Head-to-head comparison of input latency, polling rates, thumbstick sensors, and drift resistance between PS5 DualSense and Xbox Series Controller.
Baseline averages from 142,850 documented controller tests (snapshot 2026-08-02). Baselines are population averages, not a guarantee for any individual unit.
Data sources: Figures are approximate. Latency and polling rate vary with connection mode (Bluetooth vs wired vs 2.4GHz dongle), platform, and individual units; values compiled from manufacturer specifications and third-party community measurements, not from our own lab tests.
PS5 DualSense features lower input latency at approximately ~3.1 ms (~1000 Hz wired / ~250 Hz BT polling rate) compared to Xbox Series Controller at ~6.8 ms (~250 Hz BT / ~1000 Hz wired polling rate).
Both the PS5 DualSense and Xbox Series controller use potentiometer thumbstick modules, and both have a well-documented history of stick drift over heavy use. Neither offers user-swappable stick modules on the standard models — replaceable modules are reserved for the DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2.