Compact haptic interface (100) includes a base (102) and a yoke (304) rotatably disposed within the base. A first drive coupling (312) between a first motor (301) and the yoke rotates the yoke about a yoke axis (308). A carrier (306) is mounted to the yoke and rotatable about a carrier axis (310) transverse to the yoke axis. A rod (110) mounted to the carrier extends along a rod axis (346) transverse to the yoke axis and the carrier axis. A second drive coupling (314) rotates the carrier about the carrier axis responsive to operation of a second motor (302) which is mounted to the yoke. A third motor (303) is supported on the carrier and rotatable with the carrier about the carrier axis of rotation. A third drive coupling (340) facilitates linear movement of the rod along a linear direction responsive to operation of the third motor.