Choosing the best PS5 controller is surprisingly simple for most gamers. The standard Sony DualSense, launched alongside the PS5, introduced groundbreaking features that developers continue to innovate upon. It surpasses previous gamepads, showcasing the PS5's (and the upcoming PS5 Pro's) capabilities. A clear step up, it's the ideal choice for many.
TL;DR: Top PS5 Controllers
Sony DualSense: Best Overall
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Sony DualSense Edge: Top-Tier Customization
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Victrix Pro BFG: Ultimate Customization
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Razer Wolverine V2 Pro Wireless: Exceptional Battery Life
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Scuf Reflex Pro: For Discerning Gamers
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Nacon Revolution 5 Pro: Stick Drift Resistant
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Victrix Pro FS: Premium Fight Stick
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However, if you desire extra features, numerous options exist. Consider your gaming style. Competitive shooters or fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate "pro" controllers with extra buttons and rear paddles for speed advantages. Others might prioritize longer battery life or enhanced customization.
Prioritize build quality. Avoid lesser-known brands; invest in a durable controller. We've rigorously tested seven top contenders to guide your choice. Potential PS5 deals might sweeten the pot.
The DualSense also pairs well with the PlayStation Portal.
Sony DualSense Controller Review
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1. Sony DualSense: The Best PS5 Controller
Experience a familiar design enhanced by advanced haptics and adaptive triggers.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Max Battery Life: ~15 hours
- Weight: 280g
Pros: Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers; Sony-approved quality.
Cons: So-so battery life.
The best PS5 controller is, surprisingly, the one bundled with the console. The DualSense isn't just a standard gamepad; its features make it ideal for most players. Its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers offer unparalleled immersion. The hardware is top-notch, with smooth button presses and a premium feel. Despite minor issues like stick drift and battery life, the DualSense excels, showcasing the PS5's potential and offering great value.
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2. Sony DualSense Edge: The Premier PS5 Pro Controller
Elevate customization with interchangeable back buttons, sticks, and more.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Max Battery Life: ~10 hours
- Weight: 325g
Pros: Extensive customization; user-friendly.
Cons: Disappointing battery life.
Sony's pro controller, the DualSense Edge, surpasses the original. Rear paddles, interchangeable analog sticks, and adjustable triggers cater to competitive gamers. Custom settings are easily managed, and replaceable stick modules prevent stick drift. However, battery life is a significant drawback.
3. Victrix Pro BFG: Unmatched Customization
Modular design allows layout changes, even incorporating a fight pad module.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz wireless, USB-C
- Max Battery Life: 20 hours
- Weight: 298g
Pros: Extensive face module options; fight pad compatibility.
Cons: Lacks haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
For ultimate customization, the Victrix Pro BFG reigns supreme. Its modular design lets you switch between PlayStation and Xbox button layouts or even add a fight pad. Trigger adjustments, rear buttons, and interchangeable stick components cater to competitive players. However, it lacks adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.
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4. Razer Wolverine V2 Pro Wireless: Champion of Battery Life
Responsive off-set analog sticks, Mecha-Tactile Action Buttons, and long battery life.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz wireless, USB-C
- Max Battery Life: 28 hours
- Weight: 279g
Pros: Impressive battery life; comfortable design.
Cons: Lacks haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
Despite its unconventional shape, the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro boasts exceptional battery life (around 30 hours with RGB lighting off). Extra bumpers, rear paddles, and a mute microphone button enhance functionality. However, it lacks haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
5. Scuf Reflex Pro: For the Discerning Gamer
Adaptive triggers, rumble, and four programmable rear paddles.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Max Battery Life: ~9 hours
- Weight: 300g
Pros: Four rear paddles; various color options.
Cons: Lacks haptic feedback.
The Scuf Reflex Pro offers a similar design to the DualSense Edge but with fewer customization options and no haptic feedback. Its main draws are the four rear paddles and custom skin options.
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6. Nacon Revolution 5 Pro: Stick Drift Prevention
Hall effect sensors eliminate stick drift.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Max Battery Life: ~9 hours
- Weight: 308g
Pros: Hall effect sensors prevent stick drift; textured grip.
Cons: Lacks haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro's key feature is its resistance to stick drift, thanks to Hall effect sensors. While expensive, it justifies its cost with additional pro controller features. However, it omits haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
7. Victrix Pro FS: The Ultimate Fight Stick
Sanwa Denshi buttons and joystick in a sturdy aluminum frame.
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Product Specifications:
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Max Battery Life: ~9 hours
- Weight: 3.5kg
Pros: High-quality components; sleek design.
Cons: Very expensive.
The Victrix Pro Arcade FS is a premium fight stick, offering lag-free performance and customization. High-quality Sanwa components and a comfortable design make it a top choice, though it comes at a high price.
Choosing Your PS5 Controller
Before buying, set a budget (controllers range from $50 to $300). Consider the layout (traditional PlayStation or Xbox-style), connectivity (wireless or wired), build quality, ergonomics, and grip. Extra features like back paddles, swappable sticks, and RGB lighting add cost but enhance gameplay. Many PS5 controllers are also compatible with PC.
Our Selection Process
All controllers were personally tested, assessing features, battery life, build quality, and target audience.
PlayStation 5 Controller FAQ
Q: Which PS5 controller avoids stick drift?
A: The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro, using Hall effect sensors, is less susceptible to stick drift.
Q: How do I fix stick drift?
A: If under warranty, contact Sony. Cleaning the analog stick might help remove debris.
Q: Does the PS5 controller have a headphone jack?
A: Yes, the DualSense and most third-party controllers include a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Q: When are PS5 controllers on sale?
A: Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and the PlayStation Days of Play offer potential discounts.
