Gladiator Controllers
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SaleThe Gladiator EVO is the affordable entry-level series of our modular VKB flight control system.
Featuring technology usually only found in high-end controllers, EVO controllers come with a variety of grips and optionally as right or left handed.
The Gladiator EVO base - the heart of your controller
New STM Arm 32-bit Cortex-M4 CPU with FPU:
Double the frequency of older chips affords a lot more computation capacity and better handling of trigonometrical algorithms due to on-board mathematical hardware accelerators.
This greatly increases the potential expansibility for future gaming applications.New high-precision gimbal:
Made of glass fiber enforced plastic.
With ball bearings...yes, ball bearings on a budget joystick!
Adjustable dry clutches for user-tunable load. What?? - Yes, adjustable dry clutches on a budget joystick. Welcome to the world of high-end budget game controllers!
Y axis boasts a double clutch for extra stamina when working with the omni-throttle.
X axis can be blocked now. This together with the omni-throttle adapter will effectively turn your joystick into a fully functional throttle. (and into a collective, for the lovers of helicopters).Extensive compatibility:
Needless to say - everything is compatible and retrocompatible across the whole GNX lineup. SCG, KG12 and F-14 grips can be swapped on one common base.
SEM, THQ, FSM modules are 100% compatible and switchable between original GNX and EVO.
Gladiator vs Gunfighter comparison
Please click here to see a comparison between the Gladiator and the Gunfighter.
Grip comparison
Features SCG Premium SCG Standard F-14 WWII KG12 Ideal for Flight & Space sim - all types Flight & Space sim - all types Flight sim - modern fighter jets Flight sim - Warbirds Omni Throttle option Yes Yes No No Description / Technology 32-bit ARM Controllers inside base and grip
ALPS buttons (Japan OEM) for extended longevity
Contactless MaRS sensors with High Resolution
Plug & Play with Driver-Free Installation
Firmware Upgrade via USB
Onboard Memory for Storing Profiles
Optional Programming Software for advanced UsersSame as SCG Premium F-14 replica grip
Metal ammo switch, hat, and emergency-autopilot-disable-trigger
Long travel, soft-click buttons
Modular hat design (fully dismantlable, all buttons user replaceable)
Ammo switch design based on contactless sensor
Spring-loaded, self-centreing DLC (Direct Lift Control) manoeuvre wheel design based on contactless sensor
Two-step trigger design based on cam mechanism – similar to that used in real life war planes
32-bit ARM controller as the brain of the grip32-bit ARM Controllers inside base and grip
ALPS buttons (Japan OEM) for extended longevity
Contactless MaRS sensors with High Resolution
Plug & Play with Driver-Free Installation (Recommended for Most Users)
Firmware Upgrade via USB
Onboard Memory for Storing Profiles
Optional Programming Software available for advanced UsersButtons and switches 1 Dual Action Trigger
1 Rapid Fire Trigger
3 Hat switches with centre push (4-way)
3 buttons
1 analog mini stick with center push (8-way)
Programmable red colour LED
Programmable RGB LED
Extra button module for C1 position
Extra hat switch module for A1 position
Trigger cover
Lockable Twist z-axisSame as SCG Premium excluding:
1 Rapid Fire Trigger
1 analog mini stick with center push (8-way)1 Twist z-axis (lockable)
1 DLC (Direct Lift Control) axis
1 Hat Switch with push
1 Dual-stage trigger
1 Four-stage ammo selector with safety lock and push
4 Programmable buttons1 Folding trigger (metal)
1 Pinky lever (metal)
1 Bomb release button
1 8-way HAT switch
1 Side buttonMaterial Grip: Industrial-grade ABS
Base plate: SteelSame as SCG Premium
Same as SCG Premium
Same as SCG Premium Comfort 2 interchangeable palm rests (total 3 palm-size adjustments) Same as SCG Premium Rubber inserts for a no slip firm and handy grip with handrest No slip grip with handrest Mounting options Table-top with heavy duty metal base plate
UCM Desk mount - height adjustable (UCM-S GL)
Same as SCG Premium Same as SCG Premium Same as SCG Premium What is so special about VKB flight controllers?
VKB is the world's premier manufacturer of flight & space sim controllers for any type of virtual aircraft and spacecraft.
Our controllers are of the highest quality, extremely versatile and many simmers use them for flight & space sim games and multiple sub-genres like general aviation, military combat flight as well as space combat and exploration.
Thanks to their superior engineering, full modularity and high-level customisation, VKB controllers provide an industry-leading immersive and realistic flying experience with high precision controls.
Take to the skies with ultimate control!
Technical specifications Gladiator EVO base
- 2 Contactless MaRS sensors on X and Y axes
- 1 Auto-centreing 3-position switch
- 1 Throttle wheel
- 1 Rotary encoder
- 3 buttons
- Gimbal with ball bearings
- Adjustable dry clutches for user-tunable load
- 2 Programmable single-color LEDs
- Tabletop base steel plate
- Operating manual
- Set of soft springs
- Set of strong springs
- Spring extractor tool
- Set of screws
- Screwdriver
- USB cable (180cm/70inch)
- Cable holder tool
I am new to flight & space simulation. Which controllers should I choose?
