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The PS5 is finally upon us, and it will bring with it one of the most radical PlayStation controller redesigns we’ve seen. The new DualSense The controller is designed for maximum immersion, thanks to advanced haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and built-in sounds that let you feel and hear your favorite games like never before.
But it has some big shoes to fill thanks to the PS4 DualShock 4, which is largely considered one of the best controllers ever made, and it will continue to work with the PS5 for select games. So if you’re curious about what’s new when it comes to DualSense vs DualShock 4 and how you’ll be able to use the two controllers on Sony’s new console, read on for our full breakdown.
PS5 DualSense vs DualShock 4 spec comparison
| PS5 DualSense | DualShock 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $ 69 | $ 64 |
| Size | 6.3 x 2.6 x 4.2 inches | 6.4 x 2.0 x 3.9 inches |
| Weight | 9.9 ounces | 7.4 ounces |
| Key features | Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, built-in microphone, motion controls, touchpad | Motion controls, built-in speaker, touch panel |
| Connectivity | USB-C | micro USB |
| Compatibility | PS5, PC (provisional), Android (provisional) | PS5 (PS4 games only), PS4, PS3, PC, Mac, Android, iOS |
PS5 DualSense vs DualShock 4: Price
Next-gen functionality doesn’t come cheap. The DualSense wireless controller retails for $ 69.99, which is slightly more expensive than the $ 64.99 MSRP of the DualShock 4. However, we often see the latest controller go on sale, so keep an eye out for Black Friday PS5 deals.
Of course, both controllers come with their respective consoles, so PS5 owners will get a DualSense out of the box.
PS5 DualSense vs DualShock: design and feel
The PS5 console itself isn’t the only new piece of Sony hardware going big. The DualSense is significantly more robust than the DualShock 4, with a stronger grip reminiscent of the Xbox Wireless Controller. The DualSense doesn’t feel much heavier than the DualShock 4 at 9.9 ounces versus 7.4 ounces, but you will immediately notice the difference in size.
After having used the DualSense for a few days, I’m still not quite sure which controller I prefer in terms of feel. There’s a satisfying weight to the PS5 gamepad, but I’m curious to see if it causes hand cramps when I’ve been in an intense Mortal Kombat or Call of Duty session for hours. The DualShock 4 still feels very ergonomic and downright compact compared to its new sibling.
But these drivers don’t just feel different; they also differ enormously in terms of physical appearance. While most of the DualShock 4 variants comprise a single color, the DualSense has a striking two-tone design with translucent white buttons and a black interior area.
The button layout is pretty much the same, but the DualSense has a much larger touchpad area. And as a stylish touch, the DualSense has subtle rear grips that are actually made up of a bunch of little symbols that correspond to the four front PlayStation buttons (circle, cross, square, and triangle).
The DualSense light bar now emanates from the touchpad on the front, making it much more visible than the DualShock 4’s overhead light. It’s also worth noting that the DualSense has made the jump to USB-C for charging, while the DualShock 4 is based on the old micro-USB standard.
PS5 DualSense vs DualShock 4: features
The DualSense’s big selling points are its advanced haptics and adaptive triggers, which work together to create a feedback feel that is more immersive than any other controller. For example, while playing Astro’s Playroom, you will feel the detailed sound of sand as you walk through a desert storm, or you will feel additional resistance in the triggers when you pull them to send a spring-loaded character flying. While we have to test DualSense in more games, but from what we’ve played so far, the Sony controller is capable of delivering some of the most advanced feedback we’ve felt on a gamepad, even compared to the Switch’s 3D noise.
DualSense and DualShock 4 still share many features, including a built-in speaker, motion control support, and a touchpad for swiping games and menus. The DualSense takes things a step further with a built-in microphone, which you can use to chat with friends in the game and even perform certain actions in the game, such as blowing the microphone to advance a platform in the Astro game room.
PS5 DualSense vs DualShock 4: compatibility
Naturally, the PS5 DualSense controller is designed specifically for PS5, although first reports I suggest you will be able to use it on PC and Android too (we’ll put this claim to the test soon) You will not be able to use DualSense on PS4.
The DualShock 4 is more versatile in comparison, as it is compatible with PS4, PS3, PC, Mac, Android, and even iOS. It will work on PS5 as well, but only when playing backward compatible PS4 games. As such, you need to keep in mind what types of local multiplayer games you’ll be playing on PS5 when it’s time to stock up on additional controllers.
PS5 DualSense vs DualShock 4: Outlook
Based on our early testing, the DualSense is shaping up to be a huge improvement over the DualShock 4, thanks to its immersive haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that create gaming experiences that truly feel next-gen. Its heavier design feels good, though gamers with small hands may have a hard time adjusting to the new controller.
If you’re not a PlayStation gamer and wondering which of these gamepads offers the best experience for PC and mobile devices, stay tuned for our more extensive tests. But if you’ve pre-ordered the PS5, you’ve got plenty of exciting new controller features to look forward to on the DualSense.
