Originally published for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019). The thumbstick guidance in this article is evergreen and applies to FPS games broadly. Game-specific references reflect the original 2019 publication context. Current SCUF controller recommendations have been updated to reflect the live lineup.
When it comes to improving your game, while paddles a great difference, nothing improves your aim more than having the right thumbsticks.
Everyone has different hand sizes, thumb lengths, and preferences. That’s why SCUF thumbsticks are interchangeable: to match your unique preference of comfort and playstyle.
Are you someone who likes to plan out a strategy and take their time to take out the enemy? Or do you prefer to take a more direct aggressive approach? Do you like shotguns or assault rifles more?
Whatever your preferred style, it’s a key part in what thumbsticks will suit you best.
There are two parts to the thumbstick: its shape and its length.
For aggressive players, like SMG players, we recommend a short concave thumbstick on the left and a short domed thumbstick on the right. You’ll be quick to move and ready to quickly aim.
For defensive players, like rifle or sniper players, we recommend a short concave thumbstick on the left and a tall domed thumbstick on the right. You can still move quickly, but also be the most accurate when aiming.
Try out different thumbstick types and combinations to find the ones that fit your playstyle, or change it up when you’re in the mood for something different.
| Height | Precision | Speed to full deflection | Learning curve | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short | Standard | Fastest — less travel needed | Low — feels like stock controller | Aggressive play, SMG rushers, low-sensitivity players |
| Medium | Balanced | Moderate | Low | All-round players, transitioning from stock height |
| Tall | Higher — more arc for fine adjustments | Slower — more travel to full deflection | Medium — may need sensitivity adjustment | Defensive play, snipers, long-range rifles, high-sensitivity players |
Thumbstick extenders — add-on caps that increase the effective height of a stock thumbstick — work on the same principle as a taller interchangeable stick: more physical height gives you a larger range of motion for the same in-game input, which can support finer micro-adjustments when aiming.
Whether extenders help depends on several factors:
SCUF interchangeable thumbsticks offer the same functional benefit as extenders but with a more secure fit, consistent feel, and shape options (concave or domed) that third-party extenders typically do not provide. They are included with current SCUF controllers and available separately for compatible models.
Thumbsticks are one part of a broader set of controller upgrades that benefit FPS players. Here is an overview of the key upgrades available on current SCUF controllers across Xbox/PC and PS5, and what each adds for competitive play:
| Upgrade | What it does for FPS play | Available on |
|---|---|---|
| Interchangeable thumbsticks | Match height and shape to playstyle; no tools needed | All current SCUF controllers |
| Rear paddles | Jump, reload, crouch, or sprint without lifting thumb from aim stick | All current SCUF controllers |
| Adjustable Instant Triggers | Shorter trigger travel for faster fire — toggle between instant and full pull | Omega (PS5), Valor Pro Wired/Wireless (Xbox/PC) |
| Anti-drift thumbstick tech | Hall Effect or TMR sensors reduce stick drift over time | All current SCUF controllers |
| Performance grip | Textured surface reduces slippage during long sessions | All current SCUF controllers |
| Interchangeable faceplate | Cosmetic; also allows platform-specific button customization on some models | All current SCUF controllers |
| On-board remapping / profiles | Save up to 3 layout profiles; switch per-game without software | All current SCUF controllers |
Do thumbstick extenders or taller sticks improve aim?
They can, for some players in some setups. A taller stick increases the physical range of motion for the same in-game input, which allows finer micro-adjustments when aiming. The benefit is most noticeable at medium-to-high sensitivity settings and for defensive/long-range playstyles. Results depend on hand size, thumb length, sensitivity, and how long you practice with the new height before judging it. There is no single "best" height — it is a personal fit.
Are taller thumbsticks better for aiming?
For precision aiming — particularly in sniper or long-range rifle roles — taller sticks offer more leverage and finer control over small movements. For aggressive, fast-snap play, shorter sticks are typically more comfortable because they reach full deflection with less thumb travel. Most FPS players use a short concave on the left (movement) and a taller domed on the right (aim), but this is a starting point rather than a universal rule.
What is the best thumbstick height for FPS games?
There is no single best height. A common starting setup for FPS games is short concave (left) and short or tall domed (right), depending on whether you play aggressively or defensively. Start with the setup closest to what you already play and make one change at a time, giving yourself several sessions to adjust before evaluating.
Do FPS thumbsticks (domed sticks) actually work?
Yes, for players who do fine aim work with the tip of their thumb rather than the pad. Domed sticks allow the thumb to slide smoothly for small directional corrections, which suits precision aim. Concave sticks grip the thumb pad securely, which suits directional movement where you want resistance. Using the right shape for each stick — concave for movement, domed for aim — is a common and well-supported starting recommendation.
Is a custom Xbox controller worth it for competitive FPS gaming?
For most competitive FPS players, rear paddles are the single most impactful upgrade — being able to jump, reload, or crouch without removing your thumb from the aim stick is a consistent, practical advantage. Adjustable instant triggers, performance grip, and interchangeable thumbsticks add further marginal benefits. Whether the combined cost is worth it depends on how seriously and frequently you play. The SCUF Valor Pro is the current Xbox/PC option from SCUF that includes all of these features.
How do I improve aim in FPS games generally?
Controller hardware is one factor among many. The most impactful changes for most players are: tuning in-game sensitivity (start lower than feels natural, build up gradually), enabling aim assist at a level that suits your playstyle, practising target switching in aim-training modes, and reducing physical fatigue through better grip and ergonomics. Thumbstick choice can support these gains but does not replace the fundamentals of practice and settings tuning.
What controllers do competitive gamers use?
Competitive FPS players across consoles and PC commonly use controllers with rear paddles and short-travel triggers. SCUF controllers have been used at various high-level competitive events. On Xbox/PC, the current SCUF option is the Valor Pro; on PS5, it is the SCUF Omega.
Looking for more ways to get better at Call of Duty: Modern Warfare? Check out these other guides:
Getting Started in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
Expert Controller Settings in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) is the latest to game from Activision and Infinity Ward available in the classic Modern Warfare series on PS4 ®, Xbox One ®, and PC with crossplay.