In very simple terms you should choose a flight stick, a throttle and ideally rudder pedals.
1. Joystick
You have the option between the Gladiator EVO series and the premium Gunfighter Mk.IV series.
The Gladiator EVO is a fantastic mid-priced controller with high-tech features. It comes with multiple grip options.
You can adjust the gimbal to adjust the stick movement extension exactly how you like it.
You won’t find a better controller in this price range.
The Gladiator EVO is by far the most popular joystick!For general aviation, military aircraft and space sim purposes we recommend the ‘Space Combat Grip’ SCG grip unless you specifically want to fly the F-14 or WWI/II warbirds only in which case you could opt for the F-14 grip or the WWII Combat Edition KG12 grip.
The Gunfighter Mk.IV series was released in 2023 and boasts the ultimate in joystick technology.
You get the full gimbal adjustability with ultra-precise movements.
And you can add stick extensions if you want to strive for the very best stick precision.We recommend the MCG grip as it is the most versatile and perfect for all types of aircraft.
The MCG Ultimate – an all-metal grip that is clearly the king of joysticks in the market.You can’t go wrong with any of the suggested options and it may well come down to how much you like to spend.
Throttle
Please see the Throttle page for further information.
Rudder pedals
Please see the Rudder pedals page for further information.
Desk mounts
For the optimum ergonomic setup please see the UCM Desk mounts page for further information.
Are stick extensions available for the Gladiator?
No, stick extensions are only available with the Gunfighter controllers.
Installation and setup video
Please click here to watch on the VKB YouTube channel.
Which games can be played with VKB controllers?
VKB controllers work with most PC sim and other games, including all popular flight & space sim games such as Microsoft Flight Simulator, DCS, X-Plane, IL-2 Sturmovik, War Thunder, Star Citizen, Elite Dangerous etc..
VKB controllers may even be used for games such as Farm Simulator, Train Simulator, Battlefield, etc..Can VKB controllers be mixed and matched? Are there any limitations?
Yes, you can choose any combination of VKB controllers / hardware.
Want a Gladiator flight stick with a STECS throttle? No problem.
Upgrade later to the Gunfighter and keep your Gladiator grip? Sure, with a low-cost adapter that's no issue.
Playing flight and space sims but want to only use one Gladiator or Gunfighter base? Yes, all that can be done!When it comes to hardware, VKB has carefully considered the compatibility of all components for current and future modularity.
This is the VKB Universe where you build your own personalised cockpit!
What platforms are VKB controllers compatible with?
VKB controllers are compatible with Windows PCs.
They are not compatible with Xbox, PS5, Apple or any other platforms.What setup do you recommend for gliders?
The best option is a Gunfighter stick with 200mm extension mounted on a UCM desk mount, plus T-Rudder pedals.
The Gunfighter base allows to tweak the dampeners and spring tensions exactly at the resistance that most closely resembles the real-life situation.
The Gunfighter platform is extremely sturdy and perfect for the most-immersive flight sim experience.
The Gunfighter stick extension augments the Gunfighter’s already unparalleled precision.
A stick extension is preferred by our sim customers who are seeking the best
possible control precision.The UCM mount provides an ergonomic and height adjustable setup, ideal for your setup that suits many different pilots.
The T-Rudder is an all-metal low-profile rudder pedals that is durable and extremely sturdy.
The pedal tension can be adjusted to your needs.This is a fantastic sim cockpit configuration and will last for many years to come.
Let customers speak for us
from 1248 reviews
It's such a massive step up from my x56It's such a massive step up from my x56, so smooth and not a single bit of deadzone needed. Well worth the money if you're very into your space/flight sims
Fast Shipping, Great Packaging.The STECS and Gunfighter arrived very quickly to the Brisbane metro area. Both products were packaged excellently.
Really GreatShipped quickly to Brisbane Metro area. Excellent packaging for protection.
Setting up the detents was much easier than expected, and the accompanying software made it very easy to set up. My usage was for DCS F18 engine off/idle, and a separate area for degrees of afterburner so the AB wasn't simply binary. More than enough buttons and axis for F18, although I might get a separate panel for gear/flap just because.
All axis are smooth, TDC mini stick is precise. Button clicks are satisfying.
I am a little intrigued at having a guarded button for ARMED, and another for SAFE, but that might just be an East/West design language difference.
Works well paired with my Gunfighter.
I was worried I might regret the purchase given the price, but no. 10/10 Would buy again.
Great build Quality, Easy setup.Shipping/Packaging: Extremely fast to Brisbane Metro. Excellently packed for protection.
Build: High Quality, no molding tags or other imperfections. Solid feel. Internals feel bomb proof.
