Star Citizen Joystick vs Mouse

If you’re shopping for a premium computer mouse, you might wonder about the Star Citizen mouse and keyboard vs. joystick debate. A top-tier gaming mouse is preferred for most PC gamers, but a physical joystick setup might benefit space and flight sims like Star Citizen. Flight sticks offer precise control during PVP combat with ships at maximum speed. So, stick around to understand the Star Citizen joystick vs. mouse discussion.

There isn’t a massive disparity between mouse controls and gamepads in single-player titles, and it is largely up to personal preference. Check out the Skyrim mouse vs. controller debate to find the ideal control scheme for your play style.

Premium joysticks are the usual input device for vehicular combat games, but the War Thunder mouse vs. joystick discussion doesn’t have a clear winner. Additionally, there isn’t a consistent input method across entire game genres, especially when the PC and console player bases compete online.

If you choose a mouse and keyboard for flight controls, consider learning about gaming mouse pads vs. regular models. Additionally, you need fast inputs to combat ships in Star Citizen, so understanding the difference between optical vs. mechanical switches for mice might help you compete.

Playing Star Citizen with a Mouse vs Joystick

Star Citizen is a massive game that boasts exploration and PVP combat with customized spacecraft and ground-based shooting. Many assume that there is a control disparity between mouse and joystick users, but it isn’t that simple. Whether you enjoy exploration or combat with ships, the best input method might surprise you.

Flight Controls

Dual sticks, or a HOSAS (hands-on stick and stick) setup, is the preferred method for serious Star Citizen players. That said, HOSAM (hands-on stick and mouse) is a common setup that utilizes a joystick and mouse. Unfortunately, you need a virtual joystick driver and proprietary software for a natural-feeling mouse and keyboard setup.

Targeting

Mouse targeting is common in Star Citizen, especially with mouse models with programmable buttons. While dual joysticks or a single analog stick yield more granular control overall, manual targeting is less intuitive.

Immersion Level

A dual joystick setup is preferred for users wanting to roleplay in Star Citizen. Users enjoy button presses on their flight stick to simulate pre-flight checks and takeoff. While mice with programmable buttons can somewhat fulfill immersion, they won’t replicate the feeling of analog sticks.

Cheaper Option

Mouse controls are a much cheaper option than investing in joysticks for Star Citizen. Enthusiast-grade joysticks can exceed $1000, while a premium mouse and keyboard setup should cost under $400.