Что лучше x plane 11 или mfs
Microsoft Flight Simulator сравнили с X-Plane 11
В сети появилось сравнение грядущей Microsoft Flight Simulator с X-Plane 11, вышедшей в 2017 году. Сравнение наглядно показывает огромную разницу между двумя авиасимуляторами.
Microsoft Flight Simulator отличается реалистичными лесами, большим количеством мелких деталей, отличной детализацией текстур и превосходной проработкой освещения.
Релиз Microsoft Flight Simulator состоится в 2020 году для ПК и консоли Xbox One.
Я не фанат авиасимов, и не играю в них вообще, но это очень круто.
как то слишком хреново выглядит игра для 2017 года,2д деревья и текстуры земли как будто это должен быть космосимулятор
h1fter Не забывай что это авиасимулятор
h1fter У X-Plane уникальная модель поведения самолета, которая просчитывается в самой игре на основании теории элемента лопасти, а не задается заранее как в случае с Microsoft Flight Simulator или DCS. По идее он более должен быть сложен и реалистичен, но в реальности по сути отличий не так уж много, а преимущество дается при добавлении новых моделей техники в игру.
Компы поплавятся у мамкиных пилотов. )) Правда в такие игры, в основном, играют люди далеко не бедные, докупают доп.оборудование и пр. Они то смогут себе позволить все прелести на 12Dx в 4К. )
Что лучше x plane 11 или mfs
Вообще странно. Почему тогда у нее 95% отзывов положительные? Здесь меньше гораздо. Вообще меня интересует можно ли здесь просто полетать не обращая внимания на приборы и наслаждаться пейзажами?
Меня иногда удивляет человеческий образ мыслей. Качество и уровень детализации карты это же не единственный фактор в оценке игры. МСФС месяца два нельзя было нормально обновить у многих пользователей. Он любит ВНЕЗАПНО крашиться. Здесь далеко не лучшая летная модель. Он может не менее ВНЕЗАПНО начать тормозить ни с того ни с сего. У части «коробочных» самолетов проблемы с работой аппаратуры, которые не фиксят уже с полгода. Здесь нельзя эффектно расфигачить самолет. И.т.д.
Короче говоря, как я понимаю, X-Plane предлагает более солидную летную модель, но гораздо менее проработанное окружение. Как бы всё (хотя по Х-самолёту лично особо сказать ничего не могу, только второручные сведения).
Вообще странно. Почему тогда у нее 95% отзывов положительные? Здесь меньше гораздо. Вообще меня интересует можно ли здесь просто полетать не обращая внимания на приборы и наслаждаться пейзажами?
Меня иногда удивляет человеческий образ мыслей. Качество и уровень детализации карты это же не единственный фактор в оценке игры. МСФС месяца два нельзя было нормально обновить у многих пользователей. Он любит ВНЕЗАПНО крашиться. Здесь далеко не лучшая летная модель. Он может не менее ВНЕЗАПНО начать тормозить ни с того ни с сего. У части «коробочных» самолетов проблемы с работой аппаратуры, которые не фиксят уже с полгода. Здесь нельзя эффектно расфигачить самолет. И.т.д.
Короче говоря, как я понимаю, X-Plane предлагает более солидную летную модель, но гораздо менее проработанное окружение. Как бы всё (хотя по Х-самолёту лично особо сказать ничего не могу, только второручные сведения).
В плане графической составляющей карты мира, всё видно на скриншотах.
MSFS синтезирует мир с помощью фотографий со спутников, тогда как X-Plane пока ещё не имеет подобной детализации.
I am running Win10 on a 13 year old (2008) PC and it works really well. I will say its the best most stable Windows I’ve used.
i7 920 @ 3.5Ghz
12GB DDR 3
GTX1060 6GB
I would encourage you to think about backing up all your data and doing a factory fresh Windows 10 install using the Media Creation Tool. The latest 21H1 build is excellent.
Вообще странно. Почему тогда у нее 95% отзывов положительные? Здесь меньше гораздо.
Через год после запуска Икс Плейна там тоже хейтеров было достаточно.
Если откровенно, MFS пока ещё не отшлифован. Есть ещё множество багов, и у некоторых проблемы со стабильностью, вплоть до постоянных вылетов. Но это не у всех. У меня проблем со стабильностью нет. А некоторые вообще играть не могут постоянные вылеты. По этому не удивляет. Икс Плейн уже достатоно старый сим. В него сегодня играет не очень большая аудитория заядлых фанатов. Они точно плохо не оценят. А все тролли сейчас MFS хейтят что тоже нормально. Через год они свалят что нибудь поновее тролить.
Вообще меня интересует можно ли здесь просто полетать не обращая внимания на приборы и наслаждаться пейзажами?
Можно. Как раз насчет наслаждаться пейзажами MFS имеет огромное приемущество перед XPlane. Можешь просто видосы на ютубе посмотреть или скриншоты и сравнить с иксплейном, думаю разница сразу в глаза кидается.
