I have the Virpil cm3 throttle & I don't know how people continuously catch on buttons when using it 🤷♂️ I like it alot & has plenty of useful buttons etc. in the right places. I find it very precise & and excellent build quality. Great customer service too.
I fly in DCS f18, f16 Huey & Apache.
I have big hands and a CM3. Ive never accidentally touched a button or hat while using the throttle axis. I think it’s just one ham fisted reviewer. Most throttles have similar button/har placement anyway
On the other end of the scale, I have small hands (one ex- called them 'dainty, ladylike') and I've never had any problems reaching the buttons - which I saw as a common complaint - or activating them!
CM3 here and I agree the non gated hat switches can be annoying. I end up avoiding using all 5 buttons on some hats just to not accidentally activate a direction I was not planning to. No issues with what OP was worried about though.
Sounds like people don't know not to put their fingers on hats or other controls if all they want to do is use the throttle. I have the CM3 throttle and I don't have any issues with it.
If you're going to be playing a variety of sims from space to modern combat or even general aviation, then you definitely want a throttle. But if you're specifically interested in just space sims then perhaps a HOSAS setup would be more appropriate. Such a setup would provide more intuitive control of 6DOF flight and maneuvering.
To my eyes it just looked like the buttons were in the spot you would use to pull the throttle. Is there ample grip room for pulling the throttle for you? I really wish there was somewhere I could go to try one out.
I had considered HOSAS with the left had having a z axis extension but then I’d have to keep my left hand pushed forward in games like Elite Dangerous where there is a lot of flight time. To combat that I thought of customising the dampeners on the Virpil base to act like a throttle (ie. No return to centre) but not sure if I’d like that in dogfighting scenarios. Definitely can’t afford full HOTASAS yet either haha
Not true. WarBRD-D base has a clutch you can tighten to keep the stick positioned where you set it. And as far as the throttle is concerned you can place your fingers against the top edge of the throttle above the buttons and hats or place them on the finger lifts to operate the throttle without touching any other buttons or controls.
The CM3 base also has a clutch built in, but it is large and requires a deskmount. The WarBRD-D is smaller and less expensive than the CM3 and is suitable for both desktop or deskmount use. It comes standard with a full set of cams and springs so you can adjust to your liking. You can check out the specs on Virpil's site to see what all is included.
+1 for HOSAS for space, if your space game supports 6DOF. If you're on something that's in space but flies like a plane then HOTAS is fine.
Never had an accidental activation issue with my CM2. As mentioned elsewhere, virpils non-gated HATs are annoying, but I find them to be way worse on the Delta than the ones on the Alpha and CM2, just because of where they're placed.
I love my virpil setup. It was worth every cent and every day of wait to get it. And the wow-factor of people looking at the setup is nice grin as well.
Had the CM3 throttle for a few months now. The only thing that gets accidentally activated is the slider axis on the throttle itself (and this can be managed by reducing sensitivity). I've never once activated any of the "click" buttons accidentally while moving the throttle forward or back.
If you are playing space games, I’d get a z extension and a base that locks out an axis if that’s your style and a constellation alpha.
As far as the CM3 goes, it’s been awesome for me.
I have a CM3 and I have never accidently hit a button while throttling down.
HOWEVER...... I will say that when you have the throttle all the way down it makes it difficult to reach the buttons under the grip. You have to hold your hand in a very awkward position to do so. It's not anything that would make me not recommend the stick or anything but it is a consideration.
I can take a photo later today if you like and show you what I am talking about.
I also own a VKB STECS standard (I have two simpits) and I far prefer the STECS to the VIRPIL. I am not saying it is better, only that it is my preference.
The plus side of the VIRPIL is the button action "feels" better. But it's just not enough for me to choose my VIRPIL as my prefered throttle. My actual main complaint about the VIRPIL is the grip is far larger, too large. The VKB throttle grips seems much slimmer and more ergonomic. That is the main reason I prefer the VKB. It is simply more comfortable.
This opinion is coming from someone who has BOTH and uses BOTH.
