Earlier this year, Sony made a revision to the DualSense controller. The new model features thicker trigger springs as well adding an extra plastic piece on the analog sticks. As a result, the revision should help the trigger springs last longer as well as providing better protection against stick drift.
To see how you can identify whether or not you have a new model of the DualSense, you can take a look at this guide from Seeking Tech.
DualSense Color Variations
All color variations of the controller released in 2022 and later should be the new model that has improved trigger springs and extra analog stick piece. These should include the following colors:
- Nova Pink
- Starlight Blue
- Galactic Purple
- Grey Camouflage
- God of War Ragnarök Limited Edition
How to check the White, Black and Cosmic Red DualSense variants
Before 2022, Sony released the White, Midnight Black and Cosmic Red color versions of the DualSense. These variants may or may not be redesigned.
Unfortunately, the only way you can tell is to take the White, Midnight Black or Cosmic Red DualSense out of the packaging box and then check the back of the gamepad.
On the back side, you should see the FCC ID code.
If the code ends with the number 1, then it indicates that you have the original model of the DualSense. Therefore, the gamepad will have thinner springs on the L2 and R2 buttons along with missing the extra protective plastic piece that protects the analog sticks against stick drift.
If the FFC ID code ends with the number A, then it indicates that you have the revised DualSense model. As a result, you should get stronger springs as well as better protection against stick drifting.
If you want a video guide to see how you can find this identification code, then you can check out the following clip done by John Glasscock:
Thankfully, the revision should eventually fully replace the original model. Therefore, you should find less of the original being sold brand new on the marketplace as time passes.
To see a direct comparison between the original DualSense model and its revision, then you can take a look at the following video from TronicsFix:
It is important to note that, even with the revision, the controller may eventually break. Therefore, make sure you take care of the DualSense when you are using it to play games. Furthermore, you should occasionally clean the gamepad in order to prevent any dust and other potentially harmful materials from getting inside.