The DualSense Edge is Sony’s “Pro” controller debut, and it’s an exciting potential prospect for PS5 players. But several lingering questions about what will separate it from the standard DualSense pad lead to an air of skepticism regarding the release. Still, there’s a lot to look forward to, and we’ve compiled everything we know about the upcoming launch to answer some of the burning questions people have.
We got to spend our hands-on time with the DualSense Edge, so be sure to read our impressions to get a better idea of what to expect when you have the Pad in your hands this year.
Compared with the regular DualSense Wireless Controller, DualSense Edge will provide upgraded features. DualSense has been praised for its custom PS5 features, including haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The Edge has some big shoes to fill, then. Not to mention the greater price tag to justify it.
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller are both built with impeccable precision for Xbox Series X and Series S, so an advanced controller for PS5 is long overdue. If you’re looking for alternative ways to improve your gaming experience, it’s worth checking out the best PS5 accessories, too.
DualSense Edge: Cut to the chase
- What is this? Sony DualSense controller
- When can I buy it? January 26, 2023
- What can I play on? PS5
DualSense Edge: price and release date
Thanks to the recent “Features Trailer”. (Opens in a new tab)And the PlayStation Blog, we now have the release date and pricing information for the DualSense Edge. Retailing at $199.99 / £209.99 / AU$339.95, the board will launch globally on January 26, 2023. That’s about a month ahead of PSVR 2.
It puts the DualSense Edge above Microsoft’s Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, which retails for $179.99 / £159.99 / AU$249.95. With Sony raising the price of the PS5, we’re not surprised that accessories have followed suit. The DualSense costs $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$109.95, while the Xbox Wireless Controller comes in a bit cheaper at $59.99 / £54.99 / AU$74.99.
Across the UK, US and Europe, pre-orders for the DualSense unit and replaceable stick unit are exclusive to PlayStation Direct. (Opens in a new tab) store. However, this will later be shown to “other participating retailers” on February 23, although no details have been released on any company.
DualSense Edge: Design
The DualSense Edge silhouette is practically identical to the standard controller. But this is by no means a bad thing. The DualSense is a brilliantly designed ergonomic pad that doesn’t need much improvement in the first place.
Its aesthetic differences are more noticeable. The central touchpad is matte black, decorated with PlayStation square, circle, cross and triangle icons. The d-pad and face buttons have also been changed to black from the original white. What we have bears a striking contrast from the standard white DualSense controller.
The bottom of the controller, which houses the microphone, PS button, and analog sticks, is now glossy black. The sticks themselves, the triggers, as well as the back of the controller seem to have a more durable grip and texture as well.
DualSense Edge: battery life
By far the DualSense’s biggest drawback is its meager battery life. Often clocking anywhere between 4-10 hours on a single charge, it falls short of the pads in competing systems.
It’s bad news for those who were expecting longer battery life, as Sony confirmed that the DualSense Edge’s battery life will be “moderately shorter” than the base plate. No specific numbers were given, but expect your Edge to last anywhere between 3-9 hours at worst based on Sony’s statement.
It’s something Sony should have been keen to improve over DualSense, even if it’s only a marginal improvement of a few hours. By comparison, the Xbox Elite Series 2 has 35 to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge. It looks like the Edge will not only fall short of this, but even beyond the regular DualSense.
DualSense Edge: Features
The DualSense Edge may look the part, but its value as a standard pad will be judged on its features. For the most part, Sony seems to be going all out in this regard.
As you would expect, the edge will be pretty standard. The poles, pole caps and back paddle can be swapped and modified based on your personal preference. The control layout and sensitivity are also fully customizable. Not only will gamers be able to fully customize their button layouts, they can also adjust the stick’s dead zones, as well as crank up travel distance and sensitivity.
All of this can be done, on the fly, from the console itself. A dedicated Fn (Function) button will bring up a separate user interface that allows players to customize their controller settings at any moment. In addition to that, you will also be able to save profiles for when you need them most. Switching from Devil’s Soul to Gran Turismo 7? Profile switching will ensure that your control setup is fine no matter what game you’re playing.
You can expect the best features of DualSense to return. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and motion controls are all present and factored in when it comes to the edge. Finally, everything comes bundled in an included carrying case, and you can charge the console via a USB connection while it’s stored inside.
DualSense Edge – frequently asked questions
Is DualSense Edge worth it?
DualSense Edge aims to build on DualSense 5 and turn good gamers into great players. This advanced controller is said to host the most ergonomic design to make prolonged gaming comfortable while aiding gameplay to ensure you perform at your best. So, if you’re a competitive gamer, the DualSense Edge is worth a try to help with your gameplay and make sure you get the most out of your controller.
How long does the DualSense Wireless Controller battery last?
The DualSense’s battery life ranges from 4 to 10 hours, which can be a lifesaver for gamers who have been sitting around playing intense games for hours at a time. However, Sony has since confirmed that the Edge’s battery life is “moderately shorter”. This could mean that the battery life will drop to up to 3 hours on a full charge.