Not sure if it is better, but the Av8tor has a layout similar to that. I am using it, simply because I needed something to replace my dieing 3D pro, and I didn't have money for CH.
There is an 8-way switch with a button right under it Has a total of 12 buttons, 1x 8-way, a switch 2-way, 2 throttle.
Decent for me so far, yet to have troubles after a month or so, only trouble I have is Saitek's "looseness".