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7 Best DJ Controllers (2024): Expert picks for rekordbox, Serato, Traktor, and more

Discover the best DJ controllers for all budgets with expert picks for rekordbox, Serato, Traktor & more, backed by in-depth reviews.
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Best DJ Controllers
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The rise of the DJ controller in recent years has been nothing short of incredible. Big brands such as Pioneer DJ, Native Instruments, Rane, and Hercules have been keyplayers in this by releasing a huge selection of products that cater to every type of DJ out there.

One of the main points behind this insane growth is accessibility. Modern DJ controllers have made entry into the world of DJing easier both financially and technically. Products on sale today offer a wide spectrum of features and functions. Such as 2-channel controllers for beginners to all-out vinyl-emulating masterpieces – the selection at the moment is absolutely brilliant.

The choices also go beyond just the financial and technical aspect, you have controllers optimized for Serato, rekordbox, VirtualDJ, and Traktor. Some controllers are even made specifically for certain devices such as desktops, laptops, and even down to operating systems like macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and sometimes, Linux.

In this article, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a familiar feeling of turntables, the easy use of CDJs, or the full-blown feeling of a club-ready setup, this article has it all. Including controllers that have seamless integrations with the world’s best DJ software too.

I’ve also made sure that this selection contains all in-stock products that are still being manufactured and are not discontinued, so you know you’ll be able to still buy one of the products in this list. I’ll be updating this article if a product becomes discontinued or globally out-of-stock.

Before we get going, it’s essential to understand what a DJ controller is. I often see a lot of confusion around what is considered a DJ controller as people tend to get them mixed up with standalone DJ systems. To put it simply, a DJ controller needs DJ software in order to work. A standalone DJ controller can work independently. If you like the sound of the standalone DJ systems more, then we have an article on those too, so check that out.

Now, let’s continue and I’ll tell you what I think the best DJ controllers are available today.


Best DJ Controller: Editors’ Choice

With so many options to choose from, this really wasn’t a straightforward selection process. However, the basis of my choice focuses on four main areas; performance, user-friendliness, value for money, and overall community love for the product. Therefore, my top pick for the best DJ controller would be the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4.

Editors' Choice
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
$359.00 $328.00
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03/19/2024 04:05 am GMT

This controller has ticked all the boxes for me, with a fantastic blend of functionality, design, and world-leading tech packed into one tidy product. And considering its price point at under $400, it’s a steal as well.

The DDJ-FLX4 has a whole host of features, which is quite surprising at this price point. You have 2 channels, 2 deck controls, trim knob, 111.6mm jog wheel, beat FX, sound coloring FX, a sampler (yes!), hot cues, manual and auto beat loops too – what isn’t there to like?

You’ve also got plenty of connectivity, with 1 mic input, 1 master RCA output, 1 phones output, and 2 sets of USB type-c ports – one is for the computer connection and the other is for power.

It also works with a variety of DJ software, which is quite uncommon in this space – It just means you don’t have to commit too early on with a single software setup. The DDJ-FLX4 works with rekordbox, Serato DJ Lite and djay, so you have plenty to choose from. Do note though, that there are some features on the controller that work slightly differently (if not better) on certain apps than others. For example, the sampler allows you to work with 16 slots when using rekordbox, and only 4 slots on Serato. Similar story with the hot cues, 8 for rekordbox, and only 4 with Serato. Not a huge bummer, but just worth keeping in mind.

So yeah, definitely give the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 some serious thought, I think it’s definitely the best overall DJ controller you can buy right now.


Best DJ Controllers: Product Lineup

There will also be some text here which I will need to add in. This needs to be a little more than a sentence but doesn’t have to quite be a full paragraph. This length is great.

1. Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
Best Overall Choice

Best DJ Controller: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 is the Best Overall Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: 2
  • Deck Control: 2
  • Connectivity: 1 x MIC input, 1 x RCA, 1 x 3.5mm stereo jack, 2 x USB-C ports
  • Software: rekordbox, Serato DJ Lite, Serato DJ Pro, djay for iOS/Android
  • FX: Yes
  • Looping: Yes

Overview

As mentioned in my glowing summary above, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 is my top pick. With its wide variety of software options, collection of features, and enough connectivity to serve most setups, this DJ controller is certainly one of the best on the market today.

