PS5 Controllers You Didn't Realize Existed

On Aug. 23, PlayStation officially announced the debut of its new "pro" controller, the DualSense Edge. Its cutting edge customizable features have many gamers weighing whether or not to pick up the soon-to-be-released device or stick with the standard DualSense controller that comes bundled with every PS5. As it turns out, there is another option for PS5 owners looking to switch things up: third-party controllers. 

If you're in the market for a new PS5 controller, there are some options outside of the DualSense and DualSense Edge. Maybe you're wary of the tradeoffs that come with the new controllers and are looking for some alternatives. For example, The Shortcut predicts the DualSense Edge will cost roughly $199 on the market, which is much more cash than many gamers will likely be willing to part with. On the other hand, the DualSense has many well-known issues, including a short battery life and joystick module issues. According to a 2021 report from iFixit, due to these joystick issues, the standard DualSense may begin to break down after a mere 417 hours of use.

Here are some DualSense alternatives you might not have even known about.

The most talked about aspect of the DualSense Edge is its level of customization. According to PlayStation.Blog, the new controller will allow players to remap controls and change out different sticks and buttons. Well, as it turns out, there are a few third-party PS5 controllers that claim to offer many of the same functions. For example, Aim Controllers allows players to custom order a PS5 controller with various unique features, aesthetics, accessories, and components. There is no set cost for this device, as customers are instead charged per customized component. Battle Beaver is another company that provides gamers with a bevy of customizable components, including additional buttons, unique triggers, thumbsticks, and stock bumpers, among others. Much like with Aim Controllers, the price of a Battle Beaver is based on what specs you decide to go with. 

Another option is the HexGaming controller. Built with esports gamers, this design also allows players to swap out thumbsticks and choose between different grips that suit their needs. This advanced controller carries a hefty price tag of $269.99, though, so it's only for exceptionally hardcore gamers. Keep in mind, however, if you go with the HexGaming's FastShots triggers, you'll no longer have the use of the DualSense's trademark adaptive triggers, according to PlayStation LifeStyle. 

Another high performance third-party PS5 controller on the market is the SCUF Reflex. Many of the features to be provided by the DualSense Edge — controller mapping, multiple players profiles, and customizable components — are all available in the Reflex. The controller also includes removable faceplates, re-mappable paddles, and additional buttons. The standard Reflex currently costs $199.99.

Customization isn't necessarily the only feature one looks for in a gaming controller. Thankfully, there are other third-party options on the market that provide additional features you may no have even thought of. For example, the $119.99 NACON Unlimited Pro V3 controller offers backwards compatibility with the PS4. In fact, the controller was originally designed for the PS4 but, according to Digital Trends, also works great for the PS5.

At the end of the day, PlayStation's new DualSense Edge may very well be the best choice, but it's good to know that it's not the only game in town. Either way, don't feel like you're stuck between only a few controllers. As demonstrated above, when it comes to PS5 controllers, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for unique customization, a snazzy aesthetic, backwards compatibility, or just something new out of your PS5 controller, it's likely that there's a third-party controller out there for you.