Advertisement
PlayStation has finally entered the realm of high-end pro controllers with the DualSense Edge, announced at Gamescom Opening Night Live. The DualSense Edge’s features and design are clearly offering PlayStation gamers something similar to Xbox’s elite line of controllers, specifically the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2.
Pricing, release date, dimensions and weight are yet to be announced at the time of release. However, PlayStation has shared plenty of information about what this controller will offer to give us a better idea of its capabilities.
To better understand the DualSense Edge, let’s take a look at the specs (so far), dive into its standout features, and see how it compares to the Xbox Elite Series 2, in addition to the base DualSense and Xbox wireless controllers.
Illustration by Amanda Flagg/IGN
DualSense Edge vs Xbox Elite Series 2: Quick Overview
The infographic above provides a quick overview of what the DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2 offer (and how they compare to each company’s stock controller models). But let’s break down some of the bigger stuff packed into the high-end controllers.
The DualSense Edge features adjustable trigger hair locks on the back of the device, similar to the Elite line. This means you can adjust the travel distance of the controller’s triggers, which is useful if you’re playing competitive shooters or if you want to minimize dead zone when playing racing games. The DualSense Edge offers three trigger stop positions that you can adjust with a small switch next to both triggers on either side of the controller.
Additionally, Sony confirmed that all of the signature features available in the DualSense, such as haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, motion controls, and a built-in microphone, will also be present in the Edge.
The Edge also brings DualSense’s internal battery and USB-C support. Both the DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2 also include a case that allows you to charge the controllers with a USB-C cable while in storage. While we can hope that the DualSense Edge will have improved battery life over the DualSense, the decision to simply charge the controller when stored in the case to keep it safe and charged is a nice touch.
In comparison, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller offers an internal, rechargeable battery, while the standard Xbox wireless controller still relies on two AA batteries to function.
The big difference is that the Xbox Elite Series 2 doesn’t include a USB-C cable like the DualSense Edge; The controller box includes a wireless charging station. Simply connect a USB-C cable to the back of the dock and place the Elite Series 2 on the dock and it will charge while in the case.
DualSense Edge vs Xbox Elite Series 2: Adjustment
The DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2 offer a wide range of customization options. But one thing that certainly gives the DualSense Edge a competitive edge is the ability to swap out the stick modules, which the Xbox Elite controller doesn’t offer.
Although the stick modules are sold separately, the fact that you can fully switch thumbsticks is a big deal given the reports of controller drift since the PS5 launched. The option to swap out the thumbsticks helps increase the longevity of the DualSense Edge.
However, both controllers come with detachable thumbsticks. The Xbox Elite Series 2 offers a set of six thumbsticks with adjustable tension: two standard, two classic, one high and one wide dome. The DualSense Edge offers three types of rod caps: Standard, High Dome and Low Dome.
Button remapping is also available on both controllers. The Xbox Elite Series 2 gives you three different ways to remap buttons, including one that requires going to the Accessories app on your Xbox. The DualSense Edge, as mentioned on the PlayStation Blog, features an “on-controller UI” with a dedicated Fn button that lets you adjust your controller’s settings and other things like game volume. While Sony hasn’t officially confirmed if the DualSense Edge will support PC, hopefully the controller will also be compatible with PC (and mobile) devices, if the standard DualSense is something to deviate from. Especially given Sony’s recent expansion into the PC market and a firmware update app for PC.
Customizable gamer profiles are also a big selling point for these high-end controllers. While Sony hasn’t officially confirmed how many profiles you can store on the DualSense Edge, Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers allow you to store up to three custom gamer profiles.
While we still have a lot to learn about the DualSense Edge, early indications are that this will be a pretty solid contender in the high-end market. Especially for PS5 players who previously had to resort to third-party controllers like Scuf if they wanted a high-end option for Sony’s console. In the meantime, check out the evolution of PlayStation controllers and be sure to tune in to IGN’s weekly PlayStation show, Podcast beyond!to find out more about the latest news in the world of PlayStation.
Taylor is an Associate Tech Editor at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
