Improving the X-36

Among flight sim enthusiasts, the Saitek X-36 is regarded as one of the premier HOTAS on the market. The controller set features a complete set of buttons and axes, including the unique rocker rudder tucked on the leading edge of the throttle. In our review, we found the X-36 to be one of the most versatile and well-built controllers available, and an excellent value at only $99.

I was surprised to see a new controller prominently displayed in Saitek’s E3 2001 booth, one that looked surprisingly similar to the X-36. This new controller had the same futuristic lines of the X-36, with the addition of new colors and added features, aptly named X-45.

Saitek X-45 Stick and Throttle System

Joystick
4 Fire buttons
1 Missile launcher with safety cover
2 8-way hat switches
Pinkie switch with detachable hook and LED indicator
Control Commands etched on base

Throttle
2 Fire buttons
4-way hat switch
Throttle control with detents
Rudder control
2 rotary control knobs
Mouse controller / 8-way hat switch
3 Mode Status LEDs
Control Commands etched on base