The DualSense is a solid controller, and since it comes bundled with every PS5, it's the default for most players. But while it gets the job done, it’s far from the best option out there.
These days, there are loads of alternatives that go beyond what the standard DualSense offers, from improved comfort and build quality to features designed for serious performance. That said, not every alternative controller is worth your time (or money).
To make things easier, this guide breaks down why it might be time to upgrade, whether premium controllers are actually worth it, and rounds off with five of the best alternative options for you to consider if you're ready to take the leap to an elite-tier gamepad.
Why It Might Be Time to Move On From the DualSense
The DualSense is a solid controller, but if you're chasing performance, comfort, or a deeper level of customisation, it starts to show its limits pretty quickly.
Here’s where it starts to fall short:
- Lack of back buttons – You’re leaving potential inputs on the table, especially in fast-paced or competitive games where paddles can give you an edge.
- No trigger locks – Shooters feel slower without adjustable trigger stops, which other pro controllers offer for quicker shots.
- Non-remappable hardware – While software remapping is limited, most settings are locked down unless you buy Sony’s pricier Edge model.
- Stick drift potential – Like most controllers, the DualSense isn’t immune to drift, and it doesn’t offer swappable stick modules. I've experienced it with my own DualSense controller, and know how frustrating this can be.
- Average battery life – Around 6–8 hours on a good day, though in my personal experience, the battery life can be as short as 3–4 hours depending on the wear and tear of your DualSense.
- Not ideal for every genre – Competitive gamers, particularly within the shooter genre, might find it lacking in precision and layout flexibility needed to compete with pesky keyboard and mouse users.
Is a Premium PS5 Controller Worth It?
Premium controllers tend to pack in features that can seriously improve comfort, performance, and versatility. Whether that’s worth the price you pay depends on how (and how often) you play.
Here’s what you get by going premium:
- Back paddles or extra buttons – Map key actions to your fingers without taking thumbs off the sticks.
- Trigger stops – Faster trigger pulls in FPS games give you that competitive edge by helping you stay a split-second ahead of your enemies.
- Swappable thumbsticks – Tweak stick height and shape to suit your playstyle. For instance, you might prefer the precision a longer stick gives for aiming, and a shorter stick for quicker movement.
- Modular or customizable layouts – Some controllers let you physically rearrange buttons or sticks for genre-specific setups.
- Anti-drift tech – Hall effect sensors or replaceable stick modules are commonplace these days, and help future-proof against drift issues.
- Better grip and build quality – Premium materials mean longer, comfier sessions (and less hand fatigue).
- Onboard profiles – Quick-swap custom setups for different games without digging through menus.
- Deeper control via companion apps – Some controllers let you adjust dead zones, sensitivity curves, and more to fine-tune your experience.
While this all might seem beyond what you need, the truth is that if you play a lot or competitively, these features can make a difference. I've tried plenty of controllers with all the features listed above and more, and I can safely say they tend to be worth it, even if you have to pay a smidge more than a DualSense to get them.
Best PS5 Controller Upgrades Worth Considering
Why we chose the NACON Revolution 5 Pro
If you’re looking to ditch the stock DualSense and want something that actually feels like an upgrade, the NACON Revolution 5 Pro is a top-tier choice.
Its Xbox-style asymmetrical sticks are extremely comfortable, plus it offers clicky, responsive buttons, while also including a large amount of customizations, including swappable sticks, weights, and profiles.
If you can live without a handful of PS5-only features, the NACON Revolution 5 Pro is hands-down one of the most well-rounded, competitive-ready controllers out there.
Why we chose the DualSense Edge
The DualSense Edge is the tier-up from the regular DualSense, offering greater build quality, super smart button remapping, and its back paddles genuinely add something to gameplay.
The ability to tweak trigger pull and analogue sensitivity is a real highlight as well, and is ideal for fast-paced games such as shooters or fighters. Plus, it features replaceable stick modules, which more controllers need.
If you’re deep in the PlayStation ecosystem and want a first-party premium option with all the bells and whistles (minus a few wishlist features), the Edge does live up to its name.
Why we chose the SCUF Reflex Pro
The SCUF Reflex Pro feels like a regular DualSense on steroids, offering better grip, solid build, and now with Hall effect sticks to finally say goodbye to drift.
The four rear paddles and adaptive triggers genuinely add to the in-game experience, especially for competitive gaming, and it's super customisable, too, from stick heights to on-the-fly profiles that you can switch through using a button on the back.
It is a little pricey, but if you’re all-in on competitive play and want a no-drift, high-performance upgrade, the Reflex Pro brings serious firepower.
Why we chose the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro
If you're after a controller that is just all-out performance, then the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro is a serious contender.
Its HyperSpeed Wireless technology is designed to be quick enough for even the sweatiest FPS lobbies, and the mecha-tactile buttons are clicky, fast, and satisfyingly precise. Add in six remappable buttons, swappable thumbsticks, and Razer Chroma RGB, and you've got a controller built to help get the best out of your skills.
So, if you want low-latency speed, competitive features, and full customisation wrapped in flashy RGB, the Wolverine V2 Pro absolutely justifies its place among the PS5 elite.
Why we chose the Victrix Pro BFG
The Victrix Pro BFG is nothing short of great. It’s lighter and arguably comfier and more stylish than Sony’s DualSense Edge, all while being more affordable, in most places you look.
Swappable modules and a full suite of customization options (including trigger locks and remappable back paddles) make it extremely versatile, while the tactile buttons give a confident press each and every time.
Overall, the Victrix nails what a premium third-party controller should be: powerful, flexible, and actually gameplay-improving to use.
Final Thoughts on the DualSense and Whether to Upgrade
The DualSense is a solid starting point, but once you’ve experienced the extra control, comfort, and customisation that premium controllers offer, it’s hard to go back.
Just make sure you’re picking a controller that fits your playstyle and your budget, of course. Not every premium gamepad is worth it, but the right one can genuinely elevate your gaming experience, and should be worth considering.