There's no shortage of PS5 controllers, but if you're looking for the best first-party options, there are only two: the DualSense and DualSense Edge. Everyone who owns a PS5 should already be familiar with the standard DualSense as it's included with every console, but players looking for a bit more customization might be tempted by the DualSense Edge. Check out our comparison between the DualSense and DualSense Edge below, including a look at price, features, and our advice on which controller you should buy.
DualSense Controllers: Price Comparison
The most obvious difference between the DualSense and the DualSense Edge is price. While every PS5 comes with a DualSense controller, you will need additional controllers if you want to play couch co-op or multiplayer games on the same console. Getting another one of Sony's standard DualSense controllers will run you $69.99, although you can typically find sales throughout the year to save you a bit of cash.
The DualSense Edge, on the other hand, is sold at more of a premium due to its additional features and included accessories. The DualSense Edge costs $199, on par with other "pro" level controllers like the Xbox Elite Series 2 gamepad.
Specs and Features
Both the standard DualSense and DualSense Edge share key features, such as built-in haptic feedback that provides precise vibrations based on your in-game actions and adaptive triggers that offer resistance when pressed down to simulate different weapons or abilities. They also both feature nearly the same shape and design, so you'll feel at home regardless of your decision.
Each controller also features the same layout and core set of buttons that include the PlayStation's signature parallel thumbsticks, face buttons, and D-pad, as well as the touchpad, integrated speakers, headphone jack, and a built-in microphone. The PlayStation button sits below the touchpad on both controllers, and the Share and Option buttons adorn the face of the controller on opposite sides of the touchpad.
An important factor for wireless controllers is battery life, and that's where there's a stark difference between these two options. The DualSense's 1,560 mAh battery should get you around 10 hours or so on a single charge, while the DualSense Edge's smaller 1,050 mAh battery will get you closer to five hours. Battery life varies from game to game, but if a longer charge is your top priority, the standard DualSense is your best bet.
Where the DualSense Edge really shines, though, is in its customization. For players who like to tinker with settings and optimize their gameplay, there's simply no comparison. The DualSense Edge includes three different types of interchangeable thumbstick caps that allow you to tailor the experience to your preferences. It even offers inexpensive user-replaceable thumbstick modules in case you encounter stick drift during your controller's lifespan. There are also two sets of interchangeable back buttons that can be mapped to any button on the DualSense Edge controller.
The DualSense Edge also has awesome customizable profiles that can be accessed at any time by pressing either of the Function buttons below each thumbstick. You can create up to four unique profiles that allow you to remap every button on the controller at the system level through an intuitive interface. The ease and simplicity at which you can create and edit profiles is unmatched, and really allows you to take your gameplay to the next level.
DualSense vs. DualSense Edge: Which One Should You Buy?
While the standard DualSense is a fantastic controller, the DualSense Edge is a strict upgrade in about every way, save for battery life. If your gaming tastes skew towards multiplayer games and shooters, the DualSense Edge's interchangeable back buttons and thumbsticks paired with its customizable profiles let you quickly lock in your settings for a competitive edge. The ability to replace individual thumbstick modules could justify the $200 price tag alone, depending on how frequently you're going through controllers due to stick drift.
However, if you tend to play games more casually, or prefer single-player narrative experiences, you may not find a lot of the DualSense Edge's customization features appealing. The standard DualSense's battery life is nearly double that of the DualSense Edge, allowing you to play more without worrying about charging between sessions. The DualSense also comes in a variety of colorways, including a number of special edition controllers to match your style, while the DualSense Edge is only available in white.
Matthew Adler is a Commerce, Features, Guides, News, Previews, and Reviews writer for IGN. You can follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch him stream on Twitch.
