The DualSense Edge is Sony’s first “Pro” controller, which is an extremely exciting prospect for PS5 gamers, but prior to its release, there were a lot of questions about the new pad and what makes it different from the standard DualSense wireless controller, and whether or not it was worth the wait .
Compared to the regular DualSense wireless controller, the DualSense Edge offers enhanced features. The DualSense was highly praised for the PS5’s custom features, including haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. However, the Edge has some big shoes to fill alongside the higher price tag to justify it.
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller are impeccably designed for the Xbox Series X and Series S, so having an advanced controller for PS5 is long overdue. But if you’re looking for alternative ways to enhance your gaming experience, it’s also worth checking out the best PS5 accessories.
DualSense Edge: Get to the point
- What is this? Sony “Elite” DualSense controller
- When can I buy it? January 26, 2023
- What can I play it on? PS5
DualSense Edge: price and release date
Retailing at $199.99 / £209.99 / AU$339.95, the pad launched worldwide on January 26, 2023. That’s about a month ahead of PSVR 2.
This puts the DualSense Edge above the Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller, which costs $179.99 / £159.99 / AU$249.95. Since Sony has bumped up the price of the PS5, it’s no surprise to us that accessories have followed suit. The DualSense costs $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$109.95, while the Xbox Wireless Controller is slightly cheaper at $59.99 / £54.99 / AU$74.99.
In the UK, US and Europe, DualSense Edge pre-orders and interchangeable stick modules were exclusive to PlayStation Direct (opens in a new tab) store. However, this will later be offered to “other participating retailers” on February 23, although no companies have been listed.
DualSense Edge: design
The DualSense Edge’s silhouette is virtually identical to the standard controller. But that’s not bad at all. The DualSense is already a neatly designed, comfortable pad that, above all, did not require much refinement.
Its aesthetic differences are more noticeable. The center touchpad is matte black and decorated with square, round, cross and triangle PlayStation iconography. The D-pad and face buttons have also been changed to black, from the original to white. What we have is a striking contrast to the standard white DualSense controller.
The underside of the controller, which houses the microphone, PS button, and analog sticks, is now a shinier black color. The sticks themselves, the triggers, and the back of the controller appear to have a more durable and textured grip.
DualSense Edge: battery life
By far the biggest drawback of the DualSense is its meager battery life. Often clocking anywhere from 4 to 10 hours from a single charge, it is far from the pads in competing systems.
That’s bad news for those expecting longer battery life, as Sony has confirmed that the DualSense Edge’s battery life will be “moderately shorter” than the base pad. No specific numbers have been given, but expect Edge to last anywhere from 3 to 9 hours at worst based on Sony’s statement.
This is something Sony should have wanted to improve on the DualSense, even if it was only supposed to be a marginal improvement over the course of a few hours. By comparison, the Xbox Elite Series 2 has a battery life of around 35-40 hours on a single charge. It looks like the Edge will not only fail to achieve this, but even further than the usual DualSense.
DualSense Edge: features
The DualSense Edge may look good, but its value as a standard pad will be judged by its features. For the most part, it looks like Sony is doing everything right in this regard.
As you’d expect, Edge will be highly modular. Poles, pole caps and back paddles are interchangeable and customizable to suit your personal preference. The control layout and sensitivity are also fully customizable. Gamers will not only be able to fully customize the button layout, but also adjust stick dead zones, as well as trigger distance and sensitivity.
All this can be done on the fly, from the controller itself. A dedicated Fn (Function) button will bring up a separate UI that allows gamers to customize the controller settings in an instant. Plus, you’ll be able to save profiles for when you need them most. Moving from Demon’s Souls to Gran Turismo 7? Profile switching will ensure that your control setup works no matter what game you’re playing.
You can expect all of DualSense’s best features to return. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and motion controls are present and included when it comes to Edge. Finally, everything comes bundled in the included carrying case, and the controller can be charged via a USB connection when stored inside.
DualSense Edge FAQ
Is the DualSense Edge worth it?
DualSense Edge is supposed to build on DualSense 5 and turn good players into great players. This advanced controller is said to have the most ergonomic design to make gaming for long periods of time comfortable while helping your gameplay to deliver the best performance. So if you’re competitive, it’s worth experimenting with DualSense Edge technology to aid your gameplay and make sure you’re getting the most out of your console.
How long does the DualSense wireless controller battery last?
The DualSense’s battery life ranges from 4 to 10 hours, which can be daunting for gamers sitting down for intense games for many hours. However, Sony has since confirmed that the Edge’s battery life is “moderately shorter”. This could mean battery life drops to just 3 hours on a full charge.