Fighting Game Community

Hey everyone, It's this time of the year again. New fighting game came out and noobs like me are asking the questions you've heard a million times before. Humor me, would you?

I am new to fighting games, if you discount random button mashing for a while and then uninstalling - but for once I'd like to get better at them. Nearing 50 years of age, my reflexes aren't what they used to be when I was 20, but I still think I could have some fun, especially with the new MK1 just out.

I typically play games on a PS5 Dual Sense controller, but very quickly found out that its d-pad does not really work for me. While it was great for quarter and half-circle inputs, stuff like left-right was nearly impossible for me to pull off without hitting up (or down) on the way.

I tired an XBOX controller (I think it's the X1), but it was still not quite there. I hate the weight, the size and how clicky it is overall :(

A while back I bough (and almost never used) a cheap-o fightstick - Mayflash F300. Left-Right is still kinda tough, but generally I had the best experience with it. The problem is in how damn loud the thing is. Buttons feel a bit loose (rattling?) and the microswitches on the joystick click so loud my neighbors will come knocking if I play too much ;)

What I am getting at is - is there any recommended controller/stick you could suggest? I am hoping not to break the bank, but if it's worth it, I'd pay the premium for something that's responsive, comfortable, beginner friendly and not-too-loud.

I'd appreciate any help, suggestions, etc.

At the moment i am considering maybe playing on mechanical keyboard, but I feel like my fingers would slide off the right buttons in no time...