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0 The DualSense Edge, Sony’s “Pro” controller released on the 26th of January this year. It marked a significant step forward for Sony, who had left pro controllers to 3rd parties such as Scuff, Nacon and Razer.
Truly Impressive Tech
As a lifelong gamer, I have never needed a pro controller. I always felt that you were paying a premium price for better battery life and some flappy back buttons. Maybe that was a naive view to have but for the best part of close to 40 years, I had “managed” without, so why should I start now?
In my opinion, the DualSense controller is the best console controller to date, beating the likes of the Super Nintendo, and the DualShock 4. One of my concerns about the DualSense Edge is the price of £209 in the UK. This is nearly approaching half the price of the console. So how will my first step into the world of pro controllers go?
Design
In addition to the controller, your DualSense Edge comes with a sleek and sturdy shell-like case for keeping your controller and accessories organized and safe. The included braided USB charging cable can be charged using the removable flap, which allows you to charge the controller even while it’s in the case. Inside, the case has been moulded so the controller and accessories fit snuggly into place.
Contents:
- USB braided cable
- 2 Standard caps
- 2 High dome caps
- 2 Low dome caps
- 2 Half dome back buttons
- 2 Lever back buttons
- Connector housing
The USB-C braided cable is around 9 feet in length. The included Connector Housing clips onto the cable to prevent accidental disconnection of the cable. There was no need to reinvent the wheel, the DualSense controller is fantastic. There are some great additions, a textured edge on both triggers gives an improved grip. The touchpad features the familiar Triangle, Circle, Square and Cross design that is featured on the console itself.
Functionality
When the DualSense Edge is first connected to the console you will be prompted to install the latest software update. You are also launched into an app giving you a full rundown of all the features. The app is fantastic running through everything you need, making customisation a breeze.
While Sony does go the extra mile by allowing the paddle buttons to be remapped, it is not the only thing that can be done. Whether it is the face buttons, the d-pad or the touch-pad inputs, here we can remap them all.
On the front of the controller below the thumbsticks are 2 function buttons. Using either of the function buttons brings up an option to instantly switch between saved remapped profiles. If you like to have your own setups for FPS, Action and Sports games, for example, you can switch between them by pressing the function and either Circle, Square or Cross. Triangle is set as a default function meaning you can set your own standard changes.
Using the back panel buttons you can map to a specific button. My use of this was actually surprising, and I already have ideas for other games I can use it for. Additionally, there are two sliders next to the triggers (pictured below) that adjust the length of the trigger, enabling you to choose between long, medium, and shallow strokes. Medium or shallow strokes turn off adaptive trigger settings, so it’s a trade-off.
Comfort
With a weight of 325g compared to 281g for DualSense controllers, the DualSense Edge is ever so slightly heavier. The ergonomics are perfect, even the use of the back paddles seems in a perfect position. The added grips to the edge of the L2 and R2 triggers actually are a superb addition, giving you that extra control. It does make me question why it is a pro-only feature and wasn’t considered in the original design.
I have always found the DualSense controller really comfortable, it has a good weight and the textures are great for long gaming sessions. It is more of the same with the DualSense Edge, even the extra weight doesn’t throw it off balance. As a comparison, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller weighs 345g depending on if you are using the 4 paddles.
Choosing which size thumbsticks you use means you can really customise the controller for your own comfort levels.
Final Thoughts
Let us start with the elephant in the room, and that is the price, because at £209 it is expensive, especially for a Pro Controller. With the cost of living increasing, The price point may prevent a lot of people from purchasing. I made the decision to purchase it and do a review of the controller and with that, I accepted the risks. Although if I really didn’t get on with the controller, I could have easily returned it.
So much attention has gone into making the DualSense Edge feel like a professional controller. The case is exactly what I would expect, it’s great quality and keeps everything secure. Being able to set up the controller from a dedicated PlayStation 5 app means it’s extremely simple to get the settings you want. Sony has taken arguably their best controller in the DualSense and packed it with all the features you can expect in a pro controller. I am really impressed with the DualSense Edge, switching profiles quickly is a great feature.
My first pro controller experience is really good, the only negative is the price. It is for that reason that the DualSense Edge is awarded the Thumb Culture Platinum Award.
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