XPlane скорее подходит если пейзажи не очень важно, но важно чтоб самолет в любой ситуации реагировал как настоящий и если важно чтоб все приборы работали как в настоящем. То есть это скорее симулятор для приборщиков и энтузиастов авиации для которых не важно как выглядят пейзажи. MFS в свою очередь отменная графика но у энтузиастов авиации которые хотят выполнять авиарейсы на лайнерах будут множество притензий. MFS хорошь для просто полетать на маленьких самолетах и полюбоваться пейзажами. Но это пока, в деталях он постоянно дорабатывается и улучшается становясь все более реалистичней в том числе и для любителей лайнеров.
Выбор симулятора для «полетов» на ПК. Часть 2. Виртуальное небо
В прошлый раз (https://pikabu.ru/story/vyibor_simulyatora_dlya_quotpoletovq. ) я рассказал, как потратив немного денег, можно понять нужен ли вам симулятор. Сегодня постараюсь рассказать про развитие ветки Microsoft Flight Simulator.
На данный момент FSX можно разделить на несколько направлений:
О первом я расскала, FSW достаточно молодой проект и потому пустой, могу лишь сказать, что отсутствие динамической, реальной погоды и серьезных моделей летательных аппаратов не позволяет рассматривать его как полноценную замену FSX/X-Plane/DCS. Та же проблема и с очень неплохим AeroflyFS2. Поэтому поговорим о Prepar3D.
PMDG 737NGX Base Package for FSX
PMDG 737NGX Base Package for Prepar3D
Такой политики придерживались не все разработчики, да и сами PMDG больше денег за обновления не требовали, пока.
И вот в конце мая 2017 года состоялся релиз P3Dv4 на x64 архитектуре, который позволил забыть об OOM, вытащить из закромов дополнения, которые ели память как горячие пирожки и наслаждаться приятной картинкой. если у вас core i5 5-го и выше поколения и NV 970 и выше. Если с железом все тяжко, то настройки в минимум и мыльцо, а ну и 65 долларов на его приобретение. Основные модостроители достаточно быстро провели миграцию своих продуктов, и надо сказать, во многом бесплатную, но процесс идет до сих пор, например у Aerosoft с их Airbus.
Все, выше описанное, поводит нас к тому, что на данный момент актуальной версией Prepar3D является четвертая. Теперь давайте украшать все это дело (все цены в долларах):
— ActiveSky+ASCA 64+30 ( Вторая тоже опционально, содержит текстуры неба, солнца и облаков, можно найти бесплатные альтернативы)
Итак, для приятной картинки+реальной погоды+буксировщик понадобится:
65+80+21+64+34 = 264 USD = 14 957 рублей.
К этой сумме добавьте хорошо проработанную модель, например Boeing 737-800 от PMDG = 90 USD и получите 20 000. Все суммы никто сразу не потребует, вполне можно купить сим и самолет, погода есть дефолтная в самом симе и заняться изучением модели, но даже это выльется в семь с лишним тысяч рублей. А спустя какой-то время вы поймете, что клавиатура или геймпад от xbox не особо подходят для полетов и посмотрите в сторону авиаджойстиков. Тут я вас обрадую, для гражданских авасимов подойдет самый простой и дешевый, он прослужит вам пару лет, цены на них начинаются от 1800 рублей.
Все мы знаем, что альтернатива есть на просторах трекеров (с такими ценами, не удивительно), но как показывает практика из пиратства ничего хорошего не выходит, некоторые продукты работают нормально, а некоторые просто портят нервы и симулятор, что приводит к переустановке всей ОС. Есть часть разработчиков (ORBX, PMDG, DRZEWIECKI DESIGN) которые встраивают защиту от пиратов, направленную на порчу сима. ORBX удалял только свою папку, PMDG удалял половину файлов симулятора, сценарий Москвы от DD заменял все рулежки, облака и заставку сима на картинки с веселым роджером и надписями «пират». А два дня назад, именитые FlightSimLabs (лучшый A320 во всех симах) попались на том, что встроили троян в свой установщик, который при обнаружение ключа продукта из блэклиста дампил базу с паролями google chrome и сливал разработчику по http (ну да идиотов везде хватает, они извинились и предложили всем желающим вернуть деньги). Так что выбор за методами приобретения остается за вами.
Закончу вторую часть, в следующей поговорим о X-Plane.
X-Plane 11 vs FSX vs P3D: Which is Better & Why
Perhaps before we attempt to answer the above question, we should point out that whatever Flight Simulation program you opt for – and many simulation pilots have both – each are sound platforms from which to tour the virtual skies. And each has its pros and cons.
Furthermore, both come with a range of available add-ons – both free and paid for extras that enhance and improve your experience in your flight sim missions.
In the article, we may use the abbreviated forms of each sim’ so for clarity, FSX means Microsoft Flight Simulator X, P3D means Prepar3D and XP11 means X-Plane 11.
What is perhaps most interesting, to both experienced users and beginners alike, is just how different these two flight sim packages actually are.
Because this article is quite lengthy, we have provided jump links which you can use below;
China Southern 787 in Microsoft Flight Simulator X.
Aircraft: Just What Do You Get To Take To The Skies In?
