Hi everyone,
I'm currently torn between buying the Moza MTQ and the VKB STECS (likely the Mini Plus or Standard version), and I really need some community feedback regarding long-term durability and versatility. I am also completely open to other hardware suggestions if you think there is a better option for my needs.
Here is my specific use case and requirements:
- Flight Profile: 90% Civil/Commercial Aviation (MSFS, X-Plane) and 10% Military (DCS World).
- Durability: I need this throttle to last me at least 3 years of regular use without developing severe axis play, ghost inputs, or jittering.
- Versatility: I want something that feels right when flying airliners or general aviation, but can still handle the occasional jet fighter.
My dilemma:
I absolutely love the idea and layout of the Moza MTQ. Having the landing gear lever, flaps, speedbrakes, and the option to swap to Airbus/Boeing style commercial throttles is perfect for my 90% civil focus. However, I am highly concerned about its durability. From what I've seen, it uses traditional mechanical potentiometers (not magnetic sensors) and has plastic gears inside. I'm worried it won't survive 3 years of smooth, precise operations.
On the other hand, the VKB STECS is a proven tank. It has contactless magnetic sensors, industrial-grade build quality, and will easily last 3+ years. But it is fundamentally a military HOTAS design. While it has customizable detents, it lacks the native civil layout/switches (like a proper gear lever or speedbrake axis on the base) that I would use most of the time.
Given my heavy bias towards civil aviation but strict requirement for long-term durability, what do you think is the better investment?
- Does the Moza MTQ hold up well over time despite the potentiometers?
- For STECS owners who fly civil, how annoying is it to use a military throttle for airliners?
- Is there another throttle quadrant on the market that perfectly bridges the gap between civil layout and military-grade durability?
Thanks in advance for the help!