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Enjoy a familiar controller design that adds advanced haptics and adaptive triggers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Connectivity<\/p>\n
Bluetooth, USB-C<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\nHaptic feedback and adaptive triggers<\/p>\n
<\/span>Built-in microphone and speaker<\/p>\n
<\/span>Create button<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>Suboptimal battery life<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
For most players, the best PS5 controller is the one that comes in the box. PlayStation\u2019s DualSense, as we noted in its review a few years ago, is unbeatable for a reason. It’s packed with features that enhance your experience and immerse you into your gameplay. The adaptive triggers add tension to simulate actions like firing a gun or slowly drawing a bow, while the haptic feedback delivers subtle vibrations that let you feel things like raindrops in Returnal or the crunch of snow under your feet in Astro Bot.<\/p>\n
The DualSense is also built with social gaming in mind. The updated Create button makes it easy to capture screenshots and gameplay clips to share with friends or post online. There\u2019s a built-in microphone for quick multiplayer sessions, and while it\u2019s no match for a dedicated headset, it works well enough. The controller also includes an integrated speaker for in-game audio and a standard headphone jack for wired headsets.<\/p>\n
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Sony DualSense Controller Review<\/h3>\n<\/span><\/output><\/p>\n
While the DualSense is Sony\u2019s most advanced controller to date, it does have a few drawbacks. Battery life typically ranges from six to 12 hours, and games that fully use the controller\u2019s features can drain it even faster. Like many modern controllers, it is also prone to stick drift<\/u>, which unfortunately does not have a simple fix and often requires purchasing a new controller entirely.<\/p>\n
Still, the DualSense is my pick for the best PS5 controller overall. If you’re in the market for a second one or want something more stylish than the standard white, Sony has released a variety of DualSense colors and special editions over the years to suit just about any taste. There’s even a Marathon-themed DualSense edition coming out in March 2026 you can preorder now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
2. Sony DualSense Edge<\/h2>\n<\/p>\nBest Pro-Style PS5 Controller<\/h3>\n\n
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PlayStation DualSense Edge<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n 96<\/p>\n
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Take customizations to another level with this controller, offering interchangeable back buttons and sticks along with tons of other handy features.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Connectivity<\/p>\n
Bluetooth, USB-C<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\nVery customizable<\/p>\n
<\/span>Function button integration<\/p>\n
<\/span>Comfortable back buttons<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>Underwhelming battery life<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
I reviewed the DualSense Edge, Sony\u2019s answer to the Xbox Elite Controller that offers pro-level features and a wide range of customization options. It retains all of the standard DualSense’s core features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, but adds a deeper level of control for players looking to elevate their game.<\/p>\n
For starters, it includes three types of interchangeable thumbstick caps that can be swapped out depending on your preference or the game you\u2019re playing. Two rear buttons can be easily mapped to any input on the controller, giving you quick access to frequent actions. The thumbstick modules are also user-replaceable, so if you run into stick drift, you can replace just the module instead of buying an entirely new controller.<\/p>\n
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DualSense Edge \u2013 Photos<\/h3>\n<\/span><\/output><\/p>\n
The new Function buttons located beneath each thumbstick allow for intuitive, on-the-fly customization. You can quickly remap controls through a slick user interface and save up to four profiles that can be easily swapped depending on the game you’re playing.<\/p>\n
While the DualSense Edge is a strict upgrade over the standard DualSense in just about every way, its battery life leaves much to be desired. On average, it lasts about five to six hours on a single charge, which is even shorter than the regular DualSense.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
3. Razer Raiju V3 Pro Wireless<\/h2>\n<\/p>\nPS5 Controller With the Best Battery Life<\/h3>\n\n
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Razer Raiju V3 Pro<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n 2<\/p>\n
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Razer’s latest PS5 controller offers long battery life, TMR sticks and competition-focused features.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Connectivity<\/p>\n