Usage: Cam, spring and damper setup was much easier than anticipated. The VKB youtube channel tutorials take you through the process painlessly. The allen key required for the cams seemed to be in between sizes for me, but that could just be my tool set.
Setting up the controls in the VKB software looked intimidating due to the wealth of customization options available, however again the VKB youtube tutorials made it easy.
Works great in DCS and FS2024.
I’ve been flight simming for at least a couple of decades and the VKB-THQ is without a doubt the best and most reliable and most affordable throttle quadrant on the market today. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and it is just as smooth as the day I unboxed it.
Product arrived well on time and works perfectlyProduct arrived well on time and works perfectly, really fun to play and use.
Game-Changer for My Gladiator EVOThe UCM-S for the Gladiator EVO has completely improved my setup. The desk space is cleaner, the ergonomics are better, and the joystick feels even more precise with the solid mounting. It’s very well built and easy to adjust. If you’re running a Gladiator, this mount is absolutely worth it.
Rock Solid Mount for My STECS Setup!The UCM-S mount for the STECS Standard is rock solid and makes a huge difference to comfort and immersion. It positions the throttle perfectly and feels extremely sturdy with zero flex. Installation was straightforward, and the quality matches the high standard I’ve come to expect from VKB. A must-have if you want to get the most out of your STECS.
STECS Throttle? Yes Throttle!Over the years I have used many throttles attached to HOTAS and they all have had their problems. Then one day I upgraded to the STECS MAX and literally every issue I had with other throttles in the past was not there. This thing feels good in the hand, everything is within reach and most importantly it looks good too. No regrets, would definitely buy again
The upgrade I should have made years ago.I have used allot of HOTAS setups over the hears with a great many sticks. But the moment i used the Gunfighter was almost like the first time i used a stick, it felt amazing in my hands, it moved well. It is well made with good materials....And then there is the accuracy, or should I say SENSITIVITY. This thing is sensitive and allows me to make very fine movements when necessary. I am super happy with this stick and if I had to buy it again I would in a heart beat. I RECOMEND THIS PRODUCT! Try it and your flight experience will change immediately.
A Super solid, and well priced prouduct!Overall this is a fantastic throttle and i can see exactly why so many people say great things about VKB products, The build quality is stout without being overly heavy and all the buttons and particularly the joy axis buttons feel superb and very responsive and tactile, there is also a great deal of customization that can be done, however it appears that if you get a STECS Mini or Mini Plus, you don't get all the available switches, those need to purchased separately, you do get a choice of a 4 way hat or a joy axis both with push function. I couldn't be happier with my purchase and no doubt will be (and already have) be purchasing more VKB products in the future!
Yes.By far the best throttle for any space sim.
happy with my purchaseafter a few weeks of research on various joysticks I purchased the Gladiator Evo and was very happy with the purchase, the stick is good quality and has plenty of buttons to map, now it's time to save more $ to get the omni throttle or the stecs throttle.
These accessories are absurdly well madeThese accessories are absurdly well made. The UCM phone holder grips my phone with the confidence of a G-suit at 9 Gs—no wobble, no slip, just rock-solid stability. My phone now sits perfectly in my peripheral vision, faithfully displaying checklists, Discord, or evidence of my last terrible decision.
The UCM keyboard holder? A masterpiece of false hope. It positions my keyboard exactly where a real fighter jet wouldn’t have one, but somehow still feels incredibly legit. It’s sturdy, adjustable, and makes my desk setup look so serious that visitors assume I know what I’m doing.
Sadly, none of this has made me a better pilot. I still fat-finger the wrong key, open the wrong menu, and occasionally pause the game instead of firing a missile. The hardware is flawless; the human interface device remains the weakest link.
In conclusion: if you want your sim pit to look professional, feel indestructible, and eliminate all remaining excuses except “pilot error,” the VKB UCM phone and keyboard holders are outstanding. You may not fly better—but you’ll definitely look like someone who should.
These accessories are absurdly well madeThese accessories are absurdly well made. The UCM phone holder grips my phone with the confidence of a G-suit at 9 Gs—no wobble, no slip, just rock-solid stability. My phone now sits perfectly in my peripheral vision, faithfully displaying checklists, Discord, or evidence of my last terrible decision.
The UCM keyboard holder? A masterpiece of false hope. It positions my keyboard exactly where a real fighter jet wouldn’t have one, but somehow still feels incredibly legit. It’s sturdy, adjustable, and makes my desk setup look so serious that visitors assume I know what I’m doing.
Sadly, none of this has made me a better pilot. I still fat-finger the wrong key, open the wrong menu, and occasionally pause the game instead of firing a missile. The hardware is flawless; the human interface device remains the weakest link.
In conclusion: if you want your sim pit to look professional, feel indestructible, and eliminate all remaining excuses except “pilot error,” the VKB UCM phone and keyboard holders are outstanding. You may not fly better—but you’ll definitely look like someone who should.
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