You can fly the 737 without touching the controls as well, by turning the knobs and using the various auto pilot modes. It really just comes down to which you prefer or which "clicks" for you more. Eventually you'll end up owning both, and flying one or the other depending on your mood that day - at least, that's what most people I know do. 

Of course there are some that ONLY fly one or the other because they just like that one alone, or they have some reason like they are real world pilots, Airbus/Boeing fans, whatever. 

If I were you, I would buy a 737-600 (PMDG, $35, 2020. I think it can be used in 2024, but not sure), and also get the free FBW 320. Then, try both and see which one clicks for you. If you find that you like the Airbus, you can stick with FBW or get Fenix (my recommendation) or FSLabs (also very good, but I haven't used it), and you're only out $35. 

If you find you love the Boeing way more, well, you can get the 737 Max from iFly, or the 777 from PMDG and continue to have fun with those. All excellent planes and you really can't go wrong. 

Edited July 12, 2025Jul 12 by JonathanC

1 hour ago, MikeV1 said:

IRL, I'd prefer Airbus. Playing on the PC, I prefer the 737 because there's more to do, and it feels more fun. I'd potentially get PMDGs 737 once out for 2024, or the iFly. 

Thanks. Sounds right. What’s the expectation on an ETA for the PMDG 737 in FS24?

1 hour ago, Virtual-Chris said:

Thanks. Sounds right. What’s the expectation on an ETA for the PMDG 737 in FS24?

That's a question you need to ask on the PMDG forum.