Pioneer DJ gear is arguably the industry standard equipment for all major nightclubs, entertainment venues, and festivals.
This makes their DJ controllers a very solid selection if you want to forge a career as a professional DJ or are simply serious about mixing music.
In this Pioneer DJ controller guide, we delve into their magnificent product range and give a brief overview of each unit.
Whether you are a beginner or an expert Pioneer DJ offers a fantastic range of DJ controllers.
However, on the downside, some of their range of Pioneer DJ controllers can be far more expensive as they have a superior build quality and offer more functions.
Pioneer DJ controllers are primarily set up to run rekordbox DJ which over the years has become a leading DJ software and very popular with professional and amateur DJs worldwide.
It is a legitimate alternative to the Serato, Virtual DJ, and Traktor DJ systems.
Nevertheless, in recent years Pioneer DJ has teamed up with Serato DJ. This means many Pioneer DJ controllers now run both software and several dedicated Pioneer DJ machines running only Serato have been released.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Pioneer DJ Controller
A DJ controller combines all the equipment DJs need into one single unit. Rather than buying a mixer and two players separately, all the gear combines into one sleek device.
Plus, a DJ controller typically comes bundled with a copy of a DJing software to mix off a computer. Instead of buying everything separately, which can get pricey, DJs get an all-in-one system cheap.
DJ controllers are useful for DJs mixing strictly digital, as most support USB connectivity. They are lightweight and portable, which is great for DJs regularly on the go.
I’ve been that guy lugging around several pieces of gear from show to show, and it gets exhausting.
For vinyl or scratch DJs, a DJ controller might not be the best option. Higher-end DJ controllers support multiple inputs from several players to integrate additional vinyl players and other devices.
If you have the extra cash to shell out, then vinyl players & DJ controllers can work together.
Budget limits most DJS, which leads them to a simpler 2-channel model.
While shopping for your ideal DJ controller, it’s essential to define your level of DJing proficiency. Lower-end models are barebones with limited creative tools. Entry-level DJ controllers have 2-channels with few or no effects, loops, hot cues, and sampling.
Advanced models include 4-channels or more and come with all the bells and whistles proficient DJs want to make their mix masterful.
Determine what elements you need for mixing, and that will guide you into the right DJ controller.
DDJ 200
The DDJ 200 offers a great “first-time” experience for beginning DJs. The controller is compact, lightweight, and very easy to operate even if it’s your first time using a DJ deck.
The controller comes with a surprising number of features that help it stand out compared to the other entry-level devices on the market.
It comes with two channels, a USB port, Bluetooth connection, and a supplemental mobile app in the app store so you connect it with your smartphone or tablet.
The device is not perfect, however, and comes with some flaws, primarily in the structure’s build. It is made mostly from plastic and does not have a built-in sound card.
This means much of your sound quality will depend on whatever playback device you’re using.
However, despite these minor flaws, compared to what is being offered, the DDJ 200 is a great starting investment for beginners.
Best for smartphone and tablet connectivity
- Can Work with DJ Mixing Apps on Your Phone
- Very Affordable Price
- Portable, Lightweight, and Easy to Operate
- Has a USB Port and Bluetooth Connection
- Lacks a Built-In Sound Card
DDJ 400
Pioneer DJ’s DDJ 400 is the perfect one-stop-shop entry-level DJ controller. Rather than getting a list of different mixers and players, the DDJ 400 combines all of them into a single device. Not only that, but it does it all at some of the most competitive prices around.
The DDJ 400 is a 2-deck entry-level controller for beginner DJs with a nice set of mixing features such as looping, sampling, and a nice set of FX options.
In fact, so many of its features are at such an impressive level, that the DDJ 400 has been used by many professional DJs as a backup option.
On the other hand, many of these features can be a bit overwhelming. For those that are just starting, even despite its built-in tutorial mode, the DDJ 400 can be a bit much.
If you can get a grasp on it, the DDJ 400 can be all you need, at least until you hit pro.
This product is now discontinued. Only used and second-hand units are available via the relevant marketplaces.
- Professional looping section included
- Incredibly good build quality
- Reasonable pricing and good portability
- Responsive performance pad section
- Looping section is complex
- Plastic throughout
DDJ 800
If you’ve managed to get upgrade your skills in DJing, you may eventually need to consider something a bit more advanced. The DDJ 800 certainly does all of that and more.
