I would recommend them as a necessity, rather than a home-base to explore Scottsdale or Phoenix. 

And...the area in and around Sky Harbor Airport is not what I would call a "destination zone".  It's an older part of town that's much less glamorous than most vacationers would desire. 

Therefore, Phoenix airport hotels are great for those times when convenience wins over luxury. 

That being said, there are a few decent hotels near the Phoenix airport.  (And there are a few I would stay away from).

Below are the Phoenix airport hotels I would recommend.  All are within a 3 mile radius of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.  I have organized them by distance, and listed them from closest to furthest from the airport.

Shuttle: Complimentary, 24 hours, to airport & anywhere within a 3 mile radius.

Description: My favorite hotel in this area.  I'm a huge fan of the Aloft brand.  They're fun, funky, contemporary, always clean and always fresh.  Rooms usually start around $139.

Parking: Free, on-site; Extended available at $6/day while traveling.

Description: This hotel stands out for its ultimate convenience.  Its closest to the airport and right next to a lightrail station. Rooms start around $108.

Parking: Free, on-site, Extended available at $5/day while traveling.

Description: Recommended for the name.  It's clean, designed well for the business traveler and comfortable.  Room rates start around $144.

Shuttle: Complimentary, 24 hours, to airport & anywhere within a 3-mile radius.

Parking: Free, on-site; Extended available, no fee.

Description: This is a great hotel option if you're looking for a more economical accommodation.  Rooms start around $79.  Rates improve the longer you stay.

Description: Known for providing consistently superb customer service.  Shuttle drivers are quick to arrive when called.  Rooms are relatively spacious.  Rates start around $145.

Shuttle: Complimentary, runs from 4am - 1am.

Description: This hotel surprised me how nice it was. It's brand new with a cool contemporary design.  I love the look of the King rooms.  The quality you receive here and its convenience to the airport, make it one of the best deals in the area.

Shuttle: Complimentary, 24 hours; to airport & Mill Avenue.

Description: This is a great option for people who are comfortable with the Marriott brand.  This property offers the same quality you would expect from this hotel chain.  Room rates start around $209.

Shuttle: Complimentary, to airport & anywhere within a 5-mile radius.

Lightrail: Not convenient for this hotel location (closest station, 5+ minute drive).

Description: In truth, this is not on the top of my list for hotels in the area.  It's an older hotel, with pretty outdated decor.  However, its clean and the staff is friendly.  Rates usually start around $179.

Lightrail: Not convenient for this hotel location (closest station, 5+ minute drive).

Description: This hotel offers one of the more economical choices.  It's designed for longer stays, so rooms are larger and include kitchenettes and work spaces.  Rates start around $49.

Shuttle: Complimentary, 24 hours, to airport & anywhere within a 5-mile radius.

Lightrail: Not convenient for this hotel location (closest station, 2.5 miles).

Description: This hotel has a reputation for providing excellent service.  It's convenient and clean.  Rates start around $114.

Shuttle: Complimentary, 24 hours, to airport & anywhere within a 3-mile radius.

Lightrail: Not convenient for this hotel location (closest station, 2.5 miles).

Description: The outside appears older, but the interior is fairly decent.  Rooms are spacious with comfy beds and hotel staff are known for being very friendly.  Rates start around $116.

Make sure to ask your hotel how their shuttle operates.  It differs at each of the Phoenix airport hotels.  Some are on request, others you have to reserve, some run every 30 minutes.  Knowing the scoop ahead of time is very helpful... especially when it comes to those early morning flights.

Have time to kill before you catch your flight?  There are a few attractions close enough to the airport, you could easily squeeze in a visit.

The Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo are both within a few miles from Sky Harbor and the Phoenix airport hotels.  Some hotel shuttles will even take you there.

You can also catch the lightrail to Mill Avenue (just a few minute ride).  It's a fun area with shops, restaurants and local hangouts... Located right near Arizona State University (my alma mater...go Sun Devils!).