Nacon Revolution 5 Pro Review

The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro marks a significant leap as the first official PS5 gaming controller compatible with PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Windows systems. Offered in sleek black or white variants, its pricing exceeds the standard PS5 controller, but comes with an innovative set of features.

This controller stands out with sticks and triggers utilizing magnetic Hall effect technology, multipoint wireless connectivity, adjustable trigger amplitude, dual vibration motors, and a distinctive D-pad, introducing game-changing advancements. Users can benefit from programmable triggers, software support, customizable weights, a 3.5mm jack, and the capability to store up to four profiles per platform.

Specifications

View full specifications here.

Packaging

The controller comes in a white and blue packaging with photos and specifications on the sides. The box is durable and the controller is well protected inside a protective case. Inside the box are:

• Nacon Revolution 5 Pro
• Protective case
• Braided 3m USB Cable
• Wireless USB dongle
• 3 sets of weights, 3 stick sizes, 3 sets of stick heads
• A cleaning cloth
• Quick Start Guide

Design

The controller boasts an exceptional build, crafted from high-quality matte plastic, ensuring a sturdy feel without any concerning creaks or loose components. Its standout feature is the uniquely styled D-pad, a collaboration with professional player Mister Crimson. Additionally, ergonomic grips and a comfortable shape maintain hand comfort and prevent fatigue during extended gaming sessions.

Compared to the DualSense, the Revolution 5 Pro carries more heft at 315g, even before incorporating the included weights, elevating its premium quality. The addition of an RGB ring encircling the right thumbstick adds a stylish touch. Indicator lights cleverly signal minimum/maximum volume and selected profiles, aiding users, particularly when accidentally changing profiles.

With slightly larger face buttons, the controller offers enhanced pressability, while adding weights imbues it with a more substantial feel in hand. The controller features a 3.5mm headset port at the bottom and a USB-C port on top, facilitating connections to consoles or computers via the included detachable 3m braided USB-C cable.

At the controller’s rear, buttons allow effortless switching between layout profiles, device connectivity, and volume adjustment when a headset is connected. Additionally, both rubbery grips can be easily removed, revealing compartments to insert included weights, altering the controller’s feel. Swapping thumbsticks is equally hassle-free, with included metal rings to shorten stick travel distance.

Offering a comprehensive selection of buttons akin to competing models, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro controller stands out with its innovative design and user-friendly customization options.

Usage & Features

The ergonomic grips of the handles truly shine during extended gaming sessions. Maintaining excellent build quality throughout, the pad remains sturdy without any bending or creaks. For connectivity, the controller offers both wired and wireless options, utilizing the provided USB dongle, while Bluetooth supports compatible headsets exclusively.

The buttons exhibit satisfying precision, offering a tactile response upon pressing and releasing. Notably, the L and R triggers feature a dotted texture, ensuring a secure grip. Although the vibration rumble feels impressive, it’s worth noting that the Nacon R5P doesn’t vibrate when playing PS5 games on the PlayStation 5.

The analog sticks are finely tuned, boasting smooth movement without any friction. The D-Pad delivers crisp and responsive clicks. Positioned at the controller’s rear are two additional triggers that can be mapped to suit various in-game functions.

Facilitating user customization, the controller accommodates up to four user profiles per platform, enabling seamless switching tailored for different game genres like racing, FPS, and strategy. Notably, the inclusion of Hall effect sensors in both triggers and sticks stands out as a remarkable feature. These sensors offer a precise, contactless mechanism, addressing the prevalent issue of stick drift witnessed in DualShock and DualSense controllers. The precision becomes evident while calibrating in the software, providing satisfying resistance in both stick and trigger movements. The variable travel distances and extra buttons further enhance the control scheme customization.

However, being a third-party controller, there are certain drawbacks. Firstly, unlike a modified DualSense, the Nacon R5P requires a dongle for recognition by the PS5 and doesn’t power the console on via its PS button. Secondly, it lacks the haptic feedback present in Sony’s controller, meaning no haptics or vibration in PS5 games.

On the software front, the Nacon app is available for PC through the Microsoft App Store. As for battery life, Nacon claims approximately ten hours of gameplay on a single charge, a claim that held true in our testing.

Conclusion

The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro emerges as an excellent choice for dedicated controller enthusiasts, complementing the PS5 or a high-end PC seamlessly. Its extensive customization options allow for impeccable hand-feel adjustments, catering to discerning gamers. With impressive battery life and a premium packaging experience, coupled with tactile face buttons, it delivers a satisfying user experience.

However, the absence of haptic feedback and adaptive triggers might disappoint some users seeking those specific features. Despite these omissions, its solid build, customization capabilities, and ergonomic design make it a compelling option for those prioritizing control and personalization in their gaming gear.