012! I have a couple of T16000M's that I bought a few years ago, but despite them only being used a handful of times and kept in storage for the past 2 years or so, one of the Z axis is already broken and I'm looking at getting something more durable. The VKB's have been on my radar, the only annoyance is that they're difficult to obtain in the UK, but this video has pretty much sold me on them so I'll be grabbing a pair as soon as I can get my hands on them! Cheers for the vid :)
I am not an owner of virpirl or vkb but if you compare these two with prices you should consider to compare them with the most identicial kits. You need to configure an VKB with Gunfighter Bases to compare them to the Virpils. The price difference will be about ~55€ but you will get more control surfaces with the virpils. These two companies are matching their prices very well.
Wow! Excellent, well done and great polish on this video review! Thank you for making it as I feel a lot more informed in many aspects of this type of joystick and definitely great assistance on purchases. Yes please make an additional video on the GNX expansions Yes VKB PLEASE send Subliminal additional materials as his review and video work is great as we can all appreciate. Work such as his needs to be supported please.
Thanks, man. Good overview. I've been looking at this setup, and up in Canada the costs can get prohibitive but all the other options are just as expensive. I think VKB really delivers with this combo for Star Citizen. I'll use your code.
Best review on them. Dual vkb's and omni is a must! Desk mounted for better stability. Flying with these makes Star Citizen so much more enjoyable, not to mention mining and turret gameplay.
16:28 it looks like the $50 upgrade is only for the dry clutch and gimbal ball bearing. If you want the new PCB and switches on the base you need to buy the $75 evo base.
Great video - explains a lot and in a very informative way that I like. Kudos! So, my greatest fear of buying the VKB Gladiators is because everyone mention that they are not for big-handed people. I have size 11(12) in hands (palm 11cm/4,4-inches wide) and think that my current thrustmaster 1600 setup is too small for me since I almost have to completely change grip to use button two(2) on top since it is below my first thumb-joint. 😕 Oh, the first-world country problems we deal with...
i actually haven't followed you since you first posted your vkb control set up. i the set up you had to download i havent even updated, but for me i like it. i have yet for fully learn all the keysbindings as there often isn't a reason for me to use some of the modifier for out side of just general/combat and mining flight....glad to see that your still using these and i agree probably the better choice than hit space marshal. my one downside is these are my first sticks and i haven't checked out anything else since i got them.
Well, you bought great sticks from the start. The only sticks TMK that you could upgrade to are VKBs Gunfighters or Virpils sticks. Anything else would be a downgrade.
This review answered questions for me that others didnt. Otoh, watching the end of the review left me with no confidence in your opinion. I have had 2 t1600 sticks fail shortly after purchase (twist axis) and every Extreme 3d pro i have owned has has been durable and functional long after i got my moneys worth out of it.
wow, best Joystick review I have ever seen. Button presses, sounds, … Thanks a lot! (still don‘t know if I want dual joysticks or hotas or a stick without an X axis and pedals on top for star citizen)
Thank you so much for the tips and for sharing your bindings! I am preparing for playing SC and your video is a banger! I will definitely share it if I come across people who may be interrested.
This made my buy the omni throttle adaptor. I think it'll improve my flying a bit. Might get some predator mounts too. One thing that happened to my VKB after about a year, my magnet got loose on the X axis. It made the ship constantly drift when centered. Was an easy enough fix, just had to take apart and make sure the magnet was set better.
Just bought these because of your available key binds. If all goes well, I will be purchasing the predator mounts specifically to support your channel. The VKB code really should support the channel too because I only bought them because of the keybinds 😂
Hey don't bash the logi tech 3d pro extreme. When found for $20 its well worth it. I have the t16000m and the 3d pro has way better spring control to hold zero. The t16000m twist was slack out of the box so never used it and the pitch has a small degree of play. I bought both in 2016 and they work great still. The only draw back is lack of stick buttons in sc. Fine in nearly all other flight sims tho. The 3d pro has held up like new thanks to its thick spring. Great review as always. I wanted virpil, but its not much of an upgrade for the costs. You should include shipping costs in these reviews. Both companies over charge for it.