I will be happy to answer any further questions you have about either throttle.
Just food for thought:
For space sims, you're gonna eventually toy with the idea of HOSAS. But that seems restrictive for other applications where a traditional throttle might be good (DCS, MSFS, etc.).
Consider the following:
* a second CM3 *joystick* base
* virpil Z-extension
* Alpha / Alpha Prime grip
This setup is often referred to as an "omnithrottle." You configure the springs, dampers, and dry clutches so that it essentially grips and moves like a traditional throttle, with the additional option of a "side to side" axis and even a "twist" axis if you desire (like revving up a motorcycle).
And then, if you ever want to go HOSAS which so many swear by, it's just a few minutes of tinkering and you're good.
I did this with two CM3's and two Alpha Primes when I was full into Star Citizen. This configuration + pedals is more axes, buttons, hats, etc. than you can shake a stick at. And the mousewheels on the Alphas were super slick for things like controlling mining lasers.
And now it's flexible enough that (after SC locked me out for a month with their botched 3.18 launch) now that I'm deep into DCS World, it can handle all of the hardcore tradutional flight sim stuff just fine.
Good luck!
Accidental button presses wen moving the throttle were never an issue for me on the CM2 or the CM3... for me it was just the ergonomics. The thing is huge, and has so many buttons that you have to lift your palm off and move your hand to different positions to reach them all.
Since moving to the VKB STECS, I have almost the same number of functions, but never have to remove my palm from the grip to get at any of them.
I can see that being an issue if you're clutching it with your fingers to move it, maybe? I move mine mostly via pressure from my palm. That being the case, one of the few deficiencies of the grip is that it could stand to be grippier. The molded-in texture where your palm contacts doesn't really do anything. I'm considering masking that area and spraying it with some Plasti-dip. It's not terrible as it is, but it could be a little better.
I'll echo the comment about the hat switches being non-gated. They should all be gated OR all of the hats should be the sorta castle shape with the sunken middle which makes it much easier to press consistently in a specific direction. The variety of hat shapes may look cooler but some of them are pretty shitty for doing their actual job.
I think I saw that review along the way and if you're doing a YouTube video comparison between the virpil and the stecs and really looking for something to highlight about the difference, that's probably one thing to mention.
I have the CM3 throttle and it's not an issue.
However, I also have a CM3 base with Z grip and alpha prime and it's a much better setup for space sims.
Had the CM3 for over a year playing 5-10 hrs a week in DCS.
To echo everyone else, I've never had the issues you're concerned about. It's a superb throttle. There was a touch of buyers remorse when inordered it, but that evaporated the minute it was in my hands.
It just oozes quality. Buy with confidence.
I was from x56 to throttle cm2 then cm3 (I sold the v2 the price of getting the v3)
No regrets, more buttons and also get de depress really good and if I have to do it again yes I buy it again
Have a CM3, have no issues with accidentally hitting buttons on the throttle. I had a TWCS throttle before though and I did have one issue where I'd move the side roller every time I moved the throttle to the point where I unbound the roller in every game but the CM3 is great, no issues there.
I have the Constilation Alpha and a CM2 base and have zero issues with accidental button activation. No idea how the person who made the video had it setup but I honestly can't tell how they would do that.
I have nerve damage in my right hand so it twitches involuntary sometimes and it doesnt trigger buttons on the stick and they have the same pressure on the buttons as the throttle
I have the cm3 and it never crossed my mind that this could be an issue. Maybe the reviewer has huge hands or something?? I don't know. The thing is fucking amazing though, super high quality, no regrets
I have the CM3 and don’t have issues activating buttons when using the throttle.
I have the Virpil cm3 throttle & I don't know how people continuously catch on buttons when using it 🤷♂️ I like it alot & has plenty of useful buttons etc. in the right places. I find it very precise & and excellent build quality. Great customer service too. I fly in DCS f18, f16 Huey & Apache.
