The nice thing about CH is it has been around and will be around. Saitek comes out with a new design every few years.
Each and every time you switch gear, you have to make an adjustment. Switch entire models, and that adjustment is huge.
If Saitek still made the X45, I would still be using one. I caved and dealt with the CH learning curve (ty Bighorn!) for a few months because I did not want to become the next "I can only fly with a Sidewinder Pro--better buy 20 off ebay" guy. I have a good feeling the fighter stick will remain fairly consistent over the next 10 years. Who knows what Saitek will come out with.