Looking for the best Traktor controller that money can buy? You’re in the right place.
Designed by Native Instruments, Traktor Kontrol hardware is a selection of solutions intended to integrate perfectly with the state-of-the-art software from the Traktor portfolio. As most DJs already know, purchasing the right hardware to go alongside your mixing software is the key to building better tracks and performances.
Choosing the best Traktor DJ controller isn’t always easy, however. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Today, we’re going to give you the ultimate guide to the best Traktor controller solutions, so you can make the perfect purchase.
What is the Best Traktor Controller?
The Traktor Kontrol S3 is an excellent choice when considering purchasing a Traktor controller. It is full to the brim with exciting DJ features, not overly complicated, and is positioned at an affordable price. All Traktor DJ controllers feature excellent build quality, brilliantly intuitive fantastic DJ software and the S3 is a solid all-round Traktor DJ controller for all types of DJs.
Here’s a rundown of the 7 best Traktor controllers available today:
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S5
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol F1
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z1
What Is Native Instruments “Kontrol”
Native Instruments is one of the most popular creators of DJ software and hardware on the market today. The company delivers state-of-the-art technology in the form of both mixing software, and controllers that you can use to manage your music.
The “Kontrol” concept refers to a mixture of both software and hardware from Native Instruments. The two elements integrate perfectly together for a more intuitive interface. In the case of the DJ, Traktor Kontrol is the name of the current solution.
Similar to other tools, like Serato DJ, Traktor Kontrol offers everything DJs need for sensational workflow and performance, with access to loops, cueing, beat jumps, Ableton Link support, and so much more. Native Instruments Kontrol concepts ensure that you can get more done as a DJ at home or on the road. Without having to worry about which software works with what hardware, you can really get involved with all the great features your tools have to offer.
Kontrol ensures that you can tap into the various benefits that Native Instruments has to deliver in forms of immersive software and mixing functionality.
Traktor Kontrol Concept Features
To find the best traktor controller, you need to have in mind the kind of functionality you get from the unit you invest in. However, Traktor Kontrol solutions come with a variety of tools within your software and hardware combination. Let’s take a look at the features you’ll have to consider when searching out the best Traktor comaptible controller options.
Traktor Decks:
Traktor Decks are available in a range of forms. There’s an all-digital system, which allows you to mix and play music internally. DJs can get support from their computer to deal with things like tempo maintenance and syncing. There’s also a DVS-style system that involves turntable and timecode records to manage your music. Some of the kinds of decks in Traktor software include:
- Track Deck: A digital deck that replaces a turntable or CDJ. Skip around with hot cues or play songs straight throughout.
- Live input: Direct input from an external source, like another controller or a CDJ.
- Remix deck: Clip-based decks which help DJs to quickly trigger loops and samples.
- Scratch control: Decks that accept timecode input to manipulate digital music like an existing record.
- Stem deck: Four-channel decks which contain split elements like melody, vocals, drums and bass separately.
Smart Interface:
Native instruments want to ensure tight integrations between all the software and hardware you have to use. To do this, the company offers an intelligent interface which makes it easier to do a lot of multi-tasking in a small space.
Traktor Kontrol technology comes with a super intelligent interface where you can connect your entire setup with various in/out connections, software solutions and more. Your smart interface is ready for recording anywhere, and you can even take the stage with your setups when you’re ready.
Whether you’re at a small session or a full performance, you’ll have a comprehensive interface, with tons of great options to choose from. Native Instruments offers everything from Monark for synth work, to Ableton Live 10 with all the workflows and instruments that DJ’s love.
Visual feedback
In some cases, the smart interface involves a combination of touch-capacitive controls, and high-resolution screen systems. In these environments when you touch parts of the controller, the screen adjusts to accommodate the tasks you’re trying to complete.
Touching one of the FX knobs will cause panels to slide and show you the changes you’ve made to that parameter. If you want to see the length of the loop before you engage with it, you can touch the loop knob and the knob will pop over the screen, allowing you to change the length of the loop.
