Is Sony’s DualSense Edge Pro Controller Worth The Money? (And What Should You Buy Instead?)

The PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller is my favorite of Sony’s latest consoles. The pads are comfortable to hold and well-made, with adaptive triggers and haptic rumble adding a touch of tactile immersion to the gameplay experience.However, Sony is rolling out a new version early next year. dual sense edgepromises to extend the functionality of the original controller with more buttons and fine-grained customization.

The DualSense Edge is a “pro” controller similar to Microsoft’s Xbox Elite gamepad. These devices have high-end features aimed at hardcore and professional players. For example, DualSense Edge includes many enhancements, including:

• Fully customizable button functionality
• Ability to save and hot swap between different button configurations
• Two programmable paddle buttons on the back of the controller
• Multiple interchangeable thumbstick modules and thumbstick caps
• Adjustable trigger button length, stick sensitivity and rumble strength
• charging cable lock
• Integration with the PS5’s system interface lets you quickly adjust settings

The DualSense Edge will be available on January 26th, 2023 for $200. Yes, $200.

To put it into perspective, you can buy a standard DualSense for $70. Most PS5 games cost between $60 and $70 new. PS5 itself The digital-only version is $400, and the model with a disc drive is $500. Buy 3 DualSense controllers or 3 new games, or pay half a PS5 and you can buy almost 1 DualSense Edge.

Is the DualSense Edge worth $200?

The short answer is no, but that doesn’t mean it’s out of the question for everyone: $200 is pretty steep, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary compared to other pro controllers. For example, Microsoft’s Elite 2 controller for Xbox costs around $155-$180, depending on the model and where you buy it.

There are also some PS5-compatible professional pads from third-party manufacturers that cost the same or more than the DualSense Edge. RIVAL Prem by Hexgamingfor $270and Scuf’s Lineup of customizable PS5 pro controllers It was between $200 and $220. There are also third-party options under $200, but many aren’t compatible with the PS5 or their features and build quality aren’t as impressive as what you get from more expensive brands.

Third party controllers have their own unique features like more buttons and replaceable parts compared to the DualSense Edge, but the DualSense Edge’s, well, edge What makes it better than these competitors is its seamless integration into the PS5’s interface and compatibility with other Sony first-party peripherals such as the official DualSense charging dock.

Still, while the DualSense Edge might be the best choice for a high-end controller for the PS5, we wouldn’t recommend buying it. We also do not recommend buying any other pro controller.

So what should I buy instead?

If all you need is a new controller for local co-op gaming, or to replace the pad you already have, buy the $70 DualSense instead of the $200 DualSense Edge.

However, as I said before, the Pro Controller can be great for eSports pros and the few hardcore players willing to spend a lot on a single controller. Personally, if I wanted a pro controller, I would probably choose the DualSense Edge. is not required.

The idea of ​​customizable controls might appeal to some, but you don’t need an expensive controller to change the controller’s button layout. Obviously, button remapping is quicker and easier on the DualSense Edge, but standard his DualSense’s button mapping can be changed under the PS5 menu. Settings> Accessibility> Controllers> Custom button assignments. Other options are also available in the PS5 settings, such as adjusting haptic feedback.check A detailed guide to remapping controllers on any console If you need more help.