Ultimate Buyers Guide - BEST AIRCRAFT Addons 2024 | Real Pilot's Analysis | MSFS
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In this video, we take a look at what I consider to be the "best" payware aircraft addons, available (on the PC) for Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS).
I have attempted to be largely objective when compiling this list. Let me know which addons you feel should have been included / excluded from the list etc.
Full Aircraft Reviews:
01:58 Single-Engine Props
1st) • An Addon Like No Other...
2nd) • From Default to "Study...
3rd) • Just Flight PA-28R Tur...
04:58 Multi-Engine Props
1st) • The most comprehensive...
2nd) • PMDG DC6 | Real Pilot ...
3rd) • Flysimware - Cessna 41...
07:38 Single-Engine Turboprops
1st) • It Really Doesn't Get ...
2nd) • Does Passion = Perfect...
3rd) • SimWorks Studios Quest...
11:22 Multi-Engine Turboprops
1st) • Black Square Analog Ki...
2nd) • Humanitarian Flight in...
3rd) • On Her Majesty’s Servi...
15:16 Rotary Aircraft
1st) • A GAME CHANGER for MSF...
2nd) • Mountain Medevac! | Hy...
3rd) • FlyInside Bell 47-G2 |...
19:26 Warbirds
1st) • They’ve Done it Again!...
2nd) • Another Superb Effort!...
3rd) • MILVIZ FG-1D Corsair |...
23:18 Military Jets
1st) • Just. . . WOW | Heatbl...
2nd) • Part 2 - An Absolute H...
3rd) • Just Flight Hawk T1 | ...
27:08 Business Jets
1st) • FlightFX Cirrus SF50 V...
2nd) • FlightFX HondaJet (HJe...
3rd) • BEST of the Bizjets? |...
31:06 Airliners
1st) • Now THIS is "Study Lev...
2nd) • PMDG Boeing 737-700 | ...
3rd) • Just Flight 146 Profes...
Please note this video and all its contents / materials, is for entertainment / simulation purposes only.
PC Specs
ASUS Z790
Intel Core i9 13900K 5.8GHz
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
64GB DDR4 3600MHz
Hardware
Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog
Saitek Pro Flight rudder pedals
HP Reverb WMR headset
TrackIR5
Earthquake Shell Shoxx transducer
Congrats @ShockwaveProd - on a job well done! - Hry
Hello! Very humbled by your choice of my Alouette, I can't say thank you enough for trusting me in this adventure, I can't wait to bring more old whirly birds to life in the sim! I got more exciting projects coming up and I hope you will all like them. Btw I plan to update the Alouette very soon (yes, again) to bring more features and fixes!
Cheers!
Love your efforts - big fan - no pun intended!
Can I ask if it is heading for the X box ?
My absolute pleasure! The Alouette is a real joy and although I haven’t been able to spend much time with the Lama yet, I’ve no doubt it’s much the same. I very much look forward to seeing what the future has to offer from Taog’s Hangar!
Many thanks for all the hard work. Please keep it up! : )
Your rendition of the Alouette is amazing. I grew up near Leeuwarden airforce base and back in the day the Alouette was the SAR choice of the dutch airforce. I still have good memories of the characteristic sound. And offcourse we had the only Aloutte aerobicsteam in the world, the Grasshoppers.
It's stunning
That FSX music background really brings back memories 😢
You can set your MSFS menu music to it in the options menu
Haven't played FSX but same
sure does man
This isn’t the FSX music it’s MSFS 2020 music
Thank you @@Hayness
RE: Cherokee Arrow - My first time at the controls of any airplane was an Arrow (not a turbo). My dad worked with a guy named Clovis Bolay who owned a Cherokee Arrow. On a quick business trip from OKC to Tulsa, he had me sit right seat and he got me familiar with it. On the way back,once established he told me to follow the heading bug and of course corrected me on wings level, made adjustments, etc. But I got to steer. I think I was 8 or 9.
When my mom moved my sisters and I to Denver; Summer rolled around and I was going to spend it with my dad. Clovis offered to come up and fly me back. It was Clovis, his friend and safety pilot, my dad and I and of course a 10 year old's Summer luggage. I was in back with my dad having the time of my life and I was blissfully unaware of things like the long takeoff roll or the impact of things said like, "Jim, when I tell you, hit the gear."
I was probably 15 or 16 when my dad and I were talking over that flight and he explained to me that the density altitude and weight was at the edge of the Arrow's abilities. Apparently Clovis passed his abort line and had to fly or not. He bounced the plane, had Jim bring in the gear and flew in ground effect until he had the airspeed to get us off the mountain. My dad, an Air Force vet, knew enough to be worried. I was just happy as a clam, loving the adventure and sitting in blissful ignorance.
This has nothing to do with anything, but for one reason or another, the featuring of the Arrow just overwhelmed me with nostalgia and brought all that back. Thanks for indulging my old man rambling on this fondest of memories.
Thanks for sharing Kyle! It sound as though you had the best seat in the house then haha ; )
Ignorance really is bliss, sometimes; I think I’d be a much more “nervy” passenger these days, than I ever would have been in my younger years haha. Either way, it’s a relief that it all worked out and that you’re here to tell the tale!
I’m glad the video brought back some nice memories. Cheers once again : )
Fantastic post.
Great video review! Your insights on flight simulators are fantastic. However, I'd like to highlight four important categories that seem to have been overlooked:
1) Seaplanes or aircraft with floats,
2) Retro or pioneer aircraft,
3) STOL or Bush planes, and
4) Gliders
These categories add a unique dimension to the simulation experience. Keep up the good work, and perhaps consider exploring these aspects in future reviews. Thanks for your excellent content!
Hello Martin,
Thank you very much for your thoughts and I’m glad you enjoyed the video!
