Looking for an extra PS5 controller? Consider the official DualSense or explore third-party options like the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro. These third-party controllers target specialized uses, like competitive gaming. We’ll compare DualSense and Razer Wolverine V2 Pro to help you choose.
Compared to Xbox controllers, the PS5 offers fewer choices, making the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro stand out. It’s an officially licensed pad with streamlined features, providing a focused gamepad experience. We’ll analyze features, design, and price to aid your decision-making.
The primary goal of a PS5 controller is to handle inputs accurately for top PS5 games. However, different genres demand varying controller features, complicating the choice between DualSense and Razer Wolverine V2 Pro.
DualSense Controller:
The DualSense marks a significant departure from Sony’s traditional controller design, boasting enhanced ergonomics and innovative features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Its asking price is justified by these additions, which enhance the gaming experience. However, the impressive features come with a downside – the battery life falls short compared to other consoles.
Pros:
- Impressive adaptive triggers
- Exceptional ergonomic design
- High build quality
Cons:
- Limited battery life
- Mediocre built-in microphone
Razer Wolverine V2 Pro:
Razer’s debut PS5 controller, the Wolverine V2 Pro, follows the success of its Raiju line for PS4. Featuring microswitch buttons, a reprogrammable D-pad, and low latency, it’s tailored for eSports enthusiasts. However, its high price and subpar build quality may disappoint casual users.
Pros:
- Microswitch buttons
- Programmable paddles
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Lackluster design and feel
- Mediocre triggers
- High price point
DualSense vs Razer Wolverine V2 Pro: Price and Release Date
Sony launched the DualSense with the PS5 on November 12, 2020, in the US and Australia, followed by the UK a week later. Initially available in white, it now comes in Midnight Black, Cosmic Red, Nova Pink, Starlight Blue, Galactic Purple, Grey Camouflage, and a God of War Ragnarok edition. The DualSense is priced at $59.99 / £59.99 / AU$119.95, with slight variations in certain regions.
In contrast, the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro comes at a higher price of $249.99 / £249.99 / AU$475.95. Available directly from Razer in the US, shipments to the UK and Australia begin on January 19, with wider availability expected soon after. Both white and black versions are currently offered, with the black variant set for release later in the month.
DualSense vs Razer Wolverine V2 Pro: Design and Features
Razer’s Wolverine V2 Pro stands out from the DualSense in several aspects. Both controllers share standard components like the touchpad, face buttons, sticks, bumpers, and triggers. However, Razer’s Wolverine V2 Pro features asymmetrical stick placement.
Moreover, the Wolverine V2 Pro offers six remappable buttons—two shoulders and four paddles—accessible through the Razer Controller app for personalized profiles tailored to various game genres.
Unlike the DualSense, the Wolverine V2 Pro lacks adaptive triggers and HD rumble, opting for standardized hairline stops. This design choice, reminiscent of the Razer Wolverine Ultimate, provides a commendable but less technologically advanced option, with a smaller surface area potentially posing issues for users with larger hands.
In terms of battery life, the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro outperforms the DualSense, lasting 9-10 hours with its 2.4 GHz wireless HyperSpeed dongle. Disabling the Chroma RGB lighting can extend playtime to 28 hours, as confirmed by testing.
Conversely, the DualSense’s battery life falls short, lasting between five to eight hours depending on usage. Despite hopes for improvement with the DualSense Edge, testing revealed even worse battery life than the original model. If battery life is a priority, the Wolverine V2 Pro emerges as the superior choice.
Should I Choose DualSense or Razer Wolverine V2 Pro?
For most gamers, the DualSense offers a better value compared to the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro due to its more affordable price and broader appeal. However, if you prioritize features like lightning-fast microswitches in the D-pad, shoulders, and face buttons, the Wolverine V2 Pro may be worth considering.
Despite its advanced features, the Wolverine V2 Pro comes at a significantly higher price—roughly five times that of a DualSense controller. It exceeds the cost of both the DualSense Edge and the custom Scuf Reflex Pro by $50 / £50 / AU$136 and $30 / £30, respectively, making it a substantial investment primarily suited for serious console gamers.
If you aim to improve your performance in competitive titles like Overwatch 2, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, or anticipate upcoming releases like Street Fighter 6, the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro presents a valid albeit pricey option.
