I’m going to start a new series, “Tech Talk” these will be more discussion-based posts. Here is the first article; I hope you enjoy!
Every flight simmer has their hill to die on.
Some will fight to the end for pixel-perfect rivets and stunning 4K liveries. Others? They just want that deep, bone-rattling roar of a GE90 engine screaming to life at 98% N1.
So, here’s the debate:
What matters more in Flight Simulation —next-level aircraft graphics or hyper-realistic sounds?
Let’s break it down. Then you can tell me where you stand.
The Case for Killer Aircraft Graphics
You can’t deny the jaw-dropping visuals in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and 2024. Sunlight glinting off polished aluminum. Tiny streaks of grime on the landing gear. That shimmer of heat coming off the engine at idle. It’s stunning—and yes, some of us spend way too long zooming in on the winglets during cruise.
High-quality visuals offer:
- Immersion: When your aircraft looks exactly like the real thing, you feel like you’re there
- Screenshots for days: Let’s be honest—some liveries just need to be shown off.
- Attention to detail: Every button and switch looks believable. That adds realism, even when you’re flying from the cockpit view.
Developers like PMDG, Fenix, and FlyByWire know this. They put insane hours into modeling every surface, shadow, and scratch. And the results? Chef’s kiss.
But great graphics are only half the story.
The Sound Crowd: Why Audio Changes Everything
Now, let’s talk about sound. Because while graphics may catch your eye, sound makes you feel.
- That low-frequency rumble in the cockpit? You can feel it in your chest.
- The Doppler shift as a Cessna buzzes overhead? That’s the good stuff.
- The satisfying “clunk” of gear locking into place? Pure serotonin.
Realistic soundscapes are all about presence. They don’t just tell you what’s happening—they put you there.
A good audio setup or a high-fidelity sound pack (like those from Immersive Audio, Boris Audio Works or FTSim+) can:
- Replicate subtle engine variations
- Model wind noise at different speeds
- Change cockpit sounds based on weather, altitude, or engine state
That matters. Especially if you’re flying without external views, where sound is your only sensory feedback.
The Sweet Spot: When Both Worlds Collide
Want the truth? The magic happens when graphics and sound are dialed in. It’s not just what you see or hear, it’s how the two work together.
- Start the A320’s engines, and if the blades spin and you hear that whine build perfectly in sync? You’re in it.
- Coming in on short final and hearing the wind rush while seeing the flaps extend with realistic lighting? Chef’s kiss again.
But here’s the rub—most simmers have to pick their battles, we rarely get both sides perfected.
So… What Matters More to You?
Are you someone who can’t tolerate low-res textures but will happily fly in silence?
Or do you need every click, hum, and hydraulic whirr to be spot-on—even if your aircraft model looks like it came from 2005?
Let’s hear it:
- 🖼️ Team Graphics: You live for photorealism and don’t care how it sounds.
- 🔊 Team Sound: A 737 isn’t a 737 unless it sounds like one.
- ⚖️ Team Balance: You want both—or nothing.
Drop a comment, stir the pot, and tell us what makes your perfect flight sim experience.
Want to Go Deeper?
Here are a few places to explore both sides:
- 🎧 FTSim+ (https://www.patreon.com/FTSim) for amazing payware sound mods
- 🎧 Boris Audio Works https://www.youtube.com/@BorisAudioWorks
- 🎨 Flightsim.to (https://flightsim.to/) for stunning liveries and visual mods
- 🛠️ FlyByWire A32NX (https://flybywiresim.com/) for a full-package free aircraft with great sound and visuals
- 🎬 YouTube Channels like 320 Sim Pilot (https://www.youtube.com/@320SimPilot) for insight into real vs. simulated experiences
Whether you’re Team Graphics, Team Sound, or just happy your sim doesn’t crash during final approach, one thing’s for sure: this community loves a good debate.
Now, excuse me while I go reinstall a texture pack I said I didn’t need.
Which side are you on?