X-Plane 12 vs Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020: Which One Should You Choose?
If you are a fan of flight simulation, you might be wondering which one of the latest releases from the two leading developers is the best choice for you. X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 are both impressive simulators that offer realistic and immersive experiences for virtual pilots. But how do they compare in terms of features, performance, graphics, aircraft, weather, add-ons, multiplayer, and pricing? In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison of these two simulators and help you decide which one suits your needs and preferences better.
Introduction
What are X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?
X-Plane 12 is the latest version of the flight simulator from Laminar Research, a company that has been developing flight simulation software since 1995. X-Plane 12 features new graphical upgrades, brand-new included aircraft, a "4D" weather engine, seasons, and more. It is currently in Early Access, which means it is still undergoing development and testing. The latest beta version is 12.00b5, which was released on September 30, 2022.
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Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is the newest installment of the long-running flight simulator series from Microsoft, which dates back to 1982. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 boasts stunning visuals, realistic physics, dynamic weather, live traffic, and a huge variety of aircraft and locations. It was released on August 18, 2020 for Windows PC and on July 27, 2021 for Xbox Series X/S.
Why compare them?
Both X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 are popular choices among flight simulation enthusiasts, as they offer different strengths and weaknesses. Some users may prefer one over the other based on their personal preferences, expectations, and goals. Comparing them can help you understand the pros and cons of each simulator and make an informed decision based on your own criteria.
Features and Performance
Graphics and Scenery
X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12 has made significant improvements in its graphics engine compared to its previous versions. It uses Vulkan and Metal APIs to enhance rendering efficiency and optimize resource utilization. It also features HDR lighting through its new photometric engine, which calculates light brightness, intensity, spread, and more in real time with the laws of physics. Additionally, it has a revamped water system that includes waves in 3D, seasonal effects that change tree color and leaf coverage as well as snow accumulation, variable vegetation and water colors based on geography, and improved forests with different species, sizes, and wind effects.
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Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is widely praised for its stunning graphics and scenery, which are powered by an overhauled graphics engine that leverages DirectX 12 (DX12). This technology allows for more efficient CPU and GPU usage, ensuring that the simulator can deliver high-quality visuals while maintaining optimal FPS. Moreover, the simulator uses Azure AI to intelligently optimize the use of system resources in real time, depending on the user's settings and location. Furthermore, the simulator uses Bing Maps data to create photorealistic landscapes and cities, covering the entire world with high-resolution satellite imagery, 3D buildings, bridges, landmarks, and more. The simulator also supports ray tracing, which adds realistic reflections, shadows, and lighting effects to the environment.
As a result of these technologies, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 offers a breathtaking visual experience that is unmatched by any other flight simulator. However, this also comes at a cost of high system requirements and potential performance issues, especially for lower-end PCs or consoles. Some users may also experience glitches, bugs, or inaccuracies in the scenery due to the limitations of the data sources or the AI algorithms.
Aircraft and Flight Model
X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12 is known for its realistic and accurate flight model, which is based on a system called "blade element theory". This system simulates the airflow over each part of the aircraft and calculates the forces and moments that affect its motion. This means that the simulator can model any type of aircraft, from gliders to helicopters to rockets, and account for their aerodynamic properties and behaviors. X-Plane 12 also supports VR (virtual reality) devices, which can enhance the immersion and realism of flying.
X-Plane 12 comes with 25 default aircraft, ranging from light planes to airliners to military jets. Some of these aircraft are new additions to the simulator, such as the Boeing 737 MAX 8, the Airbus A220-300, the Cirrus Vision Jet SF50, and the Bell 206 JetRanger helicopter. The default aircraft are generally well-designed and detailed, but some users may find them lacking in features or functionality compared to third-party add-ons. X-Plane 12 also has a large and active community of developers and users who create and share thousands of free or paid add-ons for various aircraft, liveries, panels, sounds, and more.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has a realistic and accurate flight model, which is based on a system called "finite element analysis". This system divides the aircraft into small elements and calculates the forces and moments that affect each element. This allows the simulator to model complex aerodynamics and physics, such as stall, spin, wake turbulence, ground effect, and more. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also supports VR devices, as well as TrackIR (head tracking) devices.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 comes with 30 default aircraft (20 for the Standard Edition, 25 for the Deluxe Edition, and 30 for the Premium Deluxe Edition), covering various categories such as general aviation, commercial aviation, business jets, vintage planes, and military planes. Some of these aircraft are iconic models such as the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental, the Airbus A320neo, and the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. The default aircraft are generally high-quality and detailed, but some users may find them inconsistent or incomplete in terms of features or functionality. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has a growing number of third-party add-ons for various aircraft, liveries, panels, sounds, and more. However, some of these add-ons may not be compatible with the latest updates or patches of the simulator.
