What difference do rudder pedals make, how long do they take to get used to and what are some good value (not too expensive) ones to get?
Just get them, you won't regret it. I regret being so cheap and not getting them when online play was active.
They are a lot better way to control the rudder, they are easy to get used to.
The only problem I've had is remembering to give some rudder when lining up shots since I have been flying for more than a decade not lining up very well.
When you slide your angle into the same as your target its a game changer.
They make small adjustments to your path easy. In the past I would play with trim all the time while twisting the stick. Now I set a general trim for level flight and use pedals for anything above or below that.
Mine are Logitech "Pro Flight Rudder Pedals"
The only thing I had to do is have something to push them against. I laid down a board against the feet of my desk.
There are also holes in the base that you could use to tie off to something, or screw into a board.