Sony PlayStation DualSense Edge Review

The PlayStation 5 introduced one of the most advanced gamepads ever created with DualSense. DualSense features features from previous generation controllers, including motion controls, touchpads, and built-in speakers, adding highly accurate tactile feedback and adaptive triggers that dramatically change resistance based on your in-game actions. increase. Now you can go one step further with the $199.99 DualSense Edge. This is Sony’s answer to Microsoft’s Xbox Elite wireless controller. In addition to the much-anticipated DualSense functionality, it includes programmable input and analog sensitivity options, rear buttons, numerous accessories, and a modular design that allows full replacement of the analog stick module should it ever fail. Its battery life isn’t the best and needs some work to make it compatible with PCs, but it’s a worthwhile splurge for PS 5 fanatics.

(Credit: Will Greenwald)

At first glance, the DualSense Edge looks like a standard white DualSense controller, but with a black touchpad, directional pad and face buttons. The two-tone color scheme gives the controller a more balanced look. Just below the analog sticks are the first big signs that this is another gamepad. A button that looks like two tabs. These are the Fn buttons that, when held down, allow you to switch between 4 different controller profiles on the fly.

Flip the controller over and you’ll find other indicators that this is no ordinary DualSense. A small hole between the grips allows you to insert one of two types of paddles that act as programmable buttons, similar to the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and other high-end gamepads. Between these holes is a recessed release switch for the front panel of the controller and a pinhole reset button. Above that section, just below the trigger, is a three-way trigger lock switch.

Like any good premium controller, the DualSense Edge has many accessories and interchangeable parts. Comes with his two pairs of concave-topped analog sticks (2 long, 2 short) that can replace the gamepad’s standard lip-concave sticks. There are also two sets of levers (one flat and paddle-shaped, the other short and semi-circular) that allow the addition of rear buttons. The package includes a long cloth-wrapped USB-C-to-USB-A cable to charge the controller for wired use. Also included is a clip-on lock that attaches to the top of the gamepad to hold the USB-C end. in place. All these parts fit in a white hardshell case.

One of the most interesting DualSense Edge aspects is the analog stick module. You can switch between stick caps by removing one stick cap and replacing it with another, but the modularity doesn’t stop there. A small release switch on the back of the controller allows you to remove the center panel around the analog sticks. You can see the stick module and the two metal release levers. If your analog sticks drift or behave poorly, you can replace them with new sticks that you can order from Sony for $19.99. This is a convenient way to combat stick drift without buying a new controller.

(Credit: Will Greenwald)

best on playstation 5

The DualSense Edge comes with all the unique features of DualSense that we tested using Astro’s Playroom on PlayStation 5. Controllers provide precise haptic feedback, contextually variable trigger resistance, motion sensors, speakers, and microphones. works as intended.

Edge works similarly to DualSense, so using a gamepad with your PlayStation 5 will help you get the most out of Edge. Works on PC via Bluetooth or wired connection, but requires software configuration using Steam’s PlayStation Configuration Support. Menu or DS4Windows(opens in new window)Still, there are no audio connections, no haptic feedback (beyond basic vibration), and no adaptive triggers, as each game has to implement them.

Unlike the Xbox Elite controller, DualSense Edge doesn’t require you to download and set up a separate app. Connecting the DualSense Edge to your PlayStation 5 will pair the controller and launch system level controller options. It also loads tutorials on how to use these options to create controller profiles, how to adjust button mapping and analog stick and trigger sensitivity, and how to use the Fn button to switch profiles.

The PlayStation 5 options for DualSense Edge are as extensive as the Xbox Accessories app options for the Xbox Elite controller. You can remap all digital inputs and assign inputs to his two buttons on the back (four on Xbox Elite). You can also adjust sensitivity curves and dead zones for analog sticks and triggers. Several different off-the-shelf curves are available, designed for specific game types.

You can’t reprogram the Fn button under the analog stick, but that makes sense given how it’s used. Holding one and pressing the face button will change the active profile, while pressing the directional pad will adjust the headset volume and chat/game balance. Both Fn buttons do the same thing. Otherwise, holding the right button to switch profiles (or holding the left button to control audio) would be tedious. Still, the option to map the button to other functions (perhaps with another profile button) would have been welcome. Especially since I bumped the custom input numbers to match those on the Xbox Elite.

(Credit: Will Greenwald)

good game feel

After testing the controller functionality in Astro’s Playroom, I used it to play some games on my PlayStation 5. The Genshin Impact worked well with the controller, and the Axiom Verge 2 felt great thanks to the responsive analog sticks and directional pad.

I also played Elden Ring. I set my back button to trigger his L3 and his R3 so my right thumb can crouch and target enemies without leaving the right analog stick. This worked perfectly, but didn’t reduce the difficulty of Crumbling Farrum Azula. It also didn’t add his two rear buttons that let you switch between spells and items without taking your left thumb off the left analog stick, like the Xbox Elite controller does.

Then I set the analog stick sensitivity to dynamic and played Gundam Evolution. Dynamic presets are designed for shooters, with low sensitivity as you start moving the sticks, improved accuracy for aiming, and quick jumps for high sensitivity for quick directional changes. Curve was a little weird at first, but I was able to easily line up his shot with the GM Sniper. It didn’t make me better in the game, but with some tweaks aiming and shooting felt better.

(Credit: Will Greenwald)

short battery life

The DualSense Edge’s biggest weakness is battery life. The gamepad appears to have a 1,050mAh battery, which is two-thirds the size of the DualSense’s 1,560mAh cell. It provided 5-6 hours of wireless playtime and had to be connected to the PS5 before the low battery icon appeared.

The long, sturdy cable allowed me to play while charging the controller, but the controller’s battery doesn’t last nearly as long as the base DualSense, already a modest eight hours. And even a standard Xbox Wireless Controller with an Xbox Elite rechargeable battery or two AA batteries can’t hold a candle. Both Microsoft options last at least twice as long, and in normal play he can comfortably last a week or so.

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PS5 controller with the most tricks

DualSense Edge already takes the cutting edge DualSense controller and makes it even better with replaceable parts, programmable inputs and sensitivities, and rear buttons. However, battery life is disappointing, and with only two buttons on the back, additional control options are more limited than the Xbox Elite. That said, as Sony’s long-awaited ‘pro’ PlayStation 5 controller, the Edge works just like a regular DualSense, and we love all the extras it brings. is the best premium gamepad for PS5. However, it is not the best choice for PC. For that, you should consider the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller.