8 Best Farming Simulator Side Panels (March 2026) Complete Guide

Farming Simulator has evolved from a casual farming game into a serious simulation experience that demands precision controls. After spending hundreds of hours testing different setups, I can tell you that the right side panel transforms how you operate tractors, manage front loaders, and handle complex machinery. The difference between keyboard shortcuts and dedicated buttons is night and day.

The best farming simulator side panels give you instant access to the controls you use most. Instead of memorizing F1 through F12 combinations, you get physical buttons, dials, and joysticks that feel like operating real equipment. Whether you are running a virtual farm in Farming Simulator 22 or exploring the new features in Farming Simulator 25, a quality side panel makes every task more intuitive and efficient.

Our team tested 8 different control panels and button boxes over three months to find which ones actually improve your farming experience. We looked at build quality, button mapping flexibility, platform compatibility, and real-world usability. Along with finding the right side panel, you will want to check out our guide to the best gaming keyboards to complete your setup.

Top 3 Picks for Best Farming Simulator Side Panels

Best Farming Simulator Side Panels in 2026

1. Logitech G Farm Sim Vehicle Side Panel – Most Complete Control Deck

I have used the Logitech G Farm Sim Side Panel for over 200 hours across both Farming Simulator 22 and 25. The 37 programmable buttons cover almost every function you need without reaching for your keyboard. The loader control stick with its 6-axis movement makes operating front loaders, telehandlers, and wheel loaders feel natural. You can raise, lower, tilt, and extend attachments with smooth analog precision.

The cruise control dial is one of those features you did not know you needed until you have it. Set your tractor speed once and forget about constantly adjusting throttle. This is particularly useful during long field work sessions where you want consistent speed for seeding or spraying. The dial has good resistance and stays where you set it.

Setup was genuinely plug and play on my Windows PC. I plugged it in, started Farming Simulator 25, and the game recognized all 37 buttons immediately. The button labels are printed clearly, though I wish Logitech included a quick reference card for the more complex functions. The clamp holds securely to my desk, but users with thicker table tops may struggle with the limited opening.

The biggest drawback I found matches what many users report online. The plastic construction does not feel like a $130 product. The toggle switches are just buttons disguised to look like toggles, which is disappointing. More concerning are reports of the joystick breaking after extended use. I have not had issues yet, but I treat it gently during loader operations.

Best For

This side panel is ideal for dedicated Farming Simulator players who want comprehensive button coverage and do not mind the plastic build. It works great for anyone who spends significant time on front loader operations and wants authentic-feeling controls. The plug and play setup makes it perfect for beginners who want to avoid complex configuration.

Not Ideal For

Users who prioritize build quality over functionality should look elsewhere. If you are rough with your equipment or expect metal components at this price point, the plastic construction will disappoint. Console players should also note this is PC only with no Xbox or PlayStation support.

2. HORI Farming Vehicle Control System – Premium All-in-One Solution

The HORI Farming Vehicle Control System is the most comprehensive farming simulator setup I have tested. This is not just a side panel but a complete control system including a full-size 13.4-inch rubberized steering wheel, control panel, and pedals. HORI developed this in collaboration with GIANTS Software, the creators of Farming Simulator, so compatibility is guaranteed.

With 76 total buttons, you can control virtually every aspect of the game without touching your keyboard. The multifunction twist axis control lever handles loader operations smoothly, and the throttle control feels responsive. The 900-degree wheel rotation gives you realistic steering for tractors and combines. The magnetic Hall Effect sensors should provide durability and accuracy over time.

After three weeks of testing, I found the wheel feels excellent in hand. The rubberized coating provides good grip during long sessions, and the spinner knob makes quick turns easy. The button layout is intuitive once you learn the positions. The companion app allows customization, though it is fairly basic compared to premium racing wheel software.

The main concern I have is reliability. Several users report steering wheel failures after a few months, and HORI customer support has a poor reputation. For a $400 product, this is concerning. The pedals also tend to slide on carpet, so you will want a hard surface or pedal stand. The plastic housing does not match the premium price point either.

Best For

This system is perfect for serious farming simulator enthusiasts who want a complete all-in-one solution. If you are building a dedicated simulator setup and want wheel, side panel, and pedals in one package, this delivers. The official GIANTS Software collaboration ensures the best possible Farming Simulator integration.

