Flight simulation has seen incredible advancements in realism over the years, and add-ons like “POWERLINES AND SOLAR FARMS MSFS” by MamuDesign and “MSFS Global Power Lines” by Orbx significantly contribute to this progress. Both products enhance the representation of powerlines in Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS), but they cater to different needs and audiences. This article compares these two add-ons and highlights their respective strengths.

1. POWERLINES AND SOLAR FARMS MSFS

Developer: MamuDesign
Price: €12.00 (+VAT where applicable)
Compatibility: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 & 2024
Size: 443.93 MB

Advantages:

• Complete Powerlines with Wires:
  While MSFS includes powerline pylons by default, it doesn’t render the wires between them. This add-on adds realistic wires between high-voltage pylons (above 60,000 volts). This is especially useful for VFR pilots who fly low and slow, as it accurately reflects the hazards posed by powerlines.
• Solar Farms:
  A unique feature of this add-on is its inclusion of solar farms in several countries, such as the USA, Canada, Germany, France, and Spain. This improves the visual diversity and realism of the environment by replacing empty fields with realistic solar panels.
• Extensive Regional Coverage:
  Powerlines and solar farms are integrated into multiple regions, including Europe, North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and parts of Asia and the Middle East.
• Focus on Helicopters and Low Flights:
  This add-on is particularly suited for helicopter pilots and low-altitude flying, as the details are optimized for these scenarios.

Disadvantages:

• Performance Impact:
  In densely populated areas, users may experience occasional stutters, especially on older systems.
• Limited Global Coverage:
  While many regions are covered, some areas—particularly in less developed countries—are not included.

2. MSFS Global Power Lines

Developer: Orbx (Dmytro Krykunov)
Price: $13.99 AUD (approx. €8.39)
Compatibility: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 & 2024
Size: 29.18 MB

Advantages:

• Handcrafted Powerline Towers:
  This add-on replaces the default MSFS powerline towers with 19 unique, high-quality 3D models that reflect regional variations. This results in a realistic and immersive experience without sacrificing performance.
• Optimized Performance:
  Despite the improved visuals, the add-on maintains stable performance with no noticeable FPS drops, making it ideal for all types of systems.
• Simple Management:
  The add-on includes a built-in management tool for easy activation, deactivation, and customization.
• Long-Term Updates:
  Orbx provides consistent updates, adding more tower designs and refinements to enhance the experience over time.

Disadvantages:

• No Wires Between Towers:
  One major drawback is the lack of wires between the towers, which may detract from the realism for VFR pilots who rely on accurate obstacles.
• Dependency on MSFS Data:
  The add-on relies on MSFS/Asobo data for the placement and orientation of powerline towers. Any inaccuracies in the default data cannot be corrected.

Key Features Comparison

Conclusion: Which Add-On is Right for You?

Choosing between POWERLINES AND SOLAR FARMS MSFS and MSFS Global Power Lines depends on your preferences and flying style:

1. For VFR Pilots and Helicopter Enthusiasts:
   If you often fly at low altitudes and value realistic obstacles like wires and powerlines, POWERLINES AND SOLAR FARMS MSFS is the better choice. Its addition of solar farms further enhances the landscape’s realism.
2. For Performance-Focused Simulators:
   If you prioritize visual improvements without performance losses, MSFS Global Power Lines is the ideal option. Its handcrafted tower models provide a polished experience while maintaining FPS stability.

Both add-ons complement each other well and could even be used together to achieve both technical and visual enhancements in Microsoft Flight Simulator.