I just reached wing commander status, and the next day, ordered VKB's (Same setup as you). When... ("If!")... the game fully releases, I'll upgrade to the gunfighter base.
I'm looking for a new stick for MSFS-2024, which releases next week. I've been "flying" a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro since FSX first came out, so 15 years at least, and I'm betting tired of the very stiff centering springs and imprecise sensors (pots I assume), in the gimbal. I'm eager to test the NXT with the 10 pound springs. I want a stick that will be less fatiguing, and have better build quality, but that won't break the budget, and the VKB NXT EVO seems very reasonable at $165 for the stick, and $260 for the twin-engine throttle quadrant/Autopilot console. Great video, with a very detailed coverage of all the features.
thanks for the video , wife just bought the premium right stick and pre installed omni throttle left stick ,,and thanks for the code still works as of today..
Great sticks! I got the Standard and they've got plenty of controls. For the palm rest, I couldn't believe how bad the included ones were. I have wide but stubby hands. I designed a 3d printable wrist rest with a slope so I can reach the hats without stretching but can still reach the front buttons including the pinky stick comfortably. it just bolts in the same way as the included ones. It's on thingiverse -- "Wrist Rest for VKB Gladiator NXT/Evo SCG."
Thank you so much for the review. I've been on the fence about buying for a while. Just put my order in and used your code. Discount put it under $400, right inside the budget I had set for myself.
Love the review, these sticks look great. I'd recommend for your self tho is lowering those sticks so your wrists/hands are in line with your forearms. Continued use like this is going to cause problems in the future and you may end like some RSI (hoho) patients I've seen. Especially your left.
Is there a video on ther other peripherals? You didn't talk about the mounts much but I would be interested in that setup and also the other things you use except the sticks.
I can’t speak for what they have, but I use the VKB mounts and have for a while. They’re a bit pricey, but are very sturdy. I have 3, 2 for sticks and 1 for mouse. I then also have an under desk drawer system that lowers my keyboard to a manageable height for long play sessions. For me, this is permanent and I play other games that don’t use the sticks in this setup no problem.
I was pretty set on buying from Virpil for my next HOTAS, but after looking at the price/performance, I think VKB will be right for me. I just wish they had a more modern looking throttle than their WWII throttle :(
If you're wanting to get a left Gladiator Omni-Throttle but are annoyed you can't get a premium left NXT EVO grip, all you have to do is buy the regular left Gladiator NXT EVO grip and select the premium version then purchase the left Omni-Throttle conversion kit and you'll have a left Gladiator NXT EVO Omni-Throttle with a premium grip. However though, I just wish they had an option to upgrade the left Omni-Throttle to a premium stick directly from their website instead of having to buy the left Omni-Throttle kit separately.
Another fine video by you sir! It was some of your older videos on these that made me pull the trigger on ordering some. Their shipping is phenomenal as well! So far so good! o7
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Dont play a real flight sim if you think star citizen is complicated or has a lot of bindings...
Dude stop as for Express VPN and Kape Technologies …
You sold me on the throttle :)
Thrustmasters are good sticks, but you get what you pay for. You WILL have Z-Axis issues. It's inevitable. The fix is actually quite simple, despite how complicated it looks. But still, it's a pain to take your sticks apart just to clean off that pot. Sometimes your screws will be stripped as well, and you can't even get them off. They are cheap, and that's that. Good for a budget, but you will have to put the work into them to fix that Z axis. Once you swab off that pot though, they will work great, and they are good starter sticks for sure.
True, though I've recently found that it's totally not necessary to disassemble the whole thing, just the stick part to expose the hat, then lube as usual. It's incredibly simple and fast and it is also lasting a lot, it's been several months now. After being used to completely disassemble it, it's such a relief.
I'm very very temped to upgrade to this model though, hoping to get more accuracy and control.
WOW, just what I needed ... I've watched plenty of your ship videos and they are excellent, much appreciated. But THIS !!! Dude. I've got 2 Gladiators sitting here mounted and I have been dreading having to set these up in Star Citizen ... where to begin ? These bindings files along with the poster layout is going to save me sooo much time and discouragement. You and Buzzzkiller have done a lot of leg work here for me. Thanks so much !