Not Ideal For

Anyone on a budget should look elsewhere. If you already own a quality wheel like a G29 or T150, you are paying for redundant components. The reliability concerns also make this risky for users who want a set-and-forget solution without worrying about warranty claims.

3. Thrustmaster SimTask Farmstick – Best Joystick Alternative

The Thrustmaster SimTask Farmstick takes a different approach than traditional side panels. Instead of a flat button deck with a joystick, this is a full 3-axis joystick designed specifically for farming and construction simulation. I found it offers better build quality than the Logitech side panel while providing excellent precision for loader operations.

The H.E.A.R.T magnetic sensors deliver surgical precision for attachment control. Moving a front loader bucket into exact positions feels natural and accurate. The stick itself has 6 buttons, a thumbwheel, mini-stick, rocker switches, and a trigger. Combined with the base buttons, you get up to 33 action mappings. The ambidextrous design means you can use it with either hand or even buy two for dual-stick setups.

What impressed me most is the versatility. This joystick works great with Farming Simulator, American Truck Simulator, and even flight sims. I tested it extensively with Euro Truck Simulator 2 and found the control feel comparable to actual agricultural equipment joysticks. The plug and play compatibility with Farming Simulator 22 means no configuration headaches.

The main drawback is the massive base. If you have a racing wheel with a shifter mount, this may not fit alongside it. The base needs significant desk space. I also found the button combinations take time to learn, especially during intense operations. Some users report the rotating button sticking, though my unit has been smooth.

Best For

This joystick is perfect for users who prefer joystick control over button decks and want something that works across multiple simulation games. If you value build quality and precision, the H.E.A.R.T sensors deliver. It is also ideal for users who already have a wheel and want to add loader control without duplicating controls.

Not Ideal For

Users with limited desk space may struggle with the large base. If you want simple button access for every farming function, a traditional side panel layout works better than a joystick with complex button combinations. The price is also higher than budget button boxes.

4. PXN CB1 Gaming Button Box – Best Budget Option

At under $90, the PXN CB1 Gaming Button Box offers impressive value for farming simulator players on a budget. I was skeptical given the low price, but after testing it alongside more expensive options, I found it delivers solid functionality for the cost. The 30 programmable buttons cover most essential farming functions.

The button feel surprised me in a good way. Each button has satisfying clicky feedback that makes it easy to confirm inputs without looking. The RGB backlighting offers 7 different effects and adds a nice aesthetic to your setup. The mounting clamp accommodates desks up to 7cm thick, which is more generous than some premium options.

Setup is straightforward with USB plug and play. I tested it with Farming Simulator 22, Euro Truck Simulator 2, and American Truck Simulator. The device was recognized immediately in all three games. The rotary knobs can be remapped to controller buttons, which is useful for throttle or cruise control functions.

The main issues I encountered involve the USB-C cables. They connect loosely and can pop out during intense sessions. I recommend using a different cable or securing it with tape. The Escape and Enter buttons also trigger both the game button and keyboard simultaneously, which can cause confusion. As a newer product, long-term durability remains unknown.

Best For

This button box is ideal for budget-conscious farming simulator players who want basic functionality without spending over $100. It works well for beginners testing whether a side panel improves their experience. The wide compatibility with multiple simulators adds value if you play more than just Farming Simulator.

Not Ideal For

Users who want guaranteed long-term reliability should consider established brands with proven track records. If you need actual toggle switches or analog controls, this button box lacks those features. The USB-C connection issues may also frustrate users who want a completely hassle-free setup.

5. Logitech G Pro Flight Multi Panel – Flight Sim Cross-Over

The Logitech G Pro Flight Multi Panel is technically designed for flight simulation, but I found it works surprisingly well as a supplementary control panel for farming simulator setups. The autopilot-style controls and LED display can be repurposed for cruise control and equipment settings in Farming Simulator.

With nearly 1000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this panel has proven reliability over its years on the market. The full autopilot panel includes controls for heading, altitude, speed, and vertical speed. In farming simulator context, these can map to tractor speed, implement depth, and other adjustable parameters. The LED display shows current values at a glance.

Setup requires more effort than dedicated farming panels. The panel works with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 out of the box, but Farming Simulator requires manual button mapping. For MSFS 2024 compatibility, some users report needing third-party software like SPAD.NXT. The dials require disengaging and re-engaging to change values, which takes getting used to.

