Haven't used the Saitek, but it doesn't look as comfortable as the n52. I've had both the n50, and the n52, and have loved them. The software is some of the best I've used for mapping, and I've never once had a problem with it. Having been out for well over a year, it can probalby be found pretty cheap too.
Disclaimer: I don't actually use any Saitek controllers. As a matter of fact, the only one I ever bought was for the xbox or dreamcast (can't remember which), and I didn't care for it. I used a MS ForceFeedback joystick and steering wheel, and a N52. This has been my setup for years and while likely stay that way until something breaks. I've used Saitek joysticks are friends' houses, but prefer to stick with my trusty MS FF model.
Thoughts on the PGCU without having actually used it:
The lit keys are a waste IMO, as I'm not going to spend my time staring at it. With the N52, each row of keys lean toward center, and I can tell which row I'm on by feel. I can't tell enough from screenshots to tell if I'd be able to do the same with the PGCU. I don't care about the dedicated shift key. It might be nice other than having to double/triple tap it to cycle through the modes. Once again, I guess I'm expected to take a glance at it to know my shift mode. With the N52, I always use the same keys as shift keys, and I program them to be held down WHILE the shift operator key is pressed, so I always know what combo I'm doing, even without looking. It's personal preference, but I prefer the N52's scroll wheel vs the thumb wheel thingy. Software can make or break a controller for me. I really like the N52 offering here, but to be fair, I've been fine with Saitek software and as long as it's reliable, assume it's at worst, good enough.
****Thought I'd add on more thing. The Nostromo is the ONLY Belkin product I'm likely to ever buy. I've found most of their stuff lacking in functionality, and ALL of their products to be overpriced.**********
Last edited by InnerMonkey (2006-06-09 18:49:17)
