The new Scuf Valor Pro ($99) is a pro controller that wont break the bank.
The most notable feature is Scuf’s first ever Hall Effect thumbsticks.
Not only do they glide smoothly, but you might rest assured of zero stick drift.
Im a fan of the bouncy face buttons, super clicky bumper buttons and responsive triggers.
Trigger stops for the latter shorten the actuation point for better accuracy in first-person shooters.
The Scuf Valor Pro is a wired-only controller.
The fact that it packs so many pro-grade features for $99 is also something I applaud.
Its certainly one of thebest PC game controllersout there, as youll find out in my full review.
Its arguably the best pro controller at this price range.
Lightweight, ergonomic design
The Valor Pro has the same basic shape as an Xbox controller.
So if youre used to that peripheral, youll feel right at home here.
But since this is a pro controller, it has other features.
I like the rubber grips, with their recognizable Scuf hexagonal pattern.
This isnt just for show, as the rubber and texture keep the controller firmly in hand.
The buttons are bouncier than normal, which makes them easier to use with a more tactile press.
Theyre not overly loud either.
The left and right bumper buttons come down lower on the sides.
Then theres the trigger buttons behind the bumpers.
Each has a slightly textured surface that prevents your finger from slipping.
The triggers also produce a clicky sound with the locks on.
This wouldnt be a Scuf controller without back paddles.
The two main paddles contour with the controller and are located where your middle fingers naturally rest.
These paddles produce a muted sound when clicked.
This contrasts with the louder, smaller back paddles, which are more like buttons instead of paddles.
I want to single out the thumbsticks since this is the first Scuf controller featuring Hall Effect technology.
Out of the box, the controller has a pair of concave thumbsticks.
Their sides have slightly rough edges meant to help keep your thumbs from sliding.
Using them feels effortless since they dont require a lot of force to move.
Its also easy to press them down.
The fluid thumbsticks make moving around seamless, while the buttons let you perform actions almost as effortlessly.
On PC, the Valor Pro can hit a 1,000Hz polling rate after you install an update.
This is mostly beneficial for professional players who need ultimate responsiveness in games.
But if youre a normal gamer like me, you likely wont notice a major difference.
Regardless, youll have an overall smooth experience while playing games using this controller.
Because of that, the Valor Pro being a wired-only peripheral could be a major turn-off.
This controller is arguably for folks who arent professional gamers but want a more premium controller for everyday gaming.
All that said, I appreciate that the included cable is 10 feet long and is braided.
No software support
The Valor Pro has three controller profiles out of the box.
Remapping button functions right on the equipment works as intended.
However, I wish I could configure the controller on Corsairs iCue program on PC.
The fact that I cant is strange considering how theScuf Envision Procontroller works with iCue.
Perhaps this was another concession made to keep the cost down.
If youre an Xbox player, then this likely wont be an issue.
The Hall Effect thumbsticks are fantastic, and I love how good the Valor Pro feels to hold.