There were indeed a couple of categories I missed, some intentionally, others not. I wanted to keep the video to a “reasonable” length, which did preclude me from covering every category I would have liked to (I initially wanted to include a retro category and a “wildcard” category, for example - I did consider gliders but, there’s only one payware option, so far as I am aware). One category that was an oversight and has been much requested since making this video, is STOL / bush aircraft so, I think I will endeavour to include at least that option on any future lists.
Many thanks for the kind words and all the best! : )
A huge thank you for Learjet 35A approach to Meigs 36! Brings so many memories! Different graphics, but I still see those pixels, boxes and awful sounds through super-realistics modern visuals...
Sadly, seeing no-one else commenting that makes me feel super-old. :)
My absolute pleasure, AVlad- it was a brilliant trip down “memory lane” for me also!
It’s truly amazing how far the hobby has come; mind you, the dodgy graphics, awful sounds and highly questionable flight models, never stopped me enjoying the sims of years-gone-by haha. I dare say, we might be some of the “older hands” within the hobby but, here’s to another +40 years! ; )
Many thanks and all the best : )
Me tooo @AVkad 🙂
Just purchased the FlyingIron P-38L to get a feel for what my Great Grandfather worked on in WWII and your video on it was outstanding! I even stayed for the review after the flight lol
Saving till I can watch (and re watch) without interruptions... New format is great! Thanks again for creating top shelf quality presentation! Had a chance to watch finally. Best video I’ve seen lately, enjoyed it immensely. I’m still pretty far behind in flying aircraft in some categories, but really enjoyed hearing about all of them. Thanks immensely for your hard work and careful thought,it really shows!
Thanks very much, Art! I’m glad you managed to find a quiet moment (I know how hard that can be) haha.
The ranking format was viewers idea and I think it was a great suggestion (it’s nice to be able to feature more addons - there are so many deserving products these days).
As always, my pleasure on the video and many thanks again for your kind words. Cheers and happy flying : )
One of the great things about the Hawk T1 is how well in runs (especially in VR). The Heatblur F-14 Tomcat, as awesome as it it, is too heavy on framerates. So much so that I have to fly it over deserts to make it enjoyable. The Hawk T1 is also really detailed but I can fly that anywhere.
Really enjoyed the new format. The best part was guessing each category as you got to it!
Thanks very much Ted, I’m glad you enjoyed it! The new format was a viewer suggestion and a brilliant suggestion I must say : )
Many thanks for watching and all the best!
Great list and almost 100% agree. The Shorts was the only one I couldn't place here. Currently the TBM850 is my go to plane. Someyimes it's hard to pick one and stick to it with all the exelent choices. Really looking forward to the 757 and 767 coming hopefully this year
Thanks very much, Dennis! I’m glad you felt I broadly hit the nail on the head. I completely understand your point re the Shorts; it was very hard to choose between the 360 and the ATR (and I couldn’t even think of any other decent 3rd place contenders) but, for me, the Shorts does have a certain “something” about it. Certainly, we are spoilt for choice these days!
Cheers and all the best : )
Thanks so much for all the hard work and time taken to create such an indepth review. It really is much appreciated by me and I'm sure the community as a whole. Keep them coming!
My absolute pleasure, James! Many thanks for the kind words - much appreciated : )
I will try my best to keep ‘em coming. All the best!
I might be a haughty DCS'er that even has the Yak-52, but I'm going to spend some time in the A2A Comanche. They won me over with the details like the engine simulation - things like that can go a long way to making MSFS a "game" going from place to place over the course of several weeks. Thanks for the effort you put into all your videos!
Great one! Love this ranking videos!! Please do one about Payware Airports (classified by Region), that would be nice
Hello, Victor. Thanks very much, I’m glad you enjoyed the video!
I did think about doing something similar with airports but, it’s almost impossible really. There are just so many scenery options available, that I don’t think I would have the time / funds to be able to check them all out, let alone review them accurately haha. On the plus side, sceneries are easier for a prospective customer to judge, as screenshots are able to convey the vast majority of what the addon will have to offer (unlike with a payware aircraft).
Many thanks for watching and all the best! : )
Amazing work! Super well done!!
Thanks very much Claudio, I’m really glad you enjoyed the video! : )
I really like the new format. I must admit patting myself on the back whilst watching the video having bought JF's Turbo Arrow and Hawk T1/A a while back, the PMDG 737-800 around a year ago, and the BKSQ TBM 850 and FlightFX Vision Jet more recently.
Cheers, Rich! The format was a viewer’s suggestion and I think it was a great idea (it’s nice to be able to highlight a greater number / variety of addons, rather than just a Top 10).
Haha well, I’m glad you’ve been busy enjoying some of the aircraft on the list! Happy flying and all the best : )
Another superb vid! Many thanks for your efforts. Cheers
Thanks very much, Andy! Hugely appreciated, once again : )
Thanks for the recognition. Very much appreciated!
You’re most welcome - throughly deserved! Cheers for everyone’s hard work on the HJet / Vision Jet : )
All the best!
Superb, in-depth video as per, mate!
Thanks very much Brandon, much appreciated! I do hope you’re keeping well! All the best : )
a magnificent video! some truly incredible aircraft in the list!
Thanks very much, GoalSki! I’m glad you enjoyed it : )
Thank you for the excellent list and I have great respect for your opinion! My problem with airplanes generally has been the same since many generations of MSFS ago - there are too many! I always tell myself, I am just going to buy this one and that one and then really really learn them and pay tribute to the effort the developers has put into them. And then I end up buying "everything" as soon as they are released and not learning a single one thorughly. The PMDG737 is the only one I've really spent a lot of hours in....
Haha! Well, if it’s any consolation Krister, I think that’s a problem we all share! XD
Still, being spoilt for choice is a nice problem to have. MSFS has changed drastically in the last year or so and hopefully that trend will continue with MSFS 2024.
