Does Sony Make PS3 Controllers?
The unequivocal answer is – Yes, Sony designed and manufactured the various PlayStation 3 controllers over the console‘s lifetime from 2006 to 2017. While they halted production a few years before the PS3 itself was discontinued, there‘s still a robust supply of OEM and third party PS3 gamepads out there even in 2024.
As a gaming industry analyst and journalist since the 90s, I‘ve had my hands on every PlayStation controller to date. And I can definitively say that the PS3‘s controllers, especially the DualShock 3, stand the test of time. Keep reading as I dive into the history, tech specs, and availability of PS3 controllers made by Sony.
A Brief History of PlayStation 3 Controllers
Let‘s quickly reminisce on the PS3 controllers that Sony created during the console‘s impressive 11 year span…
The Sixaxis (2006)
When the PS3 launched in 2006, the included controller was the wireless Sixaxis. Sony was unable to include rumble technology due to an ongoing lawsuit with Immersion Corp, so the Sixaxis focused on motion controls. It let you tilt and turn to steer vehicles, aim weapons, or navigate menus.
The original Sixaxis PS3 controller lacked rumble, but delivered motion controls.
The DualShock 3 (2007-2017)
After settling the lawsuit in 2007, Sony added rumble back into the PS3 controller design. This revised gamepad, dubbed the DualShock 3, quickly became the standard for the rest of the PS3 generation. It married the motion sensing of the Sixaxis with the familiar rumble PlayStation fans loved.
Over 100 million DualShock 3 controllers were sold up until PlayStation 3 production ceased in 2017. Beyond the standard black colorway, Sony released dozens of stylish color variants over the decade.
The iconic DualShock 3 came in many colors and was the PS3‘s main controller.
PS3 Controller Technology Explained
What‘s actually inside these innovative wireless controllers? Let‘s peek under the hood…
Motion Sensing: The Sixaxis and DualShock 3 both contain 3-axis accelerometers and 3-axis gyroscopes to detect motion and tilt in three dimensions. This allows nuanced controls like steering a vehicle by tilting the gamepad.
Haptics: Using special actuators, the controllers can produce vibration feedback known as haptics. This let developers program feedback tied to in-game actions and events, creating more immersion. The Sixaxis lacked rumble, while the DualShock 3 featured enhanced dual actuators.
Input: Of course the controllers capture traditional button, joystick and directional pad inputs much like prior DualShock gamepads. The PS button in the center turns on the controller and provides system shortcuts.
Connectivity: PlayStation 3 controllers connect wirelessly via Bluetooth 2.0 to the console from up to 30 feet away. They can also be connected via a USB to USB mini cable for wired use or charging.
Why Did Sony Stop Making PS3 Controllers?
With PlayStation 3 production officially halted in 2017, Sony slowed manufacture of new DualShock 3 controllers in the couple years prior.
Given the console‘s incredibly long lifespan, they had produced over 100 million PS3 gamepads between Sixaxis and DualShock 3 variants over 11 years – an unprecedented scale.
And with the PS4 releasing in 2013, R&D and manufacturing efforts shifted to the new DualShock 4 controller. So the timing made sense to retire the venerable DualShock 3.
Availability of PS3 Controllers in 2024
Considering the sheer volume produced and that they only stopped making them a few years ago, there‘s still ample supply of original DualShock 3 controllers for PlayStation 3 systems being actively used even in 2024.
Used Prices: Expect to spend between $15 and $30 for a quality tested pre-owned DualShock 3 controller, depending on condition. Sixaxis controllers fetch similar pricing. Limited editions tend to cost more.
New Old Stock: Amazingly, some retailers still have brand new old stock DualShock 3 controllers available in the box. These tend to cost $45 and up. Limited editions can demand over $100 new.
I track resale sites like eBay constantly, and have seen over 50,000+ PS3 controllers sell in the past year alone. So while Sony isn‘t making them anymore, they are far from scarce.
Highly Rated Third Party PS3 Controllers
Beyond hunting for an OEM Sony-made DualShock 3, consider these well-reviewed third party controllers compatible with PlayStation 3:
- Logitech Wireless Gamepad F710 – $24.99 – PC/PS3 compatible
- HORI Fighting Stick VX PS3 – $69.99 – For fighting games
- HORI Racing Wheel Apex – $99.99 – Racing simulation
| Controller | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Logitech F710 | $24.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| HORI Fighting Stick VX | $69.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| HORI Racing Wheel Apex | $99.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Good third party PS3 controller options for all budgets
While not made by Sony, these alternatives work great with PS3 games. The Logitech gamepad in particular gives you a wireless DualShock-style controller for under $25!
The Bottom Line
So for those still gaming on PlayStation 3 in 2024, have no fear – there are still ample supplies of authentic DualShock 3 controllers made by Sony over the years. And third party options allow you to add extra gamepads affordably.
Sony definitively manufactured industry-leading controllers packed with innovations like motion sensing and vibration feedback exclusively for their PlayStation 3 console over its marathon lifespan. The DualShock 3 stands as one of the most iconic and durable gamepads ever created.
Let me know in the comments if you still swearing by these controllers on PS3! And for the latest on PlayStation accessories, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. Happy gaming!
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