CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.
Nacon Revolution 5 Pro (PlayStation) $200 at Best Buy $200 at Target $190 at Amazon Pros Lots of hard customization options
Solid feel in the hand
Granular software customizations Cons Expensive
Non-standard layout
One of the great things about gaming is that there are typically tons of options to choose from, both in the games you play and in the hardware you use to play those games –- that is, unless you’re a PlayStation gamer.
Sadly, Sony is quite sparing in granting licenses for third-party controllers, so your options for upgrading from Sony’s DualSense controller to a pro controller are limited. Aside from Sony’s own DualSense Edge, there aren’t many choices, which is why I jumped at the chance to try the Revolution 5 Pro from Nacon. It’s definitely one of the best, but also one of the most unique PlayStation controllers I’ve used.
Designed different
The first thing I noticed about the Revolution 5 Pro is the asymmetrical joystick layout. It’s the only official PlayStation 5 controller I’m aware of laid out like it, which could be good or bad depending on your preferences. If you’re coming from Xbox or use an Xbox controller with your PC, you’ll feel right at home. But if you’re upgrading from something with the traditional PlayStation layout, like the DualSense or DualSense Edge, it might take some getting used to.
There are a ton of controls on the back, including four programmable buttons, profile-swap switches and trigger stops. Jason Cockerham
... continue reading