My pleasure on the list (it’s looking like it’ll be due for an update again soon haha) and many thanks for the kind words, once again!
Happy flying and all the best : )
@@IntotheBlueSimulationsHi into the blue! What do you mean by changed drastically?
Hi RB,
I was primarily referring to the selection / quality of aircraft addons available but, the sim has also seen improvements to flight modelling, graphical fidelity (in some areas) and overall stability. I’ve always enjoyed MSFS however, for about the first year or so after its release, it was somewhat “touch and go” as to whether MSFS could really become a platform for “serious” simmers. Now we have the PMDG 737’s, the Fenix A320 and the A2A Comanche, to name just a couple of the high quality addons available. The sim has come a long way and it’s great to see : )
I hope that clarifies my point a little more. All the best!
Great informative video, thanks.
Thanks very much Harald, I’m glad you thought so! My pleasure and cheers for watching : )
Thank you for this fair review of these offerings. It is amazing how far flight sim has come since 2009.
You’re most welcome, Pythos!
For sure, it’s amazing how far simming and indeed MSFS 2020 have come - looking forward to MSFS 2024 : )
Cheers!
I would have added the LSA/School aircrafts category and the bushplane one too. Even the vintage aircrafts category and/or seaplanes. I agree with you for most of the aircrafts choosen not forgetting the Beech Baron addon amongst the twins. The DC6 in my opinion should be in the vintage aircrafts category.
LSA/School . 3) Blackwing - 2) Sting S4 1) - Cessna 152 WBsim Mod (free)
Bushplanes: 3) Rans S6S Coyote 2) Double ender 1) Kitfox5 "Freedom Fox"
Vintage aircrafts: 3) Beech 18 +Mod - 2) DC6 - 1) Tiger Moth
Thanks for your thoughts, Antonio.
There were a number of other categories I considered, including “Vintage” and “Wildcard” options. I really wanted to include the Beech 18 + Denarq mod and the Tiger Moth also. Unfortunately though, I had to make some “cuts”, to keep the video down at a somewhat more reasonable length. I certainly agree with some of your choices though.
Cheers, all the best! : )
Clear, concise, and as comprehensive as can be without making it a two hour long video. Great video edit work. Well done. I've been subscribed to your channel for a while, and never fail to enjoy your content.
I own 13 of the top 27 aircraft, including at least 1 from every category except airliners. I don't own any payware aircraft in that category yet (except the Fokker F28, which brings my system to its knees,) but am really looking forward to purchasing Bluebird's upcoming 757. I'm hopeful that it will be fairly well optimized for FS2024, which I'm hopeful will improve the performance of the more complex aircraft across the board. My latest purchase was the Learjet 35A. I haven't had a go with it yet.
I wouldn't mind seeing a category for STOL aircraft like the Wilga, the Pilatus Porter PC-6, the Supercub, or any number of the excellent payware bush planes on the market.
Thank you very much for the kind words, Eracer! I’m really glad that you enjoyed the video and that you’re enjoying the content in general.
A STOL category (or lack thereof) was a bit of an oversight on my part and indeed, was subsequently requested by a number of viewers so, I think I shall endeavour to include such a category in my next video on the subject : )
Much appreciated and all the best to you!
Best MSFS addon list video of all time 🎉😮!
Haha well, thank you very much Maffarick, that’s very high praise indeed! I don’t know whether I deserve it but, I’m really glad you enjoyed the video at any rate : )
Cheers, all the best!
Nice list. I agree that A2A is the only developer so far to bring an airplane into the sim that actually feels alive though. No matter how deep other developers simulate systems ist feels scripted most of the time. With A2A it really feels like the physics are at work. And I’m in love with that Comanche. What a masterpiece
Cheers Monacos, I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Yes, I have no idea how A2A do, exactly what they do but, their work is certainly a real art form (when you see some of the lengths the team goes to, I suppose it’s no surprise that their addons are something special). I do hope we’ll see some A2A warbirds make their way into MSFS!
Happy flying and all the best : )
@@IntotheBlueSimulations I also hope that they bring a warbird soon.
Happy flying and thanks for your awesome content!
Cheers! : )
Really appreciate this presentation......So much effort has has been put into it...Thank you...Roger...Pembrokeshire
Agree with pretty much everything the warbird category is a toss up but prefer the flying iron p38 and spitfire personally. I don’t take this category seriously in msfs. Flying this category in DCS is infinitely better. Thx for the video the a2a blsq 850 and 350 are my favourite aircraft in the sim atm
Yeah, the Flyingiron Spitfire & 109 are really good. I only just recently picked up the Corsair. Like 'iTB', I like been able to go anywhere in the World with them.
Thanks for your thoughts, GW. I’m glad you felt the list broadly hit the nail on the head! I probably prefer the FlyingIron Spit myself also however, I tried to keep the list “objective” (as much as is possible) and I think the 109 is a slightly more “fleshed out” addon overall (I’m dreaming of a return for the A2A MKI). The Comanche and the 850, are right up there in terms of personal favourites as well : )
Cheers, all the best!
Great review(s)! Agree with your choices (maybe would've shuffled one or two). Only surprise was Taog's Alouette helicopter. I haven't tried it, but now I suppose I shall :)
Thank you, sir! : )
Haha well, there’s no doubt that there are other helis with better flight models (namely the FlyInside offerings) but, the Alouette has one of the better “default” flight models and is certainly a real joy in most other respects. Especially given the price, I think anything from Taog’s Hangar is well worthy of consideration.
Happy flying and all the best!
Thank you for creating my shopping list! 🙂
Haha! Well, it will be an expensive shopping trip Sebastian but, I’m glad the list has given you some inspiration! ; )
Thanks for watching. Happy flying and all the best : )
The GotFriends Edgely Optica & Vertigo are my favorite sightseeing aircraft in the sim.
