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8 Reasons Why PS4 Controllers Are So Expensive
There are several reasons why PS4 controllers are more expensive than their Xbox and Nintendo counterparts. Let's take a look at some of the most common ones:
1. Made With Higher Quality Materials
PS4 controllers are made with higher quality materials than their Xbox and Nintendo counterparts. The Dual Shock 4 is made of High-Density Polyethylene, which is more durable and sturdy plastic. The triggers, sticks, and buttons are also made of higher-quality materials designed to withstand more wear and tear. This results in a controller that feels more solid and substantial in your hands.
2. More Features
The DualShock four also has a few features that the other controllers don't have. For example, it has a built-in speaker and stereo headset jack. It also has a touchpad in the center of the controller, which can be used for various purposes, such as scrolling through webpages or menus. It also has a light bar that changes color to indicate different player statuses. These extra features come at a higher price tag because they add to the manufacturing cost of the controller.
3. Difficult To Assemble
Another reason why PS controllers are more expensive is that they are more difficult to assemble. The Dual Shock 4 has over 50 different components that must be put together in the right way. This includes the circuit boards, motors, sensors, and other delicate parts. It takes almost one hour to assemble a single controller. In contrast, assembling an Xbox One controller takes about 15 minutes.
4. They Are High In Demand
To this day, PS4 controllers are in high demand, which drives up the price. Even though the PlayStation 4 has been out for over eight years, many gamers still don't have a PS4controller. This is because Sony doesn't produce as many controllers as Microsoft and Nintendo. As a result, they are often sold out in stores and online.
5. Sony Has A Monopoly
Another reason why PS controllers are so expensive is that Sony has a monopoly on the market. They are the only company that manufactures PS controllers, so they can charge whatever price they want. This is similar to how Apple can charge more for their iPhones because there is no other company that makes them.
6. Ergonomically Sound
One of the reasons that PS controllers are expensive is because they are ergonomically designed to be comfortable to use. The Dual Shock 4 has a curved shape that fits nicely in your hands. The triggers, sticks, and buttons are also positioned to minimize fatigue. This results in a controller that is easy to use for long periods of time.
7. High Reseller Markups
When you buy a PS controller from a retailer, they often add a markup to the price. This is because they know that there is high demand for the product, and they want to make a profit. For example, if a controller costs Sony $60 to manufacture, the retailer may sell it for $70 or more. This can make finding a good deal on a PS4 controller difficult.
8. Import Fees Add Up
Import fees can also add to the cost of a PS controller. When controllers are shipped from China, where they are manufactured, they must go through customs. This can add an additional $20 or more to the price of the controller.
Where To Get The Best Deals On PS4 Controllers
Now that we've looked at some of the reasons why PS controllers are so expensive, let's discuss where you can find the best deals on them. The following are some tips:
1. Buy Used
One of the best ways to save money on a PS4 controller is to buy it. You can often find used controllers for half the price of a new one. Just make sure that it is in good condition and comes with all of the original accessories.
2. Look For Sales
Another way to get a good deal on a PS4 controller is to wait for a sale. Many retailers offer discounts on gaming products during major holidays such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You can also sign up for email newsletters to be notified about upcoming sales.
3. Check Online Retailers
Online retailers are often a good place to find PS controllers at a discount. This is because they have lower overhead costs and can pass the savings on to the customer. Some notable online retailers include
Amazon
Amazon is one of the largest online retailers and frequently has PS controllers on sale. They also offer free shipping on orders over $25.
eBay
eBay is an online auction site where you can find used and new PS4 controllers at a discounted price. Just be sure to check the seller's feedback rating before making a purchase.
GameStop
GameStop is a major retailer that specializes in gaming products. They often have sales on PS4controllers, so it's worth checking their website for deals.
4. Look For Bundles
One final tip is to look for bundles. Sometimes, you can find a bundle that includes a PS4 console, a game, and a controller for a discounted price. This is a great way to get everything you need to start playing without spending too much money.
5. The PlayStation Store
The PlayStation Store is a great place to find PS controller deals. They frequently offer sales on controllers and other gaming accessories. You can also find discounts on digital games and PlayStation Plus subscriptions.
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