DualSense Edge vs DualSense – which controller should you get?

We’re considering DualSense Edge vs DualSense to help you choose between the two.

After announcing the DualSense Edge controller back in August, Sony has finally released their customizable controller. It comes equipped with modular joy-sticks, tunable trigger sensitivity, and adjustable paddles among a host of other useful buttons and features. There are so many new features to get excited about, which is why we’ve discussed them all in our DualSense Edge review. But where does that leave the original PlayStation 5 DualSense controller?

The DualSense Edge controller similarly made a splash upon its release along with PS5 back in 2020. Until now, it took the crown as PlayStation’s best controller so far, thanks to new features like Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that weren’t present on PS4’s DualShock 4.

If you’re choosing between DualSense Edge vs DualSense, it’s likely that the cost difference will be a major factor. Most gamers will be deciding whether it’s worth upgrading to DualSense Edge since every new PS5 comes with the DualSense controller. The DualSense Edge, therefore, resembles something of a premium option for PlayStation lovers to perfect their gameplay. The upcoming release of PSVR 2 also acts as an additional factor as some enthusiasts will be choosing between the two.

If you’re a PC gamer, it’s worth considering whether DualSense Edge is compatible with PC which might also sway your decision.

We’re hoping to make your decision a little easier by comparing what we think are the key differences between the DualSense Edge and DualSense controllers. We’re considering everything from specs to features, design, and of course, value for money so you can make an informed choice. Expect important questions addressed, like whether DualSense Edge is compatible with PS4, and an assessment on whether the DualSense Edge battery life is actually good.

So let’s jump straight in! Here are the differences and similarities between the DualSense Edge and DualSense controllers.

DualSense Edge vs DualSense – features

The standout area for DualSense Edge has to be its level of customization. For example, DualSense Edge users can customize the vibration strength, analog stick sensitivity and trigger dead zones, all from their controller. There are also trigger lock switches, swappable thumbstick modules, and rear paddle buttons.

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Additional features include a carry case that’s equipped with two sets of rear buttons, some swappable thumbstick caps, plus a lock for the USB-C cable if you like to game with a wired connection.

PlayStation suggests that the DualSense Edge will improve the gameplay of the users, however, the DualSense is still a solid controller. It actually has the same haptic feedback and adaptive trigger support.

DualSense Edge vs DualSense – comfort

Simply put, the DualSense Edge is a delight to hold. There’s a subtly rubberized grip on the inner side of the controller handle. Whilst not a noticeably huge difference, it seriously improves the grip of the controller compared to the DualSense, which sometimes felt like it could slip out your hands at the wrong moment.

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That’s not to bash the overall comfort level of the DualSense. We think PlayStation hit the sweet-spot with the form of the original controller. It undoubtedly has an excellent ergonomic form, which is why the DualSense Edge doesn’t feel significantly different in this regard.

It’s worth a mention that the DualSense Edge weighs roughly 54g more than the DualSense, at around 325g which helps give it that premium feel of comfort.

That being said, there really isn’t much between the two controllers in the way of comfort, in part because PlayStation pretty much hit the nail on the head in terms of design when the DualSense was released.

DualSense Edge vs DualSense – battery

Though it may come as a surprise to some, the original DualSense controller has a better battery life than DualSense Edge.

In a statement, Sony confirmed that the DualSense Edge controller’s operating time is ‘moderately shorter’ than the original controller. You can expect an average gameplay time of 5 to 8 hours from the DualSense controller, so it’s disappointing that for a substantially higher price, the DualSense Edge scores lower in this category.

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Whilst this might be a concern for competitive gamers who regularly game for extended periods of time, there is still the option for a wired connection to preserve battery. This might end up working to your advantage as a wired connection eliminates the chance of interference.

Still, this doesn’t change the fact that the original DualSense controller has a better battery life than the Edge.

DualSense Edge vs DualSense – joysticks

One of the most anticipated new features of the DualSense Edge has to be its hot-swappable analog sticks.

This is a welcome feature since PlayStation joy sticks are often damaged over time from general use. The DualSense controller is without this feature, making the DualSense Edge a potentially more durable option, especially if you’ve had the original controller since 2020.

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It’s also possible to switch out the dome caps on the analog stick, meaning you can insert any combination of high, low and mid-dome caps. If you’re an experienced gamer, it’s likely you’ll appreciate the choice between different heights.

Therefore, whilst it’s always been possible to replace the joysticks on a PlayStation controller the DualSense Edge’s design now makes this job super easy.

DualSense Edge vs DualSense – price

The price must sadly be a major difference between the DualSense edge and DualSense controller.

Upon its release, the DualSense Edge retails for $199 via PlayStation. There’s no skirting around the fact that it costs over $100 more than the DualSense controller, potentially limiting the Edge to those less strapped for cash.

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Whilst we’re seriously impressed with the Edge’s haptic feedback, and love that you can map almost every button on this controller to any button, we can’t help but wince at the price. There are also add-ons of at least $20 if you’re purchasing replacement stick modules too.

That being said, if you’re a professional gamer interested in giving yourself an edge in gameplay, then you might decide that the DualSense Edge price is worth paying.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the DualSense battery last?

You can expect around 12-15 hours of gameplay with the original DualSense controller, which is slightly more than the DualSense Edge.

Does the DualSense Edge have adaptive triggers?

Yes, the DualSense’s adaptive triggers allow you to vary the levels of force and tension as you interact with your in-game environment.