The FSR 500 is a GREAT airplane, love it
Thanks for all your work on this list - appreciated - Don't really disagree with many of the choices - I have no fighters , nor helicopters in my hanger , but I was surprised you didn't include the Fokker F28 , rather than the 146!
Thanks very much Ray, my pleasure!
I’m a big fan of the F28; this wasn’t really a list of “personal favourites” per se (I tried to be as objective as I could) otherwise, the F28 would likely have gotten a mention (I love the addon however, I think the 146 is a little more “fleshed out” at the moment, with its failure implementation etc).
Happy flying and all the best : )
You missed the Light Aircraft category (String S4, VL3, Blackwing 635RG, Vans RV14...).
I concur pretty much with your selections. I saw your BF109G video and immediately bought it. What a challenge. It's a tough bird to fly (but it really was, so one can't complain about that). I use it for short hops and general fun flying. It will bite though esp. in a crosswind or with the merest hint of "I got this" cockiness from the pilot. For longer haul, I like the PMDG DC6. The product itself has issues and some updates have sorted a few out along the way but I love the crabby, idiosyncratic old girl. I tend to fly cargo in Air Atlantique livery from Coventry (UK) - as per the real freight operator in the 1970s. Or pax in Ansett colours here from/to Brisbane (AUS). The thing is a bit of a ground gripper at heavy weights and with high density altitude - I think it only climbs due to the curvature of the earth sometimes. I am a retired bush pilot here in Queensland and could never believe they actually paid me (not that much though) to do it. Mostly in PA31-350s and various King Airs over the years. Keep up the great work.
Still doing a fantastic job in the art of flight sims,really enjoy your content. Looking forward to the future with ITB coverage 👍
Many thanks for the kind words, Steve! I’m really glad you’re enjoying the content : )
Cheers and all the best!
A brilliant video. Thanks.
Thank you very much, Geoffrey! You’re most welcome! Cheers for watching and all the best : )
Happy to say I own most of them already, bar the Fenix and Fsreborn 500, could almost predict all of these! When it comes to the rotorcraft, I view the Flyinside 206 and B-47 as my most enjoyable to fly right now, simply due to the more realistic and immersive flight model and the failures, but happy the Alouette 3 got a mention as it would probably be 3rd on my list (but also a close call with the Lama)! If you don't mind the Msfs flight model and lack of failures, the Cowansim helis are also a good shout - they're going through an update phase right now, giving htem some more polish and different avionics packages.
I agree for the comanche. The external flight model offer the best experience. The physics model in MSFS is not very good honestly, even on paywares addons.
You made me look at Bell 47G because of the External Flight Model
Hi SLKVP,
If you did end up picking up up the Bell 47G, I do hope you’re enjoying it!
All the best : )
Great video. When is the Lancaster coming?
Thanks very much, Marcus! I have no idea on the Lancaster, I’m afraid (it’s an aircraft that I’m very much looking forward to also!).
Cheers, all the best : )
Excellent video as usual thanks. My only real surprise in there was not even a mention of the F28 - It was released in 23 and I think it matches or surpasses the 146 in terms of immersion/fidelity. It's amazing how the landscape has changed in 3 years to even be able to have these discussions :-)
Thanks very much, Mike!
I’m a big fan of the F28; this wasn’t really a list of “personal favourites” per se (I tried to be as objective as I could) otherwise, the F28 would likely have gotten a mention (I love the addon however, I think the 146 is a little more “fleshed out” at the moment, with its failure implementation etc). Of course though, we’re all likely to have different opinions; as you say, it’s great that we are now in a position where we can argue the finer points haha.
Happy flying and all the best! : )
No STOL/bush category?! The Double Ender and Wilga would have crushed that. I agree with almost everything except the HondaJet, I just can't rank it that high when (as far as I know and from the last time I was near someone flying one) it's the last plane that still suffers from the multiplayer sound bug where you can hear other players' engines as though you're in their cockpit
Shoutout to the Vulcan
Do you know, ahead of this video, I was trying to think whether there were any major categories that I missed. I can’t believe that I didn’t even think of STOL / bush! In fairness, I think I was rather on the limit, in terms of the number of categories I can cover (given the length of the video) but, I *might* have to have a re-think for next year (I very nearly gave the Wilga 3rd spot on in the SEP category).
I wasn’t aware of the HJet’s sound bug (I don’t tend to fly in multiplayer). That’s a shame and I will bear that in mind next time around.
Cheers for your thoughts! All the best : )
Thank you 🙏
You’re most welcome, Tarek! My pleasure and thanks for watching : )
Great video! A celebration for all those developers!
Thanks very much, CJM! Absolutely; it’s brilliant that we now have so many talented developers, all working towards a better MSFS experience : )
Cheers, all the best!
Great video thank you. I would love to see a civilian vintage category as well as the war birds!
i have to add to that, that the Maddog X although quite expensive is also an amazing aircraft. Same goes for the F28 by just flight
I very much agree, ZG. It was very hard to pick only 3 jets; the Maddog is a bit let down by its pricing, textures and sounds and I chose the 146 over thr F28, primarily because the 146 is a little bit more “fleshed out” (offering failure modelling etc). It could well be that with a little more development on a number of addons, the list changes around again next year ; )
Thanks for your thoughts. All the best!
Great summary! Pretty much in line with the Charts I’ve been running on the MSFS Forums with a few exceptions. Sad to say I have most of those in my hangar lol
And yeah, Comanche for the win!! ❤
Is that so, Mark; very interesting haha! Well, I’m glad I wasn’t too far off, in terms of what the community enjoys also : )
Many thanks for your thoughts / info. Happy flying and all the best!
