It might not look much different on the outside, but the newest version of the PS5’s DualSense controller could feature a major improvement in battery life. Polish modder Modyfikator89 shared in a post on X that the new DualSense V2 variant, model number CFI-ZCT2W, lasted for more than 15 hours of continuous play in a battery life test.
Modyfikator89 added that the “longer playtime [was] achieved by removing components (e.g., secondary mic) and optimizing the electronics.” YouTuber Austin Evans also noticed the missing rear mic in a teardown video posted in October, along with a new plastic support around the battery under the controller’s shell and a different battery connector.
For comparison, the previous DualSense controller typically lasts around 10 hours per charge. The DualSense Edge has even less battery life, about 5 to 6 hours. The 15 hours of battery life on the new version of the DualSense is enough for you to complete the whole single-player campaign in Astro Bot without having to plug in your controller.
The revised version of the DualSense is popping up bundled with recently revised PS5 Pro and PS5 Slim consoles, which have tweaks like slightly smaller internal storage and a lower weight for the PS5 Slim. It will also be available for purchase as a standalone controller — for instance, the upcoming Genshin Impact limited edition will likely be the new model, but just check the back of the box to make sure you’re getting the updated version.