Verdict
The Scuf Instinct Pro is an unbelievable controller for each PC and Xbox Series X/S. Everything feels nicely put collectively, it’s comfy to make use of, and the customisation choices are plentiful. The solely points are its excessive value and lack of swappable options in comparison with an Xbox Elite Controller.
Pros
Incredibly comfyHighly customisableSturdy construct qualityFun to make use of
Cons
ExpensiveHeavier than a traditional controller
Key Features
Highly customisablePractically each component of the Instinct Pro could be customised, together with the thumbsticks and the faceplate
WirelessThe Instinct Pro connects through Bluetooth to PCs
Xbox and PC assistThe Instinct Pro works with the Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC
Introduction
The Scuf Instinct Pro Controller is the newest providing from a producer famend for creating a number of the greatest customized controllers round.
The Instinct Pro truly represents the agency’s first dive into the world of Xbox Series X/S controllers, and with a beginning value of £189.99/$199 (and many optionally available extras to push up the value even additional), it’s a little bit bit dearer than Microsoft’s personal Elite Controller Series 2.
Do these credentials give it sufficient to change into the most effective sport controllers you should buy proper now?
Design
Noticeably heavier than the usual Series X controllerRubberised again feels lovelyFully customisable to look unbelievableThe Scuf Instinct Pro delivers the entire package deal in terms of design, offering a cushty and satisfying expertise with loads of customisation on provide.
It’s a remarkably handsome controller, helped alongside by the putting purple and orange faceplate and orange buttons to match. Of course, this isn’t how the Instinct Pro is shipped usually.
You get all method of choices at checkout, together with a customized faceplate, a selection over the color of the buttons and thumbsticks, in addition to the triggers and D-pad. This leads to a controller that’s curated for the person participant – as you’ll see from mine, I’m a selected fan of purple and orange.
Everything concerning the Instinct Pro feels properly curated and has this noticeable attraction and high quality to it, even all the way down to the texturing on the thumbsticks. Scuf gives comparable choices to the Xbox Elite Controller by offering a selection of both domed or concave thumbsticks at three totally different heights. For mine, I picked considered one of every, simply to get an thought of each.
The unit additionally has a noticeable heft compared to a traditional Xbox controller, which makes it really feel well-made. The weight wasn’t a problem for me, however you do have the choice of constructing it lighter by selecting to take out the rumble packs. Note, nevertheless, you’ll lose the vibrations when doing so. Intriguingly, Scuf tells me that that is the desire of the professionals.
Much just like the Elite Controller, you’ll discover paddles on the again in addition to oodles of rubberised padding that make the Instinct Pro extremely comfy, even with its further weight.
The solely factor that’s noticeably totally different concerning the Instinct Pro in distinction to the standard Xbox controller is the A-B-X-Y buttons have perceivably quick journey, which could be useful for fast inputs, however does take some getting used to.
Performance
Strong suggestions and vibrationsGreat enjoyable to make use of on each Xbox and PCExtra paddles and lockable triggers includedHaving examined the Instinct Pro throughout all kinds of video games on PC and, in fact Xbox Series X, I’m comfortable to report that it delivers a unbelievable expertise.
Whether being peppered with bullets in Battlefield 1, or punting opponents in Forza Horizon 4, the controller carried out admirably with some remarkably robust vibrations that additionally supplied good placement. For occasion, in Forza Motorsport 7, the aspect of the skin kerbs corresponded with the controller’s vibrations for heightened immersion.
The button structure was properly acquainted, and this controller felt comfy in hand. The paddles felt intuitive and responsive to make use of, and may truly be configured with as much as 16 totally different features at a time. Their design is a little bit bit totally different to these on the Elite Series 2 as nicely. Where the Elite makes use of 4 paddles on the again, the Instinct Pro utilises two units of switches that function at two totally different angles.
They could be fairly a intelligent perform, for those who want a quick button that’s inside simple attain around the again of the controller, particularly inside racing video games. I mapped mine to the Shift Up and Down controls, as an illustration, because it offered a correct ‘paddle-shift’ so to talk. They really feel agency and clicky, too.
It’s additionally with these added options that the Instinct Pro wins towards the unique Series X controller, as you even have the flexibility to lock the triggers to provide a sense nearer to mouse clicks.
The Instinct Pro, being appropriate with each Series consoles and PC, is ready to join through each Bluetooth and Xbox Wireless. I didn’t discover any latency between inputs and the tip outcome, which is so vital for those who’re taking part in competitively.
The Instinct Pro comes with a level of configuration out there, though it isn’t as a lot because the Xbox Elite Series 2 gives. Some crossover exists between the pair: there are interchangeable thumbsticks bundled within the field with Scuf’s mannequin that may be swapped out, however they’ll’t be modified in seconds as they’ll on an Elite controller.
On the battery life entrance, the Instinct Pro will final for 30 hours with the included batteries, whereas additionally providing assist for third-party equipment similar to a charging dock. Do be aware, although, that for those who choose a charging dock that depends on utilizing its battery covers, the Instinct Pro received’t work – Scuf’s attachment is magnetic versus coming with the standard plastic clips.
You’ll discover a 2-metre braided USB-C charging cable within the field with the Instinct Pro, since it really works with both normal or rechargeable AAs, and will also be used with the Microsoft Play and Charge equipment.
There’s additionally a useful mute button out there if you could step out of voice chat in any respect, plus the standard proprietary connectors for headphones and Xbox headsets of outdated.
Should you purchase it?
You need a customisable controller: The Instinct Pro shines, particularly for each construct high quality and efficiency. Its premium really feel and the straightforward notion that every thing about it’s configurable makes it further particular.
You don’t have £250 to spend on a controller: All of that customisation does come at a premium. If you aren’t fearful about that stage of design and customisation, then selecting up an Elite Series 2 Controller could be a greater wager.
Verdict
The Scuf Instinct Pro is an outstanding controller for each PC and Xbox avid gamers who need as many customisation choices as doable. However, it additionally comes with a really excessive value, with the Xbox Elite Controller arguably providing higher worth for cash.
How we check
We use each sport controller we check for at the very least per week. During that point, we’ll verify it for ease of use and put it via its paces by taking part in a wide range of totally different genres.
We additionally verify the controller’s software program assist and battery life if relevant.
We used as our principal controller for at the very least per week.
Played a wide range of video games to check all of the options.
Tested on each Xbox and PC.
Tested out the battery life.
FAQs
What platforms does the Scuf Instinct Pro work with? Xbox Series X/S and PC. Is it comfy? Yes, the Instinct Pro is comfy to make use of for lengthy stretches of time. Is it wi-fi? Yes, it helps wi-fi through Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth for PC.
Specs
‹
UK RRP
Manufacturer
Release Date
First Reviewed Date
Ports
Connectivity
Number of Macro Keys
Scuf Instinct Pro Controller
£189.99
SCUF Gaming
2021
13/08/2021
Xbox Headphone Adapter, 3.5mm jack, Micro USB
Bluetooth
0
›