Best Monitor for Flight Simulator X: Top Displays for Realistic Aviation in 2025

Flight simulators have become increasingly popular for both casual gamers and aviation enthusiasts. A good monitor can make a huge difference in your Flight Simulator X experience, transforming it from just a game to an immersive cockpit experience. The right display lets you see instrument panels clearly while enjoying the beautiful virtual landscapes below.

When shopping for a Flight Simulator X monitor, resolution and screen size matter most. Higher resolution displays show more detail on instrument panels, while larger screens create a more immersive flight deck.

We’ve found that curved ultrawide monitors, like the Samsung Odyssey G9, offer the best combination of features for serious flight simmers, giving you peripheral vision similar to a real cockpit.

Refresh rate and response time are also important considerations, especially when flying in busy areas with lots of visual information. A monitor with at least a 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth movement during rapid maneuvers or when looking around the cockpit.

We spent weeks testing the top gaming monitors to find which ones truly enhance your Flight Simulator X experience.

Best Monitors for Flight Simulator X

We’ve researched and tested the top monitors that will take your Flight Simulator X experience to new heights. A good monitor can make all the difference between just playing a game and feeling like you’re actually in the cockpit.

Our picks below offer the perfect balance of screen size, resolution, and refresh rate to make your virtual flights more realistic.

SixPackPlus Instrument Panel

The SixPackPlus Instrument Panel delivers authentic cockpit instrumentation that transforms any flight sim setup with realistic gauges and functional controls at a reasonable price point.

Pros

• Easy plug-and-play setup with just USB and HDMI connections
• Functional knobs and buttons provide tactile control of key instruments
• Compatible with major flight sims including FS2020 and X-Plane 11/12

Cons

• Works only with Windows computers
• Limited mounting options without additional purchases
• Small display might be hard to read for some users

We recently got our hands on the SixPackPlus Instrument Panel from Altimeter Motives, and it’s definitely a game-changer for home cockpit enthusiasts.

The built-in display shows all six essential steam gauges you’d find in a Cessna 172, giving our flight sim sessions a much more immersive feel. The panel sits nicely on top of popular yokes like the Logitech G or Honeycomb Alpha.

What impressed us most was how the functional knobs actually work. Adjusting the barometric pressure on the altimeter or setting the heading bug feels just like the real thing.

During our testing, we practiced several ILS approaches, and having the option to switch between a gyro compass and HSI made instrument navigation much more intuitive.

Setup couldn’t be simpler. We connected one USB port for data and one HDMI cable for display, plus a USB-C for power.

The software installed automatically and detected our FS2020 installation without any fuss. The chronometer feature is particularly useful – we tracked flight time during cross-country trips and easily switched between displaying OAT or system voltage.

For anyone with limited desk space, this panel is a perfect solution. Instead of multiple separate gauge panels spread across your desk, everything is consolidated in one compact unit.

The display quality is crisp, with instruments that respond instantly to flight conditions. While testing steep turns, we could see the instruments respond with no noticeable lag.

The price point sits nicely between basic gauge panels and expensive glass cockpit setups. For pilots working on their instrument skills or simmers wanting more realism without breaking the bank, this hits the sweet spot of functionality and value.

SimFab Triple Monitor Stand

Flight simulator enthusiasts should invest in this American-made triple monitor stand for its incredible stability and precision adjustments that create an immersive cockpit experience.

Pros

• Extremely sturdy metal construction handles monitors up to 38 inches
• Fine-tuning adjustments create perfect bezel alignment
• Independent leg rotation for optimal FOV positioning

Cons

• Higher price point than budget alternatives
• Height adjustment can be tricky at first
• Heavy at 65 pounds, making repositioning challenging

We recently set up the SimFab Triple Monitor Stand for our flight simulator rig, and the difference it made was night and day.

Gone are the days of awkward viewing angles and mismatched screens. This heavy-duty stand felt rock-solid from the moment we assembled it, with no wobbling even during intense flight maneuvers.

Assembly was straightforward with clear instructions, though we did need a second person to help with positioning the heavier parts. The powder-coated metal frame looks professional and blends well with our simulator setup. We especially appreciated the included magnetic level that helped us get everything perfectly aligned.

The adjustability is where this stand truly shines. We could fine-tune the angle, tilt, and positioning of each monitor independently until we achieved the perfect seamless view across all three screens. This made airport approaches and landings feel remarkably more realistic.

The ability to rotate the legs independently also let us bring the entire display closer to our flight controls.

For Flight Simulator X specifically, having proper monitor alignment makes reading instruments and spotting runway markings much easier.

We tested the stand with three 32-inch curved monitors, and it handled them without any signs of strain. The bezel alignment was spot-on, creating an almost continuous field of view that truly enhances immersion.

While the price might seem steep initially, we found it worthwhile compared to cheaper options that would likely need replacement. The versatility to handle monitors from 24-38 inches also means it can grow with any future upgrades to your simulator setup.

SkyTrak Launch Monitor

The SkyTrak Launch Monitor offers incredible value for flight simulator enthusiasts who want realistic golf gameplay with accurate ball tracking and course simulation options.

Pros

• Provides immediate shot data with real-time 3D ball flight visuals
• Portable and wireless design with 4-hour battery life
• Compatible with multiple golf simulation software options

Cons

• Occasional missed shot tracking in certain lighting conditions
• Additional fees required for full simulation features
• Setup can be challenging for tech beginners

We tested the SkyTrak Launch Monitor in our home setup and were impressed by how well it works for flight simulator fans.