Weather and Atmosphere
X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12 has a new weather engine that is designed to create realistic and dynamic weather conditions. The weather engine uses a "4D" system that simulates the weather at different altitudes, locations, times, and seasons. It also uses real-world data from sources such as METAR (meteorological aerodrome reports), NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), and NEXRAD (Next-Generation Radar) to generate accurate and up-to-date weather information. The weather engine can produce various effects such as clouds, fog, rain, snow, thunderstorms, wind, turbulence, icing, and more.
X-Plane 12 also has a new atmosphere model that improves the appearance and behavior of the sky and the horizon. The atmosphere model uses a "physically based rendering" (PBR) technique that calculates how light interacts with the air molecules and particles in the atmosphere. This results in realistic colors, gradients, scattering, and refraction of the sky and the sun. The atmosphere model also supports celestial bodies such as the moon and the stars, as well as eclipses and other phenomena.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has a new weather engine that creates realistic and dynamic weather conditions. The weather engine uses real-world data from sources such as METEOBLUE (a Swiss company that provides global weather data) and FlightAware (a flight tracking service) to generate accurate and up-to-date weather information. The weather engine can produce various effects such as clouds, fog, rain, snow, thunderstorms, wind, turbulence, icing, and more.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has a new atmosphere model that improves the appearance and behavior of the sky and the horizon. The atmosphere model uses a "volumetric rendering" technique that simulates how light interacts with the air molecules and particles in the atmosphere. This results in realistic colors, gradients, scattering, and refraction of the sky and the sun. The atmosphere model also supports celestial bodies such as the moon and the stars, as well as eclipses and other phenomena.
Both X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 have impressive weather and atmosphere systems that enhance the realism and immersion of flying. However, some users may prefer one over the other based on their personal taste or expectations. For example, some users may find X-Plane 12's weather engine more customizable or flexible, while others may find Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020's weather engine more realistic or consistent.
Add-ons and Customization
X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12 is highly customizable and supports a wide range of add-ons that can enhance or modify various aspects of the simulator. Users can download or create add-ons for aircraft, scenery, airports, plugins, scripts, utilities, sounds, liveries, and more. X-Plane 12 also has a built-in Plane Maker and World Editor that allow users to create their own aircraft and scenery. X-Plane 12 has a large and active community of developers and users who share their add-ons on various websites and forums, such as X-Plane.org, Threshold, and X-Pilot. Some of these add-ons are free, while others are paid or donationware.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is also customizable and supports a variety of add-ons that can enhance or modify various aspects of the simulator. Users can download or create add-ons for aircraft, scenery, airports, missions, liveries, and more. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has a built-in SDK (software development kit) that allows users to create their own add-ons. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 has a growing community of developers and users who share their add-ons on various websites and platforms, such as MSFS Addons, Flightsim.to, and the official Marketplace. Some of these add-ons are free, while others are paid or freeware.
Both X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 have extensive add-on support and customization options that allow users to tailor the simulator to their liking. However, some users may prefer one over the other based on their availability, quality, compatibility, or price. For example, some users may find X-Plane 12's add-ons more diverse or accessible, while others may find Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020's add-ons more polished or integrated.
Multiplayer and Online Features
X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12 has a multiplayer mode that allows users to fly with or against other players online. Users can join or host multiplayer sessions using the built-in network feature or using third-party services such as VATSIM (Virtual Air Traffic Simulation Network), IVAO (International Virtual Aviation Organisation), or PilotEdge. These services provide realistic air traffic control and communication for online pilots. X-Plane 12 also has an online map that shows the location and information of other players in real time.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has a multiplayer mode that allows users to fly with or against other players online. Users can join or host multiplayer sessions using the built-in network feature or using third-party services such as VATSIM, IVAO, or PilotEdge. These services provide realistic air traffic control and communication for online pilots. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 also has an online map that shows the location and information of other players in real time.
Additionally, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 has some unique online features that enhance the realism and immersion of flying. These features include live weather, live traffic, live events, shared cockpit, and discovery flights. Live weather uses real-world data to create accurate and dynamic weather conditions in the simulator. Live traffic uses real-world data to populate the simulator with realistic air traffic from airlines and airports. Live events are special challenges or scenarios that are updated regularly and allow users to compete or cooperate with other players. Shared cockpit allows users to share the controls and instruments of an aircraft with another player. Discovery flights are guided tours of various locations around the world that showcase the beauty and diversity of the simulator.
