How To Tell If My PS3 Controller Is Fake?

In today's video game world there are a lot of reproduced or "reproduction" products. These tend to be of lower quality and will pose to be the real thing, but aren't. I am going to show you how to spot the differences between an authentic DualShock 3 and a counterfeit.

The importance of knowing whether you have an official licensed PS3 controller or not is that the real deal are the only ones that will work on some of the PlayStation 3's menus. They also have special features such as pressure sensitive buttons and a 16 way use of the analog stick. 

Now, the differences with these controllers can be slight, but here are a few things to look out for.

First off, lets check out the outside of the controller, especially if you aren't handy or have a screw driver the correct size. 

The real DS3 controller features 4 plastic LED power lights which should feel nearly flush with the shell, while the LEDs on the fake controller stick up more.  The font of the lettering "SONY," "SELECT," and "START" appear slightly bolder/thicker on the real DS3 controller. Also, check out the back of the controller. How does the label look? Is it overly glossy or matte? Authentic stickers should have a metallic look on the barcode area and most of the time will be worn, since these controllers should be 18 years old by now. 

Aside from looking at its outward appearance, one of the most accurate and quickest ways to rule out the fake, is if you have access to a computer with Windows. When you plug in the real controller, go to your Control Panel and under "Devices and Printers," it should appear as "PLAYSTATION(R) 3 Controller."

Now if you're handy or have repair experience, grab a JS2 bit and open the controller. You want to check out the motherboard. Many legitimate DualShock 3 controllers, especially those labeled CECHZC2H A1 and CECHZC2E, are known to have Toshiba chips inside underneath the battery. Does yours have a chip? Also, how does the battery look? Is it a grey plastic or a lithium battery? 

Lastly, another very noticeable sign if you have a fake controller is the screws to the outside housing. Authentic screws should always be black and the ends will be blunt. A fake may have pointed screws. 

These are just a few tips that I have found helpful when authenticating the controllers I take in for trade or purchase from a third party source for refurbishment. I always try my best to sell authentic items and will never knowingly try and sell a reproduction. Hope this brings you peace of mind for your controllers, stay safe out there!

*Photos and some information was pulled form other blog sources.*