OK, so what exactly do you get when you purchase one or the other of the above titles. Well, first of all, there is the aircraft themselves.
FSX comes with 30 available aircraft ranging from the standard commercial airliners to single-engine airplanes and helicopters. By comparison, X-Plane 11 has eight less, boasting a still respectable 22 different aviation vehicles, but still around a quarter less than its competitor.
Cessna 172 in flight.
While Flight Sim X might have more to choose from at the basic level, the quality of the aircraft available – in terms of graphics, the authenticity of use, and even the aircraft’s respective sounds – would appear to fall behind the newer XP11. And when we consider that the graphics on Flight Simulator X are not exactly terrible, that perhaps shows how detailed and improved such graphics actually are on the XP11 program.
It is probably accurate to say that many FSX users have since replaced their original 30 aircraft with add-ons, which as we will see, particularly for this package, opens a door to an abundance of extra aircraft and scenarios.
Indeed, while the platform is over a decade old, which in itself is a further testament as to just how strong the program is to still be a major player in the virtual flight world, some of the sounds and feel of the aircraft appear slightly dated to the more up to date, slicker, and overall slightly more realistic options on offer courtesy of XP11.
It would appear, at least at the moment, that opinion is quite split regarding the aircraft available for P3D. While some users very much state their belief that the quality and quantity of planes is better on P3D, at least an equal amount, if not more, appear to favor XP11 or FSX. And a large part of the reason is the amount of money required to be spent in order to achieve a realistic feel, with P3D seeming to come down on the expensive side of the line more often than not.
Essentially, if money isn’t an issue, then P3D might be the simulation program for you. If it is, and for many of us this is very much the case, X-Plane or FSX might be a better choice.
Qantas A330-300 on runway in Microsoft Flight Simulator X.
And in terms of functionality and the overall dynamics of the basic aircraft on offer, XP would appear to triumph with quality over quantity.
The Scenery: An Underrated Aspect Of Virtual Flight!
We have written and explored many of the scenery add-ons available for FSX previously. So, with that in mind, it is not particularly a knock on FSX to state that the basic scenery available for the XP program, while in itself not mind-blowing, is of a higher standard.
Their use of high-tech street mapping and 3D graphics appear to make the city streets and roads burst into life more than the Microsoft package. Indeed, at the time Microsoft’s Flight Simulator X burst onto the scene a decade or so ago, such graphics appeared top notch. Now, however, especially with such a platform as the latest version of X-Plane showcasing more up to date and overall stronger graphics and scenery textures, the older Microsoft platform is beginning to appear a little dated.
Mesh scenery add-on example in X-Plane 11.
The same might be said for the basic night scenery, which while ultimately will come down to a matter of personal taste, would appear that XP11 – which has almost “specialized” in such scenery – offers the most realistic effects and reproduction of the terrain under the night skies. Their use of 3-D graphics and realistic mapping would appear to continue to set it apart.
By contrast, FSX, which certainly doesn’t look bad in nighttime conditions, appears a little dated to some flyers. As the hour approaches evening on your virtual flight missions, the ground below will begin to glow an orange color to reflect the lights of the cities below.
It appears the scenery of Prepar3D, while certainly authentic, still lags behind XP11 for intricate detail, particularly, as one user complained, around the airport scenery. Furthermore, it would appear that cost is a big issue with users when deciding whether to make the switch. A great many of the scenery add-ons come at an extra price, meaning that to set up an authentic flight plan with airports and scenery could become a very expensive business.
One more, if money isn’t the deciding factor for you taking a shot of P3D might very well provide the authentic flight simulation experience you are looking for. However, it just might be the case that the best version of Prepar3D is a little out of many people’s price range.
In terms of night lighting and night flying, however, P3D, boast some of the best night-time lights and graphics available. In fact, this might be one area where P3D has the edge on the other two flight simulation programs. And while that might not be enough to swing the deal for prospective buyers, for more veteran virtual pilots who are at a stage where they are looking for such finer details, it might be something worth bearing in mind.
Example of a Boeing 737 cockpit at night.
In Terms Of “Graphics” And “Realism”, It Still Comes Down To Personal Preference
While these types of aspects of virtual flight perhaps appear trivial to some, especially newcomers to the world of flight simulation, it is such small details that separate a good flight platform from a great one. And while there is not that much between the two programs here, it would appear that overall most virtual pilots lean towards the strength of X-Plane 11’s graphics and textures in terms of scenery – day and night time versions of it.
As one simmer user stated in response to the graphics between the two programs;
It would appear to be much easier to move from FSX to X-Plane 11 and appreciate the improvement in such details than to use X-Plane 11 and then revert back to FSX, which would suddenly make the overall experience far less realistic.
However, another user fell on the other side of the argument. They would claim that if you are “into graphics” and are looking for details inside the cockpit, then X-Plane might indeed be the program to purchase and use to explore the virtual skies.
