The PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5) are the two latest home video game consoles released by Sony Interactive Entertainment. While both consoles are capable of delivering high-quality gaming experiences, there are a number of differences between them, including the controllers that are used to play games. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the controllers for the PS4 and PS5 and compare their features and capabilities.
The PS4 controller is known as the DualShock 4, and it has been the primary controller for the console since its launch in 2013. It features a traditional gamepad design with two analog sticks, a D-pad, and four face buttons (square, triangle, circle, and X). It also has two shoulder buttons (L1 and R1) and two triggers (L2 and R2), as well as a share button that allows players to capture and share gameplay footage and a touchpad that can be used for various in-game actions. The DualShock 4 is available in black and various other colors, and it can be used with the PS4 as well as some PC games.
The PS5 controller, on the other hand, is known as the DualSense controller, and it represents a significant departure from the DualShock 4 in terms of design and features. The DualSense controller has a more streamlined look than the DualShock 4 and is slightly larger overall. It also has a new white color scheme, which is a departure from the black of the DualShock 4.
One of the key features of the DualSense controller is haptic feedback, which allows for a more immersive gaming experience by providing more realistic and varied tactile sensations. This is achieved through the use of tiny motors in the controller that can create different types of vibrations and sensations depending on the in-game action. For example, driving over rough terrain in a racing game may feel differently than walking on a smooth surface, and the controller can provide different haptic feedback to match these experiences.
Another new feature of the DualSense controller is adaptive triggers on the L2 and R2 buttons. These triggers can provide different levels of resistance depending on the in-game action, allowing players to feel more immersed in the gameplay. For example, pulling back a bowstring in a game may require more resistance than firing a gun, and the adaptive triggers can provide this resistance to make the experience more realistic.
In addition to these new features, the DualSense controller also has a built-in microphone, which allows players to use voice commands or communicate with other players online without the need for a separate headset. It also has a share button similar to the one on the DualShock 4, which allows players to capture and share gameplay footage.
In terms of battery life, the DualSense controller has a slightly longer battery life than the DualShock 4, which means it can go longer between charges. However, both controllers can be used while they are charging, so this is not a significant advantage for the DualSense controller.
One important thing to note is that the DualSense controller is only compatible with the PS5, while the DualShock 4 is compatible with the PS4 and some PC games. This means that players who own a PS4 and want to upgrade to a PS5 will need to purchase a new controller if they want to take advantage of the new features of the DualSense controller.
In conclusion, the DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers are both high-quality controllers that offer a great gaming experience. However, the DualSense controller has a number of new features, including haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, that make it a more immersive and realistic controller compared to the DualShock 4. While it is only compatible with the PS5,
Summary of PS5 DualSense and DualShock 4 Differences
- Design: The DualSense controller has a slightly different design than the DualShock 4, with a more streamlined look and slightly larger size.
- Haptic feedback: The DualSense controller has haptic feedback, which allows for a more immersive gaming experience by providing more realistic and varied tactile sensations. The DualShock 4 does not have this feature.
- Adaptive triggers: The DualSense controller has adaptive triggers on the L2 and R2 buttons, which can provide different levels of resistance depending on the in-game action. For example, pulling back a bowstring in a game may require more resistance than firing a gun. The DualShock 4 does not have this feature.
- Built-in microphone: The DualSense controller has a built-in microphone, which allows players to use voice commands or communicate with other players online without the need for a separate headset. The DualShock 4 does not have this feature.
- Color: The DualSense controller is available in white, while the DualShock 4 is available in black and various other colors.
- Battery life: The DualSense controller has a slightly longer battery life than the DualShock 4.
- Compatibility: The DualSense controller is only compatible with the PS5, while the DualShock 4 is compatible with the PS4 and some PC games.