The officially licensed Airbus TCA Sidestick is an ergonomic replica of the Airbus A320/A320 Neo Scale 1:1 joystick. It features a 12 button structure with reassignable action buttons for a multitude of possibilities.
Modular joystick - ambidextrous - 4 interchangeable head button modules - up to 4 configurations - 17 buttons - H.E.A.R.T. technology
Under official Airbus license, the Thrustmaster TCA Sidestick Airbus Edition joystick is an ergonomic replica of the Airbus A320/A320 Neo control stick in 1:1 scale. It features a structure composed of 12 re-assignable action buttons for a multitude of possibilities and an acceleration lever with integrated thrust reverser (a unique function on airliners). The design of the joystick head is both versatile and modular thanks to its interchangeable components. Before each take-off, adjust your control column configuration to the most optimal position: captain, co-pilot or centre control column for solo flights.
In addition, the rudder can be activated by rotating the control column to simplify the life of multi-task pilots. It also has a locking function for a more realistic commercial flight session. The TCA Sidestick Airbus Edition features the renowned proprietary H.E.A.R.T (Halleffect AccuRate Technology), giving players the closest thing to realism with magnetic sensors reading up to 14-bit resolution.
Inspired by the real Airbus stick
The TCA Sidestick Airbus Edition promises a unique grip as an ergonomic replica inspired by the iconic 1:1 scale Airbus mini stick.
The integrated throttle at the base of the joystick includes a thrust reverser function, a unique feature of commercial aircraft. This is a great asset for mastering manoeuvres and ensuring fully controlled landings.
H.E.A.R.T. Technology
H. E.A.R.T. (Halleffect Accurate Technology), without contact or potentiometer, offers the possibility to enjoy unlimited life and optimal precision during flight sessions.
The rudder can be activated by rotating the control column to simplify the life of multi-tasking pilots. This integrated control column rudder also has a lock function, for a more realistic commercial flight session.
Versatile and modular design
Before each takeoff, the Thrustmaster TCA Sidestick Airbus Edition allows you to adjust the configuration of your stick in the most optimal way: captain, co-pilot or stick in the central position for solo flights.
T.A.R.G.E.T (Thrustmaster Advanced pRogramming Graphical EdiTor) is a software suite that allows you to test, configure and program Thrustmaster controllers. T.A.R.G.E.T includes predefined profiles for each accessory on famous, recent and older titles.
Main features:
Ergonomic replica of the Airbus control stick (A320 type), with integrated throttle shaft and reverse mechanism
4 configurations (right or left seat of an airliner, narrow or wide central stick of a small plane)
Exclusive precision thanks to H.E.A.R.T (HallEffect AccuRate Technology) magnetic sensors
New mechanical lock to disable stick rotation if the player is equipped with a rudder
17 action buttons with "braille" identification: 12 buttons on the base, 4 on the stick & 1 virtual button on the throttle (bottom 20% of the axis)
New Chinese "point of view" hat with eight directions and precision design
4 independent axes, with rotary rudder (controlled by stick rotation)
Selector switch allows users to configure the 12 buttons on the base to be either right or left handed
Weighted base for added stability
Plug & Play (native integration with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020)
Basically, the 6 months I've been using this joystick have gone pretty well. It's very precise, the buttons work well and it's comfortable too. But eventually the rudder axis crashed, the slightest touch caused the rudder to move wildly because its sensor was starting to have major problems, always to the left. Flight Simulator became unplayable. Despite this problem, which I imagine is not common in all cases, it's a good joystick anyway.
Review automatically translated
by YannickB
Posted on 11 Jul 2024
Bought on 30 Mar 2024 from LDLC
Number of reviews: 5Average rating: 9
A very good joystick
I'm comparing this joystick to the one I had before (a Logitech 3D Extreme Pro, which was already satisfactory).
Tested on Flight Simulator 2020.
+Right-handers will appreciate the fact that this joystick is ambidextrous, so you can understand how to fly the Airbus with your left hand, in the commander's seat.
+The number of buttons means you can configure all the main actions of your favourite simulator.
+The joystick is very well finished, I think the plastic looks less cheap than the plastic on the Logitech 3D Extreme Pro, and its weight means it's stable on a flat surface.
-The slider for thrust control is perhaps a little unfortunate, but I think it could have been a little more elaborate: you don't really feel the 'Idle' notch for descending into the 'Reverse' zone, which could be annoying during the rolling and landing phases. It's a minor flaw which, in any case, in no way detracts from the good impression I have of this joystick.
Thrustmaster didn't disappoint me with this joystick, which offers excellent value for money. It's a joystick I'd recommend on the strength of its many positive points.