There aren’t many DJ controllers like the DDJ-FLX4 which offer the range of compatability for DJ software like rekordbox, Serato, and djay – you certainly have a lot of choice when it comes to this controller.

The design of this unit as well is superb. All the controls are nicely laid out, and the buttons feel solid and tactile and certainly don’t feel plasticy and cheap like other controllers in this price range.

Check out the in-depth review here: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 Review

Pros

  • Design is excellent and very user friendly
  • Plenty of DJ software to choose from
  • Low price but doesn’t sacrifice quality
  • Built-in sound card offers really great sound quality

Cons

  • Jog wheels feel a bit loose (but that is me being picky)
Best Overall Choice
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
$359.00 $328.00
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03/19/2024 04:05 am GMT

2. Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10
Best Premium Pioneer DJ Choice

Best DJ Controller: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10 is the Best Premium Pioneer DJ Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: 4
  • Deck Control: 4
  • Connectivity: 2 x LINE RCA, 2 PHONO/LINE RCA, 1 x MIC XLR, 1 MIC TRS, 1 x Master XLR, 1 x Master RCA, 1 x Booth TRS, 1 PHONE jack, 1 x 3.5mm jack, 1 x XLR (3 pin), 2 x USB-C
  • Software: rekordbox, Serato DJ Pro
  • FX: Yes
  • Looping: Yes

Overview

Up in second place is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10. Much for the same reasons as the DDJ-FLX4, but multiplied by a million. This controller is similar to its baby brother, but SO much better. For a start you have 4 channels and control of 4 decks – already a pro position for this controller. Next, you have proper jog wheels that feel weighted and much more balanced giving you a much more realistic feel to CDJs, which is a huge bonus.

Everything about this unit is just great, from design, to sound quality, and the feel of it. It all feels premium, sturdy, and weighty. Which isn’t suprising given the price tag.

Another technically amazing part of this controller is the ability to individually adjust the volume for vocals, drums, instruments, or toggle the mute button altogether – absolutely incredible. You can also apply FX to these split parts as well which I’ve never actually seen before. So this makes this controller very unique indeed.

Check out the in-depth review here: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10 Review

Pros

  • Professional-grade setup with 4 channels
  • Unique stem control offers a new way of performing
  • Jog wheels feel solid and well made
  • The design is well laid out and stunning
  • Vast software options to choose from

Cons

  • The price, at almost $2,000 it’s not cheap
  • Steep learning curve for beginners
Best Premium Pioneer DJ Choice
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10
$1,899.00 $1,599.00
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03/18/2024 10:50 pm GMT

3. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2
Best Budget Traktor Choice

Best DJ Controller: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 is the Best Budget Traktor Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: 2
  • Deck Control: 2
  • Connectivity: 2 x stereo out (line and 1/8″ / 3.5mm TRS Jack), 1 x Headphone Output (3.5mm TRS Jack), 1 x Mic Input (6.3mm TRA)
  • Software: Traktor Pro 3, Traktor DJ 2 (both included)
  • FX: Yes
  • Looping: Yes

Overview

At third place, is the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2, the baby brother to the Traktor Kontrol S4. Indicated by the name, the S2 has 2 channels and 2 deck controls which offer standard control for the Traktor software.

The Kontrol S2 is a great budget version to the Kontrol S4, but don’t mistake that as being a negative point as the price is what makes this controller a really attractive option.

You have have all the usual suspects you’d like to see on this controller such a tempo sync, cueing, loops, mixer FX, and access to the Traktor FX suite via the software. Although, the control for the FX are lacking on the Kontrol S2. If you’re after hands-on control for FX then the Kontrol S4 is the better choice.

Another drawback on the Kontrol S2, compared to the Kontrol S4, is the connectivity. With this unit, you only have a mic input, stereo RCA outputs, and USB. You’ll see another USB on the back, but that’s for the power and connecting to your computer. There is also a 15v power input as well, obviously.

All in all, the Traktor Kontrol S2 is fantastic choice for beginners in particular. Although, it could also work if you’re planning on playing out live too – just be aware of its limitations though.