The build quality exceeds the farming-specific side panels. The switches feel more substantial, and the overall construction seems more durable. However, the higher power draw means you may need a powered USB hub if connecting multiple devices through a yoke hub. Some users report intermittent display issues over time.

Best For

This panel is perfect for users who play both flight simulators and farming simulators and want one device that works across both. The proven reliability and build quality make it a safe choice for long-term use. IFR flight sim enthusiasts will find it essential for their aviation setups.

Not Ideal For

Users who only play farming simulator should get a dedicated side panel with native support. The button mapping effort and potential software requirements add complexity. If you want loader joystick controls, this panel does not include them, so you would need additional equipment.

6. Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Throttle Quadrant – Affordable Multi-Axis Control

The Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Throttle Quadrant offers an affordable way to add analog controls to your farming simulator setup. While designed for flight sims, the three independent axis levers work perfectly for throttle, implement height, and other continuous controls in farming games. At under $50, it is one of the cheapest ways to get analog input.

Each lever includes two programmable buttons below it, giving you 6 additional inputs. The levers move smoothly and provide accurate control for gradual adjustments. I found them excellent for controlling tractor speed, implement depth, and loader height. The included alternate lever heads let you customize the feel for different uses.

Versatility is this quadrant’s strength. I tested it with Farming Simulator, flight sims, and even rail simulators. It works without drivers on Windows and Mac. The 5.9-foot cable gives plenty of reach for various desk configurations. For the price, the functionality is impressive.

The main drawback is the all-plastic construction. While it works fine with careful use, the plastic feels cheap and can break if you are rough with it. The plastic mounting screw could snap if over-tightened. Some users report accuracy issues where small movements cause large throttle changes. The buttons are also hard to see in low light.

Best For

This throttle quadrant is ideal for budget-conscious users who want analog controls without spending much. It works great for players who need precise throttle or height control but do not need a full button deck. The versatility makes it excellent for users who play multiple simulation genres.

Not Ideal For

Users who want durable, long-lasting equipment should invest in higher-quality options. If you need many buttons for complex operations, this only provides 6. The plastic construction makes it unsuitable for environments where equipment gets rough treatment.

7. PXN Farm Simulation Controller – Compact Button Box with App Control

The PXN Farm Simulation Controller is a compact button box designed specifically for truck and farming simulation. I tested it alongside the PXN CB1 and found it offers similar functionality in a slightly different form factor. The 30 programmable buttons include a covered lever button, rotary knobs, and an 8-way joystick for menu navigation.

What sets this apart is the focus on American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2 alongside Farming Simulator. If you play both truck and farming sims, this box handles both well. The RGB lighting offers 7 colors to match your setup aesthetic. The mounting bracket accommodates desks up to 2.95 inches thick.

Button mapping in-game proved straightforward during my testing. The 8-way joystick works well for navigating menus without reaching for keyboard arrow keys. I particularly liked the covered lever button for engine start/stop, which prevents accidental activation. The self-locking buttons hold their state for toggle functions.

Unfortunately, quality control issues are concerning. The phone app for customization has connectivity problems. Some users report the covered lever button failing, and the Escape button can stop working after a few months. The constant input feed issue affects some units. The mounting bracket also lacks tilt adjustment, which limits ergonomic positioning.

Best For

This controller suits players who split time between farming and truck simulation. If you want a compact button box with an 8-way joystick for menu navigation, the layout makes sense. Users who already own a G29 or similar wheel will find it integrates well into existing setups.

Not Ideal For

Users concerned about reliability should consider the Logitech or Thrustmaster options instead. The quality control issues and button failures reported by users make this risky for long-term use. If you need tilt adjustment for ergonomic positioning, the fixed mounting bracket is limiting.

8. Gugxiom USB Sim Racing Box – New Contender

The Gugxiom USB Sim Racing Box is a brand new entry to the market, released in January 2025. With zero reviews currently available, this is an unproven product that I am including for completeness. The specifications look promising with 30 programmable keys, metal contacts for conductivity, and RGB lighting with 7 effects.

The button layout includes a toggle key for engine start/stop functions, which is useful for farming and truck simulators. The metal contacts should theoretically provide better durability than pure plastic designs. The mounting bracket accommodates desks up to 7cm thick, matching the PXN options.