But if you are looking for overall aviation detail – such things as the difference in weather, the difference in terrain, even difference in seasons and when such seasons occur when at various points around the planet, then FSX, albeit achieved through add-ons, is by far a better option. Those who are seeking the aforementioned details, essentially details outside the cockpit, while the graphics per se may not be as good as XP, the older more «developed» Microsoft platform overall presents a more realistic feel as opposed to the “sterile world” offered by its competitor.
Prepar3D very much contains some of the best graphics available, of that there is little doubt. However, many of them remain locked behind additional purchases. This means that you might end up spending a considerable amount of money to achieve the realism you want, whereas that realism could have been reached for a lot less with our other two programs featured here, in particular, FSX.
As stated at the beginning of this section, though, this really does come down to personal preference, and to no lesser degree, personal budget.
It may be wise, if you think you will spend considerable time on such programs as opposed to “taking the jet out for a spin” every now and again, to consider Flight Sim X as a better option in the long run.
OK, How Well Do They Run?
Of course, how the program works and runs on our respective systems is also of paramount importance. And it is here once again where X-Plane 11 would appear to pip FSX, with the latter seeming to have a reputation among users (if the forum comments and complaints are to be believed) of crashing on more than one occasion.
This would appear to be due to the program loading all of the memory onto the CPU, bypassing the GPU and, on occasion, simply overloading the processor and so crashing the program. We should stress, these crashes are certainly not so regular as to ruin one’s overall experience, but they do occur on at least a semi-regular basis. Indeed, it is an issue that FSX will need to address in the immediate future and possibly address with a fix or a free add-on.
Cessna 3D virtual cockpit.
On the other hand, X-Plane 11 distributes this memory usage between CPU and GPU, which in turn allows for a much smoother flight and running of the program. While there are still instances of this newer program crashing, it would seem it is much more fluid and easier to run across most platforms than the FSX version.
Although there might be a need to repurchase some addons again, in terms of how well Prepar3D runs this should not be a concern to anyone looking to purchase the software as a new pilot or make the switch from their current one. Perhaps the only thing to keep in mind is that those on slightly older PCs with older graphics cards may experience a slight increase in loading times, and while this shouldn’t inhibit their experience too much, it will be noticeable to the user.
In fact, unless there is something particular that appeals to the user, this would appear to be a major tick in XP 11’s favor. You may be interested in reading our article about boosting FSX performance here.
The Add-ons And Extras – The Great Equalizer For The Older Package!
As we mentioned at the beginning, for the most part, it is only fair, and sensible, to compare the programs on their basic, out of the box, settings. And, the fact that the user gets more aircraft to fly courtesy of FSX than they would with the other platform aside, it would seem that X-Plane 11 is the better purchase.
However, another area where this older platform dominates over X-Plane 11 is the number of add-ons that are available for it. And while some of these of paid-for extras, many are completely free and truly do go towards making the experience of flying with the Microsoft developed platform both genuine and authentic, as well as offering an absolute plethora of options in everything from aircraft, airports, scenery, and textures.
Indeed, perhaps as big a plus as the running of the program was for X-Plane, the same can be said for the number of add-ons for Flight Simulator X. As we will look at shortly, many virtual flying veterans prefer FSX over the newer flight sim packages. Essentially, if you have a lot of time and a considerable money pot, it is indeed possible to transform the older platform to be a much better model than XP11, or indeed any other flight simulators.
The fact that there is such an array of extras available does perhaps give the dated FSX more flexibility and longevity (in terms of regular use). Aside from the obvious extra aircraft, the extra scenery, airports, and even missions, at least as things stand in 2019, dwarf what is available for X-Plane, as improved as it is.
Authenticity From The Cockpit
Perhaps the most important aspect of flight sim is just how realistic the flights are, particularly from the cockpit. On a basic level, many of the cockpit graphics are much more detail orientated in X-Plane 11. However, when add-ons are taken into account, it is relatively easy to increase this detail.
Some flyers, though, actually find the cockpit dynamics in FSX to be, at times, “too easy” and not realistic to the conditions around it (if it was raining or windy, for example). This is an important factor, especially for experienced or regular flyers, who as opposed to searching for pleasing to the eye graphics, will perhaps put more emphasis on the realism of the controls and the plane’s reactions to the elements, its crew and passengers, and even how much fuel it is carrying. Essentially, the actual “mechanics” and logistics of controlling an aircraft.
The P3D cockpits also boast some of the most realistic on offer. Everything from the feel of the cockpits, to the flight navigations equipment and the overall authenticity, is realistic to the max. And this replication is the same during night and day and in all weather conditions.
However, some users find they experience “blurry cockpit” – usually meaning the user has to customize their and graphics details slightly textures slightly, of which there is a large online community to ask for advice (which we will look at in a moment).
However, in terms of overall authenticity and realism of flight, the P3D cockpit software is some of the most authentic available and certainly holds its own against XP11 and FSX.
Piper Malibu cockpit.
In this area, although many experienced virtual pilots insist any difference in detail is largely marginal, it would appear that XP lends towards a more realist “in the cockpit” experience, with such things as the elements and the condition of the ground taken into account and then reflected in the difficulty in controlling the plane during take-off and landing, as well as when in the air.
