The PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller is the standard controller that ships with the PS5, sold separately here as a spare or replacement. The two features it’s known for are haptic feedback, which uses dual actuators in the grips to simulate in-game textures and impacts, and adaptive triggers on L2 and R2 that change their resistance based on what’s happening in a game. A built-in microphone, a Create button for capturing clips, a touchpad, a motion sensor, and a 3.5mm headphone jack are also included, along with USB-C charging for the built-in battery.
A premium PlayStation controller both Player 1 and Player 2 will appreciate
The haptic feedback comes from two linear actuators built into the grips, one for each hand. Instead of a single rumble that buzzes the whole controller, these motors vibrate at different frequencies and intensities on the left and right sides. In games that support the feature, the controller can simulate features such as the texture of surfaces underfoot, the tension of a drawn bowstring, or individual raindrops in a storm. The effect is most noticeable in first-party PlayStation games tuned specifically for it.
Each adaptive trigger has a small motor that adjusts how far the trigger presses and how much force it takes. A game can add resistance partway through a trigger pull, so drawing a bow meets tension at the draw point, or accelerating in a car requires pressing through a stiffer trigger. The triggers can also lock partway down to simulate a jammed weapon. Like the haptics, the adaptive triggers depend on the game supporting them, and not every title uses them.
The built-in microphone lets you chat without a headset, with a dedicated mute button below the touchpad for quickly cutting the mic. The Create button captures screenshots and video clips for sharing. A 3.5mm headphone jack on the bottom edge takes a wired headset, and the touchpad and motion sensor carry over from the DualShock 4 for games that use them. The controller charges over USB-C, though the cable is not included in the box.
Beyond the PS5, the DualSense connects to PC, Mac, and mobile devices over Bluetooth or USB-C. On PC, a growing list of games supports the haptics and adaptive triggers natively, though some of those features need a wired connection. The controller also works for PS Remote Play, which streams games from a PS5 or PS4 to a phone, tablet, or computer. A firmware update in late 2025 added multi-device Bluetooth pairing for switching between paired devices.
At $54, the DualSense is an easy second controller to add for local multiplayer, or a backup for when the main one is charging. The discount applies across several models, so the savings aren’t tied to one color. Since the same controller works on PS5, PC, Mac, and mobile, a spare can move between whatever devices you game on.