Choosing the Right PS5 Controller: DualSense vs. DualSense Edge

The PlayStation 5 offers two excellent first-party controllers: the standard DualSense and the premium DualSense Edge. This comparison will help you decide which best suits your needs, considering price, features, and playing style.

Price Point

The key difference lies in cost. The standard DualSense, included with every PS5, retails for $69.99 (though discounts are common). The DualSense Edge, boasting enhanced features, commands a premium price of $199, comparable to other high-end controllers like the Xbox Elite Series 2.

Features and Specifications

Both controllers share core features: haptic feedback for precise vibrations and adaptive triggers for realistic resistance. They also maintain a similar shape and button layout, ensuring a familiar feel. Both include the standard PlayStation thumbsticks, face buttons, D-pad, touchpad, integrated speakers, headphone jack, and microphone.

DualSense Edge: Advanced Customization

The DualSense Edge excels in customization. It offers interchangeable thumbstick modules (allowing for replacement if stick drift occurs), multiple thumbstick cap types, and two sets of remappable back buttons. Four customizable profiles, easily accessed via function buttons, allow for complete button remapping at the system level.

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Battery life, however, is a trade-off. The DualSense Edge's 1050 mAh battery provides approximately five hours of playtime, significantly less than the DualSense's 1560 mAh battery (around 10 hours).

DualSense: Familiar Comfort and Extended Playtime

The DualSense controller provides the familiar PlayStation experience with advanced haptics and adaptive triggers. Its longer battery life is a significant advantage for extended gaming sessions. It's also available in various colors and special editions.

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Which Controller Should You Choose?

The DualSense Edge is a superior controller in most aspects except battery life. Its customization features, particularly the interchangeable components and profiles, provide a competitive edge for multiplayer games and shooters. The replaceable thumbsticks alone might justify the higher price for frequent users.

However, casual gamers or those who primarily play single-player games might not need the extensive customization. The DualSense’s longer battery life and diverse color options make it a more appealing choice for them.

What do you look for in a PS5 controller?

Battery lifeHaptic feedbackCustomizable buttonsBuilt-in microphoneComfortable designStyle and lightingAnswerSee Results