Hands-On With Honeycomb's Echo Flight Controller

The Honeycomb Echo is an all-in-one flight control solution that combines elements of an Xbox controller and an airplane, fitting easily into any flight sim setup. The reviewer, a self-proclaimed serious simmer, highly recommends it for both beginners and experienced players of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Despite the reviewer's elaborate flight simulation rituals, including pre-flight checklists and treating every session like a real four-hour flight, the full setup of a yoke, throttle quadrant, and rudder often becomes inconvenient due to the need to pack it away when the PC is used for other games. This is where the Honeycomb Echo shines. It packs almost everything desired in a flight controller into the size of a standard Xbox controller, including a throttle quadrant, trim wheel, flaps lever, and even tiny steering pedals. It also offers extensive customization, similar to Honeycomb's Bravo Quadrant, with nine lever options to match different aircraft types like general aviation, Airbus, and Boeing. The manual provides guidance for lever configurations, and Honeycomb Aviation’s website offers downloadable presets, including specific profiles for the Boeing 737 Max and Airbus A320 Neo, which significantly reduces setup time and prevents common control assignment errors. While it doesn't replicate the full immersive experience of a larger setup, the Echo feels good to use, making casual flying sessions hassle-free. All levers, buttons, sliders, and dials feel perfect, even if flying with a thumbstick takes some getting used to. The main drawbacks are the proximity of the view control nub to the thumbstick, making maneuvers awkward, and a default button assignment that kills the engine, though both are easily changeable. For VR users, the Echo is particularly advantageous as it keeps all controls in hand, eliminating the need to fumble for physical controls. Priced at $150, the Honeycomb Echo is considered a bargain compared to larger, more expensive setups with similar features. It's an excellent option for those looking to upgrade from an Xbox controller and delve deeper into flight simulation, offering granularity and customization for both new and veteran simmers. The reviewer highly recommends it, noting its ability to perform its singular function exceptionally well in numerous ways, making it a versatile addition to any flight sim enthusiast's arsenal.