The DualSense Edge is Sony’s answer to the PlayStation 5’s lack of first-party pro controllers. For a long time, pro controllers from companies like Scuf, Aim Controllers, and Battle Beaver have been the only option for enthusiasts. They offer reasonable prices, but the reliability of a first-party product in this space is unmatched.
I tested the DualSense Edge extensively last month—trying to evaluate the experience from a variety of perspectives and needs. The average consumer will be extremely satisfied with their purchase. It’s almost a blind buy that fixes almost everything. But that being said, if you’re picky with your controllers, you might want to explore this review further.
First and foremost, it is a huge investment of Rs 18,990. But it feels reasonable as soon as you unbox it and get your hands on the controller. The carrying case is cutting edge and feels extremely premium. It secures all the attachments provided very well and also has a convenient Velcro-based flap that allows you to charge the controller in the case.
Build quality and ergonomics
The controller is well built and feels extremely sturdy in your hands. The size and ergonomics are actually a bit different from the vanilla DualSense. Initially, I didn’t like how the controller felt; It was almost awkward to hold. But after a long gaming session, I can safely say that this is one of the most ergonomic controllers on the market, at least for large hands like mine. I suspect that for smaller hands, it might be tiring to hold due to the heavy and elongated grip.
analog sticks
Analog sticks are the component that either make or break a controller. Literally, a faulty analog stick breaks the controller and renders it useless. The major problem with analog sticks is commonly known as drift. The drift effect is seen when the character in the game starts moving on its own, or when the camera moves without any actual input. This is a widespread problem in the controller market – almost everyone experiences controller drift at some point. It is not a question of if, but when.
For the longest time analog sticks have relied on a physical component called a potentiometer. Potentiometer-based analog sticks work based on mechanical movement of components. This potentiometer eventually wears out and starts registering incorrect inputs. The only reasonable solution to prevent drift in the market place is using magnetic hall effect sensors. These are still quite rare but are becoming increasingly popular in the Switch pro controller market.
While Sony didn’t offer a one-stop solution by providing these Hall Effect sensors in the joysticks, they did somehow address the stick drift problem in their own way. The DualSense Edge offers removable stick modules, which can be easily replaced with new ones. These modules retail for $20 each and give the buyer the option of not having to replace the controller outright if drift persists. According to me, this is a welcome feature, but these modules are not sold by Sony everywhere.
The sticks themselves are well calibrated out of the box and are extremely smooth. I played Apex Legends, and I could immediately notice the refinement of the analog sticks. That being said, the average player will enjoy gaming on these. But if you’re into competitive gaming and like to fine-tune your experience, the Xbox Elite Controller might be a better option. This gives you the ability to change the tension of the stick, which an enthusiast will really appreciate. There is also a better variation with the Stick Caps included in the Elite. The Skyscraper Sticks at The Edge are less expensive than the Elite offerings.
paddle
Back paddles or buttons are the key defining features of a pro controller, but they also present a learning curve. Many people complain of discomfort because they are unable to properly rest their hands. Sony addressed this issue quite simply. The DualSense Edge comes with two options for back pedals—the standard lever-based pedal and a half-dome option that sits snugly without blocking your natural grip. I tested the half-dome pedals, and they were actually quite comfortable. They can be used to gradually transition into the habit of using the back pedal without affecting your gameplay.
Back paddles are useful in almost every style of sport. I played Apex Legends and God of War Ragnarok. In God of War Ragnarok, I was able to move around enemies while always keeping my camera up. This, in itself, makes the game more fluid and enjoyable.
The included Fn buttons make it easy to switch between different profiles for the back button, eliminating the hassle of constantly remapping buttons.
drives
Sony took a balanced approach to its triggers on the DualSense Edge. They incorporate the adaptive triggers found on the vanilla DualSense, which makes their Pro Controller appealing to casual gamers as well. The best part is that you also have adjustable trigger stops. While we do get trigger stops, the shortest trip is nowhere near as good as other options on the market. The PS5 controllers for Scuf, Aim, BattleBeaver, and even the Xbox Elite have a far better functioning trigger stop. But I’d happily trade the slightly larger travel on triggers for adaptive triggers.
battery life
The major drawback of the DualSense Edge is undoubtedly its subpar battery life. Even compared to the vanilla DualSense, which costs about one-third the price, the DualSense Edge falls short in terms of battery life. For players who’ll primarily be using a wired connection, this may not be a significant dealbreaker, but if you’re planning on playing wirelessly—expect the controller to last only four to six hours, compared to five to six hours. Will last for four and a half hours. From my two year old Launch DualSense. I sincerely hope Sony addresses this issue in the next iteration.
Verdict: No brainer for PS5 owners
The DualSense Edge is an expensive but well-built controller that offers excellent ergonomics and a solution to the issue of analog stick drift with its removable stick module. It has back paddles that are comfortable to use and can be easily adjusted with the included Fn buttons. However, its trigger stop isn’t as good as other pro controllers on the market, and its battery life is subpar. While it may not be the best choice for competitive gamers, average gamers who want a different experience from their controller will be satisfied with their purchase.
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