Son't has decreased in quality in recent models. I bought a new Dualshock 3 and the plastic feels light and cheap. There are many versions of the Dualshock 3. Here are mine and my experiences with them:

-Original controller that came with the ps3 fat (Model no. Unknown): Solid and reliable

-Model no. CECHZC2U: Solid and reliable

-Model no. CECHZC2UA2: This is the version you will get if you order right now. It is cheap and analog sticks feel completely wrong. Aim is immediately impacted. Very tough to aim on FPS games. I noticed immediately and had to lower my sensitivity. Also, buttons feel very stiff and protrude to the point of discomfort. Buttons are issues I can overlook and this is a small gripe. The sensitivity is the main issue.



I also want to note that I ordered directly from Amazon LLC. I went to Gamestop and compared it to an A2 model controller there. Sony is just getting cheap and this is not a fake.



Other models that I have not used:

-CECHZC2UA1

-CECHZC2UB1



My recommendation is to go to Gamestop and purchase a used controller! Really, it is that bad now. If the used controller has broken or worn down thumbsticks, they are really easy to replace.



A side note: the Dualshock 4 works with the ps3. It is the most comfortable controller I have ever felt. The problem is that the PS button, rumble, and motion don't work. Also, R2 and L2 buttons give a binary (on/off) input so you cannot feather the gas on driving games. Obviously, none of the new features on it (speaker/touchpad) work with the ps3 either. Finally, it is only compatible with certain games. It is the ultimate controller, but I had to return mine because I needed the PS button and motion. I couldn't get over those.