DuelSense Edge Vs DualSense: PS5 Controllers Comparison


DualSense Edge vs DualSense
Credit: Sony

With the slightly unexpected announcement of the DualSense Edge controller, it's worth taking a moment to consider the differences between the DuelSense Edge Vs DualSense.

And that's exactly what we're going to do. Players have been asking for a PS5 Pro controller for quite some time. And now we can see what's on offer, we can judge for ourselves how much of an upgrade this represents over the original DualSense. We know it has the edge. The question is, how much of an edge does the DualSense Edge have?

DuelSense Edge Vs DualSense

The DualSense Edge was introduced by Sony as their "first-ever high-performance, ultra-customizable controller". Which certainly sounds promising.

The original DualSense though, was lauded as one of the very best controllers that has ever been made. So what does the edge offer that the DualSense doesn't? And has it had to make any compromises?

DualSense

We'll start with a look at the original controller, to remind you of what the DualSense brings to the conversation. And there is a lot.

The DualSense controller brought with it many features from the DualShock controller that was developed for the PS4: features like the built-in battery (now with USB-C charging) an integrated speaker on the controller, and a built-in gyroscope and accelerometer for motion sensing.

On top of this, the DualSense brought a raft of new features as well. Most notably, the introduction of more advanced haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers.

Haptic feedback utilises dual actuators instead of rumble motors. These offer a more dynamic response to what's happening in your game than was possible with the DualShock.

Adaptive triggers change the level of resistance as you squeeze them, mirroring what's happening on screen. So for example, the trigger will resist you more as you draw back a bowstring, or hit the brakes on your car.

The DualSense is regarded in its own right as an excellent controller. So what does the Edge bring to the party? And for clarity, we aren't talking about the guitar player from U2. Although we imagine he brings carrot batons and hummus to a party.

DualSense Edge: What's New?

First things first, the DualSense Edge retains all the key features of the original DualSense controller. Adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, built-in microphone and motion controls are all present.

It's all the additional features that really make this controller stand out.

First off is the level of customizability. On the new controller, players will be able to remap or deactivate specific button inputs. You will also be able to adjust stick sensitivity and dead zones (the distance your stick has to move before it's recognised by the game).

Triggers can also be adjusted to change dead zones and travel distance. A lot of pro gamers, for example, prefer hair triggers rather than the adaptive triggers that come on the DualSense. In fast-paced games such as FPS, a hair trigger can save you a split second, which can make all the difference.

PS5 DualSense Edge controller, rear view - DuelSense Edge Vs DualSense
click to enlarge
Credit: Sony

The DualSense Edge also features two additional buttons on the rear of the controller. These can be configured to any input you choose, to help optimise your gameplay.

The Edge also offers players the option of saving multiple control profiles. So you may have different preferences for playing a racing game compared with a fighting game, for example. This feature will allow you to set your controls exactly as you want them, and swiftly switch between them as required.

Aesthetically, the two controls do look similar, with the black touchpad being the most obvious difference. The most significant design change is the ability to swap out stick caps and back buttons. They come in a range of shapes (stick caps are standard, high and low dome, while back buttons are half-dome and lever) so you can choose whichever one suits you best.

And just as significant is the ability to remove the stick modules and replace them. Controller drift is a known problem with the DualSense. And a 'pro-grade' controller is likely to wear these out rapidly. So it's excellent news that rather than having to replace the whole controller, players can simply buy new sticks, and swap them out.

Summary

There are clearly some major differences between the two controllers. And while we don't know for certain, we'd expect that to be reflected in the difference in price between the two of them as well. The DualSense costs around $69.99. Don't be too surprised if the DualSense Edge costs closer to $169.99.

The Edge is obviously aimed at an audience of serious, competitive gamers, who need those customization options to try and give themselves an edge while playing. It remains to be seen how well the new controller performs, but it certainly ticks a lot of the boxes in terms of what a 'Pro' controller needs to offer.

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