Modern mechas have become increasingly similar to armor. The legs are enveloped by inner mechas, and the lower limbs are wholly controlled through leg movements. However, the upper limbs are different, as they need to operate various weapons, so there's still a platform-based control complemented with brainwave access.
Manual plus cognitive, dual control, is the highest standard for mecha operation.
Generally speaking, military mechas are often controlled purely by brainwaves, in combination with standardized procedures, to achieve combat goals.
But truly powerful mechas, especially for many surprising maneuvers, require manual assistance. The faster and more accurate the hand speed, the better the control effect naturally.
This is similar to soul fighter operation. But mecha operation is definitely far more complex.