Check out the in-depth review here: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Review

Pros

  • At under $400 this is a bargain
  • Fantastic design with a user-friendly layout
  • Really light, weighing in at just 2.4kg
  • Super easy setup, truly just plug ‘n’ play
  • Both Traktor Pro 3 and Traktor DJ 2 are included

Cons

  • Lacking FX controls, the S4 is the option for that
  • Jog wheels and pads feel a bit cheap
Best Budget Traktor Choice
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3
$339.00
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03/19/2024 12:05 am GMT

4. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4
Best Premium Traktor Choice

Best DJ Controller: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 is the Best Premium Traktor Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: 4
  • Deck Control: 4
  • Connectivity: 2 x phono / line inputs, 2 x line inputs, 2 x main outputs (RCA / XLR), TRS booth output and 1/8 / 1/4 headphone outputs, 2 x mic inputs, 2 USB ports and DVS support
  • Software: Traktor Pro 3 (included)
  • FX: Yes
  • Looping: Yes

Overview

Up fourth is the big brother to the Kontrol S2, its the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4. This controller is an absolute beast and definitely a flagship for the whole Kontrol S-series lineup.

You have 4 channels, control over 4 decks, enough inputs and outputs to cater to most setups, and access to hardware controls for FX within the Traktor Pro 3 software. This unit really is the big daddy of the Native Instruments’ controller range.

The jog wheels on the Kontrol S4 feel so much better than the Kontrol S2. When I was testing the Kontrol S2, it really was something that let it down, but not on the Kontrol S4 – it’s quite the opposite. The S4 is every you would want from the Kontrol S2, but it does come at a cost. At just under $1,000 this isn’t cheap but you certainly get what you pay for.

Like the Kontrol S2, you have all the usual features such as tempo sync, cueing, looping, FX suite etc, but you also get some really nice digital displays for the pattern recorder/sample sequencer which I found bright and readable. Alongside that, you also have this cool feature in the mixer FX where you can create buildups, breakdowns, and seamless transitions with just a single touch – very user-intuitive.

Another really great feature of the Kontrol S4, is the color coded decks – yes, color-coded! With the adaptive RGB lighting fitted to this controller, it changes color depending on what deck you’re mixing from. I hadn’t ever though about this before, but when I was testing this, it really makes a world of difference as you typically end up staring at the screen – well, not any more.

If I were you, I’d personally choose the Traktor Kontrol S4 over the Kontrol S2. Obviously it is more expensive, but in my opinion it is totally worth it.

Check out the in-depth review here: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Review

Pros

  • Physical knobs for controlling FX
  • Jog wheels and pads feel much more heavy duty
  • Digital displays for sequencing are fantastic
  • Color-coded decks are simple awesome
  • All the inputs and outputs you’d expect for a pro-level DJ controller

Cons

  • Quite big, so the size might not suit all DJs (542mm x 339mm)
Best Premium Traktor Choice
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3
$997.78
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03/18/2024 09:25 pm GMT

5. Rane Twelve MkII
Best Budget Scratch Style Choice

Best DJ Controller: Rane Twelve MkII is the Best Budget Scratch Style Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: N/A
  • Deck Control: 4 (from a single platter)
  • Connectivity: 1x USB Type-B port, 1x Stereo RCA output, 1x IEC power cable input
  • Software: Traktor, VirtualDJ, DVS Control for Serato DJ Pro, and USB Midi
  • FX: No
  • Looping: No (but available from Software)

Overview

I know what you’re thinking, this doesn’t look like a DJ controller. However, it is! Up at fifth place is the slightly unusual Rane Twelve MKII controller. Unlike your more ‘conventional’ DJ controllers, this one is aimed more at the vinyl DJs, which is rather obvious.

A DJ controller typically replicates a full setup by having decks either side of a mixer and a bunch on FX controls dotted around. This controller is designed to replicate a single vinyl turntable.

If you’re looking for a DJ controller that emulates vinyl remarkably well, then the Rane Twelve is the best you’re going to find. It’s a bit of an odd sensation, when I was testing one of these a few weeks ago, I simply didn’t believe that it could feel anything like vinyl – but it actually does. It’s very convincing indeed.

The deck can be used with Serato and VirtualDJ via the USB connector on the back, it can also do DVS with the audio being routed through the RCA ports. This makes it possible to integrate with most of digital vinyl systems out there, you can even use it as a MIDI controller too which is pretty cool.

So if you’re looking for a fantastic vinyl DJ controller, then the Rane Twelve MkII is the controller for you.