You don’t have to have a screen to benefit from the Traktor solution, however. In devices without a screen, there are tons of options for visual feedback through LED number displays, backlit pads and more. This kind of user experience is one of the reasons why Native Instruments is so popular.
Flux mode
In Traktor, Flux mode is a feature which supports using a track on a virtual timeline, regardless of changes that you might make in the meantime. This functionality means that you can use loops, cue points, hot cues, and more, without losing where you were in the song.
Flux mode makes it quick and simple to interact with Traktor’s transport controls. When you’re done he track jumps back to where it might have been beforehand. This feature might be something you’re used to seeing as “slip mode” if you typically work with Pioneer devices.
The Best All-in-One Traktor DJ Controllers
An all-in-one controller makes it easy for musical professionals to start mixing tracks and performing fast. Everything you need to create and share music is included within the same technology. This includes control of the FX, mixing section, transport functions, looping, track browsing, and other fundamental software features. Each device contains high-quality audio too.
With any Kontrol all-in-one device and a laptop, you can essentially access everything you need to start creating or playing music in a format that suits you. The Kontrol S series is one of the best Traktor controller options for all-in-one controller functionality. Here are some of our top choices.
1. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
Overall Best Traktor Controller
The S8 is easily one of the best Traktor controller options provided by Native Instruments for those looking for all-in-one functionality. This fully-featured four-deck controller includes Traktor Scratch pro 2 software, as well as a wide selection of amazing additions. There’s a set of touch-sensitive knobs, onboard screens for tracking your music and a brilliant user-friendly interface.
The biggest issue with this controller is that there aren’t any jog wheels included. However, you do get quick access to things like touch strips for track position control, pitch bend, and BPM tracking. There’s also quick access to various remix and filter options.
- Incredible high-quality performance
- MIDI connectivity and Stems compatibility
- Easy enough to transport
- Fantastic range of analogue inputs and outputs
- Fun to use
- No Jog wheels included
- No pitch faders
2. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S5
Best Mid-Range Traktor Controller
The Traktor Kontrol S5 is a feature-heavy mid-range controller for DJs in search of excellent functionality and scale. This product will be an excellent pick for Traktor fans who want to construct and deconstruct music in complex sets, without sacrificing purpose-focused features from the S8 to provide a more appealing price tag.
The S5 comes with 2 full-color displays for software views and insights, and there’s core control over stems, remix decks, and more. You can access BPM and key information fast, and touch strips give you absolute control over the position of each track. There aren’t any line inputs or jog wheels, however.
This product has been discontinued. However, used examples may be available at Reverb.com
3. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3
Best 4-Channel Traktor S4 Controller
This all-in-one Traktor s4 controller from Native Instruments is high up there as a best Traktor controller solution with large motorized jog wheels and haptic three-mode feedback. There’s an LED ring on each jog wheel to show deck rotation, and you get high-resolution color displays to track information on each song you’re playing, like position or loop length.
An excellent product for DJs that want to keep their laptops close-to-hand, the Traktor Kontrol S5 comes with stems control, full DVS functionality, and a pro mixer layout that’s easy to adapt to. Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of touch-sensitive controls here.
- Excellent performance
- Very solid and reliable
- Easy to understand
- Dedicated section for remixing
- Only one effect per module
- Plastic rotary knobs
4. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
Best Budget Traktor Controller
For those with a restrictive budget, the Traktor S2 controller system from Native Instruments could well be the best Traktor controller pick for you. This product offers simple two-deck control, and some support for remix decks in a manner that’s similar in style to the S4. If you prefer the traditional dual layout for jog wheels and a compact footprint, the S2 is a good pick.
This product comes with jog mode and spin-to-nudge function, as well as scratch abilities. There are a club-standard layout and plug-and-play functionality for simplicity on the move. You also get a set of 16 high-performance pads for controlling loops and hot cues.
- Excellent compact design
- Excellent entry-level price
- Very portable
- Bigger jog wheels
- Exclusive use with NI software
- Soundcard isn’t that great
The Best Modular Traktor DJ Controllers
Native instruments make finding Traktor DJ controller options to suit your needs as quick and simple as possible. If an all-in-one solution isn’t suitable for you, then a modular controller will give you a lot more flexibility and control when you decide to go for a mix-and-match option. These purpose-specific pieces of hardware can adapt to suit your preferred workflow.
