This is not as easy to answer. It depends on the following:

- Operating System used.
- Simulator software used.
- Available money.

If you only want to use it on a specific simulator, for instance FMS, you can go for almost any type of interface. However, simple serial or parallel interface is limited to Win95/98.

If you want to go for the serial PIC type interface, it will work on all operating systems, but you will be limited to FMS.

The joystick option is cost more, but you are not limited to a specific simulator. However, with the new trend in PC's, as well as notebooks, the joystick port may not be available.

The next best thing is the USB interface, which will work on all operating systems that support USB. It will not work on Win95/NT/DOS.

As you see, you will have to decide on what simulators/operating systems you want to use it.