Glad to help!
These sticks are incredible. They greatly add immersion to an already immersive experience that is Star Citizen. I upgraded from the T16000's in 2021 and it was a night and day difference. I can't recommend these stick enough.
Pretty much my same experience upgrading from the T16s
ok fine! I will upgrade
I wish I researched more before I bought my T16000. I don't know why anyone would by a Thrustmaster stick after seeing the reviews on VKBs.
The quality looks really good for the price and I like that they are user-repairable.
@@vt6020maybe because at least in europe t16k just cost 65€ whereas it is 220€ for nxt evo premium.
for one VKB NXT EVO you could get two t16Ms for a full HOSAS setup :(
13:00 I'm glad you pointed out that the springs can break, and that yours did break. Berks biggest complaint about the Virpils is that his springs broke, as if no other stick makers springs have a chance of breaking. I havent had that problem with mine but i also know i can easily get replacements if needed.
Yeah they give you a bag of replacement springs for a reason 😂. I consider it a consumable.
Wow, this is by far the most comprehensive review i've seen. explains what each button is, what functions it could be used for. a teardown/open view of the stick, etc... really surpasses every other reviewer out there.
I have been using your bindings since I got my VKBs last Summer and they have made life much easier.
Glad I could help!
Very comprehensive review! I especially like the button audio section. Really gives you a feel for the quality level VKB hits.
My dood, whatch out the way you are holding the left stick, that pose can harm your hand by insane proportions. Great video as always!
You are the MVP! I was frustrated by the fact that I couldn't actually mess with these irl before dropping that much cash; but this video made me confident enough to push buy; honestly VKB needs to buy the rights for the video and put it on their site! thanks man!
Thanks for this review! I ordered these a few days ago and the feature that really made me feel like I was missing out was the dry clutch and ability to remove the spring to make the left stick a throttle.
I was really happy to hear they have that option as I thought that was only available with the gunfighters. I’m not 100% sure I’ll use it but it’ll be nice to have it as an option. I feel a lot better about buying them now. Thanks again!
Yup! The VKB Gladiators are truly the best price to performance sticks currently on the market 🕹️🕹️ Great video dude!!
Couldn't agree more!
Paired with WinWing Orion2; chef kiss.
@chrishoppner150 A lot of airsofters learned the hard way that high quality plastics beat the pants off mid and low quality metals. There's a reason they make things like riot shields, ballistic goggles, and polymer framed guns out of "plastic". It all boils down to what you actually use and how tight your tolerances are.
This should be the standard for hardware reviews. Well done.
agreed on the grip size and palm rest, the stick is small for people with big hands, i took the rests off and used some foam seal tape to give my hands a padded rest, works great
Oh nice!
Actually bought these during Christmas, love them, but it was hard figuring out how to configure them, thank god I found your videos or I would probably still be struggling!
I've had my EVOs for a few months now. Couldn't be happier!
Expert work man. This is the best review and breakdown I've seen yet to date.
Cant be better than @JessieCalder or @TheNoobifier but thank you for the compliment 😂
Thanks for the great review :)
I use mine no for over a year and only had 2 issues:
- The rubber-pads on the palm rest got lose. I had to glue it down again.
- The stick itself is mounted on the base with only 3 screws in ABS-plastic threads. So carry the stick only by the base, never carry the stick with "the stick", because the plastic thread came lose on my stick.
what....wasnt this done back 9 months ago?! Did I time travel?! good to see your vids back in my feeds.
This came up in your feed? This video is unlisted. Also previous vids for the VKBs I've done have just been unboxings. Not full reviews.
I'm on youtube at least once a day, this is the first video from you that UA-cam has displayed in my feed in over half a year. I actually thought YT unsubbed me, but I checked and , I was still subbed. It might be a settings problem on my end though, happy easter anyways.
How is this comment from 20 hours ago and the video was posted less than an hour ago?
@@SubliminaLstv Came up in my feed just now saying it's 3hrs old, yeah.
mandela effect 😂
I’ve had my dual Omni throttles for 6 months now and I still love them so much. If you’re getting these just be prepared to pay a high shipping costs.
