SCUF has a solid reputation when it comes to delivering amazing controllers, but we now have a real contender for one of their best Xbox efforts: the Valor Pro Wireless ($190 / £180).
This beast boasts customizable back paddles, mouse-click or full-press shoulder triggers, TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) anti-drift sticks, a rechargeable battery and much more. The Valor Pro Wireless really does everything as close to perfect as possible, building on the core design of Xbox's already amazing gamepad to present an utterly essential way to play.
Right out of the box, the premium feel of this controller can't be stated enough, with lovely rubber grips on the back and an eye-catching matte finish that is smooth enough to be comfortable while simultaneously feeling unlikely to slip or move.
This coat also gives the controller a very clean and premium look and feel, something that is much appreciated for fast-paced games. In addition, if you don't take too well to the matte black – or any of the color options for that matter – have no fear, as the magnetic faceplate is removable with just one pull at the top. So if you ever feel the need to replace yours, you can do so.
As much as I love the official Xbox controller, I have to admit I'm frustrated that Microsoft hasn't adopted anti-drift technology in its analogue sticks. I've had multiple pads become unusable due to stick drift, so the TMR sticks used on the Valor Pro Wireless are an absolute godsend.
They're also the most precise and responsive sticks I've ever seen on any Xbox pad, and when tested in games such as The Finals and ARC Raiders, they performed exceptionally well, feeling utterly effortless to use.
Along with the base sticks provided on the controller, there is also an additional pair of taller sticks which have a convex (rather than concave) top. I personally prefer the default concave top, and would have liked to have had some taller sticks with that option, but it's hardly a deal-breaker.
The face buttons and d-pad are both very similar to the default Xbox pad, but with SCUF's premium coat of paint; they're satisfying and responsive, providing an all-around great experience that offers a comfortable and smooth time in any game you choose.
You may have noticed two scroll wheels on the left and right at the bottom of the controller. These are separate volume controls for in-game audio and voice chat, giving you the option to get the perfect audio balance during gameplay. The 3.5mm headphone jack is located in its usual place below these dials.
Onto the back of the controller, we have the snappy mouse-click triggers, and that's not their only feature; they are adjustable to your liking. Flick the switch and you have a full-range analogue input for games that require a specific level of pressure, such as driving games. FPS titles are what I play most, so I love the 'instant' mouse-click setting, which means I can fire on foes almost instantly.
I can confidently say that the difference from full-press to mouse-click is game-changing, especially in games that call for a fast trigger finger. This is a feature that is greatly appreciated and will significantly elevate your game.
Another headline feature is not only a convenience, but also a long-term money saver: the rechargeable battery. This feature has been missing from the Xbox line of controllers for years (by default, at least), and is very welcome on the Valor Pro Wireless. With it offering a considerable 17 hours of battery life on a single charge, it's certainly a preferable option to having to buy batteries individually. The obvious downside is that you don't have the option to choose between AA batteries and a rechargeable pack, as is the case with the official controller.
Another feature that provides many more ways to play is the addition of back paddles. The Valor Pro Wireless boasts four back paddles that feel responsive and comfortable while not impeding grip and not taking up too much space. They can perform actions your thumb or finger would have had to do on the face buttons, but with the paddles, you can free up your thumb so it can stay ready on the joystick and be there to do what it needs to.
Some additional small controls on the back of the controller include a 3-point selection switch for wireless connectivity between Xbox, PC, and Bluetooth, as well as a button that links to controller profiles on the PC-based companion app. This app also allows you to fine-tune other aspects of the controller, and is currently in its beta phase.
To say that this is the best controller I've used with my Xbox Series X would be an understatement; it takes the basic blueprint of the official pad and augments it with some brilliant features, such as no-drift sticks, an internal battery, rear paddles, audio separation and more.
While the high cost might present a barrier for some, I'm comfortable with it – after all, I've gone through at least three controllers since I bought my console, and those days may well be over thanks to the arrival of the Valor Pro Wireless.
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