Where Things Stand In The Market
OK, so before we summarize the two programs, we should perhaps look at where the two flight simulation software companies are right now.
While X-Plane, and certainly version 11, are newer to the market, Flight Simulator X has been around for some time, and consequently, already have a steady audience of veteran virtual pilots as well as more amateur flyers and those with a passing interest.
However, given the lack of active development, it would appear that X-Plane 11 certainly has a bright future ahead of it. And while it would perhaps be a little early to say that it is ready to push FSX aside and take over as the premier simmin’ software, it would certainly appear destined to force other platforms to share the market more evenly.
Perhaps what is often overlooked when considering such programs is not only how popular, how much technical support, and what add-ons may or may not be available, is the respective communities that develop around such software.
For example, whether it is in chat rooms, closed social media groups, or specialized Internet forums for FSX or X-Plane users, when you purchase and begin developing and exploring your software, you are also, should you choose, opening a door to world full of other like-minded individuals, looking, in this case, to take to the skies from the comfort of their own PC chairs.
The community for FSX and, to a lesser extent X-Plane, are already substantial. And while Prepar3D most certainly has its own loyal fan base, it would appear from those same Internet forums that it lacks that of the other two, at least in terms of numbers.
While the community is indeed just as loyal for P3D, it is decisively smaller. And it might be one better suited to experienced pilots who have made the conscious decision to try a different software as opposed to newcomers to the world of flight simulation (although there is certainly no reason for such rookies to opt for P3D).
We should note, that both products have strong communities, meaning whichever package you opt for, whether it is official assistance or advice from other users, there will be an abundance of people to offer support, hints, and tips on how to get the most out of virtual flying software.
So, What’s the Verdict?
With all that in mind, then, you might think that the obvious choice would be to snap up the latest and greatest platform like XP11. If you a newcomer to the world of the virtual flying, then that very well might be the best option for you. And, in time, it would appear that many other virtual pilots will be joining you.
While FSX has more add-ons and choice, it would appear to be only a matter of time before that choice of extras is equaled by X-Plane and other programs. And what’s more, more and more people are indeed opting for Laminar Research’s platform.
With all that being said, though, FSX still have a huge audience and share of the virtual flying market, many of whom are loyal customers on the one hand, and also flyers who have spent, in some cases, thousands of dollars or pounds in extras in order to create a unique virtual flying experience tailored just for them.
Prepar3D is perhaps in an even more difficult position. And while it is likely that the audience it has is a very loyal one, those virtual pilots who have earned their stripes on the other simulators will likely be hard-pressed to convert to P3D.
We should note, though, those that do (and they are, not exclusively, but often veteran virtual pilots) almost universally state they “haven’t looked back” since making the switch.
So, the decision is ultimately yours, and each program has its own pros and cons. There are, though, some other factors to keep in mind for both rookie and experienced virtual pilots. Particularly when we consider the future of flight simulation.
Lufthansa A380 add-on.
The idea of starting again from scratch, to many, is simply unthinkable.
There is certainly plenty on offer for loyal users of the older Microsoft platform. And, as we mentioned above, in terms of a well-rounded overall authentic flight, FSX certainly delivers. Indeed, many who have used both programs state their preference for the older model. And if it is quantity you are looking for then this more-established program is for you.
Some More Thoughts To Ponder
However, if you are looking for the finer details of virtual flight, whether it is authentic conditions from the cockpit as you struggle against the elements and other factors designed to make for a more realistic flight, X-Plane 11 might be something you wish to opt for. Especially when we consider in another decade or so, in all likeliness, X-Plane 11 will have overtaken FSX in terms of market share, available and actively developed add-ons, and accessibility. With that in mind, particularly for newer virtual flyers, it might be best to get on board now.
Before you continue reading, perhaps you’d like to compare the official trailer videos of each sim.
Trailer Videos
X-Plane 11
Microsoft Flight Simulator X
Prepar3D v5
Perhaps one word of warning, however, while this will likely change in time with new developments and add-ons, one discreet drawback with the X-Plane 11 simulation is that most of the detail is loaded into the United States, unlike FSX where airports and locations all over the planet are available. And thanks to the numerous add-ons, which we have already mentioned, these various locations are often highly detailed.
Similarly, if P3D prices were to come down over the next few years, then it might, in turn, attract much larger numbers to it than it currently does (and it is already one of the most popular flight sim software available).
Each of the programs has its drawbacks and strengths, and in an ideal world, an amalgamation of the two software packages would fill in their respective gaps in each program. Unfortunately, and again this is a testament to the overall strength of each package, as well as the quality of the flight simulation market in general, it is not a case of picking a clearly better program over another.
Like anything else in life, it depends on what you, the pilot, are looking to get out of your virtual flying missions, as to what program is ultimately the better option. However, in time, X-Plane looks set to challenge to be just that.
Indeed, like many of us, many pilots of the virtual skies use multiple virtual software programs. In doing so the entire scope of what’s available and what the possibilities are can be decided upon by personal experience. And there is certainly nothing to stop any of you doing the same. Except perhaps budget, that is.