I have had 2 for about 4 months now, love them. I want the Virpil because they are more space-like, have the rgb, and have a better quality. But that $1000+ price tag is going to be hard to swallow some day. Awesome video man.
!!! VKB !!!
Send this man some upgrades so we can get some more reviews of your stuff out there. I actually might take the small step of upgrading my bases if i can get a good review for them & be convinced.
If you ever go Virpil... yes you will spend a pretty penny, but they are worth it.
19:23 well that raised my blood pressure 😅
A good dive on the pedals is needed. There are only a couple videos that kinda explain the pedals.
How easy is it to find true center?
How comfortable are they with leg placement?
Do they slide on the floor accidentally?
As you can tell I have questions lol. Thanks for the work you do for the community and I look forward to more tech reviews!
Definitely on the list. The resting position is center and they have this adjustable detent. They are pretty good, really good quality.
Just ordered mine, super excited to unbox and test them out!
You'll love them!
How do you like them?
This is a massive advertisement for Star Citizen. Just looking at this makes me want to play Star Citizen. It's a damn shape that the buy in is thousands of dollars instead of just 60.
LMAO. When you flipped the screen off I lost it. Completely relate and now I'm a fan of your channel.
best review of anything i ever watched, i got answers to the questions i didnt know i had. thank you
had the stick start to drift....had to glue the magnet, and all is fine. Really easy fix. 2 years running love this setup.
I got the VKB gladiator premiums after watching your previous unboxing and a few other reviews. Absolutely fantastic sticks. Thanks for the vid and for helping the community be informed.
I have to say this is one of the best and most complete reviews I have EVER seen. Well done!
Probably the highest quality video you've produced yet, great work! I'd like to see your take on additional modules and the Gunfighter gimbal, as I have considered them quite a few times at this point.
I got my first Gladiator this April (23) and been blown away how good it is. Just heard today that the omni thottle I otdered has shipped so just in time for Starfield launching next week.
Watching through this review and randomly seeing my crappy video being featured at 14:45 was pretty cool. I just made it to showcase the function of the dry clutch to a buddy of mine, but it somehow ended up on VKB's Gunfighter product page for a while as well😂
Great review, looking forward to your Gunfighter Mk.IV review as well to see how they compare in feel and function to these.
I just want to add input that as someone who has average/smaller hands the Gladiators are very comfortable and don't involve any stretching or reaching for out of the way buttons. People in my situation who have used the x52 HOTAS will know what I mean, and the Gladiators feel much sturdier as well.
I would also like to add that it is possible to mount Omni-throttle necks to both sticks in the HOSAS setup without losing any functionality or precision. I really like the look and feel of having both sticks canted in, and the alternative neck pieces are relatively cheap and easy to swap if you change your mind either way.
Just saying thanks again for lowering the barrier to entry by providing both comprehensive reviews/recommendations along with the BINDINGS!!!!
bought the standards about a year ago and just bought the kits for the premium upgrade along with the omni throttle because of this video. looks sick
It's worth it the extra buttons are nice to have!
This stick looks like it would be a good replacement for my Logitech X52 Pro HOTAS. And the sounds are just so crisp even with headphones on and way better than my current one. Definitely wish listing this and those mounts
Bought it for flight and smooth controls, but damn I ended up enjoying more the amount of keybinding I could put on! Have and love this same set up! 10/10 srsly with tobii SC is so much fun.
Oh yeah. I have some of the other vkb products now, and cant figure out how to fill all the buttons 😂
Probably one of the best and most comprehensive reviews i've ever seen for anything, will definitively be getting these once star citizen gets to a more completed state and i can actually fly the ship i own.
I'm rocking 2x 16000m because I already had one from a decade ago.
Man the bit about removing the spring from the throttle and making the other heavy sounds really awesome. I want that
Another great thing about VKB is their excellent customer support. Twice, I have had one of their products break due to my own stupidity (a set of pedals I stepped on too hard, snapping a ball bearing in half, and my NXT EVO stick where I broke off a plug during assembly), and both times, they sent me spare parts in the mail at no cost to me.
