Sony DualSense Wireless Controller review

For a PS5 the DualSense is the controller to buy first, because Sony's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers only work fully on its own pads. Sony describes dual actuators that replace traditional rumble motors and triggers that change force and tension, such as a bowstring that tightens or brakes that push back. PlayStation Direct listed it at $74.00 when we checked on November 13, 2026, with free delivery on orders over $40, and Sony sells it in many colors plus limited editions and the transparent Prism Collection. It is less suited to players who want extra inputs: there are no back buttons, no trigger locks and no swappable sticks. Competitive PS5 players who want those should compare the DualSense Edge at $199.00, while PC players who only need a standard layout can pay less for the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless at $59.99. Both haptics and adaptive triggers depend on the game supporting them.

Who it is for

PS5 owners who want the full feature set in supported games

Price

$74.00 at PlayStation Direct.

DualSense® Wireless Controller $ 74 00 $ 74 . 00
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 13, 2026.

Key features

• Haptic feedback from dual actuators that replace traditional rumble motors
• Adaptive triggers with varying levels of force and tension
• Many standard colors plus limited editions such as the Gran Turismo and Grand Theft Auto VI designs
• Prism Collection with transparent shells in Flare Orange, Graphite Gray and Emerald Green
• Sold on PlayStation Direct with free delivery on orders over $40

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are only on Sony's own PS5 pads in this list
• Strength: $74.00 on PlayStation Direct, well below the $199.00 DualSense Edge
• Strength: Wide choice of colors and limited editions
• Weakness: Costs more than the $59.99 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless
• Weakness: No back buttons or trigger locks
• Weakness: Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers depend on game support

Key facts

• Price: $74.00
• Platform: PS5
• Feedback: Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers
• Back buttons: None
• Seller: PlayStation Direct

Where it ranks

Sony DualSense Wireless Controller is No. 1 in our Best Gaming Controllers verdict.