The PlayStation 5 console introduced gamers to an incredibly immersive new controller called the DualSense. With advanced haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that provide dynamic resistance, the DualSense takes gameplay to new heights.
But for hardcore gamers who want even more customization and responsiveness, Sony created the DualSense Edge – a premium pro controller with back buttons, customizable controls, and a rigid build designed for competitive play.
In this guide, we’ll compare both PS5 controller options so you can decide which one best fits your gaming needs and budget.
Premium Build and Ergonomics Give the Edge to…the Edge
Both DualSense models sport a sleek, futuristic design that feels good in your hands. But the Edge clearly wins out when it comes to premium feel and ergonomics.
Constructed from higher quality materials like reinforced metal triggers and tunable analog sticks, the Edge controller has a reassuring weight and rigidity. Rubberized side grips help you hold tight during frantic gameplay moments while enhanced contours promote long, comfortable play sessions.
In contrast, the standard edition employs more plastic in its build. It remains a well-built and ergonomic controller but can’t quite match the enhanced sturdiness and grippiness of the Edge.
So if you desire a controller built like a tank that provides exceptional control, the premium Edge model is worth the investment.
Core Features: Both Deliver Next-Gen Immersion
At their foundation, both DualSense controllers utilize the same groundbreaking features for deeper immersion:
Haptic Feedback – Feel subtle environmental cues, weapon recoil, textures, and more thanks to intelligent haptic motors inside the grips.
Adaptive Triggers – Dynamic resistance in the L2/R2 shoulder buttons mimics drawing a bowstring or pulling a trigger. Pressure increases or decreases to match in-game actions.
3D Audio – Thanks to a built-in microphone and stereo speakers, audio cues feel localized and directional for next-level realism.
Touchpad and Gyro – Interact with both traditional button inputs and motion gestures. Helpful for navigating system menus or used occasionally for gameplay mechanics.
The standard and Edge models deliver these key features equally well. But the Edge does promise even lower latency and more responsive inputs – slight improvements that competitive players may notice.
Take Control: Unmatched Customization in the Edge
This is where the DualSense Edge justifies its premium price…unrivaled customization via hardware controls and software settings.
The Edge introduces two programmable, detachable back buttons plus changeable analog stick caps and playstyle options. Tune everything from stick dead zones, sensitivity curves, trigger thresholds, vibration intensity and so much more.
But the killer Edge feature is switchable control profiles. Store up to three custom profiles in on-board memory and hot swap between them. Now you can tailor input settings based on different games or genres with the tap of a button.
Meanwhile, the standard DualSense allows button remapping and some software customizations via the Accessories app. But options remain far more limited without physical back buttons or tunable components to play with.
Value and Price: A Tough Call Depending on Gamer Type
As expected, there is a hefty price differential between the two PS5 controller models:
- DualSense – $69.99 USD
- DualSense Edge – $199.99 USD
That’s nearly a 3x price bump for the pro-level Edge controller. No doubt it packs impressive premium features tailored to competitive players. But is it worth the steep upgrade cost?
For casual or narrative-focused gamers, the immersive DualSense will provide countless hours of entertainment without breaking the bank. Enjoy haptic feedback in story adventures and the adaptive triggers of first person shooters without needing back buttons or complex customizations.
For serious online competitors and high skill ceiling genres, the Edge finally gives console gamers a pro controller to rival expensive PC setups. If you desire low latency input, tunable precision, and hardcore performance for fighting games or FPS titles, the Edge is almost essential.
There’s no universally “right” pick – it comes down to your budget, priorities and commitment to competitive multiplayer versus immersive single player experiences. Both DualSense controllers showcase incredible innovation that elevates PS5 gaming in different ways.
Other Notable Differences at a Glance
Before deciding, here are a few other interesting DualSense comparisons:
- Battery Life – Expect slightly lower battery capacity on the Edge given its smaller size and onboard profiles. But both support USB-C charging during gameplay.
- Repairability – The Edge allows replacing analog stick modules, providing an affordable fix for drift issues. Internal batteries remain difficult to service in both models.
- Accessories – Sony will sell replaceable Edge components like stick caps and back buttons separately. Lots of color customization potential!
Which PS5 Controller Should You Buy?
At the end of the day, Sony nails it with two exceptional, cutting edge DualSense models. The standard edition focuses on immersion and next-gen features at an affordable price. Meanwhile the premium Edge offers unmatched customization that finally puts pro console controllers on par with the PC master race!
Hopefully breaking down their differences helps guide your buying decision. For most PS5 gamers, the base DualSense will satisfy needs with money left for new titles. But hardcore competitors who want limitless control over their gameplay experience will find the Edge well worth the investment.
Let us know which DualSense controller you choose in the comments! Happy gaming!