Check out the in-depth review here: Rane Twelve MkII Review

Pros

  • Very convincing vinyl-like feeling
  • Build quality is superb and weighty
  • Integrates well with a range of DJ software (with DVS too)
  • Simple interface makes it accessible to DJs new to vinyl

Cons

  • Quite expensive for just a single unit
  • Only part of a bigger setup

6. Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500
Best Budget Choice

Best DJ Controller: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 is the Best Budget Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: 2
  • Deck Control: 2
  • Connectivity: Master Output: 2 x 1/4” / 6.35 mm jack + 2 x RCA, Headphone Output: 1/8” / 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack + 1/4” / 6.35 mm stereo jack, Auxiliary Input:  2 x RCA + 1/8” / 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack, Mic Input: balanced 1/4” / 6.35 mm jack
  • Software: DJUCED and Serato DJ Lite (both included)
  • FX: Yes
  • Looping: Yes

Overview

Hercules is well-known for creating budget DJ gear, but for the most part all of their releases have been exclusively tied to their own DJUCED DJ software. I think they have now realised that trying to corner a market into your own ecosystem is probably a lot hard than it sounds. Then when they released the DJControl Starlight which had compatability with Serato, the reception from users was extremely positive.

With that success in mind, the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 is now their latest release which aims to be the flagship of the Inpulse lineup. You’d have thought that with this new integration methodology, their controllers would be bumped up in price – not the case, they are still very reasonably priced.

One of main things I love about this Inpulse 500 DJ controller is the design. I really appreciate how well laid out all the controls are and, for a smaller DJ controller, it doesn’t feel too cluttered which is nice.

You have all the usual features on this powerful unit including built-in audio interface, lots of inputs and outputs, 16 performance pads with RGB lighting, jog wheels with touch detection, looper, and a great selection of mixer controls.

For the money this unit really is great value and is perfect for those getting into DJing, and those who may play the odd house party.

Check out the in-depth review here: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 Review

Pros

  • Compatible with Serato (and DJUCED)
  • Lots of physical controls
  • Performance pads are a great addition for this price
  • The feet stands are a great unique feature (especially for spillages!)

Cons

  • Jog wheels are VERY sensitive
  • Pads feel a bit flimsy
  • Feet stands feel like they might break easily
Best Budget Choice
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 Bundle
$319.98
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03/18/2024 05:50 am GMT

7. Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7
Best Premium Scratch Style Choice

Best DJ Controller: Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 is the Best Premium Scratch Style Choice

Specifications

  • Channels: 2
  • Deck Control: 2
  • Connectivity: Inputs: 2 x PHONO/LINE (RCA), 2 x MIC (XLR and 1/4″ TRS jack), 1 x AUX (RCA). Outputs: 2 x Master XLR and RCA, 1 x Booth (1/4″ TRS jack), 2 x PHONES (1/4″ jack, 3.5mm jack). 2 x USB-B ports
  • Software: Serato DJ Pro (not included), Serato DVS (paid upgrade)
  • FX: Yes
  • Looping: Yes

Overview

From reading the overview of the Rane Twelve MkII above, you might be thinking “I really wish there was a DJ controller that replicated a full setup, and not just a single vinyl…” – well you’re prayers have been answered.

Up at seventh place is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 – the flagship DJ controller from Pioneer DJ aimed at the scratch and battle DJs among you. If you’re looking for the full vinyl-replica setup but in a DJ controller format, then you simply can’t get any better than this – but it comes at a cost.

Now, I’ll get this out of the way, the DDJ-REV7 is, by no means, a small DJ controller. So if you’re looking for a more portable and compact controller then this may not be for you. However, you can carry it under one arm so depending on your threshold for ‘portability’, I’d say it’s not too bad. It is deifnitely on the larger side of DJ controllers though. The weight doesn’t help it either, coming in at a whopping 10.7kg!

As you can imagine, everything on this unit is solid. The knobs are all resistant and feel chunky, just like a Pioneer DJ mixer. The platters also feel very vinyl-like and provide expected resistance much like a real turntable.

The only one issue I have with this unit is the power supply. You’d expect a unit of this size and weight to contain a built-in transformer which meant you only need a kettle lead to power it, but that’s not the case. The unit comes with a usual 24v power input and a power brick to go with it, not great if you end up losing it for whatever reason.

