Boeing 737 NG vs Boeing 737 MAX Simulator: Which One Should You Choose?

When choosing between a Boeing 737 NG and a Boeing 737 MAX flight simulator, many buyers assume that the MAX must be significantly more expensive because it represents a newer generation of aircraft.

From a flight simulator manufacturer's perspective, this assumption is incorrect.

At SIMIUS, we manufacture both configurations, and the difference in hardware production cost is minimal — typically no more than €1,000 for a comparable configuration.

The most important factor when choosing between the two is not the cockpit itself, but the flight simulation software you intend to use.

1. Cockpit Differences: Mostly Visual

The Boeing 737 NG and Boeing 737 MAX share very similar cockpit architecture, dimensions, and control layouts.

The most noticeable difference is the instrument display configuration. The Boeing 737 NG features six main display units, while the Boeing 737 MAX uses four larger LCD displays, giving its cockpit a more modern appearance.

There are also minor differences in the throttle quadrant, overhead panel, and certain cockpit components. However, from a simulator manufacturing perspective, these differences are relatively small.

Despite the larger displays in the MAX cockpit, their size does not significantly increase the cost of manufacturing the simulator.

For this reason, customers should not expect a substantial price difference simply because one simulator represents the newer aircraft generation.

2. The Most Important Difference: Software Compatibility

This is where the Boeing 737 NG and Boeing 737 MAX differ significantly.

The software platform determines how the simulator operates, which aircraft models and systems are available, and how suitable the installation is for commercial or private use.

Boeing 737 NG: Greater Software Flexibility

The Boeing 737 NG offers excellent compatibility with established flight simulation platforms.

For commercial entertainment flight simulators, X-Plane is one of the solutions that can be used with a properly integrated Boeing 737 NG cockpit. X-Plane is particularly useful for commercial installations where the simulator must operate regularly and where reliable integration between the software and physical cockpit is essential.

The Boeing 737 NG can also be configured for Microsoft Flight Simulator, making it an attractive option for home users. This flexibility allows customers to choose a software platform based on their operational needs.

Boeing 737 MAX: More Limited Software Options

The situation is different with the Boeing 737 MAX.

Although Boeing 737 MAX aircraft are available for Microsoft Flight Simulator, a fully compatible MAX configuration for X-Plane is not currently part of the standard commercial simulator solutions offered by SIMIUS. This is an important limitation for customers who want to operate a full-scale physical cockpit using X-Plane.

For home use, however, a Boeing 737 MAX simulator can be configured around Microsoft Flight Simulator with suitable aircraft software and hardware integration. For private customers who specifically want the modern MAX cockpit, this can be an attractive solution.

3. Software Compatibility Comparison

Software compatibility always depends on the selected aircraft model, avionics software, hardware interfaces, and integration configuration.

4. Is the Boeing 737 MAX Simulator More Expensive?

No — not from a hardware manufacturing perspective.

Both simulators use largely similar construction methods, cockpit structures, mechanical components, and electronic systems. The different display configuration, small throttle quadrant variations, and overhead panel adjustments have only a minor impact on the production cost.

At SIMIUS, the manufacturing cost difference between comparable Boeing 737 NG and Boeing 737 MAX simulator hardware configurations is typically no more than €1,000.

Final project pricing may still vary depending on the selected visual system, software licenses, additional equipment, installation, and customer-specific requirements. For a full itemised breakdown, see our Boeing 737 simulator cost guide.

5. Which Simulator Is Better for Commercial Use?

For commercial entertainment flight simulator businesses, SIMIUS generally recommends the Boeing 737 NG.

The main reason is software compatibility. A commercial simulator must support consistent daily operation, reliable cockpit integration, and a practical technical support and maintenance process.

The Boeing 737 NG has a well-established software ecosystem, including X-Plane-based configurations, making it a practical choice for entertainment venues.

The Boeing 737 MAX may still be suitable for specific projects, particularly where its modern cockpit appearance is an important requirement. However, its software integration should be evaluated individually before choosing it for commercial operation.

Our recommendation is therefore based on technical practicality rather than manufacturing cost.

6. Which Simulator Is Better for Home Use?

For a private home simulator, both the Boeing 737 NG and Boeing 737 MAX are attractive options.

If you prefer the familiar Boeing 737 cockpit and want the flexibility to use different flight simulation platforms, the NG is an excellent choice.

If you prefer the modern cockpit design with larger displays and intend to use Microsoft Flight Simulator, the MAX is also worth considering.

For home users, the decision is largely a matter of cockpit preference and the desired software environment. Since hardware manufacturing costs are nearly identical, there is little reason to choose one model purely based on price.

7. Our Recommendation

At SIMIUS, we manufacture both Boeing 737 NG and Boeing 737 MAX flight simulators. From a hardware perspective, the two configurations are very similar in terms of construction complexity and production cost.

The key factor is software.

For home installations based on Microsoft Flight Simulator, both models can be considered, depending on the customer's preferences and the selected software integration.

Ultimately, choosing between the Boeing 737 NG and Boeing 737 MAX should not be about paying more for a newer-looking cockpit. It should be about selecting the right software platform for your intended use.

Boeing 737 NG specs →   Boeing 737 MAX specs →