Both X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 have multiplayer and online features that allow users to interact with other players and enjoy a realistic flying experience. However, some users may prefer one over the other based on their functionality, reliability, or availability. For example, some users may find X-Plane 12's multiplayer mode more stable or flexible, while others may find Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020's online features more innovative or immersive.
Pricing and Availability
X-Plane 12
X-Plane 12 is currently in Early Access, which means it is still under development and testing. Users can purchase X-Plane 12 from the official website for $59.99 USD. This price includes access to all future updates and patches of X-Plane 12 until its final release. Users who already own X-Plane 11 can upgrade to X-Plane 12 for $19.99 USD. Users who purchase X-Plane 11 after September 9, 2021 can get X-Plane 12 for free.
X-Plane 12 is available for Windows PC, Mac OS X, and Linux platforms. It requires a minimum of 8 GB of RAM, a DirectX 11-capable video card with at least 1 GB of VRAM, and a CPU equivalent to an Intel Core i3/i5/i7/i9 at 3.0 GHz or faster, or an AMD equivalent. It also requires a minimum of 20 GB of disk space, but more is recommended for additional scenery and add-ons.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is fully released and available for purchase from various sources. Users can purchase Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 from the Microsoft Store, Steam, or Amazon for different prices depending on the edition. The Standard Edition costs $59.99 USD, the Deluxe Edition costs $89.99 USD, and the Premium Deluxe Edition costs $119.99 USD. The Deluxe and Premium Deluxe editions include additional aircraft and handcrafted airports that are not available in the Standard Edition. Users who have an Xbox Game Pass subscription can also access the Standard Edition of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 for free as part of their membership.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is available for Windows PC and Xbox Series X/S platforms. It requires a minimum of 8 GB of RAM, a DirectX 11-capable video card with at least 2 GB of VRAM, and a CPU equivalent to an Intel i5-4460 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200. It also requires a minimum of 150 GB of disk space, but more is recommended for additional scenery and add-ons.
Both X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 have similar pricing and availability options, but some users may prefer one over the other based on their platform, edition, or subscription preferences. For example, some users may find X-Plane 12 more affordable or accessible, while others may find Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 more comprehensive or convenient.
Conclusion and Recommendation
X-Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 are both excellent flight simulators that offer realistic and immersive experiences for virtual pilots. They have different strengths and weaknesses in terms of features, performance, graphics, aircraft, weather, add-ons, multiplayer, and pricing. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, expectations, and goals.
If you are looking for a simulator that has a realistic and accurate flight model, a customizable and flexible weather engine, a diverse and accessible add-on community, and a cross-platform compatibility, you might prefer X-Plane 12. However, keep in mind that X-Plane 12 is still in Early Access and may have bugs, errors, or missing features.
If you are looking for a simulator that has stunning graphics and scenery, a realistic and dynamic weather engine, a comprehensive and integrated add-on marketplace, and unique online features such as live weather and traffic, you might prefer Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. However, keep in mind that Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 has high system requirements and may have performance issues, glitches, or inaccuracies.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which simulator suits you better is to try them both yourself and see which one you enjoy more. You can also watch reviews, videos, or streams of other users who have tried them both and compare their opinions and experiences. Whichever simulator you choose, we hope you have fun flying!
FAQs
Q: How can I download X-Plane 12 beta?
A: You can download X-Plane 12 beta from the official website after purchasing it. You will need to create an account and log in to access the download link. You will also need to enter your product key to activate the simulator.
Q: How can I download Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?
A: You can download Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 from the Microsoft Store, Steam, or Amazon after purchasing it. You will need to have a Microsoft account or a Steam account to access the download link. You will also need to have an internet connection to download the simulator.
Q: How can I update X-Plane 12 beta?
A: You can update X-Plane 12 beta using the built-in updater that comes with the simulator. You will need to launch the updater and follow the instructions to download and install the latest version of X-Plane 12 beta.
Q: How can I update Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?
A: You can update Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 using the built-in updater that comes with the simulator. You will need to launch the simulator and check for updates in the main menu. You will also need to have an internet connection to download and install the updates.
Q: How can I get help or support for X-Plane 12 beta?
A: You can get help or support for X-Plane 12 beta from various sources such as the official website[^5^ ], the official forum, the official manual, the official YouTube channel, or the official Discord server. You can also get help or support from other users or developers on websites and forums such as X-Plane.org, Threshold, and X-Pilot.
Q: How can I get help or support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?
A: You can get help or support for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 from various sources such as the official website, the official forum, the official FAQ, the official YouTube channel, or the official Zendesk. You can also get help or support from other users or developers on websites and platforms such as MSFS Addons, Flightsim.to, and the official Marketplace. 44f88ac181
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