Pros

  • Professional-grade feeling all round (knobs, platters etc)
  • Cue/Play buttons are just like those on the CDJs
  • Crystal clear display in the jog wheel centers are fantastic and bright
  • Extensive amount of inputs and outputs you’d expect for a pro DJ controller
  • The vinyl platters are very convincing of real vinyl
  • Crossfader is smooth and has no audio bleed

Cons

  • Super heavy at 10.7kg
  • Power brick instead of built-in transformer
  • Very expensive
Best Premium Scratch Style Choice
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7
$1,999.00
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03/19/2024 12:40 am GMT

Best DJ Controller: Buyers Guide

In this buyers guide section, I’m going to tell you about all the various elements you need to keep in mind when choosing a DJ controller. Seeing as there are so many options on the market today, you’re highly likely to find a controller that meets all of your requirements, may it be from skill level to budget, or software integrations to design. Let’s get going.

1. Determine Your Skill Level

The first thing to think about when choosing any DJ equipment, not just DJ controllers, is your skill level. You need to ask yourself questions like “Is this overkill for me?” or “Do I really need all these features?”. The answers to these questions are very important in making the right buying decision. To make it easy, let’s break this down:

Beginner or Hobbyist DJ ($)

If you’re new to DJing or just doing it as a hobby, you won’t need all the latest features and functions. In fact, less is certainly more in this respect.

I remember when I started, I maxed out a credit card to get a brand new Hercules DJ console back in 2004 – this was a mistake and way overkill for what I needed. I ended up selling it and just getting a pair of Numark turntables instead – don’t worry, you have a lot more choice than I did back then.

For this level you simply need 2-channels, some jog wheels, a mixer, and maybe some simple FX controls. DJ controllers at this level often come bundled with some free DJ software so that helps you get familar and keep costs low. You don’t want to be spending too much at this stage, just get yourself familiar with DJing first.

At this beginner and hobbyist level, the DJ controller I would recommend is the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 or if your budget can stretch to it the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4.

Intermediate or Amateur DJ ($$)

If you have slightly more experience than a beginner or hobbyist, then you’ll be on the hunt for DJ controller with a few more features and functionality.

For this level, you’d be looking at 4-channels, more FX control, and integrations with some major DJ software like Serato or rekordbox. These type of DJ controllers offer a good balance between user-friendliness and enough features to keep you busy.

At this intermediate or amateur level, I would recommend the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4.

Professional or Touring DJ ($$$)

If you DJ career has really taken off, and you have a vast amount of experience behind the decks then you’d be looking at DJ controllers with professional-grade features and functionality.

For this level, you’re going to want tactile controls, great feeling jog wheels, multiple advanced FX, durable design, and superb sound quality with all the expected audio input and outputs from a professional piece of DJ equipment.

Tight integrations with the top DJ software too is a must for apps like Serato, rekordbox, and VirtualDJ, they need to seamless pair together with no glitches or incompatibility.

At this professional or touring level, I would recommend the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7.

2. Software Compatibility

With DJ controllers, the software is as key in this setup as the hardware itself. So its important to understand what DJ software you need in order for your DJ controller, and you, to perform correctly.

Serato

Serato has a huge following within the DJ community (me included), it’s been around since 1999 and is used by DJs all over the world at every level. It’s sleek user-interface and superb selection of features, makes this a very desirable platform. Particularly with vinyl DJs as it was one of the first DVS platforms to be released – although this story is very interesting, not for now though.

It is important to remember that not all DJ controllers work with Serato. Double check the technical specifications before purchasing. You can check out this full list of compatible DJ controller over on their website.

Who I would recommend Serato to: Intermediate and Professional DJs

rekordbox

Developed by Pioneer DJ, this app is mostly designed to work with their own controllers. However, in recent years they have introduced compatibility with many other DJ software providers. Which, in my opinion, was a smart move.

rekordbox is also loved by DJs around the world. Mostly for its library management setup which is reliable, easy to use, and rarely crashes.

Who I would recommend rekordbox to: Intermediate and Professional DJs

Traktor

Made by Native Instruments, the Traktor DJ software is typically exclusively with Native Instruments’ DJ controllers, but they can be used with limited funcationality with most other DJ software.

Traktor has been around for a long time, so this app is pretty well established and offers all the best features you would want and expect from this level of software.

Who I would recommend Traktor to: Beginner, Intermediate, and Professional DJs.

