Alongside the introduction of the PS5, Sony announced the new DualSense controller which is said to have improved upon the previous PS4 DualShock 4, but is that the case?
For many of those looking to upgrade to PS5, the controller can be important, especially as many gamers have gotten used to using the DualShock 4 over the past 8 years.
So, is the DualSense a worthy successor to the DualShock 4? Let's take a look!
DualSense Vs DualShock 4 Price
The PS5 DualSense controller has an RRP of $69.99 / £59.99 while the DualShock 4 is available for $64.99 / £49.99.
As expected the DualShock 4 is the cheaper option, however, considering it is 8 years older, it is not significantly lower in price than the new DualSense.
Although, with that being said, the DualShock 4 does often go on sale for less and is readily available for a lot less if you're willing to go for a used unit.
Of course, both consoles come with respective controllers included in the box, so if you're stuck between going for a PS4 Pro or upgrading to PS5, this could be worth considering.
DualSense Vs DualShock 4 Specs
PS5 DualSense | PS4 DualShock 4 | |
|---|---|---|
Price | $69.99 / £59.99 | $64.99 / £49.99 |
Weight | 280 grams | 209 grams |
Size | 19.9 x 19 x 7 cm | 19 x 13.5 x 3 cm |
Compatibility | PS5, PC, Android | PS4, PS5 (PS4 games only), PS3, PC, Mac, Android, IOS |
Connectivity | USB-C, Bluetooth | Micro USB, Bluetooth |
Key Features | Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, built-in microphone, motion controls, touchpad | Motion controls, built-in speaker, touchpad |
The PS5 is both larger and heavier than DualShock 4, for many this is a plus and others a minus, this ultimately comes down to personal preference.
The DualShock offers much wider compatibility than DualSense and can even be used on PS5 when playing PS4 games and so this can be a worthy compromise for those looking for the best of both worlds.
It is also worth considering that the PS5 DualSense may offer more widespread compatibility in the future.
DualSense Vs DualShock 4 Features
The DualSense's clear selling points are the exciting new features it offers such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
The built-in microphone of the DualSense will also appeal to a lot of people as this can be a handy feature when you don't have one of the best PS5 headsets available and want to chat with friends.
It's also on the front of battery life where the DualSense wins with a quoted life of nine to ten hours. By contrast, the DualShock should last between four and eight hours, meaning the new controller is a handy improvement.
All of the key features on the DualShock 4 such as built-in speakers, touchpad and motion control are also present in the DualSense, making the new PS5 controller a clear winner here.
DualSense Vs DualShock 4 Design
While they both look different, they manage to carry off the classic PlayStation controller look, with the PS logo button at the centre and the traditional button layout.
As the DualSense is newer, there are currently only three available colours which are, White, Midnight Black and Cosmic Red, whereas the DualShock 4 is available in countless colour schemes.
In terms of practicality, the DualSense is bigger, has a larger touch-pad and a front-facing light which makes it more visible than the DualShock 4's rear light.
Ultimately, the appearance and feel are down to personal preference, but for us, the DualSense offers more practicality and the two-tone colour scheme stands out for us.
DualSense Vs DualShock 4 Which Is Best?
So, which is better? The DualSense offers more features, but for a greater price, whereas the DualShock 4 provides less yet offers wider compatibility.
We'd say the DualSense takes the crown here, as the new features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are seriously worth checking out.
If you're a fan of the DualShock 4 and used to using it, you can always take it with you when playing PS4 games on next-gen.
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