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Yes—you can build a DIY switch and LED panel for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, but the Arduino needs a software bridge to the simulator. The practical choice is between writing a custom PC-side SimConnect/USB-serial bridge and configuring supported hardware with MobiFlight. In either case, switches send actions into the simulator, while LEDs can display simulator states; the exact controls depend on your board, configuration, and aircraft.
How an Arduino panel connects to FS2020
Microsoft’s SimConnect SDK lets programs communicate with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, and Microsoft lists enabling new hardware as one use for it. An Arduino does not simply plug into the simulator as a universal panel: software must translate physical switch changes into simulator actions and, for indicator lights, retrieve simulator values and drive the LEDs.
In a custom build, the Arduino reads switches and controls its output pins. A program on the PC communicates with the simulator through SimConnect and exchanges data with the Arduino, for example through USB serial. The community FS2020-Switch-Panel project demonstrates this kind of serial-bridge approach. Alternatively, MobiFlight provides a configuration-based route for supported hardware and simulator actions, with documented MSFS input and output workflows.
Choose between a custom bridge and MobiFlight
| Decision | Custom SimConnect and serial bridge | MobiFlight |
|---|---|---|
| Setup style | Write or adapt the PC-side program and the Arduino serial protocol. | Configure supported devices and simulator actions in MobiFlight. |
| Flexibility | Depends on the code and the simulator events and variables it implements; the cited community project is one example, not a compatibility guarantee. | Provides documented input action types, SimConnect outputs, and device configuration; aircraft and device support still need checking. |
| Skills and upkeep | Requires programming and maintaining the bridge. | Avoids writing a custom bridge for the documented configuration path, but still requires setup and compatibility checks. |
| Best fit | Builders who want control over their own serial protocol and are comfortable writing software. | Builders who prefer configuring documented workflows over developing a custom bridge. |
This is a comparison of documented approaches, not a head-to-head test. MobiFlight describes its SimConnect output type as its preferred way to read values from MSFS 2020 and 2024 and says it provides access to more than 20,000 HubHop presets; that number is MobiFlight’s claim, not an independently audited count. See its SimConnect output documentation.
#1 Best Overall
- 1. Comprehensive Aircraft Systems Control Panel Combines essential aircraft controls into a single panel, including ignition key switch, master switches, avionics master, fuel pump, lighting controls, pitot heat, and other commonly used cockpit functions for a more immersive flight simulation experience.
- 2. Realistic Aircraft-Style Ignition Switch Features an authentic magneto key switch with OFF, RIGHT, LEFT, BOTH, and START positions, helping recreate realistic aircraft startup and shutdown procedures found in general aviation aircraft.
- 3. Illuminated Cockpit-Style Buttons Includes illuminated push buttons that enhance cockpit appearance and realism. The buttons feature built-in lighting for an authentic aircraft-inspired look and are intended as decorative cockpit elements rather than simulator-mapped controls.
- 4. Desktop Clamp Mount Design Supplied with a sturdy desk clamp mount that securely attaches to desks and simulator stations. Ideal for desktop flight simulator setups without requiring a dedicated home cockpit installation.
- 4. Desktop Clamp Mount Design Supplied with a sturdy desk clamp mount that securely attaches to desks and simulator stations. Ideal for desktop flight simulator setups without requiring a dedicated home cockpit installation.
Plan the controls and gather the hardware
The community example lists an Arduino board, switches or buttons, LEDs and resistors, breadboards, hookup wire, and a panel face. Its example has nine buttons or switches and six status LEDs; those counts describe that build, not a requirement or a maximum. The project says the number of controls depends on the selected board’s I/O pins. Check the board’s pin availability and electrical limits, as well as compatibility with the software path you choose, before settling on a layout. The sources do not establish one required Arduino model or a universal panel capacity.
- Inputs: Choose switches or buttons for the actions you want to trigger. Match each control to an available input pin and a simulator action.
- Outputs: Choose LEDs for indicators you want to reflect simulator state. Include suitable resistors and account for the board’s output limits.
- Construction: Use a breadboard or prototyping board, hookup wire, and a panel face appropriate to your layout. Component quantities and specifications depend on the build.
For larger LED counts, MobiFlight also documents output shift registers as an option. This expands the documented output approach; it does not remove the need to verify device support and electrical requirements.
Rank #2
- CENTRALIZED SIM RACING CONTROL PANEL - Replace keyboard commands with a dedicated hardware control panel designed for simulation workflows. The PXN CB1 features 19 physical controls across 9 input types, enabling fast access to essential simulator functions. Supports up to 30 programmable inputs for full in-game customization and efficient cockpit operation.