Super video - a million Thanks
Thanks very much, Dan! My pleasure and much appreciated : )
I’m really glad you enjoyed the vid. All the best!
Brilliant review 😎
Thanks very much, Chris! I’m glad you enjoyed it : )
Great Video. Comanche does sound very tempting.
Check out the developer's videos to see how in depth it is. www.youtube.com/@ShockwaveProd - he own's the plane for real. The detail is on another level (!)
@@InCar-se7jb My favourite AC was the Milviz Corsair but it seems to have developed a bug that makes the Undercarriage sink into the runway so I need something to get stuck into. I have the 310 so it may be to similar ....
@@leedove7255 I just recently picked up the Corsair. Do you happen to have the Wildcat as well? As you've no doubt noticed - 'iTB' rates it ahead of the Corsair. I wonder what the Wildcat offers beyond the Corsair.
@@InCar-se7jb After I posted yesterday I realized I do have the Wildcat :-) That could be my Corsair replacement. I am bummed by the Corsair bug as it was a great thing to fly, the cockpit is magnificent.
Thanks very much, Lee!
Haha well, the Comanche is hardly the most exciting aircraft ever to have existed but, A2A have recreated it about as accurately as anyone could ; )
Happy flying and all the best!
No doubt we'll be seeing the black square dukes on this list next year. I think the turbine dukes will take the #1 spot on the multi turbo prop category, but will the piston variant top the the C310R? Looking forward to your review once it releases!
Great Video!
Thanks very much, UG! Much appreciated : )
Loved watching this.
Thanks very much, Yoda! I’m really glad you enjoyed it. Cheers : )
Excellent video, would be cool if you could add in 2 more categories for the next one, gliders and STOL bush planes.
Thanks very much, 61TS!
I did consider a category for gliders however, I think there is still only 1 payware option available for the sim so, not much of a competition haha. Somehow, I neglected the STOL category but, a lot of people have requested it so, I will most likely look to include it next time : )
Cheers and all the best!
Nice video ITB! I love the list, you opinion is my most valued tbh.
Some constructive criticism, I think you are applying to much gain on your microphone.
Thanks very much for the kind words, WCJ - I’m glad you enjoyed the video!
I appreciate the feedback also. I’m at my wits end with my mic haha. I had everything dialled in pretty nicely and then Logitech (in their infinite wisdom) went and updated the divers; now, the gain does indeed seem far too high. I keep adjusting my settings but, have yet to find the perfect solution (very annoying indeed, hopefully I’ll get things tweaked back again!).
Cheers and all the best : )
28:00 KCGX Pretty nostalgic LJ35A and this scenery. I remember 1998...
Cheers, Bruno! I’m glad the clip brought back some nice memories haha : )
All the best!
Another great 'Best of'. 🙂I thought for sure the Comanche was going to be Top 3, maybe even 2nd. I just thought maybe the Fenix A320 (which I haven't flown) would remain the favourite. But a First place for the Comanche against all categories is a terrific result. Regarding Warbirds - I knew you were really enjoying the Me-109G, and you did mention in that review that it was your current favourite Warbird. I did wonder if it would be enough to go higher than the arguably more well-rounded Corsair. I had assumed the Flyingiron Spitfire Mk.IX (my usual go too) might take 3rd place. What a surprise to see the Wildcat (haven't tried it) not only included, but ahead of the Corsair. Regarding Military Jets - The Hawk has been near the Top of the list of Add-ons for a long time. You've purchased many versions of the Vulcan so were obviously a big fan. And the new Tomcat brings features other add-ons don't. I thought it was likely the Tomcat would make the list, but wondered if it would be impressive enough to challenge the Hawk. The results were very interesting. 👍
Cheers, InCar!
It would be very hard to pick between the Fenix A320 and the A2A Comanche (especially since they’re such different aircraft). My “best of 2023” award, was aimed at honouring the best addon released in that year; I figured that way, we won’t potentially have the same addon winning year after year haha.
I tried to make my list as “objective” as one can and certainly this isn’t a list of my personal favourites (the FlyingIron Spit would definitely be on there otherwise!). Despite the lack of weapons, I think the BF-109 is otherwise the most well-rounded / immersive warbird (and as I mentioned during the video, I think any of FI’s work, could have taken any spot on the list). The Corsair certainly does many things better than the Wildcat (engine damage for example) and is probably a more “realistic” option overall however, I do think the Wildcat is a really nice offering (it’s beautifully rendered, great fun, has built-in carrier capabilities etc), especially given the price. Perhaps my own personal preferences did creep in there though haha, perhaps the Corsair did deserve 2nd place (the aircraft just feels a bit dated, at this point).
I’m glad you found the list interesting. Many thanks for watching and all the best! : )
For me, you remain the most trusted person for MSFS reviews. Hope you get to the F-111 soon.
Hopefully the F-111 will be updated before 'iTB' reviews it. The flight model needs some work plus the Terrain Following Radar needs to be implemented.
Thank you very much PinkFloyd, that’s very kind of you to say!
I definitely still plan on an F-111 video. As InCar points out, the flight model does look a little bit “janky” at the moment haha; I’ve been holding out until the F-111 gets its weapons (and is ideally available outside of the Marketplace). I gather, another update should be out soon so, I’ll aim to take a look sometime after that has been released : )
Cheers, all the best!
Not surprised to see IndiaFoxTecho made it on the list. They have, hands down, the best military jets for the sim. I (somewhat shamefully) have probably 100 hours just in Mb-339 at this point.
I like this format, I hope you keep it. Also glad that most of these planes are available on Xbox and I have several of them.
Thanks Gábor, I’m glad you enjoyed it! The format was a viewer suggestion and I think it’s a great way on ranking the available options - I definitely plan on sticking with it.