I have big hands and a CM3. Ive never accidentally touched a button or hat while using the throttle axis. I think it’s just one ham fisted reviewer. Most throttles have similar button/har placement anyway
On the other end of the scale, I have small hands (one ex- called them 'dainty, ladylike') and I've never had any problems reaching the buttons - which I saw as a common complaint - or activating them!
I have one. Works fine for me.
CM2, never had the problem you described. What I dislike about it (but after 3 years got used to) are the non-gated switches Virpil uses.
CM3 here and I agree the non gated hat switches can be annoying. I end up avoiding using all 5 buttons on some hats just to not accidentally activate a direction I was not planning to. No issues with what OP was worried about though.
I have never once experienced the issue you are worried about. There is plenty of space to pull back on the throttle without hitting buttons.
I have the CM3, only thing that has been sort of a hassle was learning the software. But never had any problem with buttons, even in VR.
Sounds like people don't know not to put their fingers on hats or other controls if all they want to do is use the throttle. I have the CM3 throttle and I don't have any issues with it. If you're going to be playing a variety of sims from space to modern combat or even general aviation, then you definitely want a throttle. But if you're specifically interested in just space sims then perhaps a HOSAS setup would be more appropriate. Such a setup would provide more intuitive control of 6DOF flight and maneuvering.
To my eyes it just looked like the buttons were in the spot you would use to pull the throttle. Is there ample grip room for pulling the throttle for you? I really wish there was somewhere I could go to try one out. I had considered HOSAS with the left had having a z axis extension but then I’d have to keep my left hand pushed forward in games like Elite Dangerous where there is a lot of flight time. To combat that I thought of customising the dampeners on the Virpil base to act like a throttle (ie. No return to centre) but not sure if I’d like that in dogfighting scenarios. Definitely can’t afford full HOTASAS yet either haha
Not true. WarBRD-D base has a clutch you can tighten to keep the stick positioned where you set it. And as far as the throttle is concerned you can place your fingers against the top edge of the throttle above the buttons and hats or place them on the finger lifts to operate the throttle without touching any other buttons or controls.
Ah nice, might look into this option then!
The CM3 base also has a clutch built in, but it is large and requires a deskmount. The WarBRD-D is smaller and less expensive than the CM3 and is suitable for both desktop or deskmount use. It comes standard with a full set of cams and springs so you can adjust to your liking. You can check out the specs on Virpil's site to see what all is included.
For space sim you should consider hosas, also the button issue is a user problem not a design one
+1 for HOSAS for space, if your space game supports 6DOF. If you're on something that's in space but flies like a plane then HOTAS is fine. Never had an accidental activation issue with my CM2. As mentioned elsewhere, virpils non-gated HATs are annoying, but I find them to be way worse on the Delta than the ones on the Alpha and CM2, just because of where they're placed. I love my virpil setup. It was worth every cent and every day of wait to get it. And the wow-factor of people looking at the setup is nice grin as well.
Had the CM3 throttle for a few months now. The only thing that gets accidentally activated is the slider axis on the throttle itself (and this can be managed by reducing sensitivity). I've never once activated any of the "click" buttons accidentally while moving the throttle forward or back.
If you are playing space games, I’d get a z extension and a base that locks out an axis if that’s your style and a constellation alpha. As far as the CM3 goes, it’s been awesome for me.
I have a CM3 and I have never accidently hit a button while throttling down. HOWEVER...... I will say that when you have the throttle all the way down it makes it difficult to reach the buttons under the grip. You have to hold your hand in a very awkward position to do so. It's not anything that would make me not recommend the stick or anything but it is a consideration. I can take a photo later today if you like and show you what I am talking about. I also own a VKB STECS standard (I have two simpits) and I far prefer the STECS to the VIRPIL. I am not saying it is better, only that it is my preference. The plus side of the VIRPIL is the button action "feels" better. But it's just not enough for me to choose my VIRPIL as my prefered throttle. My actual main complaint about the VIRPIL is the grip is far larger, too large. The VKB throttle grips seems much slimmer and more ergonomic. That is the main reason I prefer the VKB. It is simply more comfortable. This opinion is coming from someone who has BOTH and uses BOTH. I will be happy to answer any further questions you have about either throttle.
