If like me, you’ve had a PS5 since launch you’re firstly very lucky, and secondly your DualSense controller is probably looking a little worn five years on. I’m thinking it’s about time I refreshed my controller line-up, not only with new hardware – but new hardware in some different colors.
And now is a great time to strike, as Amazon has four DualSense colorways discounted by 27% (they’re now $54.99) for Black Friday, saving you $20 off the $74.99 MSRP.
This is the cheapest the PlayStation DualSense controllers have been on Amazon since… yep you’ve guessed it, Black Friday last year, when they dropped to $54. Plus, Prime Members can get free next-day, or even same-day delivery, depending on where you are in the country.
DualSense Wireless Controller: was $74.99 now $54.99, saving $20
Why should I replace my DualSense controller?
If you’re still using the same DualSense controller you received half a decade ago when your PS5 turned up at your door (yes, hello, that’s me), there are a number of reasons why you might want to consider treating yourself this Black Friday.
Of course, if buttons aren’t working, the analogue sticks are unresponsive, the speaker is broken or it’s no longer charging, your hand is a little more forced in purchasing a replacement – but there are other reasons why it might be time to buy a new controller.
1. Analog sticks wearing
When Sony introduced the Dual Analog Controller for the first PlayStation, the rubber on the sticks would wear over time. This continued into the DualShock era, and I’ve had countless controllers which has suffered the shedding fate.
The good news is the analog sticks on the PS5’s DualSense controllers are much hardier, and thus have better longevity than predecessors. They’re not immune to wear though, and if the rubber on your sticks is starting to fail, you might want to consider moving your current controller to the role of back-up and get yourself a fresh DualSense as your daily.
2. Button response slowing
Okay, I’ll admit it. Sometimes I eat while I game. And that sometimes leads to crumbs, and those crumbs can sometimes fall on my controller. Now, I usually dust them off onto a plate, but that doesn’t guarantee all detritus is removed. Over the years, small bits of dust and crumbs can find their way into the tiny gaps around the buttons – which can build up over time and lead to some spongy response.
If you’re a competitive online gamer, perhaps you love battling it out on cross-platform games, you want button presses to be instant – so you might want to consider a new controller as your first choice DualSense to maintain your edge.
3. Battery life waning
After five years of use, and many, many recharge cycles, the battery pack in your DualSense controller might not last as long as it once did. This is expected behavior, as much like your smartphone, over the years the usable battery capacity deteriorates, resulting in less time between charges.
If you’re someone who loves long gaming sessions, having to get up to charge or switch controllers can be frustrating – especially when you’re in the middle of an important mission. Treating yourself to a box fresh DualSense this Black Friday will keeping you playing throughout the holidays.
4. Your household is growing
A lot can happen in five years, and you may find there are more people at home who want to join in on the PS5 gaming fun. Perhaps you’ve gained a couple of new house mates, maybe the kids are older and want to game with you, or your partner wants to dig into some co-op PS5 games. Whatever the reason, having a few extra controllers can certainly come in handy.
DualSense Wireless Controller: was $74.99 now $54.99, saving $20