The selection on Xbox, looks to be pretty solid now. Great to see that the Comanche has just made its way over to the console also!
Happy flying and all the best : )
my man!
Great picks. I personally would shuffle a few.
I miss Tecnam 2012..
- And a few that does not any categories. Ultralight Sting S4. - Bush home built Double Ender. Amphibious Marchetti Riviera.
Thanks very much, Øystein!
I tried to be objective but, of course, some personal preference is always going to come into play. It seems quite a few people would have been keen to see a bush / STOL category so, perhaps I will have to include such an option on next year’s list ; )
Cheers!
Great picks! I'm surprised the Caribou didn't make it though. Any chance of doing a freeware version of this video? Maybe instead of all three gold silver bronze just a winner for the category and a runner up?
Thanks very much, ASP! I really enjoy the Caribou and certainly considered the aircraft for the list; perhaps, if I had organised the categories somewhat differently, the DHC4 would have made the cut.
The only reason I don’t tend to include freeware, is because anyone can try such an addon for themselves (no jeopardy) and so, offering up a review / my opinions, becomes a lot less purposeful. That being said, I’ll happily consider such a list for the future and I think your format suggestion would be the way to go : )
Cheers and all the best!
Great video, I wished someone would do that on airports 😂
Cheers, Tom!
I did think about doing something similar with airports but, it’s almost impossible really. There are just so many scenery options available, that I don’t think I would have the time / funds to be able to check them all out, let alone review them accurately haha. On the plus side, sceneries are easier for a prospective customer to judge, as screenshots are able to convey the vast majority of what the addon will have to offer (unlike with a payware aircraft).
Many thanks for watching and all the best! : )
Wow what a fantastic video - and really difficult to disagree with any of your choices. For any newcomer to the sim, just reviewing this list of high-definition planes must surely demonstrate what a great group of Devs we have now. Can't wait to see what other planes emerge in the next year or two also!
Thanks very much Geoff! I’m glad you felt that the list broadly hit the nail on the head. Indeed, it’s quite amazing just how many quality addons we now have for MSFS, with many more to come I’m sure : )
Cheers for the kind words. Much appreciated and all the best to you!
I just bought a new GPU, I suspect your list will lead to my credit card getting more abuse, your recommendations are always worth listening to.
Haha! Well Jan, it wouldn’t be the first time that I’ve been told, that this channel ought to come with some sort of financial health warning XD
I hope you don’t take too big of a hit hehe but, we’re certainly now spoilt for choice, when it comes to enjoyable / quality addons.
Enjoy the new GPU! Happy flying and all the best : )
30:30 The view out of the visionjet here looks super cool! Where is this?
Hi Chris,
That is Sedona (KSEZ). It looks to be a stunning part of the world!
I hope that helps. All the best : )
Thanks for getting back to me. Definitely gonna have to fly around there a bit! @@IntotheBlueSimulations
My pleasure! Enjoy : )
Flying the Afro Vulcan at night is awesome. Not my favorite plane but it is My favorite module on msfs
Wonder where the COWS DA-42 would have come in the list.
Good question, Laurence. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to look at the COWS Twin Star ahead of making this list but, I think the addon would have been a strong contender for the number 3, maybe even the number 2 spot (I’d probably look to re-categorise the DC6 if I do a list again next year).
Cheers, all the best! : )
Absolutely on the money.
Pleased the black square products topped some lists. There’s a handful of products that have that hard to define realistic vibe, black square does that. Im a big fan of the JF f28, but that’s a tough category. Thanks for the excellent and accurate vid!
Cheers PM!
I’m a big fan of the F28 also. This wasn’t really a list of “personal favourites” per se (I tried to be as objective as I could) otherwise, the F28 would likely have gotten a mention (I love the addon however, the 146 is a little more “fleshed out” at the moment). Black Square do an excellent job and continue to go from strength to strength (I’m looking forward to seeing what their Duke has to offer).
My pleasure on the video! Happy flying and all the best : )
Cheers for the reply, all the best also. 👍
PMDG should start modelling falling wheels and exploding panels for the boeings
Ah the video last year that brought me back. I've been looking forward to seeing this years winners.
My one surprise is the flyinside B206 missing out. Very basic textures but the flight model makes up for a lot of sins. To be fair, I haven't tried the others on your list.
Haha. Ah well, I do hope you enjoyed the video then, MB ; )
The B206 probably did deserve to be on the list, to be fair. It’s always very hard, trying to choose which addons to include and I probably didn’t state as such during the video (and should have) but, often if I include one product from a dev, the rest of their work is somewhat presumed to be included in the same position. Ie, I think the B206 is pretty much on a par with the Bell 47 however, I went with the Bell, primarily based on the “fun-factor”. It’s a real shame about the texturing (and to some degree the pricing) of FlyInside’s addons, otherwise they would easily take the number 1 spot).
Happy flying, sir!
Great video and helps me a lot to chose maybe 1 or 2 purchases. I wonder though what you exactly mean by "flight modelling." What is important for me through videos like this is if the plane feels and behave much like it would for real since I have no pilot experience what so ever from real life.
Hi Bill,
Thanks very much - I’m glad you found the video useful!
By “flight modelling”, I basically try to assess how accurately I think the addon replicates its real-world counterpart, both in terms of “feel” and performance. “Feel” is obviously very subjective and I generally have to use an educated guess; performance is somewhat easier to assess however, it’s a factor that I’m less interested in personally. At the very least, I want a flight model that doesn’t exhibit any bizarre / unpleasant behaviours (unless of course, they’re true to life of the real-world airframe) but ideally, it’s always nice when an addon gives you some sensation that you might actually be flying the real deal. I’m no test pilot so, I often find it a bit tricky to accurately assess / articulate a flight model but, as best I can, I try to provide my viewers with an educated viewpoint.