I was looking for this video from you a few days ago. I was going back and forth whether I wanted to buy these or keep holding off. I ended up ordering a premium stick before leaving to visit family over Easter. I'm glad to see that you still recommend the sticks after so long of use. When I get the stick, I'm unsure whether I'll keep my old stick (Thrustmaster Airbus) to fly HOSAS or replace it and keep using stick and keyboard. Needless to say, I'll be going over keybindings when I get the stick regardless
I did a fair bit of research, read the subreddits, watched other UA-cam videos, but this one really spoiled me on the explanation of mechanics and what to watch out for.
I did end up purchasing the Gladiator NXT with the upgraded grips, I am in love and I really appreciate this video being here.
It wouldn't let me use the Subliminal coupon code with the black Friday sale, but I will be using it on my next purchase.
I use the throttle wheel for mining too. This makes a HUGE difference!!
I was using the free-wheeling wheel (on the right) for mining and I didn't like it. Did not think about using the middle throttle. Will give it a go! I really like using the F1 F2 F3 buttons for the actives on the mining gadgets!
This is such an incredible video for general knowledge of sticks but also specifically information on the EVOs themselves. I have never played any sort of flight/space sim before and was super interested for the longest time but was always discouraged by only playing MnK which severely limited my experience. I put about 10 hours into Elite Dangerous and tried playing a bit of ARMA before becoming frustrated with how many buttons I needed to press while needing to maintain precision which I could not seem to achieve.
I decided recently to finally delve deep into the world of flight sim and bought a HOSAS setup exactly the same as the one you're showing off (now glad I decided to go with premium). It has not come yet and I am brimming with anticipation so this video is great for me to know what to expect. I was very worried about the playability of other flight sim games with a HOSAS setup, but after hearing you say there is a lock plate included to turn it basically into HOTAS I audibly cheered.
Thank you for the video, good sir. I will likely be consuming more content from you as the delivery date of my sticks draw ever near.
I'd absolutely love to see the GNX module video. It's something I've considered adding for a dedicated mining/salvage module, if it can be setup for that.
It can and its DOPE! Will showcase that when that video comes up!
I've had them for about a year now, only issue was I broke a spring during a dog fight. My premium version came with extra springs with different tensions. It took 3 minutes to replace. Aaamazing.
Same here. I was live, fixed it before my quantum jump ended.
@@SubliminaLstv and with your custom Bindings 🤌🏼
This should be 100k video. @subliminal always puts foot and family into his videos with love 🍺
I bought my sticks alllllmost a year ago. Used your code. Don't regret any bit of it.
My son had the thrustmasters. They're good for the price EXCEPT the twist axis broke within the first month. I have two Gladiators and they're holding strong and have been amazing for the year I've owned them.
I won that z-axis lottery on my T16000s, I had mine for two years and it never broke. But I have heard of people having the issue for sure.
A year later and this is the best hardware review I've ever seen. I can't/won't wait to tear through the rest of your content. Insta-sub'd and Thank you, sir!
Good review. I actually ordered the VKB NXT EVO Premium a few days ago. I used your discount code.
Good review man. I don't typically watch you SC content, but I will now watch your hardware stuff.
Just picked up a pair using your code. Excited to use them! Keep up the great content.
How do you like them?
I just ordered a gladiator NXT Omni left and NXT EVO right handed premium using your discount code. So pumped! Thanks for the great video! Sup helpful in getting someone who was formerly too afraid to buy joysticks get into the market! Going to use your key bindings too!
Enjoy!
Super useful. I'm brand new to SC, despite pledging way back in November 2012! I have a couple of T16000M's that I bought a few years ago, but despite them only being used a handful of times and kept in storage for the past 2 years or so, one of the Z axis is already broken and I'm looking at getting something more durable. The VKB's have been on my radar, the only annoyance is that they're difficult to obtain in the UK, but this video has pretty much sold me on them so I'll be grabbing a pair as soon as I can get my hands on them! Cheers for the vid :)
I've watched a few reviews on these and you have the best review.
I am not an owner of virpirl or vkb but if you compare these two with prices you should consider to compare them with the most identicial kits. You need to configure an VKB with Gunfighter Bases to compare them to the Virpils. The price difference will be about ~55€ but you will get more control surfaces with the virpils. These two companies are matching their prices very well.
