Name:  - WingMan Extreme Digital 3D
Logitech Description:
This twist handle joystick features a leading edge design for enhanced performance. It provides versatile hand-grip positions for comfort and control in different game situations. There are seven programmable buttons with four on the handle, two on the base, and a trigger. The handle buttons and an 8-way hat switch are positioned in a unique Thumb Sweep design for quick access. A high-precision throttle provides accurate power settings. Users can select USB or game port connection. The stable base includes steel weight plates.
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11/30/2001 - The WingMan Extreme Digital 3D stick is my first from Logitech and I must admit that it left me impressed with the company’s attention to quality and detail. I took this controller for a spin over Nazi infested Russia with Ubi Soft’s new IL-2 Sturmovik.
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Extremely Digital
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82
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| First Impression |
Right out of the box, the Wingman Extreme Digital 3D looked like it wanted to go flying. The base is large and stout, but not too large to be obtrusive. The 8-way hat switch and four buttons are conveniently located within easy reach of the thumb and the trigger felt just right. The twist action, as well as the normal joystick range had just the right amount of resistance to leave me with the feeling that this is indeed a quality, mid to high-end offering. As an added bonus, Logitech incorporated the ability to lock out the ‘twist’ feature via a small screw on the base of the handle. |
8.5
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| Software Installation |
I was very pleased with the ease of software installation and I would be hard pressed to remember any glitches at all. The multi-language Quick Start Guide accompanying the product was clear and very informative and proved to be the perfect compliment to the already easy to use software. Basically, any moron should be able to install this product without a problem. According to Logitech’s web site, XP is supported; so don’t stress when you don’t find any in-box documentation hyping Microsoft’s latest and greatest. |
9.5
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| Software Controller Interface |
The Wingman Profiler really left me impressed with the large number of included profiles. I have yet to witness a software setup solution that included so many. If your game somehow wasn’t included, you can go to Logitech’s web site and retrieve current updates to even the most random games. Of course, if yours is not available (or the rebel side of you urges you to create your own) the creation process is very easy. |
9.5
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| Game Included |
I know that Logitech packages games with some of their products. So why didn’t they do that here? Good question when considering this product’s price point. |
5.0
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| Help Instructions |
If you are among the minority that would seek help instructions while using this product, I’m afraid that you are stuck with the familiar ‘Windows style’, plain vanilla help section. In it you should find just about any kind of problem imaginable, but if you are looking for pictures or graphics you are out of luck. If you are still unable to find any answer to your question, Logitech’s informative and user friendly web site should solve your problem. |
7.0
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| Comfort |
I felt that this stick was just made for my hand. The buttons were laid out in a natural and familiar order and within minutes I felt like this stick responded in a very fluid manner. The throttle lever, however, seemed to be located in a somewhat awkward location, because my left hand had nowhere to rest while the lever was in use. Overall, a very well laid out and comfortable controller. |
8.0
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| Construction (Quality) |
This product is one of the best-built sticks out there. The buttons aren’t mushy or squeaky and should provide many hours of reliable service. The feel and response from the stick travel is sure, and in my opinion, unparalleled for a product in this range. And if you are tired of the squeaky, low budget handles you should look no further. |
9.5
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| Looks |
While some manufacturers prefer to base their product’s looks on the perceived image of a real flight stick, Logitech chose to remain functional, yet polished. |
8.0
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| Value (price for what you get) |
With a MSRP of $39.95 USD, it is clear to me that this stick should offer a well built, comfortable solution packaged as an easy to use product that will last a very last time. Logitech proves with the WingMan Extreme Digital 3D that there is value in their mid to high range offering. |
9.0
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| Recommend to Others |
If you looking for a smooth and easy to use unit that will withstand the test of time, you should give Logitech’s WingMan Extreme Digital 3D some serious consideration. |
8.0
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RECOMMENDATIONS to the Vendor
ZWORM
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A rubber grip on the handle would be a welcome addition.
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The throttle control location felt a little awkward. Perhaps moving it a tad closer to the left might solve the problem.
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The ability to lock out the ‘twist’ is a nice feature, but incorporating a thumbscrew into the design would win over a lot of people.
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