Aircraft flight simulators have been around for decades, providing pilots with an immersive and realistic experience of flying an aircraft. But with the advent of modern computers and software, these simulators have become even more realistic and detailed. This article will review the top 8 aircraft flight simulators on the market, exploring each one’s features, key differentiators, and pricing. We will then compare them to help you find the best simulator for your needs.

1. X-Plane 11 – $59.99
Key Differentiators: Realistic weather and terrain; Global scenery library; Flight model based on real-world data
Key Features: 3D cockpit; Realistic flight physics; Realistic aircraft systems; Ability to create custom aircraft

2. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 – $59.99
Key Differentiators: Real-world satellite imagery; 4K graphics; Impressive weather effects
Key Features: More than 30 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Ability to create custom flight plans

3. Aerofly FS 2 – $49.99
Key Differentiators: Detailed 3D graphics; Realistic flight physics; Ability to create custom aircraft
Key Features: More than 200 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Realistic weather and terrain

4. Prepar3D – $199.00
Key Differentiators: High-end graphics; Realistic flight physics; Ability to create custom aircraft
Key Features: More than 30 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Ability to create custom flight plans

5. DCS World – $49.99
Key Differentiators: Highly detailed aircraft; Realistic flight physics; Ability to create custom missions
Key Features: More than 30 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Realistic weather and terrain

6. FlightGear – Free
Key Differentiators: Open source; Comprehensive scenery library; Ability to create custom aircraft
Key Features: More than 400 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Realistic weather and terrain

7. FlyInside FSX – $49.99
Key Differentiators: Oculus Rift and HTC Vive support; Realistic flight physics; Ability to create custom aircraft
Key Features: More than 30 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Realistic weather and terrain

8. Digital Combat Simulator – $49.99
Key Differentiators: Highly detailed aircraft; Realistic flight physics; Ability to create custom missions
Key Features: More than 30 aircraft; Realistic airports; Detailed instrument panels; Realistic weather and terrain

When comparing these 8 aircraft flight simulators, there are a few key factors to consider. Price is always a factor, but it should not be the only one. The key differentiators and features of each simulator should also be taken into account. For example, X-Plane 11 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 both provide realistic weather and terrain, but X-Plane 11 has a global scenery library and a flight model based on real-world data. Similarly, Aerofly FS 2 and Prepar3D both offer realistic flight physics, but Prepar3D has higher-end graphics.

In conclusion, the best aircraft flight simulator for you will depend on your needs and budget. X-Plane 11 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 are both great choices for those looking for an immersive and realistic experience. For those looking for more detailed aircraft and missions, DCS World and Digital Combat Simulator are the ones to look at. And for those on a budget, FlightGear is a great option as it’s free. No matter which simulator you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.