For the big hands crowd. I debated getting these, because I have pretty large hands and these sticks still fit perfectly!
Wow! Excellent, well done and great polish on this video review! Thank you for making it as I feel a lot more informed in many aspects of this type of joystick and definitely great assistance on purchases.
Yes please make an additional video on the GNX expansions
Yes VKB PLEASE send Subliminal additional materials as his review and video work is great as we can all appreciate. Work such as his needs to be supported please.
Thanks, man. Good overview. I've been looking at this setup, and up in Canada the costs can get prohibitive but all the other options are just as expensive. I think VKB really delivers with this combo for Star Citizen. I'll use your code.
Best review on them. Dual vkb's and omni is a must! Desk mounted for better stability. Flying with these makes Star Citizen so much more enjoyable, not to mention mining and turret gameplay.
SC doesnt even run man
16:28 it looks like the $50 upgrade is only for the dry clutch and gimbal ball bearing. If you want the new PCB and switches on the base you need to buy the $75 evo base.
Bought the premium right and omni left like 3 days ago, and this video has made me even more excited now
Great video - explains a lot and in a very informative way that I like. Kudos!
So, my greatest fear of buying the VKB Gladiators is because everyone mention that they are not for big-handed people. I have size 11(12) in hands (palm 11cm/4,4-inches wide) and think that my current thrustmaster 1600 setup is too small for me since I almost have to completely change grip to use button two(2) on top since it is below my first thumb-joint. 😕 Oh, the first-world country problems we deal with...
Thank you for the 5% i got mine yesterday. Excited to use them this weekend.
Just ordered the set of two of these using your code, thank you for such a detailed review.
i actually haven't followed you since you first posted your vkb control set up. i the set up you had to download i havent even updated, but for me i like it. i have yet for fully learn all the keysbindings as there often isn't a reason for me to use some of the modifier for out side of just general/combat and mining flight....glad to see that your still using these and i agree probably the better choice than hit space marshal.
my one downside is these are my first sticks and i haven't checked out anything else since i got them.
Well, you bought great sticks from the start. The only sticks TMK that you could upgrade to are VKBs Gunfighters or Virpils sticks. Anything else would be a downgrade.
thanks for the video. I love my VKBs
Thanks for watching! Glad to hear it!
This review answered questions for me that others didnt.
Otoh, watching the end of the review left me with no confidence in your opinion. I have had 2 t1600 sticks fail shortly after purchase (twist axis) and every Extreme 3d pro i have owned has has been durable and functional long after i got my moneys worth out of it.
wow, best Joystick review I have ever seen. Button presses, sounds, … Thanks a lot! (still don‘t know if I want dual joysticks or hotas or a stick without an X axis and pedals on top for star citizen)
Just picked up a set of VKB's. Can't wait for them to get here!
This made me subscribe! My VKBs come in next week and ive been worried about keybindings. But covered everything! And made me laugh. So thank you!
Thank you so much for the tips and for sharing your bindings! I am preparing for playing SC and your video is a banger! I will definitely share it if I come across people who may be interrested.
Happy to help!
I have been on the fence for a Virpil or VKB. This helps a lot thank you, I will be picking up the VKBs
Great video. Love that you included the sounds of each button.
This made my buy the omni throttle adaptor. I think it'll improve my flying a bit. Might get some predator mounts too.
One thing that happened to my VKB after about a year, my magnet got loose on the X axis. It made the ship constantly drift when centered. Was an easy enough fix, just had to take apart and make sure the magnet was set better.
Just bought these because of your available key binds. If all goes well, I will be purchasing the predator mounts specifically to support your channel. The VKB code really should support the channel too because I only bought them because of the keybinds 😂
EXCELLENT video. Clear, concise. You've sold me on getting these! 🙏
Hey don't bash the logi tech 3d pro extreme. When found for $20 its well worth it. I have the t16000m and the 3d pro has way better spring control to hold zero. The t16000m twist was slack out of the box so never used it and the pitch has a small degree of play. I bought both in 2016 and they work great still. The only draw back is lack of stick buttons in sc. Fine in nearly all other flight sims tho. The 3d pro has held up like new thanks to its thick spring.