While not quite at the professional level, the DDJ 800 gets pretty darn close while still being accessible enough that beginners aren’t completely confused.
The controller comes with the ability to support up to four decks, each of which is assigned either to virtual or additional rear input.
The DDJ 800 comes with a built-in display for its jog wheels as well as eight performance pads to play with.
And, while much of this is great, the controller isn’t perfect. You’ll only be able to cue two of the four channels at once.
You’ll also have to install and connect your controller with the Rekordbox DJ software to access virtually all of its effects.
That said, these are small setbacks to an otherwise exceptional controller for more advanced DJs.
- Compact design
- Professional inputs and outputs
- LCD screen with a feature-rich mixer
- Only two channels
- Effects only work with the rekordbox
DDJ FLX6
Pioneer DJ’s DDJ FLX6, especially for its time, was ground-breaking. This was primarily due to it having dual compatibility with both Rekordbox as well as Serato.
Not only that, but the controller came with a host of different and creative mixing features.
The FLX6 has four-channel support and is very much the love child between the DDJ 400 and the DDJ 1000. It has a set of full-sized jog wheels, eight hot cues, and several output connections.
The controller comes in at a weight of around 3.8kg and is fairly mobile.
This, unfortunately, comes at the cost of its overall build quality, making it not nearly as durable or as capable as other mid-range Pioneer controllers.
Despite the weaker build, the FLX6 is known for its above-average number of features and abilities, allowing you to “flex” your creativity more than different controllers at its level.
- Fairly Lightweight & Mobile
- Reasonably Priced Considering What It Offers
- Comes With A Built-In Sound Card
- Offers Compatibility With Both Serato and Rekordbox
- Not Quite As Durable As Other Options
DDJ SX3
First making its debut in 2013, the original DDJ SX was a huge innovator for controllers, particularly for Pioneer. They were the first controllers made specifically for the Serato DJ software and, as a result, became essential for any DJ at the time.
Today, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX3 has managed to hold onto that legacy as a stellar controller option with even more and better options now than ever before.
The DDJ SX3 comes with dual USB ports, three mic inputs, several FX features, as well as a portable design, and a needle-scratch pad.
The SX3 has multi-color performance pads as well as a Sound Color FX feature that not only makes each key easily noticeable but also just makes the controller stand out and look nice.
While it isn’t going to hit at the same level as the more advanced controllers of today, the SX3 still has a ton to offer DJ fans that are particular lovers of Serato software.
This product is now discontinued. Used and second-hand units are only available.
- Fully Supports Serato DJ Pro
- Hosts 3 Mic Input Options
- Equal Parts Lightweight & Compact As It Is Dense & Durable
- Has Multi-Color Performance Pads and Sound Color FX
- Does Not Have Dual Jog Wheel Performance Feature
DDJ SB3
Pioneer has always been, well, “pioneering” since its beginning. While the DDJ SB2 offered a ton of value as an entry-level controller option, both for Serato and Rekordbox DJs, the DDJ SB3 has trekked into all-new territory yet again.
The DDJ SB3 is an entry-level controller aimed at beginners and people just looking to start their DJ profession.
The controller is impressively small and lightweight while still offering a ton of stability.
It’s not quite on the level of the DDJ 1000, but you could legitimately argue that it acts as a practice round for people interested in the more professional option.
While it does work for both Serato as well as Rekordbox, some will be disappointed that there is a clear favorite in the extremely popular Serato DJ software.
Not only does that seem like the more native option, but it also comes with a Serato DJ Lite option that can be upgraded to DJ Pro.
- Helps with learning how to scratch
- Lightweight design
- Plug and play
- Amazing value
- Bit too simplistic
- Only comes with Serato Lite
DDJ SR2
Acting as a successor to the DDJ SR, Pioneer’s DDJ SR2 comes with a host of fun features and updates that make it a strong competitor for any Serato lover.
The DDJ-SR2 has an impressive build quality that is quite durable and resistant to any wear and tear.
It comes with RGB performance pads, “Key Shift”, and “Key Sync” buttons on its deck face as well as a full Serato DVS-supported hardware mixer.
The SR2 is incredibly functional while also being quite compact, making it a great option for those artists on the move.
