Secondly, SCUF offers us a “Pro” model of this controller (which is what we are going to see today), which includes, in addition to everything we have seen before, the following unique functions:
- Instant triggers. It offers us the possibility of blocking the triggers so that they behave like a button, ideal for FPS.
- Rubber finish that allows us a much more comfortable grip, and without the controller slipping off during long gaming sessions.
- Vibrator for a more immersive gaming experience. We can remove the vibrators so that the control is lighter and more precise.
Otherwise the SCUF Instinct Pro is a asymmetric control designed for XBOX One / XBOX Series, which we can also use on Windows 10 and 11, on macOS Catalina (or later), on Android and on iOS. This controller has the same connectivity as the original Xbox controller, that is, a Bluetooth connection to use it wirelessly at a maximum distance of 12 meters, or the possibility of connecting it via a USB Type-C cable.
The size of the controller is 168 mm long, 108 mm wide, and 53 mm high and it has a weight of 280 grams. As for the connections, in addition to the USB-C connector, we also find an expansion port and a 3.5mm stereo audio output.
The controller works with two AA batteries (included), and we can put any battery compatible with standard Xbox controllers if we want. Really, in a command of this price we consider that should include battery already from the factory
Unboxing and external analysis
The controller comes in a hard cardboard box on the outside of which we can find an additional soft cardboard cover, where we will see a photo of the controller in question, with its design as well as the main characteristics.
If we remove the outer cardboard we can access the box. This box is made of a very strong “premium” cardboard, which perfectly protects the controller. As you can see, it is textured and has the SCUF logo on top.
When we open the box we find the controller in question at first glance, although inside a plastic blister pack to protect it from possible damage (something that will rarely happen given the quality of the cardboard packaging). In addition, there is a foam that protects the joysticks and the crosshead from being damaged during transport.
Under the controller we have a cardboard box with the accessories, as well as a (basic) instruction manual.
Inside the cardboard box we find the USB-A to USB-C cable that will allow us to connect the controller to the PC or the console, as well as recharge its battery in the event that we install one. The cable is braided with nylon thread to protect its integrity.
We also find two concave levers that we can change for the two that are included in the standard remote, and also two batteries.
The batteries are Duracell OEM, the same ones that come with the original Microsoft remote.
Having seen the accessories, the time has come to see the control. As you can see, it has a design identical to that of the original Xbox controller, so much so that it even seems that they have taken the same body of the original controller and have customized it. Even Xbox itself detects it as such, and allows us to update its firmware from the Xbox accessories app.
We have chosen the Steel Gray color, since we like how the dark gray color looks with the orange tones of the controller, but in the brand’s online store you could make a complete customization of the design so that it is exactly to your liking.
On one of the grips we can find the SCUF logo, while on the back of it we will have a very comfortable rubber finish when playing with the controller.
In the lower central part we have a button that will allow us to mute the microphone, as well as an LED indicator that will show us a color depending on the control profile that we have enabled.
The top of the controller has the connect button, the USB-C port, and the L/R buttons and triggers. These also have a texture similar to the one we saw in the box.
On the back we find the main functions of this command. For example, we can see the 4 customizable buttons (P1, P2, P3 and P4) and a button, in the center, that allows us to change profiles. We will also have the trigger blockers that will allow us to convert them into much faster action buttons.
We can see the detail of the rubber grip of the controller.
As we already anticipated in the specifications, the remote control casing is removable. We can remove it with our fingernail (it is held by magnets) and clean it easily or replace it with another.
We must also remove this casing in case we want, for example, to change the levers or remove the vibrators. We have not been able to remove the vibrators, nor have we found instructions to do so.
Lastly, the battery cover also uses magnets, and can be removed and replaced very easily.
Testing the SCUF Instinct Pro
Starting the controller is no mystery, and all we have to do is put the batteries in the back, close the lid, and turn it on by pressing the Xbox button on the top. This button will flash white until it is synchronized with the console (or another device, remember that it can be used with mobile phones as well), and once a connection is established it will remain blank.
To connect it to a PC or an Xbox console, the process is very simple: just turn on the controller by pressing the Xbox button, which will remain blinking. Once turned on, press the Xbox controller pairing button, and then we will have to hold down the controller pairing button. When the Xbox button flashes several times, your Xbox is paired.
If, on the other hand, we want to connect it via Bluetooth (for example, to the computer), what we have to do is press the pairing button on the controller for 3 seconds and, when we see that the Xbox button blink frequency changes, the The remote will be ready to connect via Bluetooth to a PC, a smartphone, or any other device.
The controller behaves on Windows and on Xbox identically to an original Xbox controller. Even Xbox itself can update its firmware from the accessories app. We can even configure it so that the controller automatically logs in with a console user.
One of the advantages of this command is that it does not require any software to configure it. We can do everything from the command itself. To map the customizable buttons, for example, just hold down the “profile” button on the back of the remote until the light of the profile that we are going to configure blinks. Immediately afterwards we will have to press the customizable button that we want to associate, and the button to which we want to associate it, at the same time. So it will be linked. For example, we will press the P1 and RB (Right Button) button at the same time so that, when pressing said button, the effect is the same as when pressing the RB.
If we want to deactivate the buttons, we simply have to associate one of the buttons (P1, P2, P3, P4) to the share button of the remote. In this way, when we press the buttons they will not do anything. We, for example, have a profile (red, specifically) with the four rear buttons disabled.
In terms of use, the controller is exactly as comfortable as the original Xbox controller, given that it has the same shape, size, weight, and ergonomics. If you are used to the original remote you will not have any adaptation process, except logically for the additional rear buttons that the original model lacks. Certainly, it will take you a few hours to get used to them, but once you do, you will see that you will have an important competitive advantage, since it is much easier to press them when you are in the form of a lever at the rear.
The ABXY buttons have an extraordinary touch, and in fact they are quieter than those of the original controller, something that is always appreciated because they do not make you lose concentration in the game. The two joysticks are smooth and move like butter, allowing you full control over movement and camera in whatever game you’re using this SCUF Instinct Pro.
In short, we are dealing with a controller with excellent ergonomics and overwhelmingly good performance, with quality details and comfort of life on all sides and a very impressive aesthetic.
Conclusion and verdict
Many times we have said that the Xbox controller is the best controller we can use today. Its size, perfect for large hands, its asymmetrical distribution, and the small improvements that were introduced in the revision of the Xbox Series, make it the best controller for both console and PC. Therefore, the SCUF Instinct Pro is, in a few words, perfecting what was already excellent.
In addition to the customization options, which are always welcome, it introduces other very interesting improvements, such as quieter buttons and sticks, and customizable buttons, as well as improved grip for long gaming sessions.
The bad part is that it is not exactly a cheap controller, although it is true that its price is similar to that of other Pro controllers that we can find on the market. It is a perfect controller for both professional players and amateurs who want to give their skills a little more.
In short, the best controller we can buy for Xbox and PC. A command that, if we are really gamers, will become part of our lives.
For all these reasons, we have decided to give this SCUF Instinct Pro our platinum award, also highlighting its design.
