Sony offers a fully fledged pro controller, but is it worth getting over the regular DualSense? I’ve used both and can break it down.
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Sony DualSense Edge
A premium, customizable controller designed for competitive gamers, featuring programmable extra buttons, replaceable analog sticks, and a locking USB-C cable, ideal for those who prioritize precision and adaptability.
Pros
- More buttons for extra programmable controls
- Easy repairs with replaceable analog sticks
- Sturdy connection via locking USB-C cable
Cons
- Shorter battery life at only up to 6 hours
- Expensive with a price around $200
- Heavier build which might feel bulkier
$199 at Amazon$199.99 at Best Buy
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
A reliable and affordable gaming controller with a long battery life and a variety of color options, suitable for everyday gamers who prefer straightforward functionality without extra frills.
Pros
- Long battery life up to 13 hours
- Affordable, significantly cheaper than Edge
- Color variety available in a wide range
Cons
- Limited customization, no extra buttons
- Basic features, lacks advanced options
- Typical USB-C without locking feature
$69 at Amazon$69.99 at Best Buy
The original DualSense that came with the PlayStation 5 made some smart upgrades over the DualShock 4 from the last generation. That said, there were still plenty of areas where it could be improved, but outside of third-party controller manufacturers, that was the only official controller on the market.
Sony heard our cries and answered with the DualSense Edge. This is a premium controller that promises to give you an edge (get it?) over your competition. However, how does it really stack up against your old reliable controller?
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Sony DualSense Edge PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller Platform PlayStation 5 PlayStation 5 Battery Up to 6 hours Up to 13 hours Extra Buttons Two None Compatible Accessories Official charging dock Official charging dock Price $200 $75
DualSense vs DualSense Edge: Price
Can you get your hands on both?
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The standard DualSense is incredibly widespread, and you can order one at a moment's notice online. Its face value is €69.99 / $69.99 / £59.99, but you can often find it for modest reductions below that price.
The DualSense Edge is also out now, and while it was initially scarce you can now pick it up easily. It's priced at $199.99 / €239.99 / £209.99, which is nearly half the price of a PS5 itself.
DualSense Edge vs DualSense: Design
The look and feel
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What we can assess is the difference in design between the two controllers. The standard DualSense is now available in a wide range of colors, from a stealthy black to neon pinks and blues, so you can get it in a range of finishes.
In most cases, though, this color is uniform across the controller, apart from the section around the thumbsticks. By comparison, the DualSense Edge breaks things up by being predominantly white but with a contrasting black touchpad.
On the face of the controllers, though, the array of buttons is identical, and they also both have shoulder buttons and triggers.
On the back of the DualSense Edge, we see the main difference in design. Firstly, there are two paddle buttons (which can be replaced by lever-style buttons instead), to let you map more controls onto the back of the pad.
Secondly, two sets of switches let you adjust the trigger stop distance, so that you don't have to press down the trigger buttons as far to activate them.
These are major additions that will be a must for competitive gamers and are particularly handy in shooters, letting you make button presses without losing control over your aim for even a split second.
DualSense Edge vs DualSense: Repairs
Should the worst happen
One big area of concern for anyone who's used a DualSense over an extended period of time is repairability — the interesting new features that Sony has plugged into its DualSense controller has anecdotally led to a few more issues with wearout and breakage.
In particular, though, analog stick drift plagues the controller, as it does so many others on the market.
That's something that won't be as big an issue for the DualSense Edge, which has added a major new feature in the form of removable and replaceable analogue stick units.
These replacement units will be on sale separately so that you don't have to send your entire controller away for a repair, which is a really welcome change. At a price of $20 / £20 / €25, that's a hugely welcome addition.
DualSense Edge vs DualSense: Features
All the extras
The standard DualSense is a fun box of tricks, with smart features like digital triggers to give you feedback while you squeeze them, and advanced haptics to make the controller vibrate in whole new ways.
It's got a microphone and a speaker embedded right there in your controller, and motion controls to let you play with interesting control options, too.
All of that is still included in the DualSense Edge — there's nothing skimped out on, with Sony instead just adding more options.
Alongside the new buttons, you can edit your button layout fluidly and save this to different profiles so that you can swap between control schemes on the fly.
It also comes with a braided USB-C cable that can lock into the controller to ensure that it doesn't fall out in a heated moment, which will be ideal for anyone who games in competitive settings.
DualSense Edge vs DualSense: Which is better?
You're fine with DualSense, but the choice is yours
When deciding between the Sony DualSense Edge and the standard PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller, your choice depends on your gaming style and budget. The DualSense Edge is tailored for competitive gamers, featuring customizable buttons, replaceable analog sticks, and a secure USB-C connection. It's perfect for those who value precision and adaptability in their gaming gear, but it comes with a heftier price tag of around $200 and a shorter battery life of up to 6 hours.
Sony DualSense Edge
$199 at Amazon$199.99 at Best Buy
On the other hand, the standard DualSense offers excellent value at about $70, boasts a longer battery life of up to 13 hours, and is available in various colors. It lacks the advanced features of the Edge but is a reliable and cost-effective option for everyday gaming. The choice comes down to whether you prefer a high-end, customizable controller or a straightforward, budget-friendly one.
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
$69 at Amazon$69.99 at Best Buy