I hope that clarifies things a little? All the best! : )
Very good video - not sure if it was intentional but there was no exterior footage of the flightfx vision jet?
Thanks very much Dalar, I’m glad you enjoyed it! That wasn’t “unintentional” per se; ideally, I would have liked to have included an external shot of the HJet but, I didn’t really have any “stock footage” (from previous videos) that I was happy to use - hence the wing view haha.
Cheers! All the best : )
I really appreciated your video, these are quite nice aircrafts, I agree with you. But I'm impressed with these absolutely beautiful landscapes in the video. Could you tell me where some of these airports and locations are? I'd love to make some flights in these locations.
Hi Caique,
Thanks very much, I’m really glad you enjoyed the video. If you would like to know more details about each flight, I have included links to each full video, down in the video description of this vid. The video description of each individual product review, should then specify location / airport ICAO codes etc : )
I hope that helps. Cheers and all the best!
Great list, cheers. I'd say weapon deployment isn't really necessary. Save that all for DCS, just seeing them mounted is enough. Well done all devs.
Cheers, Reedi!
I would largely agree with you; weapon deployment certainly isn’t “necessary” in MSFS but, as with most things, I still think it’s always nice to have the option (especially if there are some visual effects included as well). DCS is indeed the more sensible platform for all of that stuff though.
As you say, hats off to all of the devs! Thanks again and all the best : )
No love for the FBW A320? Being free is quite a perk for such a solid, aspiring study level add on aircraft.
Hi Zedramer,
This list specifically focused on payware addons so, no mention of the FBW A320 (as great as it is), no : )
I hope that clarifies things. All the best!
@@IntotheBlueSimulations Ugh...duh, should have double checked the title. Thank you!
Haha, no worries - easily done! Cheers : )
The FBW is freeware this is a payware review
Just three years ago I bought any new plane for MSFS that looked halfway decent. Now I really try to limit myself to a few exceptionally good ones and try to learn them properly. But it is still a lot of fun to switch between planes and categories. Do I want to fly a helicopter, bush plane, turbo prop or airliner today?
Nice video me personally for ehat I fly on xbox I was surprised not to see the f35 in the top 3 and possibly the cj eurofighter their great fun to fly and handle great in my opinion but I'm not an expert like yourself :)
Cheers, Craig!
Haha. Sadly, I’m not nearly as much of an expert when it comes to this sort of flying, as I wish I was ; )
For me, the main things holding the F-35 back (vs the competition) are the aircraft’s sounds and to some degree its flight model (although, that does seem to have been improved quite a lot since release). The Eurofighter is pretty solid but, lacking graphically I think. Don’t get me wrong though, I enjoy both addons : )
Cheers for your thoughts and all the best!
I woukd like to see something like Project Tupolev, and the fa ous Grosskreis a igation. Was fun to fly And I loved the Hercules C130 the cs2002 sou d was epic
It was an education and a pleasure to watch, but i must confess, not one of my favourite planes was mentioned :D
Yep, my 'go-too's' didn't make the list (ie. Flying-Iron Spitfire Mk.IX, Blackbird-Simulations PC-6 Turbo Porter, DC-Design's Concorde). What are your favourites?
@@InCar-se7jb I like bush planes like the double ender, but it seems that category wasn't covered
Haha well, thanks Ahiba! Sorry that none of your favourites made the list - it just goes to show what different tastes we all have. To be fair, this wasn’t a list of my own personal favourites per se; I tried to be objective with the addons that I chose (my own list would have included the Just Flight F28, FlyingIron Spitfire etc).
Either way, I’m really glad you enjoyed the video! Happy flying and all the best : )
They are Pricey, but you cannot go wrong with a Just flight aircraft and its hard to explain, until you own one. I have the P-28R Arrow bundle, T1 Hawk, BA146 Proffessional and love them all and I'm stuck between the Avro Vulcan or the indiafox/ Heatblur F14A for my next purchase.
I also have the A2A Comanche and two PDGM 737's aircraft and like you, these are also my number 1's.
I'm not a fan of the Shorts and it's pricy, but I do love messing the ATR . BUT I'd put Just Flight aircraft high up on my list. Shame you didn't include the O-22 Osprey and I like the Pac P750 xStol and FS500 over the Kodiack due to their better flight models and all of which I also own.
Thanks for the video! Some constructive criticism: voice audio & time stamps / chapters
My pleasure, AM!
Yes, valid feedback, thanks. There are time stamps / chapters in the video description however, they haven’t formatted into the video, because I have included links to each individual review (alongside the time stamps). I have been battling my mic settings ever since Logitech updated the drivers haha - I’m still trying to tune things back in.
Cheers and all the best! : )
Great overview. A point. Would agree with 99% of your voting, leaving airliners apart (not my game to play)
Thanks very much, Rudi! I’m glad you felt that the list was pretty fair / accurate. Much appreciated and all the best to you : )
The Mig21 is absolutely amazing. The buttons and switches are a little loud and it’s hard to fly but it’s known for being a pig in the air anyways. GKS did a great job!
I really enjoy the GKS MiG and did consider it for the list. The sounds need a big overhaul though (as do a couple of other things). GKS did say that a big update was due in January (including a sound overhaul); they’re obviously a bit late on that but, hopefully we’ll see the improvements soon : )
Cheers, all the best!
@@IntotheBlueSimulations awesome! An update and a reply!
Brilliantly put together. I think I may have been the first one to suggest this format 😏😬.... Of the planes I own, agreed with most of your choices. Comanche is 100% the best add-on of 2023.
Thanks very much, Stwutter!
You were indeed the first person to suggest the format and a brilliant idea it was, I must say. Thank you very much for the suggestion - it’s definitely a great way of ranking things, whilst still offering some variety / covering everything that MSFS has to offer : )
Cheers and all the best!