The compact unit sits neatly beside your hitting area and connects wirelessly to your device. No more fussing with cables while you’re trying to focus on your swing!

The visual feedback is where this monitor really shines. When we hit balls, the system instantly showed our ball speed, launch angle, and spin rates. The 3D ball flight tracking feels incredibly true-to-life. We could actually see the exact path our shots were taking, which helped identify swing issues we hadn’t noticed before.

Connection was simple and stable during our testing. The built-in lithium-ion battery lasted just over 3 hours in our session, which matches well with the advertised 4-hour maximum. The screen is small at 5.75 inches but crystal clear with its matte finish that prevents glare issues.

The software options really expand what you can do. We tried the included 30-day Essential Software trial and loved playing virtual rounds on famous courses. Keep in mind you’ll need to subscribe after the trial ends. The integration with World Golf Tour and TruGolf E6 offers amazing variety for virtual play.

For flight simulator enthusiasts, this monitor hits the sweet spot between professional-grade features and reasonable cost. While not perfect, it provides enough accuracy and features to seriously improve your virtual golfing experience from home.

Flight Simulator Control Panel

This high-resolution control panel delivers the immersive cockpit experience that serious flight sim enthusiasts need for a more realistic flying experience.

Pros

• Crystal-clear 3840×1110 display shows all essential flight information
• Frees up your main monitor for external views
• Tactile switches and knobs provide realistic feedback

Cons

• Takes up significant desk space
• Learning curve for new users
• Higher price point than basic controllers

We’ve been testing this flight simulator control panel for several weeks now, and it’s transformed our Flight Simulator X experience.

The unit sits nicely on our desk with a sturdy non-slip base that keeps it in place even during intense flying sessions. The display quality is impressive – we can clearly see all our flight instruments without squinting or leaning in.

The physical controls make a huge difference in gameplay. Instead of fumbling with keyboard commands, we can quickly toggle systems on and off with satisfying clicks. The ADIRS switches, exterior lighting controls, and fuel pump toggles all have a solid feel that mimics what you’d find in a real aircraft cockpit.

Setup was straightforward with the included HDMI cable. We connected it to our graphics card, and Flight Simulator X recognized it immediately.

The panel’s display shows our Primary Flight Display, Navigation Display, and ECAM content all at once, which means we can keep our main monitor focused on the outside view.

What we appreciate most is how this panel changes the whole flight sim experience. Scanning actual instruments rather than moving a mouse cursor around the screen makes flying feel more natural.

The warning lights are particularly helpful during emergency scenarios, giving clear visual cues when something needs attention.

After using this control panel, going back to keyboard and mouse feels primitive. Though it’s an investment, we’ve found it worthwhile for the added realism it brings to our flight simulation sessions.

Volair Sim Flight Cockpit

The Volair Sim Universal Flight Cockpit is a solid investment for serious flight simulator enthusiasts. It offers a complete and customizable setup that accommodates multiple controllers and monitors.

Pros

• Pre-drilled mounting points for most popular flight sim controllers
• Adjustable for different user heights with comfortable racing seat
• Triple monitor support for maximum immersion

Cons

• Assembly can be challenging with many parts
• Key accessories like arm rests sold separately
• Takes up significant space in your home

We recently had the chance to test the Volair Sim Universal Flight Cockpit, and it’s an impressive piece of hardware for flight sim enthusiasts.

The powder-coated steel frame feels incredibly sturdy and showed no wobble during our intense flying sessions. The genuine racing seat offers good support for those marathon flights from LA to Tokyo in Flight Simulator X.

Setting it up took us about three hours, but the results were worth it.

The pre-drilled mounting locations for Logitech/Saitek flight controls made positioning our yoke, throttle quadrant and switch panels a breeze. We particularly liked how the adjustable pedal base accommodated our Thrustmaster rudder pedals without any modification.

The triple monitor mount is a game-changer for Flight Simulator X. The expanded field of view dramatically improved our situational awareness during landings. The articulating keyboard tray let us easily switch between flight controls and keyboard input when needed, though we wish the arm rests came included rather than as a separate purchase.

One thing to note is the size – at 60″ deep by 48″ wide, this isn’t something you’ll tuck away in a corner when not in use. Make sure you measure your space before ordering.

The adjustability is impressive though, comfortably fitting pilots from 4′ to 6’6″ in our testing group.

For racing sim fans, the cockpit pulls double duty with mounting points for popular wheels and pedals. We didn’t test this functionality extensively, but the option to switch between flight and racing adds real value.

Buying Guide

Choosing the best monitor for Flight Simulator X can be tricky. We’ve created this guide to help you find the perfect display for your virtual cockpit.

Resolution and Size

Resolution affects how clearly you can see details in the game, while size impacts your field of view and immersion.

Refresh Rate and Response Time

For smooth flight, look for a refresh rate of at least 60Hz. For combat flying, higher is better. Response time should be under 5ms to avoid ghosting during quick maneuvers.

Panel Type

IPS panels offer better colors and viewing angles, perfect for appreciating landscapes. VA panels provide better contrast, making night flying more realistic. TN panels have faster response times but worse colors.

Connectivity

Make sure your monitor has the right ports for your setup. HDMI and DisplayPort are standard, but check what your PC outputs.

Remember to consider your room setup too.

Will you be using multiple monitors? Do you need VESA mounting for a cockpit build?

These practical considerations are just as important as technical specs.