Most would probably say that Microsoft made the best joysticks in the low to mid price range... unfortunetly I say "made" because they stopped, if you can find one new I would give it a look since I haven't heard much if anything bad about them.
That leaves you with Logitech and Saitek and possibly Thrustmaster (not sure what their product line is off hand)
Ch Products has an excellent reputation but they don't have a twisty stick and a joystick alone will run you $100.
My impressions and what I've heard of Logitech is generally bad. I think most people will advise you to stay away from them. I had some input spike issues on the Logitech I had way back when.
Saitek seems to be kinda mixed bag. I had a very good experience with their X36 HOTAS setup. (The X45 is the current, non twisty though... I bought a $100 X36 refurbed by the manufacturer for $40 and it lasted me 3+ years) Other people have reported problems with the hat switches after only a few months. They do make a line of lower end sticks they may be worth looking into. Also if you're left handed the Cyborg line can be setup to work left handed which is a plus.
Thrustmaster, I don't have any first hand experience here, nor do I really know what their current product line is.
Here's their websites.
Saitek Logitech Thrustmaster*edit* I should also add that all my experiences were with with Win98se or WinXP Pro if that matters.
