Hi OLH,
Welcome to the forum.
I used a 4" phone for a long time. Phone broke. Got a Kindle Fire HD 7" while waiting for the new phone. I chose it for several reasons.
Larger screen, light-weight (comparatively speaking), price, and the main reason: MS. LUNA uses a Kindle and she's smart.
Fortunately, I chose a different Kindle than hers. While many have problems with updates, I have experienced none.
Joy sticks, to me, don't give me the control I want and need.
Lame hand? My body has been lame during most of my DogFight career. I have had to develop a harness/holder to help me support it for flight (especially good for long missions).
I adapted a glove to help my fingers/hands grip it.
The tilt control allows for smoother, more fluid motion. More like the feel of a real plane.
The use of a non-phone prevents being interrupted by calls.
If you need some help with a holder let me know.
Good luck and if you see a Jack-a-donkey flying...that's DENT.