In terms of its FX features, the SR2 can trigger up to three effects simultaneously, giving it a legitimate leg up over most different controllers at its level.
While not a significant upgrade from the original DDJ SR model in terms of what new things it brings to the table, the SR2 is a great starter option for people that are looking to pick up a quality controller for the first time.
- Multiple connections
- Lightweight and portable design
- Large jog wheels
- Range of integral controls
- Plug and play
- Small pitch fader
- Cluttered interface
DDJ 1000
Considered, by many, to be the premier flagship controller for Rekordbox, Pioneer DJ’s DDJ 1000 comes to the game with pretty much everything it needs and more.
Pulling direct inspiration from the DJM 900 NSX2 mixer, the DDJ 1000 comes with over four-channel control, each offering 3-band EQ options. The DDJ1000 also has a Trim Knob for each of its channels as well as a channel meter, allowing you to constantly be aware of their sound levels.
Physically, the DDJ 1000 is a pretty big boy.
And, while it is still fairly lightweight, it isn’t nearly as mobile as other controllers out there. Still, in exchange for that lack of mobility, the DDJ 1000 gives you the world while looking great doing it.
It’s super solid with all of its buttons, knobs, and wheels feeling incredibly durable without any sense of “flimsiness”.
If you are a user of Rekordbox and need a controller that ticks just about every box, the DDJ1000 is pretty much where you want to be.
- Advanced performance
- Wide range of effects
- Large jog wheels
- HD screens included
- New beat FX feature
- Complicated set-up
- Not the smoothest jog wheel
- Very heavy
DDJ 1000 SRT
While the DDJ 1000 was heralded by many as the perfect flagship controller for Rekordbox, many lamented the fact that Serato fans were left with pretty much second-hand options by comparison. That’s where Pioneer DJ’s DDJ 1000SRT comes in.
Meant as the answer to the lack of Serato options for the DDJ 1000, the DDJ 1000SRT is a four-channel controller that gives a DJ everything they need to produce some quality show material.
What’s more, it does all of this with the Serato DJ software available, even offering access to Serato DJ Pro.
Like the DDJ1000, the 1000SRT has a durable build, and a variety of mixing, fading and scratching features.
You can also adjust the jog wheel’s resistance, ranging from light to heavy.
While it is not a carbon copy of the DDJ1000, the 1000SRT acts as its functional opposite, giving Serato fans much to love while still making the experience different enough to be competitive.
- Aluminium jog wheels
- LCD screens
- Club-standard layout
- All-in-one functionality
- Good connection options
- Dual USB ports
- Magvel updated crossfader
- Lack of colored waveform and cue information
DDJ SZ2
The DDJ SZ2 builds off of the previous DDJ SZ controller, ensuring DJs have access to the newest additions to the Serto DJ Pro software.
These include access to “Key Shift;” “Key Sync;” “Serato Flip;” and “Pitch Play.” In addition, the SZ2 has an improved jog wheel latency, making scratching much more precise and responsive as a result.
The DDJ SZ2 comes with multi-colored performance pads and dedicated controls. The pads can be assigned different Hot Cues, allowing DJs the option to broaden their scope of creativity and put together some really impressive sounds while performing.
The SZ2 also comes with an overlay knob that can be used to modulate your tracks with different sounds (like drops, lasers, or sirens).
These different features all work together to make the SZ2 a huge win for Serato-lovers everywhere.
While it doesn’t work with Rekordbox software, the different fun features that it brings to the table make learning Serato certainly worth it.
- Fantastic jog wheels
- Fully-equipped
- Support for Serato DVS
- Not very affordable
DDJ RZ
The Pioneer DJ DDJ RZ, as a Rekordbox-only controller, is the ideal option for those looking for a fast and reliable device that offers amazing sound no matter the situation.
It comes with an OSC sampler that makes oscillating samples incredibly easy and responsive.
As it is tied to the popular Rekordbox software, you aren’t going to need to take everything with you when heading to your next venue set, instead of being able to mix and play directly from your laptop or exporting to a USB.
The RZ is strongly considered the Rekordbox alternative to the SZ.
As such, it shares many of the same controller-based similarities, including its “plug-and-play” features, eight hot cue options, and lightweight body.
It is a bit more expensive than different controllers of its type. However, because it is operating at such a high level of quality (on all fronts) it’s certainly worth every penny in our book.
