GoKawiilThrustmaster's AVA Base and Airbus Grip Combo Reviewed by Tom's Hardware
Tom's Hardware tested Thrustmaster's new Airbus Add-On Grip paired with the AVA Joystick Base using the Fenix A320 in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. The reviewer found the setup highly capable overall but noted noticeable wobble in the default configuration that only dampers can resolve, alongside a steep price that may deter casual buyers.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Thrustmaster's AVA base represents an upgrade path for flight sim enthusiasts previously reliant on the older HOTAS Warthog, and the new Airbus grip finally gives Airbus-focused simmers a dedicated option. However, the wobble issue and premium pricing highlight the tradeoffs still present in high-end simulation hardware, where build quality improvements often come with added cost or minor design compromises.
- The AVA Base plus Airbus Add-On Grip was tested with the Fenix A320 in MSFS 2024.
- Default configuration suffers from wobble that requires additional dampers to correct.
- High price point may limit accessibility despite strong overall performance.
Thrustmaster AVA Joystick Base with Airbus Add-On Grip — This is the exact setup the review covers: Thrustmaster's AVA base paired with the Airbus-style side-stick grip for a proper airliner feel in Microsoft Flight Simulator or X-Plane. The base's swappable grip system means you can move between Airbus and military-style grips as your home cockpit grows, and its build quality follows in the footsteps of the legendary Warthog.
See Thrustmaster AVA Joystick Base with Airbus Add-On Grip on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Dan Mateescu, 2026-09-13
Published there as: “Thrustmaster Airbus Add-On Grip with AVA Joystick Base Review: A First-Class Flight Experience”
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