- BUILT FOR MULTI-SIMULATION SCENARIOS - Designed for racing, trucking, flight, and farming simulators. The CB1 allows users to map frequently used in-game actions such as vehicle controls, system operations, and camera functions to physical inputs, improving responsiveness and reducing keyboard reliance during gameplay.
- STRUCTURED HARDWARE INPUT LAYOUT - Equipped with multiple control types for flexible mapping: Rotary encoders for precise adjustments; Toggle switches for system control; Push buttons for quick actions; Joystick for directional input; Dedicated system keys (ESC / ENTER / engine start). Each input can be independently mapped within supported simulation games.
- CUSTOMIZABLE RGB LIGHTING FOR VISIBILITY & IMMERSION - RGB lighting improves visibility of key controls in low-light environments and enhances cockpit immersion. Adjustable color and brightness can be configured directly on the device, allowing users to personalize their cockpit lighting for different setups and preferences.
- STABLE DUAL MOUNTING FOR DESKS & SIM RIGS - Designed for flexible installation across common simulator setups. Includes a tool-free clamp (supports surfaces up to 70 mm thick) and 100 × 100 mm VESA mounting compatibility for aluminum profiles, wheel stands, and cockpit-style setups. Provides stable positioning during simulation gameplay.
Configure switch inputs and LED outputs separately
A switch and its corresponding indicator are two different jobs: an input action tells MSFS what to do, while an output mapping tells an LED what state to show. Treating them separately makes it easier to diagnose a panel where a control triggers an action but its light does not change, or vice versa.
Map a switch to an MSFS action
In MobiFlight, use its MSFS input action types documentation to configure the action for a physical input. Confirm that the action suits the control and the aircraft you intend to fly. The documented action workflow is not a promise that every aircraft exposes every control in the same way.
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- Twin concentric adjustment dials adjust frequency units incrementally for quicker selection of your required frequency
- Standby switch - set your standby frequencies and then set to active at the touch of a button
- Works with Microsoft Flight Simulator X and 2004. Game Compatibility : Flight Simulator X, X-Plane 11, X-Plane 10, Prepar3D 2.2+
- A set of switches and LED displays for use in controlling various aspects of flight
- LED displays work fully in real time with Flight Simulator X and 2004, removing the need to bring the radio stack up on screen
Map an LED to simulator state
MobiFlight’s LED output walkthrough uses a parking-brake indicator preset and assigns it to an LED output. In that example, the LED turns on when the parking brake is applied. For your own panel, select a variable available for the aircraft and indicator you want to represent, then assign it to the LED output. The indicator is useful because it reflects simulator state rather than merely lighting whenever a physical switch is moved.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check compatibility before committing to a panel layout
- Board and software: Confirm that the selected board works with your chosen custom bridge or MobiFlight setup; the documentation cited here does not establish support for every board.
- Aircraft behavior: Verify that the intended input action and output variable apply to the aircraft you use. A control or indicator mapping should not be assumed to work identically across aircraft.
- Electrical design: Check pin availability and electrical limits for the chosen board and LEDs. The example project’s materials list is not a universal wiring specification.
- Scope: Start with a small set of controls and indicators, then expand once their input actions and state mappings work as intended.
The Microsoft SDK establishes SimConnect as a supported way for add-ons to communicate with MSFS 2020. The community project supplies a concrete materials list and serial architecture, while MobiFlight documents an alternative configuration workflow. None of these sources establishes exact compatibility for every board, aircraft, or control.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- A set of switches and LED display for use in controlling various aspects of flight simulation
- Works with Microsoft Flight Simulator X and 2004
- Mounts onto the Pro Flight Yoke System (sold separately) or into your own home cockpit setup
- Compatible: Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10 or newer
- Full Autopilot panel with associated setting controls
Rank #4
- Stable Performance with Mobiflight Support: Powered by Mobiflight firmware with full usage tutorial provided. Built using PCB board manufacturing for enhanced stability. Comes with a custom high-definition panel sticker, a convenient 13-degree tilt angle for better operation, and a non-slip bottom that adheres to your desktop. Includes a USB data cable. The realistic push-button switches add greater immersion to your flight simulation experience
- Functional Dual-Position Switches: The panel includes dual-position toggle switches for key functions such as Terrain Radar, Windshear, Seatbelt Sign, and No Smoking indicator
- Compatible with Multiple Aircraft Types: In addition to the A32x, this panel is also suitable for other aircraft models such as the A38x, B773 and B777. (Please confirm your specific aircraft model before placing an order
- Wide Compatibility with A32x Models: Thanks to Mobiflights broad compatibility, this lighting panel supports nearly all major A32x models available on the market, including Fenix, FBW, iniBuilds, and others
- Note on 3D Printed Parts: Please be aware that 3D-printed enclosures may have minor imperfections. Additionally, the 3D-printed knobs may rotate freely and cannot be fixed in position
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