By Andre "ILL-DRE" Jennings

  What is the Auto-Configure?

The Auto-Configure feature is a way of automatically selecting the profile for the application running without having to specifically load the HOTAS. It is done automatically. It works for some simulations but doesn't work for others. In the case of Falcon 4.0, I couldn't get the auto configure to work.

I had to right click on the Falcon 4.0 Profile and select "Configure Game Now" to disable the Auto-Configure feature and force the profile selected.

When doing this, the profile worked in Falcon 4.0. In Flanker 2.0, the Saitek Auto-Configure worked perfectly.

Function in Simulations

In Flanker 2.0 and Falcon 4.0, the X36 functioned very well. In each simulation, I was able to program the buttons for different functions based on the X36 "Mode Selection." The throttle action was smooth and the stick movement was predictable. The feel of the X36 Stick x-axis and y-axis movement falls between the SUNCOM Talon and the CH CombatStick. The X35T throttle has the same throw as the Thrustmaster TQS and has the tension adjust to suit the taste of its owner.

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Summary: Is it worth it?

This depends on what you have now and what you're looking for in a HOTAS. The X36 has some nice features including the feel, the ease of programming, and the integration with the Windows Explorer. If you're looking for a USB HOTAS right now, there is no other choice with the functionality of this setup.

If you're looking to get your hands on a HOTAS for the first time, this setup may be the one for you. For Thrustmaster owners, this stick does not have the flexibility in programming that the F22Pro/FLCS and TQS combo have. But then again, it doesn't carry the price tag that that combo demands either. I must say that after two weeks of using the X36 USB HOTAS, I really miss my F22Pro/TQS combo.

I hope you've enjoyed this review. It was interesting going from Thrustmaster hardware to this X36 USB HOTAS. Your comments and feedback are always welcome.

Note: This HOTAS is a very fine piece of hardware. The installation procedure and the documentation could use some improvement. I have only tested the HOTAS with two simulations in order to get the review published. If there is time in the future, I will try some of my other simulations and report the findings in an update or via the feedback forum.

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