Joystick control has become the standard operating system on modern construction equipment, largely replacing the lever and pedal controls previously used. On hydraulic excavators, two joysticks simultaneously control four main movements: boom raise/lower, arm in/out, bucket in/out, and swing.
Two internationally established control layouts exist: ISO control (also SAE control) and the BMS (Backhoe Machine Standard) configuration. Most modern excavators allow operators to switch between both layouts via software. Proportional valves ensure that joystick deflection is directly proportional to the speed of the hydraulic cylinders — light touch for precision, full deflection for maximum speed.
Current developments are moving toward electrohydraulic joysticks with haptic feedback, configurable auxiliary buttons (for quick couplers, tiltrotators, grapplers), and mouse control via touchscreen. Liebherr, Cat, and Komatsu also offer joystick steering for wheel loaders, which significantly reduces operator fatigue during extended operation.