1/2" MDF or.........

[Richardgregory]

I don't own a router, and just as well, don't have the skillset to be using it nor the space to have a proper work area. 

I want to upgrade / reconfig my existing control panel, and with that, to mount my new joystick, I'm going to have to create a recessed square under the wood so that the joystick shaft will be long enough when mounted.  My thinking is that to avoid all the hassle, I'd just use a thinner piece of wood as opposed to the standard 3/4", so I was thinking 1/2" plywood or MDF would  do the trick.  I don't know if it'll matter about the thickness of the wood for a control panel - yes?

Thanks

P.S.  I don't even know if MDF comes in a thinner size other than the traditional 3/4"

[Unstupid]

You can get 1/2" MDf...   1/2" plywood is also an option since you will probably be covering the CP with artwork anyways...  You can also go with a longer joystick shaft too!   

[Drnick]

Or you could have a piece of 1/2" with a piece of 1/4" stuck to the back the 1/4" has relevant holes cut out for joysticks. This obviously gets you back to 3/4 thickness again. I suppose it all depends on the look you have at the moment and if the thinner wood makes any difference to the overall aesthetic. 

Feel free to ignore me tonight I'm just rambling along 

[kahlid74]

I think it also depends on how big the control panel is.  A two player cab 1/2" MDF/Plywood should be fine.  A 4 player cab and 1/2" "should" be fine but you might want to look to 1/2" plywood at that stage.  The larger the surface area the weaker MDF can get.  You could always go with 1/2" MDF on a 4 player and use some posts for support in the middle. 

You've got a lot of options but some require more work or more money.  Identify which you would prefer and then pursue it.