WINWING Orion Metal Flight Rudder Pedals

Please strap in and get ready for a grounded review of the WINWING Orion Metal Flight Rudder Pedals (previously known as the Skywalker Master Rudder Pedals). I’ve taken these bad boys for a spin in the virtual skies, and it’s time to break down whether they’re worth the hype or just another set of pedals. Let’s dive in and see if they soar or stumble in the world of flight simulation.

You can purchase the product/s here on the official webstore or you can find out more information from their online documentation here.

You can view the Official WINWING release trailer here.

NOTE:
I won’t be pitting products against each other, but I’ll highlight distinct features that set this product apart. I’ll also touch on aspects where it excels and note any missing features for a well-rounded perspective.

Full Disclosure

The WINWING Metal Flight Rudder Pedals were sent to me for free by WINWING, however, this review is my own and is not influenced by WIWNING to review in a favorable way.

Price

$289.85 USD – Orion Metal Flight Rudder Pedals (Standard Edition)
$38.85 USD – Orion Metal Flight Rudder Pedals (Damper Kit)

What’s in the box:

NOTE:
I’ve been provided with a pre-production sample by WINWING, so it’s important to note that there might be variations between the sample I have and the final production model.

★ Footrest Assembly
★ Pedal Assembly (Left and Right)
★ Support Bar Assembly
★ Anti-Slip Pad
★ USB 2.0 AM to BM
★ Damper
★ Toolkit

Rating Update

I’ve faced criticism regarding my rating system, with some finding it confusing. From my perspective, it makes sense as I construct the review and ratings based on my subjective experience with the product while objectively comparing similar features in its category.

In an effort to enhance transparency, I’ll provide detailed explanations for each section (Unboxing, The Look, The Feel, The Software, My Configurations). It’s important to note that these are my personal rating recommendations. If you have questions, feel free to reach out. However, snarky and unhelpful comments are counterproductive. Instead of making baseless assumptions, it would be more constructive to seek assistance. Let’s engage in a more mature and meaningful conversation. Thank you.

I assign either a half or a full star to each element in my rating, and the total rating for each category will not exceed 5 stars. If an element fully meets my expectations, it receives a full star. If it falls short but still performs adequately, it is awarded half a star. If an element fails to meet my expectations entirely, no star will be awarded.

Unboxing

Updated Ratings: Unboxing
Efficient Delivery Time: ⭐
Secure Packaging: ⭐
Environment-Friendly Packaging: ⭐
Accurate Order: ⭐
Customer Support and Communication: ⭐ (Note: This star is granted by default, unless the process is arduous and challenging to navigate; in such cases, this star will be omitted.)

The package was dispatched via FedEx on 27/09/23 from China and arrived on 03/10/23 in Australia.

The package was thoughtfully secured, featuring discreet packaging with no external labels to minimise the risk of theft. The environmentally friendly approach was evident, employing recyclable materials such as cardboard, Polyethylene (PE) foam, and a few recyclable plastic bags to safeguard the pedals and chassis.

Despite not personally placing the order on the website, all the necessary parts for assembly and usage were included in the delivery. While some may question the accuracy due to the absence of an online order, I maintain that this meets the criteria. If you have a differing perspective, feel free to share your experience in your own review.

Fortunately, no customer support was needed, but I received an accurate tracking number upon shipment, justifying the allocation of the free star in this category.

The Dimensions

Length: 542mm, Width: 313mm, Height: 218mm; Weight: 6.6kg=14.55lb

The Look

Integrated die casting realistic model footrest, allowing flexible foot placement and comfortable flying experience for extended periods.
WINWING

The entire unit adopts aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, CAM and key load-bearing components are made of SU304 stainless steel.
WINWING

Updated Ratings: The Look
Visual Design: ⭐
Build Quality: ⭐
Finish: ⭐
Innovative Features: ⭐
Replica Design: 0.5/1⭐ (Note: This rating reflects my personal preference and may not hold the same significance for those who prioritise different design elements.)

Visual Design:

The visual design of these rudder pedals is aesthetically pleasing, featuring unique textures that provide a distinct appearance with a cool effect, avoiding a plain and boring look.