Of course, we have reviewed all three flight sim platforms in detail; you can read our review of FSX: Steam Edition here, Prepar3D review here, and of course our X-Plane 11 review here.
Let us hear your thoughts!
Ian Stephens
Ian Stephens is a flight simulation industry expert with over 20 years of experience and also has a keen interest in aviation and technology. Ian spends a lot of his time experimenting with various simulator packages but has a love for Microsoft Flight Simulator X because of the huge selection of add-ons available. However, Ian also has copies of Prepar3D and X-Plane installed.
Ian has been writing for Fly Away Simulation for over 9 years. Should you wish, you can contact Ian via email at ian.stephens@flyawaysimulation.com.
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33 comments
The content of the comments below are entirely the opinions of the individual posting the comment and do not always reflect the views of Fly Away Simulation. We moderate all comments manually before they are approved.
I have both X-Plane 11 & FSX. Love to fly with XP11; more realistic. Best regards.
Piet de Geus Wed, 10 Apr 2019 14:50:39 GMT
Why compare X-plane with an outdated 10 years old simulator with a fast decreasing number of users. FSX itself has been succeeded already many years ago by Prepar3D, has a fast-growing number of users and all critics and reviews elaborate on the endless improvements in Prepar3D related to FSX. Many comparisons are also available on Youtube. Besides that, there are regularly improvement-updates for Prepar3D, the most current one is Prepar3D V4.5 So, please make a new review responding to the actual situation.
jans plomp Wed, 10 Apr 2019 15:15:24 GMT
I have flight simulator x gold edition I am 75 and not too clever but I need a total commander for the downloads.
Roosevelt Anderson Wed, 10 Apr 2019 15:44:47 GMT
X-Plane 11 all the way!
Anwar Vari Wed, 10 Apr 2019 15:50:26 GMT
Yes, you are 200% right. I’m a loyal customer, I’ve spent a much more dollars for add-ons, I’m too lazy to start from the start again. And some FSX aircraft flight dynamics and texture, especially the latest add-ons, is better than XP-11. If, and if, XP-11 later have a much more scenery airport add-ons, it is still not to consider for me to move to XP-11 since it would cost me on my PC FPS rate.
Sherman M. Kaplan Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:03:16 GMT
Very good article, but IMO, a comparison between X Plane and P3D would be more relevant. For the record, I do not own XP. I was a former FSX owner until I switched to P3D and have never looked back or regretted it.
Dennis King Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:08:32 GMT
As a retired airline pilot also RAF pilot with a lifetime of experience also having held a PPL I/R I thought that the last Microsoft FSX was the simplest cheap and very effective sim that I have used until its departure some years ago. Thanks, Dennis.
Ian Kemp Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:25:39 GMT
I HAVE p3dv4 which is a kind of suped-up FSX, also Xplane 11 / 30. There is no doubt that the X plane has better flight dynamics and generally is more accurate. However, it is very complicated to set up. Trying to for example set up aircraft using Saitek control systems rudder x52 proflight yoke is very complicated. One has to configure each aircraft separately. This can be very time consuming and frustrating as Xplane 30 does not always work with for example X52 throttle. so one has to try with another system such as Thrust master. Then one has to look at sensitivities each time; this is unnecessary. Xplane needs to make this much simpler and user-friendly. WITH P3D /3/4 you just go in and start and everything works. You can of cause program different buttons But it is so much more user-friendly and simple and it works for all aircraft
Robert K Foreman Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:35:26 GMT
Dear Sir GDay I have FSX with every scenery program from Orbx Australia and they are fantastic. Their scenery for Australia and airports for Australia are perfect and a further total upgrade is been developed. As regard to aircraft in FSx the jet aircraft do not appear to have the best cockpit layout but for those like USA myself who prefer to fly piston single or twin piston aircraft are excellent I myself a Dcc3 from MAAM in the USA which is fantastic and all the single-engine aircraft that I have purchased are also excellent, I submitted this reply twice by mistake Bob
Looking at the videos on the latest sim it looks a bit too complicated for an old Aussie like me. Would be able to advise if sim P3Dv is part of FSX / which I Kindest regards Bob am keen to purchase is a separate program from FSX because sometimes you see it listed as FSX/P3Dv. Kindest regards Bob
Paul L Steele Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:39:53 GMT
PropwashM Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:55:38 GMT
I have both Sims and agree with the comparisons made re realism.
However, be it because of advanced age or lengthy familiarity with FSX, I find X-Plane very complicated and the controls are so different as to be a daunting disincentive. Also, what is with the screeching tires when taxying?
The biggest shortcoming with FS X is the 4 GB max memory characteristic in the game, (regardless of your computer’s available memory). Steve’s FSX fixer program helps, but it is a band aid really.
The best for me would be an upgraded FSX SE, but I don’t think that will happen.
ROBERTO GARCIA ALONSO Wed, 10 Apr 2019 17:57:07 GMT
I think X-Plane has not reached the addons quality for skies and clouds, water and seasons FSX have got. In fast all other matters, I find X-Plane superior. And In X-Plane there is no need of installing programs and addons; only copy them to the computer. For me, it was a lot easier programming flights in FSX, even if less realistic.
