I've started using two (identical, ambidextrous) joysticks for ED, and using that I cover the 6dof needed for movement as well as all the functionality needed (I have 6 buttons and a throttle unassigned still!).
If you have a bunch of joysticks kicking around, give this set up a consideration before buying a HOTAS. It's actually quite good!
Here's a link to a reddit post with the mapping;
http://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/2cthys/my_dual_joystick_set_up/cjkvnku
The joysticks in question is older Saitek Cyborg EVOs, but any with a twist action should work.
If you have a bunch of joysticks kicking around, give this set up a consideration before buying a HOTAS. It's actually quite good!
Here's a link to a reddit post with the mapping;
http://www.reddit.com/r/EliteDangerous/comments/2cthys/my_dual_joystick_set_up/cjkvnku
The joysticks in question is older Saitek Cyborg EVOs, but any with a twist action should work.