There are already a few threads out there that discuss the pros and cons of each stick, but I'd like to go for an update and go into a bit more detail. I've read and watched a lot about those two sticks in the last few weeks, and I'm really struggling to decide. Setup would be HOSAS with Omni-Throttle / LZ left and Premium / R right. With the Aeromax, additionally two throttles addons. Price: If I were US-based, I think we could close this thread at this point, as around 290 USD plus some taxes is a serious steal. But I'm EU-based, so it would be 415 Euro including tax/shipping. With a five percent discount (subscribe to newsletter), I could get the Aeromax setup for 515 Euro including tax/shipping. So we're talking about a 100 Euro difference, which the Aeromax should be worth for consideration, at best. Build quality: I think the biggest pro of the Aeromax is the build quality, as in smooth steering and the metal base. The full plastic approach of the Gladiator is pretty obvious, and it isn't as smooth as the Aeromax. But how much practical difference is it really? Does the Aeromax feel that much better so it justifies the higher price? Buttons on stick: The Aeromax seems to have a slight edge here. One additional push button, the brake lever, and minor differences with the flip trigger functionality, which allow for potentially one more action over the Gladiator's one. Aeromax also has a two-way slider connected to the LED lights. But how does this thing actually work? Can it be used ingame? A modifier? Buttons on base: Clear win for the Gladiator, as each Aeromax supports only two additional levers, for additional coins at that. The Gladiator has three buttons plus three wheels, which seem really useful. Like setting max speed, max thrust, or adjusting mining laser output. But do you really need them? How is your practical day-to-day experience? Can you set up everything on the stick itself easily without missing the base buttons? Misc: Gladiator also comes with different clamps, while the Aeromax seems to be fixed as is. Not sure how important that is, or if the Aeromax is simply fine as it is. Furthermore, considering going for a button box in the future (big maybe), the ones from VKB are clearly cheaper but also work as standalones, so not really an issue. Gladiators are in stock, while Aeromax is backorder / preorder with months of waiting time. I don't mind that, though, I'm not in a hurry. As I'm a sucker for better quality stuff, I tend towards the Virpil Aeromax currently. Which might be a bit irrational, but steel is steel, brothers. I'm sure those with Gladiators are happy with their Gladiators, as are the people with Aeromax. But I would love to hear your thoughts, whatever small detail it may concern, especially if you had the chance to use both sticks for comparison. And thanks for any insights about how you use them specifically in SC. Thanks, much appreciated, and enjoy your holidays and already a happy new year in a few days. PS: If anyone has a ten percent discount code and could send it to me, that would be a big bonus for sure. :smile: Also on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/starcitizen/comments/1pwb0vg/going_into_2026_vkb_gladiators_vs_virpil_aeromax/