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Prime Day gaming discounts are finally here and, like always, there are loads of discounts on accessories to choose from. Still, in 2026, there's no getting around that the best controllers are extremely expensive. It's not like the classic days where you could chew through third-party hardware. Now, most of those are pro or premium controllers that enhance play beyond the standard setup. Which to choose? Well, I'm already loving this Scuf Valor Pro controller that lives on my desk, ready for play at any moment, and it's at its cheapest price yet this Prime Day – so it certainly gets my recommendation!
Is it the best Xbox Series X controller ever? Not completely. But it's a sweet spot for me in being packed with features, easy to use, versatile, and with a hardy build – all at a good price point. I game so much, and am generally such a mess, that I need controllers that can keep up and won't break the bank if they need to be replaced. The Scuf Valor Pro hasn't let me down yet.
While I love other controllers too, like the Switch Pro controller or the DualSense Edge, I've ended up getting a lot more use out of the Scuf Valor Pro lately. I've been gaming on PC a lot over the last couple of years, which makes this pad's XInput appealing. While it's true that those other pads work on PC, the native support across apps with the Scuf Valor Pro means I don't have to jump through any hoops, especially when it comes to capture.
This is an Xbox controller at heart. That means on my Windows 11 gaming PC, I can just press the game capture button as I would on Xbox to save a screenshot (or hold it down for video clips).
With four back buttons built directly into the controller itself, and a button that cycles between pre-sets, there's customization here that means I can swap between squeezes for progressing through RPG text boxes or jumping in platformers easily. While some may prefer more modularity in controllers, at this price range, it's hard to complain, and I personally like how it helps the Scuf Valor Pro feel like a solid unit in and of itself. Nothing to shake loose here.
Plus, I just like the way this controller feels. I usually keep it wired up on my desk for simplicity's sake, and keep it perched on the edge. Several knocks have occurred, and it's survived some falls, all while still feeling great in the hands. I've used a lot of pads in my time. Perhaps at some point I will move on to something else. But, for now, this controller has been by my side through hundreds of hours of gaming. Why not yours, too?
I've also been on the hunt for the best Prime Day PS5 RPG deals if you want more recommendations for what to play next!
