Compare Embraer E175 add-ons for MSFS 2020 and 2024: FSS versus Virtualcol, plus console, freeware and legacy FSX compatibility caveats.
Microsoft Flight Simulator has two main native Embraer E175 choices: FlightSim Studio’s E-Jets 170/175 package and Virtualcol’s Embraer 170/175 Series. FSS is the more systems-focused option; Virtualcol has a simpler systems scope. Neither should be confused with older FSX or Prepar3D E175 downloads, which do not install directly in MSFS.
Native Embraer E175 add-ons for MSFS
For a complete native aircraft, the established choices are paid packages containing both the E170 and E175 rather than an E175 sold on its own.
| Package | What it offers | Best fit | Main caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlightSim Studio E-Jets 170/175 | A more detailed cockpit, custom systems work and both E170 and E175 variants. | Airline procedures, route management and pilots seeking the more ambitious simulation. | The package has passed through staged development, so check whether the build supports the FMS, VNAV and autoflight functions you expect. |
| Virtualcol Embraer 170/175 Series | A simpler rendition of both regional jets, aimed at accessible operation rather than maximum systems depth. | Casual regional flying and a shorter learning curve. | Do not buy it expecting the same procedural and avionics detail as the FSS aircraft. |
These are first-generation E-Jet packages. An E170/175 product does not automatically include the proposed E175-E2, and an E190/195 package is not an alternative route to the E175.
Which E175 add-on should I choose?
Choose the FSS E175 when systems depth and airline-style operation matter most; choose Virtualcol when you want a recognisable E175 that is quicker to learn.
- FMS and autoflight: If you plan to fly realistic schedules, check support for route changes, discontinuities, SID and STAR selection, holds, performance calculations and VNAV constraints. Do not treat “custom avionics” as proof that every real-aircraft function is simulated.
- Procedural depth: FSS is the better starting point for cockpit preparation and managed flight. Virtualcol is more suitable if you prefer straightforward start-up and basic autopilot operation.
- Exact variant: Confirm that liveries and performance data are for the E175, not merely the shorter E170 or the larger E190 and E195.
- Simulator edition: Verify that the specific product build supports MSFS 2020, MSFS 2024 or both before buying or reinstalling it.
Do E175 add-ons work in MSFS 2024?
An E175 add-on should be treated as compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 only when its exact build or Marketplace listing identifies MSFS 2024 support. A package appearing in the aircraft selector does not prove that its displays, flight model, sounds and external dependencies work correctly.
On PC, use the latest complete installer supplied for the aircraft. If an update produces a missing model or black displays, check for duplicate old and new packages in the Community folder before troubleshooting the avionics themselves.
Are there free E175 add-ons for MSFS?
Free modern-MSFS E175 files are commonly liveries or development-stage projects rather than complete, ready-to-fly aircraft. Our native MSFS freeware and livery library identifies the required simulator and dependencies for each file.
A repaint does not contain the underlying aircraft. It must name the exact FSS or Virtualcol base package, and an E170 livery should not be assumed to fit the E175. Wrong-model liveries commonly cause blank thumbnails, missing textures or a package that never appears in the aircraft selector.
Can I use an FSX E175 in Microsoft Flight Simulator?
No. An FSX E175 cannot be copied into MSFS 2020 or 2024 because its model, panel, gauge and package formats belong to a different simulator generation.
Our explanation of why FSX aircraft cannot simply be copied into MSFS covers the conversion problem. For pilots still using FSX, our freeware FSX EMB-175 with a virtual cockpit remains a legacy option, but it is not a native MSFS aircraft.
Can I fly an E175 on Xbox or PlayStation 5?
An E175 works on a console only if the exact aircraft is offered and marked compatible in that console’s in-simulator Marketplace. Xbox and PlayStation cannot install PC Community-folder packages, external installers or legacy FSX aircraft.
Xbox Series X|S supports MSFS 2020 and MSFS 2024, while PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro support MSFS 2024 only. Marketplace availability and purchase entitlement can differ by simulator edition and platform, so a PC licence should not be assumed to include a console copy.