The SCUF Valor Pro Wireless controller is the latest iteration of the well-received Valor Pro. Built on the same chassis and a similar overall design philosophy, the Valor Pro Wireless offers a few updated features that help it stand out from its predecessor. The introduction of new TMR thumbsticks, tri-mode connectivity and a companion app provides the groundwork for a worthy competitor to the likes of other premium wireless Xbox controllers, such as the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Wireless.
Measuring slightly taller and wider than the official Xbox Series X controller at 153 mm (L) x 107 mm (H) x 64 mm (W), the Valor Pro Wireless feels great in hand. It’s 260 grams in weight, which also means it’s slightly lighter than the aforementioned Xbox controller. Interestingly, when compared to its own wired counterpart, the Pro Wireless is the same weight, an impressive feat considering the inclusion of a battery this time around.
As with the Valor Pro, the Wireless edition features the same rubberized grips, contoured bumpers and excellently placed paddles for perfect grip and button positioning. This was a key element of the original Valor Pro that I absolutely love and am glad to see is back for this latest revision. The signature volume dials also make a return, along with the hot swap profile button.
Also like its predecessor, the SCUF Valor Pro Wireless comes in an impressive number of colours to choose from, something I wish we saw more of in other premium brands. The Steel Gray version received for review offers a sleek matte black finish that looks great when combined with its orange accents throughout the design. My only notable critique of this specific version is that the plastic does show fingerprint smudges, which thankfully can be wiped off with a microfibre cloth after use.
“The SCUF Valor Pro Wireless comes in an impressive number of colours to choose from…”
Instant Triggers make a return as well, providing adjustable actuation to the triggers. It works exceptionally well and provides both a traditional controller-like experience as well as much quicker, mouse-like clicking for those looking for an instant click and release experience. A notable element of this design is that the toggle switches that lock and unlock the triggers are comprised of a metallic material and feel much more durable than similar systems I’ve tested on other premium controllers.
SCUF’s design of the Valor Pro Wireless, along with its predecessor, is of premium quality. Its design, construction and overall layout are some of the reasons it’s one of my favourite pro-level controllers and why SCUF has earned its reputation as a premium peripheral brand. So with so many similar and excellent features available, how does the Valor Pro Wireless distinguish itself from its wired brethren?
The most obvious is in its tri-mode selection. Along with the wired mode, the Valor Pro Wireless offers both 2.4GHz wireless via the included dongle and Bluetooth. Managed via a switch located on the underside of the controller, connecting the controller is as simple as flipping said switch. An interesting note is that, like other premium controllers, such as the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, the SCUF Valor Pro Wireless provides 1000 Hz polling in both wired and wireless mode on PC, ensuring almost instant response from controller input. It’s snappy and responsive and feels great while gaming.
Another notable update to the design is the inclusion of Tunnelling Magnetoresistance (TMR) electromagnetic thumsticks in place of the Hall Effect sticks found on the Valor Pro Wireless. TMR sticks work on the same basic principle as the Hall effect but offer a more power-efficient, stable, accurate and durable experience. In testing, they feel great to use, with no notable delay or difference in user experience. They are exceptionally smooth while in use and, at least according to my research, perform better than both Hall effect and traditional sticks in long-term tests.
The battery life on the Valor Pro Wireless is also impressive. Despite its 1000 Hz polling rate, which draws more power than traditional controller polling, the Valor Pro Wireless easily managed over 15 hours in PC testing. Bluetooth connection provided even more longevity, with the overall charge being quite quick. The included 6ft braided USB-C cable provides a quality and durable cable experience, but I do wish it were longer. While the 6ft cable is great for PC gaming, I found it a bit short when charging via the Xbox from which I sit much further back.
Finally, SCUF has introduced a new companion App (currently in beta). It provides advanced configuration to the Valor Pro Wireless. In testing, it worked quite well and does provide some great control over deadzone, button programming and profile management.
So is the Valor Pro Wireless worth its $189.99 price point? Considering its updated features list and when compared to other Pro wireless controllers, I would say that it is justifiably in line with its competition. Is it something you should add to your Amazon cart? If you specifically need a wireless controller, the Valor Pro Wireless is an excellent option, but as with all Pro controllers, you will pay a premium for that experience.
- FASTER GAMEPLAY: Features four rear paddles so you can react faster in-game and with our instant triggers that eliminate trigger pull, shaving milliseconds off your reaction time. And when you’re on PC, activate the 1k Hz polling rate for lightning-fast inputs
- MULTIPLE WAYS TO CONNECT: Switch between low-latency wireless, Bluetooth, or ultra-fast wired. No matter how you play, Valor Pro keeps your connection stable so you can stay locked in
