RH-5189 Controller Hands-On: A Budget DualSense Alternative That Feels Better Than Expected
The RH-5189 aims to be an affordable DualSense-style controller for players who want a familiar PlayStation-inspired design without paying full price for Sony’s official gamepad. At first glance, it is clearly built to resemble the DualSense, but the overall experience is a little more interesting than just being a simple copy.
Inside the box, the package is straightforward. You get the RH-5189 controller, a small instruction card, and a USB-A to USB-C charging cable. That last part is worth noting because a charging cable is included, which gives the controller a small convenience advantage right out of the box.
In the hand, the RH-5189 feels lighter than the official DualSense, but not in a way that makes it feel flimsy. It weighs around 225 grams, placing it somewhere between the older DualShock 4 and the DualSense. That lighter weight may appeal to players who find heavier controllers tiring during longer gaming sessions.
Build quality is surprisingly decent for a budget controller. It does not feel as premium or tightly assembled as the controller it is clearly inspired by, but it also does not come across as cheap. The shell feels solid, the shape is familiar, and the overall construction is better than many low-cost alternatives.
However, there is one noticeable drawback. The tested unit had a clunking sound coming from inside the controller. This was likely caused by the battery not being secured properly or by a loose internal battery bracket. While the issue became less distracting after about a week of use, it still affected the first impression and made the controller feel less refined than it could have been.
When it comes to comfort, the RH-5189 gets a lot right. Its shape closely follows the DualSense layout, making it easy to adjust to if you already use Sony’s current-generation controller. The size is almost the same, though the grips are slightly shorter. This small difference may be noticeable for players with larger hands, but most users should still find it comfortable.
One of the better design choices is the textured material across the entire back of the controller. This helps improve grip and makes the controller feel more secure during gameplay. For fast-paced games or longer sessions, that extra texture can make a real difference.
Overall, the RH-5189 is a promising budget-friendly DualSense alternative. It is lighter, comfortable to hold, includes a charging cable, and feels sturdier than its price might suggest. The internal clunking issue is a concern, and the build quality does not quite match the official controller, but for players looking for a cheaper DualSense-style gamepad, the RH-5189 may still be worth considering.