We still need an FX package, like Old Prop Solutions in P3d! The effects rendered by that program made P3d come alive. Maybe they will release it for 2024?
The background music is very distracting. I kept thinking "Why doesn't MSFS finish loading?!" throughout the whole video. :D Good list, though! No bush planes, though?
Haha sorry, Jigsaw! I knew some people weren’t going to like that. . . Hopefully, we’ll have some new MSFS 2024 music to listen to soon ; )
I’m glad you enjoyed the list! I must admit, I somehow forgot all about bush planes. To be fair, I don’t think I could have added in too many more categories, without the video becoming obnoxiously long however, I think I will have to try and work in such a category for the next list.
Cheers and all the best : )
very good video as always 😊 hopefully we can get some more decent t props in defo my favourite planes hopefully we can by next year get the majestic dash 8 and really looking forward to the flightfx avanti 180/evo.
really hoping a2a get cracking with the stratocruiser connie and p51.
oh and if any devs are in here please can someone give us a decent fairchild metro 3 and l-188 electra 😂 a a2a turboprop electra would be the dream.
Thanks very much Hayden, I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Yes, turboprops are still a weak category in MSFS, for whatever reason; for most categories, I was struggling to whittle the contenders down, whereas with turboprops, I was struggling to come up with 3 decent options haha. As and when the Majestic Dash 8 arrives, I’m sure that will change everything.
I would love to see an Electra and anything from A2A is always welcome! My favourite addon of all time, is the A2A Spitfire so, I’m hoping we’ll see their Spit grace the skies of MSFS one day : )
Cheers for your thoughts. All the best!
Oh, man. I've been looking forward to this. Can't wait to enjoy this later. Just know that if the maddog isn't top 3 in the airliner category, I will unsubscribe. (Important addendum: This is an empty threat, I will not unsubscribe.)
Haha! Well, we had a good run, Øystein. . . XD
To be fair, I love the Maddog. I tried to keep the list objective (and gave my reasons as to why the Maddog didn’t quite make the grade) but, if I was listing the addons which I personally enjoy the most, the MD82 would most likely be on there ; )
Happy flying and all the best!
@@IntotheBlueSimulations I can agree that the 737 for example is objectively higher quality, but the Maddog is still more fun to fly 😆
Everyone's a gangsta until the TBM 850 rolls up!
Glad you dinged the FSR500 a bit for the flight model.
All the gimmicks (feeding passengers, etc) do not make up for the really bad flight model, IMO.
It’s a twitchy mess and needs work.
I think flight models should get the most attention, then the gimmicks can be worked on.
I think your point is a very fair one, Joshuaspop; obviously, additional features are nice to have but, the fundamentals need to be right first. I was a little surprised at the flight model of the FSR500, as flight modelling was one of the strengths of the FSR Sting S4 (I seem to recall). I still enjoy the addon but, I do find the TBM to be better in a number of areas (including flight modelling).
Cheers for your thoughts. All the best!
17:55 Look's awesome! where is it?
Hi Vova,
That’s Lukla Airport - Nepal / Mount Everest : )
I hope that helps. All the best!
Your vr looks great what's your pc specs great vids
Hello Adrian,
I’m actually just recording in 2D. I use a head-tracking device called "TrackIR" for the camera movements. It's great, although a little pricey. There are cheaper / freeware alternatives available though, should you wish to give it a go for yourself : )
I hope that helps. All the best!
@IntotheBlueSimulations thanks for your reply. blimey thought that was vr ok cheers looks great
My pleasure! Cheers : )
I wish Microsoft would release a combat flight sim using this engine, It would be absolutely amazing
Hi from a simmer in India. Thanks for a great video :) What a gift FS20 is (and upcoming FS24).
I just plunked down for the Heatblur F14.
After looking at the modelling quality and depth of aerodynamic simulation it was hard for me to say this isn't worth the money.
(Really I just need something new to look at after hundreds of hours touring the world in the Rhino, but the number of toys to tinker with in the F14 will definitely keep me entertained.)
I do hope that you’re enjoying the Tomcat then, Bud! Happy flying and best of luck with the rest of your world tour : )
@@IntotheBlueSimulations Travelling the world 10 minutes of at a time at full afterburner.
Jester's voiced landing ratings are a fun.
Spot on comparison. From the experience of the addons I own 404 and Kodiak are the best. I only have the Vision Jet so I can´t compare to Honda Jet. PMDG is great mainly because of the frame rate, as mentioned. Fenix A320 would be better if the FPS could be improved. I use MSFS with my laptop so good sim has to run in it.
Thanks very much, Markus! All the best : )
I own 11 of the 14 GA planes on your list (if you count the DC-6) with the Lear Jet on the way as soon as it's finished, so I guess great minds think alike, although I personally don't place any value on failure modeling. I've had a few failures IRL and don't recall any of them being particularly enjoyable, so why would I expect them to be otherwise in the sim? I'm too lazy to deal with them so my universal emergency procedure is the ESC key. I think we're now past the point of having almost too many high quality add-on's competing for a fixed number of gigabytes. I now have to realize that I can't take them all to the dance and have to be selective about what I buy, especially since it's difficult to remember how to fly a complicated airplane if you only fly it once a month or so. It's really an embarrassment of riches in the sim these days.
Haha, that’s fair enough Jay; I think addons should only offer failure modelling as an option (which is usually the case), rather than making it mandatory but, for me, I often find virtual flying a bit of a “hollow” experience, if I know I can’t break anything through mismanagement etc. As with many things, it’s just “horses for courses”, I suppose.
As you say, we are rather spoilt for choice in the sim these days and for sure, there’s no way I have the time to fly all of the addons I own. All things considered, not a bad problem to be stuck with though!
Cheers for your thoughts. All the best : )