Build Quality:

When it comes to build quality, these pedals are exceptional. Constructed from die-cast metal with all-metal assembly parts, they utilise high-quality stainless-steel materials for bolts, washers, nuts, and cam, contributing to their robust construction.

Finish:

The finish is impeccable, with a matte black powder coating on the body that retains a metallic texture on the surface.

Innovative Features:

The innovative features truly set these pedals apart. Notable aspects include an adjustable travel for the yaw motion (0 to 38°) (0 to 18cm travel), a locking pin for exclusive pedal use that will lock out the yaw axis for precise toe brake control (very good for driving tanks or space games), easy pedal angle adjustment offering 3 angles to choose from, versatile mounting options (excellent for simpit builders), a larger surface area for the floor with an included rubber mat, an easy to attach optional damper (sold separately), and diffused green LEDs with adjustable backlight settings. The design also allows for quick and easy removal of the main spring for yaw motion if you need to change/replace the spring or the cam underneath.

Replica Design

In terms of replica design, these pedals come close to looking like a real F16 jet, although they are not identical in dimensions and design layout. The pedals do an excellent job of resembling a real F16 jet, without aiming to be a 1:1 replica.

The Feel

Updated Ratings: The Feel
Pedal Responsiveness: ⭐
Comfort and Ergonomics: 0.5/1⭐ (Note: I removed 1/2 the star for the described discomfort)
Durability: 0.5/1⭐ (Please note: This rating is based on concerns identified in the pre-production version I received. I have communicated these concerns to WINWING for further evaluation and improvement).
Adjustability: 0.5/1⭐(Note: I removed 1/2 the star for the described areas that are not met)
Realism and Immersion: ⭐

Pedal Responsiveness:

Evaluating how responsive the pedals are to input is crucial for an immersive experience. These pedals excel in responsiveness, offering accuracy and precision. The hall effect sensor on both the yaw axis and toe pedals ensures exceptional precision. With metal bearings and high tolerance build quality, the pedals move smoothly without any stiction.

Comfort and Ergonomics:

Assessing overall comfort and ergonomic design is crucial for extended use. These pedals prioritise user well-being, although spring adjustments are not available for the toe brakes or the yaw axis. Despite the lack of customisation in these specific areas, the pedals cater to simpit builders, securely bolting to the cockpit for stability. However, on a floor surface without proper bracing, the rubber mat, though beneficial, may slide. I recommend using a rig or jig to enhance stability.

It’s worth noting that the yaw spring’s strength exceeds my personal comfort preferences, providing a workout-like resistance during use. Additionally, the pedal spring lacks the tuning options I would prefer for a more customised experience. The strong center detent in the cam is noticeable and I would have preferred a softer center for a more subtle feel in the middle.

These considerations highlight areas where the pedals might be adjusted to better suit individual comfort preferences, acknowledging that user experiences may vary based on personal preferences and usage scenarios.

Durability:

Considering durability is crucial for long-term use. While overall durability seems promising, there’s a potential weak link in the springs, particularly in the toe brakes. The Yaw axis spring is easily replaceable, but concerns arise regarding the toe brake springs’ replaceability, which has been communicated to WINWING for further clarification and improvement.

Adjustability:

Assessing adjustability options is essential for a personalised experience. These pedals offer a wealth of adjustments, including customisable yaw axis travel distance up to 38 degrees, a yaw axis lockout pin for exclusive toe brake use, three toe brake positions within a 32-degree range, and an optional damper for a realistic hydraulic feel with adjustable friction, enhancing personalisation.

However, a drawback includes the limited adjustability for the yaw spring, pedal spring, and cam options.

Realism and Immersion:

Evaluating how well the pedals contribute to a realistic experience is vital for immersion. Modeled after fighter jet designs, these pedals, coupled with the added damper, deliver a realistic and immersive feel. The strong springs for Yaw and Toe brakes provide a convincing sense of physical force, contributing to the overall sensation of operating controls from a real plane.

