As many advantages as Sony's DualShock 3 controller boasts, it unfortunately has just as many disadvantages, if not more.

The pad is noticeably light and thus comfortable to hold for extended periods of time. The surface also has a soft-touch coat which is non-slip and extremely smooth. The most attractive feature however is the very responsive D-Pad. Each button is separated well and once pushed, it seems solid and reliable.

In the bottom centre is the PS button which is basically Sony's Xbox Guide button from the 360. It allows you to open up the dashboard to view messages, your profile, settings, friends (if you're connected to PSN) and so forth. If held down you can choose to turn the controller or console off and this can also be used to turn the PS3 on.

The two stark disappointments in design are the triggers and analog sticks. Both are convex causing consistent slipping and the need for additional accessories such as 'Real Trigger' attachments and "FPS Freeks'. Microsoft chose a concave design which is far superior - there is no slipping and it certainly adds to a more enjoyable experience in trigger-heavy games such as shooters and racers. Furthermore, I personally do not like having parallel analog sticks and would prefer the D-Pad and left analog stick to be switched over.

Overall, the DualShock 3 has some great features such as vibration combined with the SIXAXIS function, however, the cons outlined above overshadowed them in my opinion and caused continued discomfort. If you don't mind parallel sticks and convex designs are not a big deal then you may very well find the pad pleasant.