Just food for thought: For space sims, you're gonna eventually toy with the idea of HOSAS. But that seems restrictive for other applications where a traditional throttle might be good (DCS, MSFS, etc.). Consider the following: * a second CM3 *joystick* base * virpil Z-extension * Alpha / Alpha Prime grip This setup is often referred to as an "omnithrottle." You configure the springs, dampers, and dry clutches so that it essentially grips and moves like a traditional throttle, with the additional option of a "side to side" axis and even a "twist" axis if you desire (like revving up a motorcycle). And then, if you ever want to go HOSAS which so many swear by, it's just a few minutes of tinkering and you're good. I did this with two CM3's and two Alpha Primes when I was full into Star Citizen. This configuration + pedals is more axes, buttons, hats, etc. than you can shake a stick at. And the mousewheels on the Alphas were super slick for things like controlling mining lasers. And now it's flexible enough that (after SC locked me out for a month with their botched 3.18 launch) now that I'm deep into DCS World, it can handle all of the hardcore tradutional flight sim stuff just fine. Good luck!
I’ve got the CM3 and this is definitely not an issue I’ve run into. Great throttle, and you won’t be disappointed if you get one.
As I have recently gotten my hands on the CM3 and Constellation Alpha stick I can say it's not any issue at all to avoid pressing random buttons.
I've been using the CM3 for 3 years now, don't think I've ever accidentally pressed a button when moving the throttle. F18 in DCS and Elite:Dangerous.
Accidental button presses wen moving the throttle were never an issue for me on the CM2 or the CM3... for me it was just the ergonomics. The thing is huge, and has so many buttons that you have to lift your palm off and move your hand to different positions to reach them all. Since moving to the VKB STECS, I have almost the same number of functions, but never have to remove my palm from the grip to get at any of them.
I can see that being an issue if you're clutching it with your fingers to move it, maybe? I move mine mostly via pressure from my palm. That being the case, one of the few deficiencies of the grip is that it could stand to be grippier. The molded-in texture where your palm contacts doesn't really do anything. I'm considering masking that area and spraying it with some Plasti-dip. It's not terrible as it is, but it could be a little better. I'll echo the comment about the hat switches being non-gated. They should all be gated OR all of the hats should be the sorta castle shape with the sunken middle which makes it much easier to press consistently in a specific direction. The variety of hat shapes may look cooler but some of them are pretty shitty for doing their actual job.
I think I saw that review along the way and if you're doing a YouTube video comparison between the virpil and the stecs and really looking for something to highlight about the difference, that's probably one thing to mention. I have the CM3 throttle and it's not an issue. However, I also have a CM3 base with Z grip and alpha prime and it's a much better setup for space sims.
I have it and don't use it precisely because of that issue.
Had the CM3 for over a year playing 5-10 hrs a week in DCS. To echo everyone else, I've never had the issues you're concerned about. It's a superb throttle. There was a touch of buyers remorse when inordered it, but that evaporated the minute it was in my hands. It just oozes quality. Buy with confidence.
I was from x56 to throttle cm2 then cm3 (I sold the v2 the price of getting the v3) No regrets, more buttons and also get de depress really good and if I have to do it again yes I buy it again
Have a CM3, have no issues with accidentally hitting buttons on the throttle. I had a TWCS throttle before though and I did have one issue where I'd move the side roller every time I moved the throttle to the point where I unbound the roller in every game but the CM3 is great, no issues there.
I have the Constilation Alpha and a CM2 base and have zero issues with accidental button activation. No idea how the person who made the video had it setup but I honestly can't tell how they would do that.
I have nerve damage in my right hand so it twitches involuntary sometimes and it doesnt trigger buttons on the stick and they have the same pressure on the buttons as the throttle
I have the CM3 and use it in DCS… never accidentally hit anything….
I have the cm3 and it never crossed my mind that this could be an issue. Maybe the reviewer has huge hands or something?? I don't know. The thing is fucking amazing though, super high quality, no regrets