2.4GHz wireless, USB-C<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\nImpressive battery life<\/p>\n
<\/span>Tactile buttons and TMR sticks<\/p>\n
<\/span>Six customizable buttons<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>No adaptive triggers<\/p>\n
<\/span>Expensive<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
If battery life is your biggest concern, the Razer Raiju V3 Pro might be the answer. With nearly 40 hours on a single charge, it ensures you won\u2019t run out of juice at a crucial moment.<\/p>\n
Battery life isn’t its only standout feature. The Raiju V3 Pro Wireless also features Mecha-Tactile Action Buttons, which feel significantly different than standard membrane buttons. The face buttons and D-pad are incredibly snappy and responsive, requiring less actuation than most controllers. That means faster, more accurate inputs, which could give you an edge in competitive games. You also benefit from TMR sticks, which are much less likely to suffer stick drift after years of use, and Hall Effect triggers which have similar longevity benefits. In my Raiju V3 Pro review, I found the controls incredibly responsive in timing-sensitive games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, F1 23, and Battlefield 6.<\/p>\n
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Razer Raiju V3 Pro \u2013 Photos<\/h3>\n<\/span><\/output><\/p>\n
Six customizable buttons are built into the controller, two on top and four on the back. These work with a satisfying click and provide some much-needed flexibility that helps justify this controller’s high price of $220\/\u00a3199. <\/p>\n
Unfortunately, like other third-party wireless PS5 controllers, the Raiju V3 Pro is limited to 250Hz polling rates on PS5, versus up to 2000Hz wired or 1000Hz wireless on PC. It also can’t wake the PS5 from deep sleep. These are minor annoyances in the grand scheme of things, but worth mentioning nonetheless.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
4. Scuf Reflex Pro<\/h2>\n<\/p>\nBest Grips on a PS5 Controller<\/h3>\n\n
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Scuf Reflex Pro<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n 37<\/p>\n
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Gamepad offering adaptive triggers and accurate rumble like the DualSense alongside extra features like four manually programmable paddles on the back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Connectivity<\/p>\n
Bluetooth, USB-C<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\nFour rear paddles<\/p>\n
<\/span>Variety of colors and faceplates<\/p>\n
<\/span>Comfortable grip<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>No haptic feedback<\/p>\n
<\/span>Expensive<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
Announced just a year after the PS5 launched, the Scuf Reflex Pro was the first major third-party alternative to the DualSense. Like many Scuf products, it’s geared toward competitive players and offers several pro-level features that Sony didn\u2019t include (at the time).<\/p>\n
Since then, the DualSense Edge has hit the market and knocked some of the wind out of the Reflex Pro’s sails. Still, it remains a solid choice for players looking to elevate their game. One key feature that sets it apart is its four customizable back paddles. They’re well-placed and easy to use, providing convenient access to key actions without needing to take your thumbs off the sticks. The controller also has an incredibly comfortable non-slip grip around both stems, keeping you and your hands locked in while gaming.<\/p>\n
The Reflex Pro is one of the only third-party controllers to include Sony\u2019s proprietary Adaptive Triggers, but it skips the DualSense\u2019s haptic feedback in favor of traditional rumble. Battery life lands around eight hours, putting it slightly ahead of the DualSense Edge but behind the standard DualSense.<\/p>\n
If customization is your thing, Scuf offers a range of vibrant colors and unique faceplates to help your Reflex Pro stand out. It also includes interchangeable thumbsticks you can swap based on your playstyle or comfort preference.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
5. Nacon Revolution 5 Pro<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\nBest Thumbsticks on a PS5 Controller<\/h3>\n\n
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Nacon Revolution 5 Pro<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n 35<\/p>\n
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Hall effect sensors in its analog sticks ensure stick drift isn\u2019t a problem with this high-end controller.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Connectivity<\/p>\n
Bluetooth, USB-C <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\nHall effect thumbsticks<\/p>\n
<\/span>Highly customizable<\/p>\n
<\/span>Textured grips<\/p>\n
<\/span>Pair Bluetooth headphones to controller<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>No haptic feedback or adaptive triggers<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