The Software

Updated Ratings: The Software
Ease of Installation: ⭐
User Interface: 0.5/1 ⭐ (Note: I removed 1/2 the star errors in the UI)
Customisation Options: 0.5/1⭐ (Note: I removed 1/2 the star for some lack in customisation options)
Stability and Performance: ⭐
Update and Support: ⭐

Ease of Installation:

The installation process is straightforward; simply run the executable in the directory of your choice. Default settings work well for a single user system. Post-installation, configuring the game path in the settings is necessary.

User Interface:

While the user interface concept is minimalist, its execution falls short. Inconsistencies in artwork and sometimes difficult-to-read text contribute to a less-than-ideal experience. Bugs, visual design flaws, and virtual and physical limitations hinder usability, particularly in the case of virtual buttons and yaw axis configuration.

Customisation Options:

Customisation options, while present, are somewhat limited. The provision of 15 virtual button options contrasts with the absence of virtual button options for the yaw axis. The software restricts the yaw axis’s virtual limit to 30%, with a need for the range to extend down to 0%. Limited color customisation and an unmodifiable LED in green for the front module also affect overall customisation flexibility.

Stability and Performance:

The software proves stable, without any reported crashes, dispelling concerns about earlier processor usage issues. WINWING’s commitment to optimising and updating the software, despite occasional language barriers, contributes to stable and high-performance use.

Update and Support:

WINWING consistently updates and supports software and firmware improvements, showcasing dedication to their products. While language barriers may necessitate some back-and-forth in communication, their commitment to customer support is evident.

My Configurations

Updated Ratings: My Configurations
not rated.

Physical Placement:

I have a simpit and securely installed the pedals on a slight 10-degree angle, centrally mounted on a pedal plate. The Monstertech pedal plate made mounting easy, offering both bolt holes and a range of slide options.

Physical Tune/Tweak:

I adjusted the pedals’ virtual yaw motion to reduce the workout effect. Angling the pedals back for comfort and ergonomics (choosing the 1st setting) suits the 10-degree base angle. The damper is set low to avoid slowing down movements too much.

Virtual Tune/Tweak:

I fine-tuned the virtual yaw motion and configured a 0 percent deadzone. Virtual toe brakes (buttons 1 and 2) trigger at the maximum axis for handbrake activation. Default backlights in VR don’t bother me.

My Comfort:

The pedals are comfortable to reach and actuate. However, the yaw spring’s significant force and the strong pedal springs could benefit from customisation options for a lighter feel. A less noticeable detent in the cam’s center or an additional cam option would enhance comfort.

Overall Experience:

I’m highly satisfied with the pedals’ high quality and ample customisation options. Yet, some limitations on customised yaw spring, pedal spring, and cam leave me wanting more. I’m curious if the production model addresses these issues.

I’ve compiled a reference sheet (of a sort) aiming to illustrate the movement of different pedals from various companies and models. The sheet provides a visual representation of their top-down, front-to-back, and side actuation movements. If you do not agree with this reference sheet, I ask that you consider making your own version of it and submitting for review.

You will notice that the WINWING Orion MFRP are very similar to the Slaw RX Viper.

My Opinions

Positives:

Exceptional pedal responsiveness for precise and accurate user input.
Design prioritises comfort and ergonomics, offering adaptable options for simpit builders.
Rich array of adjustability options, including customisable yaw axis travel, toe brake positions, and an optional damper.
Features a lockout pin for exclusive toe brake use.

Negatives:

Strong force exerted by the yaw spring may be perceived as excessive, affecting overall comfort.
Limited options for tuning the pedal spring and an intense center detent in the cam.
Software user interface lacks optimal design and consistency.
The software restricts the yaw axis’s virtual limit to 30%, with a need for the range to extend down to 0%. Limited color customisation and an unmodifiable LED in green for the front module also affect overall customisation flexibility.

Recommendations:

Address concerns related to yaw spring strength by offering a variety of springs with different force profiles, catering to individual comfort preferences.
Provide more options for tuning the pedal spring to allow users to customise the resistance according to their liking.
Consider offering an additional cam with a different profile to provide users with choices in the center detent feel.
Enhance software user interface design and functionality.
Incorporate more customisation options in the software.