Home simulators can be genuinely useful for: learning cockpit layout and instrument scanning, practising navigation and flight planning, understanding radio procedures and phraseology (with ATC simulation add-ons), developing situational awareness, and building muscle memory for procedures. However, they cannot teach you: the physical sensations of flying (g-forces, turbulence, seat-of-the-pants feel), real-world radio communication with live ATC, actual weather judgement, or the motor skills of precise control inputs with real aerodynamic feedback. Most instructors report that sim experience helps students learn cockpit procedures faster but can create bad habits in handling (over-controlling, fixating on instruments instead of looking outside). Use sims as a supplement, never a substitute.
A useful home setup for PPL preparation doesn't need to be expensive. Software: X-Plane 12 or MSFS 2024 (both have realistic flight models for GA aircraft). Hardware: a basic yoke or joystick (Logitech/Saitek yoke EUR150-250, or a quality HOTAS stick EUR100-200), rudder pedals (essential — Thrustmaster TFRP EUR100, Logitech/Saitek Pro EUR150), and optionally a throttle quadrant. Single monitor is fine; TrackIR or head tracking adds immersion. Total budget: EUR300-700 for a functional setup. Focus practice on: procedures, radio work (use PilotEdge or VATSIM for realistic ATC), navigation exercises matching your real training area, and emergency checklists. Don't try to 'learn to fly' in the sim — learn procedures and systems.
Both approaches work, but starting theory before or very early in flight training is highly recommended on forums and by experienced instructors. Benefits: you'll understand what your instructor is teaching from day one, radio calls make more sense when you've studied Communications, weather decisions improve when you've covered Meteorology, and you'll be more confident in the cockpit. Many successful students complete all 9 PPL theory exams before or during the first half of flight training. The consensus from r/flying, PPRuNe, and experienced CFIs: doing ground school first saves money in the air because you spend less lesson time on explanations and more on flying. At minimum, study Air Law, Principles of Flight, and Meteorology early.