Although complete solutions are very convenient, a lot of professionals do prefer the flexibility that a modular setup can provide. Here are some of the best traktor controller picks available if you’re searching for a modular solution to your Traktor needs.
5. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol F1
The Control F1 might look like a simple Traktor DJ controller product at first, but it’s an excellent tool for gaining more control over the Stems and Remix decks from Traktor. Many users add this solution to their existing S2 or S4 controller from Native Instruments. You can also use a full timecode strategy with the support of Traktor Scratch for handling your edits wherever you go.
The F1 upgrades the live feeling of your sets and makes your music more engaging. There are four filter knobs and 4 short-throw faders to give you more filter and volume control for each channel. 16 back-lit drum pads make triggering samples, loops, remix deck parts and more easier than ever.
- Convenient way to add remix and stems support to your existing Traktor tools
- 16 remix slots available with simultaneous access
- Excellent opportunity for triggering samples, loops, and remix deck parts
- Great way to upgrade your technology without starting fresh
- No standalone functionality
6. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1
Another outstanding best Traktor controller option for DJs searching for a way to strengthen or build out their existing Native Instruments experience. The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 DJ controller allows you to tap into the various effects and decks of Traktor. This compact controller comes with a ton of response controls to discover with FX units and 2 decks. There’s even a multi-purpose touch strip to keep you in control of all your music without using your CDJ.
The Kontrol provides dedicated control of two decks, so you can nudge, browse, seek, and control elements like loops and effects. All the core functionality of standard Traktor decks is included here. You get touch-sensitive knobs and strips alongside color-coded buttons for visual feedback in the moment. This is a popular choice for DJ booths everywhere, and the 7-segment displays means that tracking your music is simple.
- Great FX control
- Touch-sensitive knobs
- Multi-purpose touch strip
- Very small and portable
- No Jogwheels included
- Doesn’t feel like a full DJ setup
7. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z1
The final top choice among our best modular Traktor controller options for Native Instruments fans is the Traktor Control Z1. This happens to be one of the most popular and unique offerings from Native Instruments, because it comes with its own built-in audio interface. The Z1 is a comprehensive two—channel mixer for Traktor Pro 2 or the Traktor DJ technology.
You can link your iPhone or iPad to the system and charge it as you play and control your other devices like the F1 and X1 for more functionality. Ultra-portable, this product comes with some of the most reliable state-of-the-art knobs and faders. The buttons and built-in sound card are all excellent for quality purposes, and there’s a headphone jack and cue system too.
- Comes with its own professional 24-bit soundcard and audio interface
- 2 channel portable mixer works with various Traktor software options
- Ultra-portable setup with durability throughout
- Contains jack and cue system for more versatile control
- Charge your iPad or smartphone as you play
- Crossfader is quite loose for some DJs
Traktor Controller Solutions: The Verdict
Whether you’re looking for the best Traktor controller all-in-one solution, or you want to build something from scratch, there’s something for everyone. Native Instruments has done an excellent job of ensuring that it has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for the intuitive control of the sensational Kontrol S8, or you need something small and simple like the Traktor Z1, you’re sure to get an excellent mixing experience.
Remember, consider whether a modular or all-in-one controller solution is the best Traktor DJ controller option for you before you begin searching for the ideal option from Native Instruments. This will narrow down your options significantly and make searching a lot easier.
Finding the right combination of hardware and software for your mixing and performances is the key to ongoing success as a music master. Fortunately, Native Instruments does a lot of the work involved with combining components of your system for you. The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol systems ensure that everything you’re using will work well together.
Although the exact product that’s right for you will depend on your specific needs, we personally recommend the Kontrol S8 for its comprehensive performance. Overall, this is the best Traktor controller we’ve seen, with an excellent range of features to explore and full functionality for virtually any DJ. Just make sure you don’t mind going without jog wheels before you invest in this tech.
