DualSense Edge Hands-On Previews Are Dropping And They’re Mostly Positive

Various outlets are beginning to publish hands-on previews and impressions of the PS5 DualSense Edge controller, with most reports being largely positive towards the premium product.

Coming in at a staggering $339.95, it’s safe to say that general consumers are depending on previews to guide the purchase. Having read through a number of said previews, the consensus is that Sony’s new toy is an improvement on the original in almost every way, save for the hit it takes to battery life and, of course, the eye-watering price point.

As far as positives go, the main takeaway from many of the previews has been the impressive level of customisation the controller offers. IGN, Gamespot and The Verge all agree that the new on-console app that allows the player to remap almost all of the buttons on the controller is a huge winner. All three outlets also agree that the new function buttons that allow the player to quickly and easily switch between the three layout presets are a welcome feature that makes customisation easy and accessible.

Before we get to the direct quotes from the major players, it’s worth mentioning the common negatives. The biggest concern that all three pointed towards is the fact that the Edge will have a shorter battery life than the already fleeting original DualSense. Of course, the other shared gripe is that the handset is over $300, which is far and away from being affordable.

But hey, let’s have a proper look at the opinions of those who have gone hands-on:

Gamespot

“The most useful additions to the DualSense Edge are the two function buttons located just below the analog sticks. The function buttons feel like a natural extension of the DualSense that makes it easier to access key features you’re likely to need in a gaming session.”

“For $200 [USD], you’ll get a controller that has a familiar form factor, improved ergonomics, some new feature options, and a good level of customizability.”

IGN

“The most enticing new feature is its new back button options. These will likely be the most appealing factor for those considering upgrading to the DualSense Edge. The ability to include additional inputs in alternate locations will be a boon to those who like to remap their buttons from game to game.”

“After spending a few hours with Sony’s DualSense Edge, my initial concerns over spending more for a luxury controller have largely disappeared. It’s a very well-designed controller with a lot of potential for people who want to customize their controls from top to bottom.”

The Verge

“What jazzed me, though, is that you can now rip off the caps of your joysticks to swap in an old-school convex dome instead, just like the sticks that shipped with your PS3, PS2, and later PS1s. The Edge comes with four of them at two different heights, though I’m sure I’d only use one.”

“Other than, you know, durability, there’s just one big question on my mind about the DualSense Edge, but it’s one that’ll have to wait for a review — I didn’t get time to test the battery life, and I worry because Sony isn’t willing to talk numbers at all. The company is only saying it will have “moderately shorter” battery life than the original DualSense.”

Do you still want to know more? Well, the Design Story video posted on the PlayStation Blog gives you a look at how the controller was conceptualised and designed.

You can watch the DualSense Design Story video here:

These first impressions give me hope that I didn’t drop over $300 on a lemon. It’s a tall ask to drop bank on a controller, but as far as premium handsets go, the DualSense Edge is sounding pretty damn great.

What are your thoughts on the DualSense Edge at this point? Will you be grabbing one? Let us know in the comments or on our social media.

A huge shout out to IGN, The Verge and Gamespot