VirtualDJ

It is easy to forget that other DJ software options exist outside of the ‘big 3’ mentioned above. However, VirtualDJ is still a very popular solution that many DJs use. According to the VirtualDJ website, it has been downloaded more than 150,000,000 times and is used by more than 6,000,000 different users per day. From these claims, it is very popular indeed.

VirtualDJ is particularly popular with DJs that like to sync video with their sets. Together with Serato, these two apps are the only ones that are capable of using video sync – unless you use a specific VJ software, which is a bit more uncommon.

Who I would recommend VirtualDJ to: Intermediate, and Professional DJs.

3. Budget and Price Range

Lastly, before you go spending your hard-earned cash, let me help you understand the price brackets and what you can expect for your money.

Beginner and Hobbyist Level: $50 – $200

  • Best for beginners and people completely new to DJing
  • Only has basic features such as 2-channels, essential functionality, and light FX
  • My choice at this level would be: Pioneer DJ DDJ-200

Intermediate and Amateur Level: $200 – $600

  • Suited to DJs looking to expand their setup or explore new features
  • Typically more functions and features, particular with FX, as well as a better build quality
  • My choice for this level would be: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4

Professional and Touring Level: $600+

  • Aimed at full-time DJs who are very experienced and are serious about DJing
  • Durable build quality, more channels, advanced features, and better software integrations
  • My choice for this level would be: Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your DJ Controller

Trying to choose which DJ controller is right for you is a little trickier than first thought eh?

With all the factors involved and choices available, it can be hard to know which one is right for your setup. Hopefully this guide has been helpful in your research on DJ controllers and what you need to be aware of when choosing the best DJ controller for you.

It is so important to consider everything when making the decision. Such as skill level, budget, requirements, and where you plan to use or perform with it. You don’t want to be stuck with something that you overpaid for and have features that you’re never going to use. Otherwise, you would have just bought yourself an expensive collector of dust.

On a more serious note though, this could be the start of your career or even help enhance it. So it’s definitely worth taking the time out to really think about this and hopefully I’ve helped in some way too.

While my top pick, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4, stands out for many reasons such as the price, features available, and compatibility for a variety of DJ software, it is good to remember that this might not be the ‘best’ DJ controller for you, and that’s why what I said above is really important. You shouldn’t take anyone’s word for it; doing your own research will always be the best approach.

Good luck with choosing, and I hope you pick the right one for you.

Let us know in the comments which DJ controller you went for!


How We Test DJ Controllers

At DJ Tech Reviews we are fortunate enough to get our hands on with, pretty much, any piece of equipment we would like to test. That’s precisely what our team of writers and reviewers do in order to write accurate, trustworthy, and informative content to help our readers make better buying decisions.

In all of our roundup articles, we aim to cover all types of DJ. Such as DJs that are more budget-minded, or perhaps those who are beginners; we make sure that we include products that suit everyone. That’s why, in this type of article, the products are labelled with certain tags such as “Best Overall DJ Controller” or “Best Premium Pick” etc.

From a more technical point of view, we do all the usual testing methods such scrutinizing build quality for components such as faders, jog wheels, pads, buttons – the whole lot. If a controller contains removable parts, we also test for robustness and precision.

After testing the build quality, we then move onto using the controller for its intended use – controlling the DJ software. We ensure that are the hardware knobs, buttons, and FX are exhibiting expected behaviour and actually doing what they’re supposed to.

Lastly, we analyze sound quality. Does this sound right? Is it too bassy? or too boxy? DJ controllers often have their own ‘sound’ so we attempt to dtermine what that is by using a mixture of studio monitors and head phones to accurate depict what their ‘sound’ is.

For more information, read more about how we test DJ gear, software, and services at DJ Tech Reviews.

Written by
As the Co-founder of DJ Tech Reviews, Rory Tassell also has over 14 years experience within the music industry covering a variety of roles and disciplines such as a DJ, Music Producer, Tutor, and Studio Engineer. He is also the founder of Hyper Production, a YouTube channel dedicated to helping aspiring Music Producers make better music. You can follow him on Twitter @TassellRory or visit his YouTube channel @HyperProduction to learn more.

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We have a dedicated process when reviewing or recommending products to our readers. Learn more about how we test DJ gear, software, and services by clicking the link. Additionally, you can learn more about our transparency by checking out our affiliate disclosure.

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