If you’ve ever experienced stick drift on any of your controllers, you know how frustrating it can be. It often leaves your controller nearly unusable, and in many cases, the only solution is to buy a replacement. That can get expensive quickly, especially if it happens more than once. Thankfully, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro that I reviewed uses Hall effect sensors in its thumbstick modules, which virtually eliminates the risk of stick drift.<\/p>\n
The Revolution 5 Pro is also highly customizable, making it a great fit for anyone who likes to tinker with their tech. Inside the included carrying case, you’ll find a mini tool box containing extra interesting components, including three sets of interchangeable thumbstick toppers that change the shape and height as well as thumbstick guards that reduce travel distance for more responsive movement.<\/p>\n
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Nacon Revolution 5 Pro \u2013 Photos<\/h3>\n<\/span><\/output><\/p>\n
One of the most unique additions is a set of controller weights. These can be added into the controller stems to provide a bit more heft and help distribute the weight more evenly. While the default setup is comfortable, this extra level of customization adds a premium feel that sets it apart from most other controllers.<\/p>\n
One of the Revolution 5 Pro’s killer features is built-in Bluetooth 5.2, allowing you to effectively bypass the PS5’s Bluetooth headphone restriction and pair your headphones directly to the controller. You can even adjust the headphone’s volume right from the controller!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
6. Victrix Pro BFG <\/h2>\n<\/p>\nBest Customizable PS5 Controller<\/h3>\n\n
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Victrix Pro BFG<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n 48<\/p>\n
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Customizable controller featuring a modular design that lets you swap around the layout and even features a fight pad module.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Connectivity<\/p>\n
2.4GHz wireless, USB-C<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\nModular design<\/p>\n
<\/span>Optional fight pad<\/p>\n
<\/span>Highly customizable<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>No haptic feedback or adaptive triggers<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
The Victrix Pro BFG is a highly-customizable controller with a modular design, allowing you to tailor it to your exact needs. A reversible left module allows you to swap between the standard PS5 parallel thumbstick layout and offset Xbox layout, providing a solution that will appeal to everyone.<\/p>\n
On the right side of the controller, you can remove the standard thumbstick and button module and replace it with a fightpad-style set of controls, adding a dedicated R1 and R2 button that can be customized for fighting games.<\/p>\n
It also features interchangeable thumbsticks and gates as well as three different D-pads for added personalization. The four back buttons can be mapped on the fly and a dedicated profile button on the rear of the controller allows you to create and swap between three unique profiles as needed. While it lacks adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, this is a very capable controller aimed at competitive players across genres.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
7. Hori Fighting Commander OCTA<\/h2>\n<\/p>\nBest PS5 Fightpad<\/h3>\n\n
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HORI Fighting Commander OCTA<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n 7<\/p>\n
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<\/span><\/div>\n\n\nShort-throw analog stick<\/p>\n
<\/span>Tactile face buttons<\/p>\n
<\/span>Great D-pad<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span>Not ideal for non-fighting games<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
If you’re a fan of fighting games and don’t necessarily want a bulky arcade fight stick, then the Hori Fighting Commander OCTA that I reviewed might be a great fit for you. It delivers the core features of a traditional fight stick in a more compact, gamepad-style design that fits comfortably in your hands.<\/p>\n
The Fighting Commander OCTA is officially licensed by Sony and works with PS5, as well as PS4 and PC through a wired USB connection to ensure minimal input delay.<\/p>\n
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Hori Fighting Commander Octa for PS5 \u2013 Photos<\/h3>\n<\/span><\/output><\/p>\n
What makes it ideal for fighting games is its short-throw analog stick with an octagonal gate, which helps you execute combos more easily. It also includes an adjustable circular D-pad for those who prefer 2D-style fighters. On the right side, you’ll find six tactile face buttons and two shoulder buttons, all designed for quick access and responsiveness during intense matches.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
8. Victrix Pro FS<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
![\"DualSense\"](\"https:\/\/assets-prd.ignimgs.com\/2021\/06\/04\/612bjwbuobs-sl1500-1622825179207.jpg?width=220&format=jpg&auto=webp&quality=80)
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