Is your standard Microsoft controller holding your gaming experience back? The SCUF Instinct controller for Xbox Series X can help. With improved function, enhanced customization, and better ergonomics, this controller can help you game better for longer –  as long as you can afford the price tag.

SCUF Instinct Series

Available as the Instinct or Instinct Pro, this controller from top peripheral creator SCUF aims to offer the best bang for your buck when it comes to premium Xbox controllers. It starts at $169 for the standard Instinct and $199 for the Instinct Pro before cosmetic customizations (available through their building tool). This is a similar price range to the Xbox Elite and Razer controllers, but with in-depth customization it can easily become the most expensive option. Fortunately, additional expenses are optional.

Included with both controller models are 4 types of thumbsticks (2 long and 2 short of concave and convex heads), an additional 8-sided directional pad which can be swapped in, and a USB cable which can be used instead of the wireless connection for better latency.

Look

Outside of custom coloration or designs on the faceplate, the controller looks similar to the standard Xbox Series X wireless controller that is included with the console. They are the same size and design, but the Instinct does add additional grip to the full handle for better grip (and a cool textured look). 

However, the Instinct controller has an obvious difference – the mute button that can be pressed to toggle mute on the fly for an attached headset. The easily accessible button is likely to be more convenient than a mute button on a headset wire or headset itself, allowing you to communicate more efficiently during the heat of action. 

When the controller is powered on, the indicator by the mute button will light up in 1 of 3 colors (red, green, or blue) which distinguishes the 3 different controller profiles that users can toggle by pressing the “profile” button on the back.

Paddles

The major selling point of the controller – as well as most other SCUF products – is the paddle buttons on the underside of the controller. Previous models included longer trigger paddles that required you to hold the controller differently to reach them, which can make it harder to game for longer periods of time. 

The Instinct and Instinct Pro feature shallow buttons that are located close to where most gamers find their ring and pinky fingers resting when holding the controller. This lets you more comfortably and naturally press the 2 buttons that are located on each side. Plus, these buttons can be remapped on-the-fly without the need for a 3rd party program or app just by holding down the “profile” button.

Triggers

The Instinct Pro has a feature unique to it that allows you to choose between 2 modes for the main triggers – click or pull. The switch, which is located between the triggers and the back paddles, limits how far the trigger will go before registering the input. As a result, FPS gamers who want to spam as many shots as possible can lock the trigger for rapid fire while racing game players can still enjoy the pedal-like feel of pulling the trigger down progressively. This can also be easily changed with a quick flip of the switch, allowing adjustable experience within games – not just between profiles.

Wrap Up

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best premium Xbox Series X controller for you. Both SCUF Instinct models offer exceptional customization in design, plus the unique trigger switch on the Pro model is an incredibly useful feature for variety gamers. Users with smaller hands will also enjoy the shallow back paddles that don’t require an adapted grip to reach comfortably.

Compared to other options in the market, the SCUF Instinct is a happy medium for customization, features, and price point. It doesn’t have the most features or the flashiest look, but it can be used in just about any application and customized to work for you.