Gaming & Consoles
DualSense Wireless Controller Review: Why It's Worth Buying a Second One
- Brand:
- Sony
- Ages:
- 13+ years
- Updated:
- 2026-07-12
The verdict
Worth buying a second one specifically for local co-op or as insurance against the well-documented stick drift issue — the adaptive trigger feature genuinely earns its keep in supported games.
Pros
- Adaptive triggers and precise haptic feedback remain a genuinely distinctive feature versus standard controllers
- Built-in microphone and speaker add functional extras beyond a typical gamepad
- USB-C charging matches most other modern devices, simplifying cable management
- Comfortable ergonomic shape holds up well across long play sessions
Cons
- Analog stick drift remains a real, documented long-term reliability concern across the product line
- Battery life is noticeably shorter than some competing controllers due to the haptic and adaptive trigger hardware
This review is based on Sony's published DualSense specifications and the consistent pattern in buyer feedback: adaptive triggers and haptics are repeatedly praised, while stick drift is repeatedly documented as a genuine long-term reliability risk worth knowing about upfront.
Stick drift is a real, documented issue, not just anecdotal complaints
Across large volumes of buyer feedback and independent reporting, analog stick drift after extended use is a consistently documented issue with this controller generation — worth knowing about honestly before buying, and a reasonable argument for owning a spare.
Who it's for
Essential for any PS5 owner wanting a second controller for local multiplayer, and worth the adaptive trigger feature specifically for single-player games that use it well.
Frequently asked
- Is stick drift a common problem?
- It's a genuinely documented, recurring issue reported across a meaningful portion of buyers after extended use, worth being aware of and a reasonable factor in deciding whether to buy a backup controller.
- Does it work on PC?
- Yes, via USB or Bluetooth, though some adaptive trigger and haptic features may not be fully supported depending on the specific PC game's controller implementation.
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