George Eastwood Wed, 10 Apr 2019 18:19:09 GMT
I started out using FSX years ago with my three monitor system. FSX is a good program but I now definitely prefer X Plane 11 as it provides a much more realistic flying experience and a much better and easier to use visual cockpit experience for the virtual pilot using three (or more) monitors. I recommend any new virtual pilot go with X plane 11.
Agent Orange Thu, 11 Apr 2019 00:33:06 GMT
Brian Finch Thu, 11 Apr 2019 07:43:20 GMT
I’ve used FS since it came on 5.25 floppy discs and vector graphics. I’m a UK based PPL and enjoy flying VFR around the UK, admittedly using Scenery and airfield add-ons. This is a very important plus in favor of FSX as XP is mainly US based. I run a fairly normal i7 PC with a 2GB graphic card and the frame rates are very good.
Jean Claude POIREL Thu, 11 Apr 2019 07:55:29 GMT
Hello, I use FSX Steam Edition and P3D. A very big definition with P3D and the possibility to transfer scenes and planes from FSX cordially
Uwe Scholz Thu, 11 Apr 2019 08:44:27 GMT
Awesome. Best article I’ve ever read about flight sims for PCs. Thank you
Lawrence Bird Thu, 11 Apr 2019 10:26:53 GMT
John Carelli Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:28:49 GMT
I Have both FSX and X Plane 10 and 11 installed on my computer and after many hours of virtual flying mainly VFR, I can state that from a technical viewpoint both in scenery and aircraft handling X plane 11 is way out in front. However FSX leaves X P 11 standing with regards to the ATC. If Laminar got their act together and made their ATC more comprehensive akin to microsoft’s then for my money X P 11 wold be streets ahead.
Mark Healy Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:24:48 GMT
Spent most of the last 10 years flying FSX but recently switched to P3d which I am very impressed with and feels like a big improvement for me! Have not flown XPlane but I’m told it’s superb to fly and I have many colleagues in my Flight Sim Group who have made the switch. Must say Xplane looks truly awesome with high-end scenery add ons and all the bells and whistles. I guess it boils down to what you want from a sim. also changing systems can be complicated and costly depending on hardware compatibility. I’m never going to be a good enough pilot to fully appreciate the finest points of a truly realistic and immersive flight sim anyway 🙂
David Freed Fri, 12 Apr 2019 00:07:39 GMT
I have used both FSX Steam Edition and X-Plane 10. X-Plane 10 is difficult to use and set up, so I have instead moved over to FSX. It works and meets the need to stay current in my real-world flying ability without all the machinations required of X-Plane 10. Biggest issue with FSX is that much of the airport data and radio frequency information is far out of date and no one (software developers) are doing anything to bring it up to date. Some runways are also incorrectly numbered (out of date numbers).
Given the bad experiences with X-Plane 10, I am reluctant to invest in that line of software for X-Plane 11. Too expensive, and I don’t know what I am getting. At our flight school, we have X-Plane 11, and it is still problematic, so most of the students are using the simulator with FSX Steam Edition, since it works. (We have both FSX Steam and X-Plane).
Thus far, it has proved impossible to download any of the «free» Flyaway simulation software that is offered each week, so I have given up on that idea, and instead, purchase what I need from fspilotshop.com both as an instant download and with a back up CD. I do NOT purchase any software download from Steam, as they appear to run a racket with no refunds, very limited choices of software, and my experience with their software is that a lot of it does not work (won’t install in Steam).
GJMichels Mon, 15 Apr 2019 12:07:28 GMT
I agree with a number of similar comments. The right comparison would be P3D and X-Plane. Comparing a «dead» simulator to a «living» simulator is similar to comparing today’s Excel to Lotus 1 2 3. 64-bit programs should be compared rather than a 64-bit to a 32-bit program. Since most if not all FSX add-ons can be used in P3D, the comparison would be much more valid, and helpful.
Andre Noreiga Wed, 17 Apr 2019 05:34:03 GMT
I will stick with Fsx steam as I’ve been running that for a long while with a few freeware addons. X-plane 11 is worth a try but I rather fsx more and maybe sometime upgrade to P3D when I’m ready
Keith South Thu, 18 Apr 2019 10:04:54 GMT
F Delpierre Mon, 22 Apr 2019 10:45:04 GMT
Just to add few points point for XP11: It runs on all PCs, regardless if they’re running Windows or Linux. Not having to reboot his PC into Windows is a major advantage if you’re running Linux. XP11 is also promising for VR on Linux, and is also available through steam / steamVR.
XP10 runs on android with more basic options but impressive graphics. (Tested on OnePlus 5 & 6T).
Some 3rd party applications to use on Android when running XP on PC (so not XP on Android), such as PFD or XplaneCDU that uses local network/wifi to connect to the PC XP11.
Lou Dingjan Sat, 06 Jul 2019 11:44:03 GMT
FSX is my preference.
I also own X-Plane11, but every aircraft you have to purchase, while aircraft in FSX you can obtain for FREE at Fly Away Simulation.
