The PS5 boasts a fantastic selection of controllers, but when it comes to first-party options, the choices narrow down to two standouts: the DualSense and the DualSense Edge. Every PS5 owner is already acquainted with the standard DualSense, bundled with each console. However, gamers seeking enhanced customization might find themselves drawn to the premium DualSense Edge. Let's delve into a detailed comparison, examining price, features, and ultimately, helping you decide which controller best suits your needs.
DualSense Controllers: A Price Comparison
The most striking difference between the DualSense and DualSense Edge lies in their price points. The DualSense is included with every PS5. However, additional controllers are necessary for couch co-op or multiplayer gaming on the same console. A standard DualSense controller typically retails for $69.99, though sales often offer opportunities for savings.
The DualSense Edge, conversely, commands a higher price due to its advanced features and included accessories. It's priced at $199, aligning with other "pro" controllers like the Xbox Elite Series 2.
Specs and Features: A Closer Look
Both the standard DualSense and DualSense Edge share core features, including immersive haptic feedback providing precise vibrations based on in-game actions, and adaptive triggers offering resistance to simulate different weapons or abilities. Their shape and design are virtually identical, ensuring a familiar feel regardless of your choice.
Both controllers maintain the same button layout: the iconic PlayStation parallel thumbsticks, face buttons, D-pad, touchpad, integrated speakers, headphone jack, and built-in microphone. The PlayStation button resides below the touchpad on both, with Share and Options buttons flanking the touchpad.
DualSense Edge: Unleashing Customization
The DualSense Edge elevates customization to a new level, offering interchangeable back buttons and sticks, alongside a plethora of handy features.
A crucial factor for wireless controllers is battery life, and here's where a significant difference emerges. The DualSense's 1,560 mAh battery provides approximately 10 hours of playtime on a single charge. In contrast, the DualSense Edge's smaller 1,050 mAh battery offers closer to five hours. Battery life naturally varies depending on the game, but if extended playtime is paramount, the standard DualSense is the clear winner.
However, the DualSense Edge truly shines in its customization options. For players who enjoy fine-tuning settings to optimize gameplay, it's unparalleled. It includes three interchangeable thumbstick cap types, allowing personalized adjustments. It even offers inexpensive, user-replaceable thumbstick modules, mitigating the dreaded stick drift. Two sets of interchangeable back buttons can be mapped to any controller button.
DualSense Controller: Familiar Comfort and Haptics
The DualSense controller provides a familiar and comfortable design, enhanced by advanced haptics and adaptive triggers.
The DualSense Edge also boasts customizable profiles, accessed via Function buttons below each thumbstick. Up to four unique profiles can be created, allowing remapping of every button at the system level through an intuitive interface. The ease of profile creation and editing is exceptional, significantly enhancing gameplay.
DualSense vs. DualSense Edge: The Verdict
While the standard DualSense is an excellent controller, the DualSense Edge represents a significant upgrade in almost every aspect, except battery life. For multiplayer and shooter enthusiasts, the DualSense Edge's interchangeable back buttons and thumbsticks, combined with customizable profiles, provide a competitive edge. The ability to replace thumbstick modules alone might justify the $200 price tag, depending on your controller's lifespan and susceptibility to stick drift.
However, if your gaming habits lean towards casual play or single-player experiences, the DualSense Edge's extensive customization features might not be as appealing. The DualSense's superior battery life allows for longer gaming sessions without constant charging. The DualSense also offers a wider variety of colors and special editions, catering to personal style preferences, unlike the DualSense Edge's single white color option.
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