If you're looking at the 3D pro you may or may not have read this page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_SideWinder#3D_Pro

That section is actually a great primer on the capabilites of DOS joysticks, in terms of analogue/digital, supported buttons, what can be done on a single gameport, etc. I own a 3D Pro and while I don't have a lot of experience with others of the period to compare with, it's clear that it's a very versatile stick. A critical feature for me is the stick twist Z axis.

I do have to say I picked up a CH F-16 for cheap not long ago and wow... in terms of feel and build quality, going from the MS to CH is like going from a Lada to a Bentley. But, no stick twist on the CH is a bummer.

Yes the MS Siderwinder 3D Pro's are very good, some of the Logitech joysticks are good too.

I have a Sidewinder Force Feedback Pro. It's a beast of a joystick and the best one I ever had.

The build quality is great - Microsoft used light sensors for determining the position of the stick, so it is very accurate and unlikely to break.
They realized this was a mistake later and did not continue the approach in their later models. 😀

The FF Pro will even work with modern games (including Force Feedback effects) when converted to USB. Gas Guzzlers on Windows 10 is soo much fun with this thing!
It will also work with DOS games, but only when run inside of the Windows Dosbox.

Ultimate setup for flight sims is a Thrustmaster HOTAS setup. And if you want even fancier, then get pedals as well.

FLCS
WCS II - full programmability of the stick and throttle buttons and throttle through the keyboard port. Plus you have multiple modes you can switch between real time.
pedals

Racing games are best with a wheel and pedals.... If you want to get really fancy you can get a separate stick shift as well.

Agree that racing games your better off with a wheel.
My fist one was a Mad Catz wheel same design as the one for the PSX. It was cheap but even still my times in NFS improved. I wouldn't recommend it but shows even something cheap is better then keyboard/joystick

I then went over to Logitech Force Feedback, aka "old red" which had better build quality then next few wheels. It comes with a USB to Serial adapter so lack of USB isn't a problem but no help dos dos games.

The Wingman Formula GP is the DB15 non feedback version but looks to be based on the "new red" feedback version which Dad got. build quality was still ok but not as solid and heavy as before. eg mine had actual paddles where as his were just buttons mounted on the back of the wheel
https://youtu.be/Vhqvyp6Ac68

Thrustmaster is another option for DB15 but have no experience with them
https://racesimcentral.net/thrustmaster-formula-t1-t2/