It’s hard to believe that the PlayStation 5 came out over five years ago. It’s been trucking along and making incremental changes over the years, but fans still have a lengthy wishlist of things they’d like to see.
One big ask is increased battery life for the DualSense, and it seems like we’re finally getting it, according to modder Karim Jovian on X. Just know that there is a catch.
The PlayStation 5’s “Biggest Flaw” Has Been Addressed
It’s Finally Time
Based on testing, the new DualSense model (CFI-ZCT2W), dubbed “version 2,” appears to have increased battery life compared to the original DualSense controllers. Evidently, it can reach lengths of “over 15 hours of continuous play,” which is a huge upgrade from prior DualSense controllers sold so far.
The testing took place through triggering haptic feedback, speakers, and mic use across multiple games. According to modders, this is a direct result of years of hardware optimization and a better battery. Thermal imaging confirms lower charging temperatures, which help maintain battery life.
As someone who owns multiple DualSense controllers and is frustrated with how inefficient they are at times, this is great to hear. But given that I have four controllers already, I won’t be picking this one up until one of them bites the dust.
A Substantially Longer Battery Life For DualSense
It Took Long Enough
As a catch, this is not a firmware update that’s being rolled out to older controllers. This is a hardware upgrade for a separate “version 2” of the DualSense, and you’ll need to pick up the new model for yourself to get the enhanced battery life.
To tell if you’re buying the new model, you’re going to want to look for the parameters CFI-ZCT2W listed after “controller model” on the box. Note that this model is packaged in newer SKUs for the PlayStation 5 as a whole, so be sure to check the box and make sure you’re grabbing the best version of the DualSense you can buy.
Over time, the PlayStation 5 has gotten a lot of incremental changes that have made it a better experience for everyone. It’s a shame that this controller update requires a whole new model, but at least it might be a precursor to a better launch controller for the PS6.
- Brand
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Sony
- Original Release Date
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November 19, 2020
- Original MSRP (USD)
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$399.99 (Digital Only), $499.99 (Disc Drive)
- Weight
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Digital Edition now weighs 3.4 kg & base version weighs 3.9 kg

