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No—not all PS3 controllers are the original SIXAXIS model. Sony’s later DUALSHOCK 3 is a different controller, but it retains Sixaxis motion sensing and adds vibration. The confusion comes from “SIXAXIS” being used both as a controller name and as shorthand for motion-sensing functionality.
What does “Sixaxis” mean?
Sony used SIXAXIS as the name of its original wireless PS3 controller. It also refers to the controller’s motion-sensing system. Sony described that system as detecting roll, pitch and yaw, along with acceleration along the X, Y and Z axes. Sony’s May 8, 2006 announcement identified the controller as standard with the PS3.
The launch controller did not have vibration feedback. Sony said vibration was removed because it interfered with information detected by the motion sensor.
Does the DUALSHOCK 3 have Sixaxis?
Yes. The DUALSHOCK 3 is not the original controller named SIXAXIS, but it supports Sixaxis motion sensing. Sony’s controller history described the DUALSHOCK 3 as retaining Sixaxis functionality and adding vibration feedback. Its instruction manual documents both motion-sensor functions and vibration settings. PlayStation.Blog’s controller history gives the distinction in brief: “All the power of Sixaxis – now with added vibration feedback.”
#1 Best Overall
- Made in United States
How the official PS3 controllers compare
| Controller | Motion sensing | Vibration | What the name means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original SIXAXIS wireless controller | Yes; Sony describes six-axis sensing. | No on the launch controller. | The original PS3 controller named SIXAXIS. Sony, 2006. |
| DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controller | Yes; Sony says it retains Sixaxis functionality, and its manual documents motion sensing. | Yes; Sony says vibration feedback was added, and the manual documents vibration settings. | A later PS3 controller with both motion sensing and vibration. PlayStation.Blog, 2010; Sony controller manuals. |
How to identify a controller when buying a replacement
For an official Sony controller, check the model name printed on the controller or its packaging: SIXAXIS identifies the original model, while DUALSHOCK 3 identifies the later vibration-equipped model. If you are considering a third-party PS3 controller, do not assume it supports motion sensing just because it works with a PS3; check that manufacturer’s specifications. The cited Sony information establishes features of Sony’s controllers, not every third-party model, and does not verify the authenticity or condition of used listings.
Connecting or charging a DUALSHOCK 3
The DUALSHOCK 3 manual for model CECHZC2E describes connection and charging with an A–Mini-B USB cable and says that cable is not included with the controller package it covers. Check the manual for your specific controller or package if you need to confirm the included accessories. Sony’s DUALSHOCK 3 instruction manual also documents its motion-sensor and vibration functions.
Rank #2
- The 2 pack wireless controller is fully compatible with PS3/Slim.
- Feel every hit, crash, and explosion with controller dual vibration response. Truly intuitive game play through the 6-axis motion sensing technology.
- Our controller has undergone a comprehensive upgrade to close to the original version. It has refined thumbsticks, precise triggers, responsive action buttons and a 4-way directional pad.
- The controller uses high-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship, and passed 12,000,000 durability tests.
- What You Get: wireless controller * 2, USB charging cable * 2, User Manual * 1 (NOTE: Please activate device with USB charging cable for the first match connection).
Why the PS3 vibration setting may not apply to every controller
Sony’s PS3 settings guidance says the vibration setting applies only to controllers that support the console’s vibration function. That setting concerns vibration compatibility; it does not mean that every controller has the same feature set. The original SIXAXIS lacks vibration, while the DUALSHOCK 3 supports it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
Rank #4
- 【Compatible with Sony Playstation 3 and PC Windows 7/8/10】Controller wireless for Sony PlayStation 3/PS3. Plug and Play. No installation is required. To use it on a PC, a USB cable is required (included).
- 【Double Shock 3 & Motion Sensor Supported】The controller wireless for Sony PS3 supports the double shock 3 function. The grips vibrate with each explosion, shocking, firing in supported games, giving you more fun and a more immersive gaming experience. 6-axis motion sensing function is also supported for the remote controller for PS3 so that you can control the games freely with the moving of your hands.
- 【Long Battery Life & Long Bluetooth Connection Distance】Remote for PS3 with a large battery capacity of 600mAh, providing 5~8h long playtime (auto-sleep function is provided for saving power).
- 【Sensitive Buttons Passed 10,000,000 Strokes Test】The high-quality controllers 2 pack for PS3 are upgraded to be close to the original. It has a zero-delay quick response. The control for PS3 uses first-class material and is of first-class craftsmanship. It has passed a strict durability test of 10,000,000 times of strokes. The two 360 degree analog joysticks of the controller wireless for PS3 enable you to control the games effortlessly and precisely. No dead zone.
- 【Package Content & Lifetime Carefree After-sales Service】The delivery package includes 2 Controllers Wireless for PS3, 2 USB Charging Cables (2.5 feet), 1 User Manual; The wireless controllers for Sony PlayStation 3 offer a lifetime unconditional return and refund service.
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