What is it?
The MA3X is an Airbus inspired side stick providing an airline experience to the AB9 MOZA Base. Built from composite and ABS materials, the MA3X has the traditional buttons found on the real airbus stick with added HAT switch and 3 position side switch providing extra functionality to the simulation.
Box Contents
- MOZA MA3X Sidestick
- Tool Bag containing 1 Hex key
- User Manual
Key Features
- Airline inspired First Officer side (Right Side/Right-Handed) stick
- Additional functionality through added buttons
- Broad compatibility with MOZA and other third-party bases that use 5-pin connector
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Unboxing
Unboxing the product is similar to other MOZA flight simulator products. The box is well-designed, featuring images and key details clearly displayed on the outside. Inside, you’ll find quality foam packaging that securely holds the flight stick, which is further protected by a plastic pouch.
The joystick grip itself is nestled within a dense, custom-cut foam insert, ensuring maximum protection during transit and the Flight stick is wrapped in protective plastic to prevent marks or scratches.
The Z-Axis module is a similar affair being well packaged in the same way and given the technical knowledge on its usage rather simple, the manual makes its way to the rear side of then product box on its installation and usage.
Right away, I noticed a significant difference in both the materials and the weight of this stick compared to MOZA’s MH16 flight stick. If you’re transitioning from the MH16, you’ll find that the change in materials gives the stick a noticeably different feel—it lacks the cool-to-the-touch sensation of the MH16. Additionally, this stick is considerably lighter, weighing just 220 grams, which is a stark contrast to the much heavier MH16. These differences might stand out immediately, especially for those accustomed to the premium heft and texture of the aluminum alloy used in the MH16.
Construction and Materials
The MOZA MA3X flight stick is constructed from “ultra-rigid” composite materials, designed for strength and durability. Digging deeper it appears the surface is treated with a multi-layer spray and UV coating, which looks to not only enhance protection but also replicates the resin materials used in real aircraft.
The stick uses ALPS switches, known for their precision, durability, and consistent performance over extended periods of time, which should be a great choice for long-term use. While I noticed a minor amount of sloppiness in some of the switches, it was nothing significant or concerning. The trigger, however, stood out—it exhibited no sideways looseness and featured a strong spring mechanism, delivering a smooth solid pull-through to activation.
Setup and Configuration
The setup process for this stick, like others in this range, is simple and straightforward. Start by turning off the device and removing the previous stick. Next, align the plug inside the new stick, insert it, and secure the stick to the base using the provided ring. Finally, use the included hex key to tighten the small lock nut inside, ensuring everything is firmly in place.
Like the MH16 stick I appreciate the little bit of length you have in the data cable within the stick itself. It’s just enough to comfortably grab it with two fingers to properly align the arrows and insert it before then bringing the stick down over the top and securing to the base with the metal ring. In other sticks I’ve tested that have a similar connection it’s been the case of going the garage to grab a pair of pointy-nose players to ensure I can grip the connector, but not with this stick!
MOZA recommends performing the Cogging Torque Calibration whenever a new joystick is installed. This calibration is designed to optimize the joystick’s performance by identifying and correcting irregularities in movement and motor response. The goal is to provide smoother, more accurate feedback for an improved overall experience. The process is simple: select the MA3X stick under the “Grip Type” section in the MOZA software, then click “Start Calibration” to begin and watch the stick get a mind of its own and start moving.
This page also includes a configuration option for the HAT switch mode, which lets you customise how the HAT switch on the right side of the stick functions. You have two choices:
- Button Mode: This mode provides 5 inputs—left, right, up, down, and a push-in button.
- D-Pad Mode: This mode enables an 8-directional input, similar to a compass, allowing for North, Northeast, East, Southeast, South, Southwest, West, and Northwest.
This flexibility is a convenient feature, letting you tailor the HAT switch setup to match your flying style or your aircraft.
The MOZA software comes with an Airbus A320 profile which includes a variety of aircraft effects enabled by default from flap, gear, speed break effects to jet aircraft rumble. I found I disabled most of these except for the Jet Engine rumble and speedbrake buffet. I also made some changes to increase the spring, axis travel and force to get close to the real aircraft.
Default profile with some changes to bridge the gap between reality and the MA3X
How does it feel?
It would be remiss of me to not mention that while I am a fan of the stick, I do miss my left-handed Captain’s stick. Going back to the right side of the plane just doesn’t feel right anymore. Having done a lot of flying with my left hand, it was a nice change to mix it up and go back to the right. However, I look forward to the day MOZA releases a left-hand stick or a 3rd party option becomes available.
With my rant over about which hand I use, I found the concerns I had about the sticks weight we’re null and void once it’s mounted to the base. The MOZA AB9 base does a great job of transferring those minor vibrations and bumps through the sidestick. While I put down a lot of my enjoyment to the MOZA AB9 base, the MA3X does a great job of replicating the First Officer’s flight stick. I found that the extra buttons both on the HAT switch with its push button and 3 position side switch were very handy with items such as checklists and using tools such as FS2Crew for cycling through different commands.
As someone who values realism and strives to replicate the feel of the real machine as closely as possible, I found that some of the added effects—like flap motion or gear buffet—didn’t fully resonate with me. However, I can see how these features would enhance the simulator experience for many users. Once a left-hand version of this stick becomes available, I plan to move this AB9 base and flight stick from my desk to my motion cockpit, which already benefits from the impressive Sigma Integrale DJ2+ motion system that handles most of those effects for me.
Where this setup truly shines is in how closely it replicates the feel of an Airbus stick when paired with the MOZA AB9 base. For me, that’s where it delivers a truly immersive and authentic experience.
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Conclusion
The MOZA MA3X flight stick is an excellent choice for those seeking to replicate the feel of an Airbus cockpit. Its lightweight construction, authentic design, and added functionality make it a versatile addition to any flight simulation setup. While the gloss finish and lighter materials may initially feel less premium compared to other sticks, such as the MH16, the MA3X excels in providing a realistic experience, especially when paired with the MOZA AB9 base.
The setup is easy, the customisation options for the HAT switch and added buttons are well thought out, and with MOZA’s software allows for fine-tuning to match personal preferences or the specific needs of different aircraft. The stick performs well in delivering smooth feedback and a close-to-life experience, particularly for those who value the immersive sensation of flying as a First Officer with their right hand.
Though true to life left-handed users may need to wait for a Captain’s stick option, the MA3X, combined with MOZA’s ecosystem, offers an impressive simulation tool that balances realism with great features. Whether you’re a casual flyer or a realism enthusiast, the MA3X flight stick is a well-priced investment for elevating your simulator experience.
Solid right hand performer – 9/10
Pros
- With an accompanying profile set correctly, closest thing I’ve ever felt to a real Airbus stick.
- The well placed 3 position side rocker switch and 5 position hat switch provide great extra functionality to what would be quite a limited stick for buttons if designed true to life.
Cons
- Righthand stick only (First officer) they need to do a matching Lefthand stick for those who fly true to form and like to sit in the left seat.
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Please consider using the links on this page to make your purchase.
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