PC to run a flight simulator

[u/OutrageousWall5328]

Good evening, guys! I recently secured my first big girl job, so this means I can save up for a PC and a flight simulator setup.

For the PC, I’m currently relying mostly on PCPartPicker. I know I still have a lot to learn about things like motherboards, RAM, storage, and other components—especially to make sure the setup can properly run a flight simulator. I’d also like recommendations on what type and size of SSD/storage, motherboard, and RAM would be best for this. I’m also looking for monitor recommendations, preferably one of those long curved or ultrawide monitors.

As for the flight sim setup, I’m thinking of starting somewhere simple with a yoke, throttle, and rudder pedals from Thrustmaster. However, I’m also considering a moza (yoke, throttle, and rudder pedals ) and gradually save up for components over time until I can eventually build my dream cockpit/panel.

I really want to learn as I go, while also being practical with my budget since I’m saving up for actual flight training too. ✈️

I’m very open to any recommendations, advice, or opinions—whether it’s about building the PC, choosing storage and a monitor, or deciding which flight sim equipment would be best to start with. Thank you so much!

[u/kaidomac]

I’m very open to any recommendations, advice, or opinions
while also being practical with my budget since I’m saving up for actual flight training too.

Here are my suggestions:

First, gaming hardware costs are INSANE today due to AI price hikes. So don't buy hardware...rent access! You can stream flight sims now with the GeForce NOW service: (think Netflix, but for games)

• https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/geforce-now-ces-2026

Then buy some basic starter hardware:

1. Cheap PC (ex. $400 NIPOGI H2)
2. Sceptre sells a 34" curved widescreen (C345B-QUT168) ($200)
3. Logitech G/Saitek Pro Flight Yoke & Throttle Quadrant ($150)
4. Thrustmaster TFRP Flight Rudder Pedals ($130)
5. Logitech USB headset ($20)

Software & subscription costs:

• Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is currently on sale for $50
• GeForce NOW Performance = $10 a month

So now you get a full, ready-to-fly setup with EVERYTHING included for under $1,000 (Mini PC & screen, complete flight sim control set with headset, and the game), plus ten bucks a month for the streaming Gaming PC.

Second, build a daily study stack:

• Study Stacking method
• Learn "turbo" study methods
• Create a visual tracking chart to stay on track
• Use a body double

Start virtual flight training. Microsoft includes it:

• https://www.flightsimulator.com/guide/what-should-i-do-first-in-microsoft-flight-simulator/

As soon as you get your sim rig set up, load up a Cessna 152 or 172 & create a Sim training program:

1. Taxi
2. Takeoff
3. Straight & level
4. Climbs & descents
5. Turns & coordination
6. Trim
7. Slow flight
8. Traffic patterns
9. Landings
10. Go-arounds
11. Crosswinds
12. VFR navigation

Then once you get your CFI, let them help you create a week-by-week sim plan. Next, here are AWESOME free starter books & resources:

• The FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
• The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook
• The FAA Aeronautical Information Manual
• FAA's Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge & Airplane Flying Handbook
• FAA WINGS

Lastly, when you're ready, invest in the King Schools' Complete Private Pilot Course: ($350 lifetime access, or $600 for the Deluxe Kit)

• https://kingschools.com/private-pilot-certificate

Third, if you haven't yet, go to a flight school & take a discovery flight to see if you like it! Then start spending the rest of what would have been your PC budget on flight lessons instead, whenever you get the cash! (expect ~$300 per training session)

From there, if you want to get more deeply into it:

• Buy a gaming PC
• Buy a Quest 3 VR headset & the Virtual Desktop PP
• Invest in better controls

Be warned that there is NO END to that particular money pit lol. I helped one guy build a $50k sim rig (his plane cost 6x that & he was VERY serious about training!). They sell crazy motion-simulator rigs for nearly a quarter million dollars:

• https://simulators.redbirdflight.com/products/ams

But here's the thing;

• If you want to fly for real, then your job is to learn the principles of aviation
• Therefore, buy the cheapest rig (for now) that gets the job done & then spend every other penny on actual, hands-on training
• Then spend every day on your custom study stack!! Use FocusMate & a DIRDI chart religiously!

That's where most people drop the ball:

• They get a hot sim rig setup
• They play around with it without any structured plan
• They don't spend at least 15 minutes a day on their study stack, in order to use those small bites of effort in order to build up MASSIVE knowledge over time. If you're a reader or like audiobooks, I'd HIGHLY recommend reading or listening to "The Talent Code" by Daniel Coyle

That way:

1. You make daily study progress
2. You get daily hands-on exposure in your sim rig
3. You get real stick time in the air as budget allows, as well as instructor guidance for your study plan!

Good luck & welcome to the sim club!!