Without user reviews or hands-on testing time, I cannot speak to the actual build quality or reliability. The features list suggests it targets the same use cases as the PXN CB1 and similar button boxes. The weight of 2.4 pounds is heavier than most competitors, which could indicate more substantial construction or simply bulkier design.

Best For

This box might appeal to early adopters who want to try a new option before reviews exist. If the specifications match your needs and you are comfortable with an unproven product, the feature set is competitive.

Not Ideal For

Most users should wait for reviews before purchasing. Without customer feedback, the reliability, build quality, and actual functionality remain unknown. Established brands with proven track records offer safer choices for the same price range.

How to Choose the Best Farming Simulator Side Panel in 2026?

Selecting the right farming simulator side panel depends on your budget, platform, and how you play. After testing these options extensively, here are the key factors that actually matter when making your decision.

Platform Compatibility

Most farming simulator side panels are PC-only, which is important to understand before buying. The Logitech G Farm Sim Side Panel, Thrustmaster FarmStick, and PXN options all require Windows PCs. Console players on Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, or older consoles have very limited options. If you play on console, check manufacturer specifications carefully before purchasing.

PC users have the advantage of more options and better customization. You can mix and match wheels, side panels, joysticks, and button boxes from different manufacturers. Just make sure you have enough USB ports and possibly a powered hub for multiple devices. For organizing your equipment, check out our recommendations for gaming desks for simulator setups.

Button Count and Customization

More buttons are not always better, but having enough matters. Basic farming operations like raising implements, turning on lights, and controlling cruise control need dedicated buttons. The Logitech side panel offers 37 buttons, while the PXN options provide 30. Consider which functions you use most and ensure your chosen panel covers them.

Customization flexibility varies between products. Some panels offer plug and play with pre-configured mappings, while others require manual setup in-game. The HORI system includes a companion app for button remapping. Thrustmaster products work with their T.A.R.G.E.T software for advanced macro creation.

Build Quality and Durability

This is where community feedback becomes valuable. User reports consistently mention the Logitech side panel joystick as fragile. The Thrustmaster FarmStick generally receives better marks for construction quality. Budget options like the PXN boxes use plastic throughout and may not last under heavy use.

If you plan to use your side panel for years, investing in better build quality pays off. The Logitech Pro Flight products have years of proven reliability. The HORI system has concerning reliability reports despite its premium price. Read recent reviews to catch any quality control trends.

Joystick vs Side Panel Design

Side panels and joysticks serve different control preferences. A side panel like the Logitech gives you a flat button deck with a smaller joystick for loader operations. A dedicated joystick like the Thrustmaster FarmStick puts the stick front and center with buttons arranged around it.

For front loader and telehandler work, I prefer a dedicated joystick with analog precision. For general farming with lots of button functions, a side panel layout keeps everything accessible. Some users run both: a side panel for buttons and a separate joystick for loader work. This protects the fragile side panel joystick while providing better loader control.

Budget Considerations

Farming simulator side panels range from under $50 for the Logitech Throttle Quadrant to $400 for the complete HORI system. The sweet spot for most users is between $90 and $150. This range covers the Logitech side panel, Thrustmaster FarmStick, and PXN options with good functionality.

Consider what you already own before buying. If you have a quality wheel like a G29 or T150, you do not need another wheel in the HORI bundle. If you just want basic buttons, the PXN CB1 at under $90 offers excellent value. The Logitech Throttle Quadrant at under $50 is the cheapest way to add analog controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Farming Simulator Side Panels

Choosing the best farming simulator side panels comes down to balancing build quality, button count, and budget. For most players, the Logitech G Farm Sim Vehicle Side Panel offers the best combination of functionality and value with its 37 programmable buttons and plug-and-play setup. Those prioritizing build quality should consider the Thrustmaster SimTask Farmstick for its superior construction and precision controls.

Budget-conscious users will find excellent value in the PXN CB1 Gaming Button Box at under $90. It delivers most of the essential functionality without the premium price tag. For a complete setup, pair your side panel with quality peripherals from our guides on gaming monitors under $300 to create the ultimate farming simulator experience.

Remember that side panels are PC-focused accessories in 2026. Console players have limited options, so verify compatibility before purchasing. Whether you choose a dedicated side panel, joystick, or button box, adding physical controls to your farming simulator setup transforms the experience from keyboard gaming to immersive simulation.