Flyaway is a GREAT site to use for anything related to FSX. I love FSX!
Owen Kinnan Tue, 06 Aug 2019 04:10:21 GMT
One of the key factors that separate P3Dv4 and XP11 from FSX is the VAS limitation and the resulting OOM error that so often plagues users of FSX.
The difference is the 32-bit FSX vs the 64-bit P3Dv4 and XP11. And, it really isn’t a fair comparison.
The 64-bit platform is superior in every way to the older 32-bit FSX. For that reason, I am changing to P3Dv4 due to the fact that many addons for FSX are also compatible with P3Dv4.
No more VAS issues and no more OOM crashes.
Christiaan Hoek Mon, 19 Aug 2019 07:23:23 GMT
Used to be an FSX virtual pilot. I fly on VATSim. Looked at both P3D and X-Plane. Got X-Plane. The jump was amazing. Can’t believe I was content with flying on rails all those years.
As for the airport and scenery mainly centered in the US, that is BS. I fly mainly in Southern Africa and even the smallest of airfields are available in the default program.
The airplane and airport scenery addons are on par with FSX/P3D. If you don’t want to take my word for it, watch flightdeck2sim, a real-world 737 pilot on YouTube. He also made the switch to X-Plane and often compares it to the PMDG addon on FSX.
I understand that it’s tough to leave all your expensive FSX addons behind, but at some point it becomes inevitable.
That being said, I’m very interested to see what Microsoft will offer next year. But, until such time as something raises the bar another notch or three, I’ll keep on enjoying what X-Plane has to offer.
Michael S. Sun, 22 Sep 2019 13:34:46 GMT
For the money, X-Plane 11 gets my vote, but it requires more robust hardware to achieve the true realism of flight.
Seems like there has always been a race between hardware and software to keep up and from my experience, the software seems to always jump ahead of hardware, meaning, when you buy a new simulator, you’ll most likely need a more robust computer.
I bought the first version of FSX when it came out in 2006 and it killed my Windows XP computer (stop laughing) with the very slow frame rates so I stayed with FS 2004 until I was able to purchase a new computer in late 2012 built with Windows 7 Ultimate, the 64-bit architecture, the i7 2600 8-core processor, 32 GB of DDR3 RAM, and FSX worked perfectly well, even though it is a 32-bit simulator.
I purchased X-Plane 11, Rev 36 not too long ago and I installed it on the same computer that I bought in late 2012, it now has a newer Western Digital 500 GB SSD, Windows 10 Pro (fresh install), and a 6 GB NVidia graphics card. The frame rates on it are okay, around 20 to 40 on the average, with the settings on for the most part on high to maximum. If it had not been for the SSD I would probably be getting less than 20 FPS and it would not be very pleasant because it would stutter continuously even with less dense scenery textures.
This is an instance where hardware upgrades are now required to keep up with the more demanding X-Plane 11 and most likely the new flight simulator Microsoft is planning on introducing in 2020.
Bill MacKinnon Thu, 02 Jan 2020 00:24:37 GMT
I have been using Microsoft Simulator X (gold edition) for the last few years. Guess it ran out from too much play. For the last 3 or 4 months, it has been a debate on FSX or X-plane 11. They say that X-plane comes with only the scenery around LAX and a small amount of aircraft. I am from Nova Scotia so that is no use to me. By the time you buy scenery and aircraft, it’s into the thousands. From what I hear to install X-plane or download add-ons is no fun. So, for now, I will stick with FSX until I get more information on X-plane.
Andres Giraldo Sat, 11 Apr 2020 20:09:48 GMT
How can you compare a super old-fashioned and unsupported SIM like FSX with X-plane 11 and P3D? What a horror. The normal thing is to compare the P3D the successor by nature of FSX since most FSX Addons work on the P3D. The correct comparison would be between the X-plane 11 and the P3D.
keb heterwik Sat, 20 Jun 2020 13:27:56 GMT
If you want a game then FSX, if you want to fly a plane then X-plane. Flying a real plane is not easy and never will be.
Darkskythe Sun, 01 Aug 2021 15:03:08 GMT
X plane is ok, just doesn’t have the little things like reasonable ATC (without using VATSIM), and ground services (like GSX). It’s the little things like that I enjoy, I don’t care to a degree about realism, since I will never fly a plane so have no idea how people can say it is ‘has more realistic flight handling’.
If it was a driving sim then yes, I understand how some games have more realistic handling than others (such as rfactor compared to Forza), since I drive a car.
One of the biggest off-putting things for me is the X-Plane community are nowhere near as friendly as the FSX/P3D communities, maybe it’s because a lot of older people use FSX and the younger generation use x-plane, but they are come across as more hostile with their ‘x-plane is the best, that’s MY opinion and I don’t care what you say’ attitude as if they are trying to convince themselves as well as you it is the best.
It’s the same when you go to flight sim conventions, the x-plane lot comes across as less friendly and approachable, insult you when you say you use any sim that is not x-plane. Ask a question about something on the x-plane forums and you get derogatory comments, ask a question on the FSX/P3D forums, you get a friendly helpful response.
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