What Makes the DualSense Edge Controller So Special?
The DualSense Edge isn’t just another PlayStation 5 controller; it’s a meticulously crafted piece of gaming hardware designed for players who demand peak performance and ultimate customization. What sets it apart is its focus on pro-level features, taking the already impressive DualSense controller and adding a layer of personalization and control previously unavailable on a first-party PlayStation controller. In essence, the DualSense Edge allows you to tailor your gaming experience to your exact preferences, from button mapping to stick sensitivity, and even replaces parts when wear and tear takes its toll. It represents Sony’s answer to elite gaming controllers, offering a high degree of customization and durability.
Enhanced Customization and Control
Mappable Buttons and Rear Paddles
One of the most significant features of the DualSense Edge is the ability to remap every button on the controller, directly from the PS5 system menu. This flexibility allows gamers to create personalized control schemes that suit their playstyles. Additionally, it boasts rear paddle buttons, giving you even more input options and keeping your thumbs on the primary controls. These paddles can be mapped to any button, further improving your reaction times in fast-paced games.
Adjustable Analog Sticks and Trigger Stops
The DualSense Edge doesn’t stop at button mapping. It also provides you with the ability to adjust the analog stick sensitivity and dead zones, allowing for more precise movements and aim. This is particularly useful in competitive titles where pinpoint accuracy is crucial. The controller also features adjustable trigger stops, which reduces the travel distance of the triggers, allowing for quicker inputs, making it ideal for shooters or games that demand rapid fire.
Custom Profiles
To simplify the process of switching between different game types or preferences, the DualSense Edge allows you to create and save custom control profiles. You can adjust stick sensitivity, deadzones, button assignments, vibration intensity, and trigger effects to suit different scenarios. These profiles can then be swapped easily, ensuring that you always have the perfect setup, no matter what you’re playing.
Durability and Longevity
Replaceable Thumbsticks
Perhaps one of the most noteworthy features of the DualSense Edge is its hot-swappable thumbsticks. This means that instead of replacing the entire controller when the thumbsticks start to drift, you can simply slide off the front plate and replace the individual stick module. While this requires a separate purchase of official replacement modules, it significantly increases the lifespan of the controller and addresses the common problem of stick drift. This addresses a major drawback of traditional controllers, providing a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for long-term use.
Included Carrying Case
The controller comes with a protective carrying case, which not only provides safe storage but also includes space for extra thumbsticks, ensuring that you have the necessary replacements readily available. This attention to detail demonstrates Sony’s commitment to enhancing the user experience and ensuring your controller is always ready.
Performance and Feel
Premium Build Quality
The DualSense Edge retains the iconic design of the standard DualSense, but with subtle improvements. The grips are slightly more textured, providing a more secure feel, and the overall build quality feels more robust and premium. While slightly heavier than the standard version (about 55 grams), this added weight lends a sense of substance and durability.
Wired and Wireless Connectivity
Like the original DualSense, the Edge can be connected to your console or PC either wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired using a USB-C connection. This versatility allows you to choose the method that works best for you. For PC users, the DualSense Edge offers broad compatibility with many games, allowing you to take advantage of its custom features across multiple platforms.
Is the DualSense Edge Worth the Premium?
The DualSense Edge certainly comes with a premium price tag. The standard DualSense controller is significantly less expensive. However, the Edge offers features specifically geared towards the serious and competitive gamer, or for those who want a more customizable experience. It enhances durability by providing a solution for stick drift and offers a level of customization not found in the standard controller. For players who want the very best performance and are willing to invest, the DualSense Edge is a worthwhile upgrade. However, the features may not be essential for the casual gamer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main difference between the DualSense Edge and the standard DualSense controller?
The main difference lies in the DualSense Edge’s focus on customizability and enhanced durability. It offers mappable buttons, rear paddles, adjustable sticks and triggers, replaceable thumbsticks, and custom profiles—features not found on the standard DualSense.
2. Can I use the DualSense Edge controller on PC?
Yes, the DualSense Edge is compatible with Windows PCs through both wired (USB-C) and wireless (Bluetooth) connections.
3. Does the DualSense Edge suffer from stick drift?
While stick drift can still occur, the DualSense Edge allows you to replace the individual thumbstick modules, meaning you do not have to replace the entire controller. This drastically extends the life of the controller and mitigates the issue.
4. Does the DualSense Edge have trigger stops?
Yes, the DualSense Edge features trigger stops that reduce the travel distance of the triggers, allowing for faster inputs in games. However, activating them does disable the adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.
5. How long does the battery last on the DualSense Edge?
The DualSense Edge has a slightly lower battery life than the standard DualSense controller, typically lasting between 5 to 7 hours on a full charge.
6. Is the DualSense Edge heavier than the standard DualSense?
Yes, the DualSense Edge is slightly heavier than the standard DualSense, weighing around 55 grams more.
7. Can you remap all the buttons on the DualSense Edge?
Yes, every button on the DualSense Edge can be re-mapped through the PS5’s system menu.
8. Does the DualSense Edge have rear paddle buttons?
Yes, the DualSense Edge features rear paddle buttons that can be mapped to other controller buttons.
9. Can I charge the DualSense Edge on a standard DualSense charger?
Yes, the DualSense Edge is compatible with the official PlayStation charging station for DualSense controllers.
10. Is the DualSense Edge good for fighting games?
Yes, the DualSense Edge can be very effective for fighting games due to its digital profile, which offers improved responsiveness on the left stick, as well as the ability to map controls for easy access.
11. Does the DualSense Edge have rubber grips?
Yes, the backs of the grips have a grippy rubber material that provides a more secure feel.
12. Can I adjust the sensitivity of the analog sticks on the DualSense Edge?
Yes, the DualSense Edge allows you to adjust the sensitivity and dead zones of the analog sticks.
13. How much does a replacement thumbstick module cost for the DualSense Edge?
Official replacement thumbstick modules from Sony typically cost around $20 each.
14. Where can I buy a DualSense Edge controller?
You can buy the DualSense Edge controller from most major retailers that sell PlayStation products, such as Currys, Amazon, and directly from the Sony website.
15. Does the DualSense Edge come in different colors?
Currently, the official DualSense Edge controller is only available in white. However, third-party retailers and custom controller companies may offer variations in different colors.