PlayStation has finally entered the realm of high-end “pro” controllers with the DualSense Edge, announced at Gamescom Opening Night Live. The features and design of the DualSense Edge clearly offer PlayStation players something similar to Xbox’s Elite controller lineup, particularly the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2. Pricing, release date, dimensions, and weight, have yet to be revealed as of publication. However, PlayStation shared plenty of information on what this controller will feature, giving us a better idea of its capabilities. To better understand the DualSense Edge, let’s take a look at the specs (so far), dig 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 / IGNDualSense Edge vs. Xbox Elite Series 2: Brief 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 standard controller models). But let’s break down some of the bigger things included in the higher-end controllers. The DualSense Edge includes 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 when playing competitive shooters or when you want to minimize the dead zone while playing racing games. The DualSense Edge offers three trigger stop positions which you can adjust with a small toggle next to both triggers on either side of the controller.Additionally, Sony confirmed all 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 with it the 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 when stored. While we can hope the DualSense Edge will have an improved battery life over the DualSense, the decision to make it easy to charge the controller when it is stored in the case to keep it secured and juiced up is a nice touch. In comparison, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller offers an internal, rechargeable battery, while the standard Xbox wireless controller still depends on two AA batteries to function. The big difference is that the Xbox Elite Series 2 does not include a USB-C cable like the DualSense Edge; the controller’s packaging includes a wireless charging dock. Simply plug a USB-C cable into 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: CustomizationThe DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2 offer a wide range of customization options. But one thing that certainly provides a competitive edge for the DualSense Edge is the ability to replace the stick modules, something the Xbox Elite controller does not offer. Although the stick modules will be sold separately, the fact that you can change the thumbsticks entirely is a big deal, as there have been reports since the PS5’s launch of controller drift. The option to replace the thumbsticks will help increase the longevity of the DualSense Edge. Both controllers come with removable thumbsticks, though. The Xbox Elite Series 2 offers a set of six adjustable-tension thumbsticks: two standard, two classic, one tall, and one wide dome. The DualSense Edge will offer three types of stick caps: standard, high dome, and low dome. Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Controller ReviewButton remapping is also available on both controllers. The Xbox Elite Series 2 offers three different ways for you to remap buttons, including one that requires going to the Accessories app on your Xbox. The DualSense Edge, as noted in the PlayStation Blog, features an “on-controller user interface” with a dedicated Fn button that will allow you to adjust your controller’s settings and other things like game volume. While Sony did not officially confirm whether the DualSense Edge will support PC, if the standard DualSense is anything to go off of, hopefully, the controller will be compatible with PC (and mobile) devices as well. Especially considering Sony’s recent expansion into the PC market and a firmware update app for PC. Customizable player profiles are also a big selling point for these high-end controllers. While Sony did not officially confirm how many profiles you can store on the DualSense Edge, Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers allow you to store up to three custom player profiles. While we still have much to learn about the DualSense Edge, early signs indicate that this will be a pretty solid contender in the high-end market. Especially for PS5 players who thus far have had to resort to third-party controller-makers 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 into IGN’s weekly PlayStation show, Podcast Beyond!, for more on the latest news in the world of PlayStation. Taylor is the Associate Tech Editor at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
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