Great review as always. I wanted virpil, but its not much of an upgrade for the costs. You should include shipping costs in these reviews. Both companies over charge for it.
I just reached wing commander status, and the next day, ordered VKB's (Same setup as you). When... ("If!")... the game fully releases, I'll upgrade to the gunfighter base.
I'm looking for a new stick for MSFS-2024, which releases next week. I've been "flying" a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro since FSX first came out, so 15 years at least, and I'm betting tired of the very stiff centering springs and imprecise sensors (pots I assume), in the gimbal. I'm eager to test the NXT with the 10 pound springs. I want a stick that will be less fatiguing, and have better build quality, but that won't break the budget, and the VKB NXT EVO seems very reasonable at $165 for the stick, and $260 for the twin-engine throttle quadrant/Autopilot console. Great video, with a very detailed coverage of all the features.
thanks for the video , wife just bought the premium right stick and pre installed omni throttle left stick ,,and thanks for the code still works as of today..
I saved up for these on your recommendation! I actually run dual omni throttles and love it.
Great sticks! I got the Standard and they've got plenty of controls.
For the palm rest, I couldn't believe how bad the included ones were. I have wide but stubby hands.
I designed a 3d printable wrist rest with a slope so I can reach the hats without stretching but can still reach the front buttons including the pinky stick comfortably. it just bolts in the same way as the included ones. It's on thingiverse -- "Wrist Rest for VKB Gladiator NXT/Evo SCG."
Thank you so much for the review. I've been on the fence about buying for a while. Just put my order in and used your code. Discount put it under $400, right inside the budget I had set for myself.
Awesome! Glad I could help! You'll enjoy it!
Love the review, these sticks look great. I'd recommend for your self tho is lowering those sticks so your wrists/hands are in line with your forearms. Continued use like this is going to cause problems in the future and you may end like some RSI (hoho) patients I've seen. Especially your left.
Is there a video on ther other peripherals? You didn't talk about the mounts much but I would be interested in that setup and also the other things you use except the sticks.
I can’t speak for what they have, but I use the VKB mounts and have for a while. They’re a bit pricey, but are very sturdy. I have 3, 2 for sticks and 1 for mouse. I then also have an under desk drawer system that lowers my keyboard to a manageable height for long play sessions. For me, this is permanent and I play other games that don’t use the sticks in this setup no problem.
What are the odds, I just installed mine last night lol. What great timing.
No way!
@@SubliminaLstv this guide was super helpful. Just wanted to let you know you helped me get my setup and Springs just right. Thanks dude.
Glad to help!
as someone who just hit the 1k goal for the consirage clup, i just bought the vkb set up lol
thx for the code, saved a bit
your setup is sick! i loved watching this reveiw
Personally rocking two constellation alphas from virpil, and I love them
I dont even play Star citizen but this was great review and made me clink on the controller link to check the prices. They should def sponsor you
Great review. Thank you. I was debating between this stick and the Winwing URSA MINOR Fighter Joystick. I'm going with this stick!
Funny, my updrades from NXT to EVO should be delivered tomorrow. Nice review.
I was pretty set on buying from Virpil for my next HOTAS, but after looking at the price/performance, I think VKB will be right for me. I just wish they had a more modern looking throttle than their WWII throttle :(
If you're wanting to get a left Gladiator Omni-Throttle but are annoyed you can't get a premium left NXT EVO grip, all you have to do is buy the regular left Gladiator NXT EVO grip and select the premium version then purchase the left Omni-Throttle conversion kit and you'll have a left Gladiator NXT EVO Omni-Throttle with a premium grip.
However though, I just wish they had an option to upgrade the left Omni-Throttle to a premium stick directly from their website instead of having to buy the left Omni-Throttle kit separately.
your stick height, is giving me carpal tunnel watching it :D
I love my VKB setup, they're awesome.
these sticks are amazing! my buddy convinced me and it was well worth it.
Another fine video by you sir! It was some of your older videos on these that made me pull the trigger on ordering some. Their shipping is phenomenal as well! So far so good! o7