- Build Is Very High Quality
- Performs On the Level of a Full CDJ
- Has a Relatively Small Learning Curve
- Offers A Ton of Features And Functionality
- Pretty Expensive For What It Offers
DDJ REV1
Pioneer DJ’s REV1 is the number one place for all Battle DJs to take their start. It, like its older REV7 brother, are Serato-based controllers and includes Serato DJ Lite software right out of the gate.
The controller gives off a strong “Battle Mixer” design, making it stand out from a large number of options on the market today.
The REV1, in particular, is very beginner-friendly while still having a design that isn’t too intimidating for people just coming onto the scene.
Still, it isn’t ashamed to wear its battle mixer nature on its sleeve, complete with trim and filter controls right next to its EQ options.
Still, as it is meant to be an entry-level option, the REV1 isn’t going to come without a few compromises.
The performance pads are fairly small while the mixer section is a bit too compact overall.
That said, if you are someone interested in getting into the Battle Mixer world, but don’t know where to start, the REV1 is the ideal controller for you.
- Workflow Is At The Top of Its Game, Being Fast, Easy, & Clear
- The Control Scheme Is Impressively Comprehensive
- Includes the "Instant Scratch" Button, Offering Incredible Precision
- Crossfader Feature is Super Responsive
- Very Pricey Considering It Isn't A Standalone Controller
DDJ REV7
One of the newest controller options to hit the stage, the DDJ REV7 is the premier, all-in-one Serato-based controller, complete with spinning platters.
Harkening back to old-school DJing, the REV7 utilizes the spinning platter feature to impressive effect while also throwing out the “locking spindle’ mechanic that other controllers had.
The platter feels amazing and can run upwards of between 33 and 45 speeds while also being reversible. The platter also comes with a set of Pitch Bend buttons as well as torque modes to help modulate the resistance.
The REV7 also comes with some super impressive and comprehensive controls, hitting just about anything you need.
Its mixing section hosts many of the foundational performance pads, complete with the various sampler, loops, and hot cue effects found in more advanced controllers.
It also hosts upwards of 22 different feature effects such as paddle effects, bpm timing, up fader customization, and a host of noise, pitch, and filter options that any DJ would kill to play with.
- Large Motorized Jogwheels
- Detailed Jogwheel Screens
- Battle Style Layout
- Fantastic Crossfader
- Chunky Power Supply
XDJ XZ
Considered one of the forerunners to the XDJ line of Pioneer controllers, the XDJ-XZ stands alongside the R2 and RR as a powerful, competent, and professional machine that beginning and veteran DJs alike can rally behind.
The XDJ-XZ comes with a seven-inch touchscreen display, three-band EQ with anti-feedback, as well as a four-channel mixer with DJM effects.
The controller can also be connected to CDJs, external decks, turntables, and computers for additional “all-in-one” capabilities.
There are a few drawbacks to the XZ that become remedied with the later models. Unlike the RR and R2, the XZ requires a CDJ or computer to be plugged in if you want to use the third and fourth channels.
You also won’t be able to mix layers using the controller’s internal hardware, which is slightly annoying.
Despite that, the XZ does a lot of really good things, to the point that it is an excellent starter solution for many people that are beginner DJs.
- Excellent standalone controller
- LCD platter display
- 7-inch touchscreen monitor
- 14 beat FX
- 64-bit sound quality
- Strong and durable design
- Slightly bulky
- Quite expensive
XDJ RR
Pioneer DJ’s XDJ RR is an all-in-one DJ controller that combines the traits of a solid mixer and CDJ while making it simple, compact, and highly versatile.
The XDJ RR has two jog-wheel track controllers as well as a two-channel mixer. The controller has a built-in operating system that runs Rekordbox, with both mixing channels supporting 3-band EQ.
The XDJ RR has several FX features and performance control options to choose from. While you won’t be able to perform multiple effects simultaneously, you will be able to apply them to one or both channels at the same time.
Overall, the XDJ RR is a very easy controller system to set up while also having a plethora of different FX options and features.
It has a seven-inch display as well as a small pitch fader and four performance pads for either channel. If you’re looking for something less intimidating than the RX series, the XDJ RR has a lot to offer.
- Very Easy To Use & Accessible
- Compact Design
- Can Operate As Standalone
- Impressive List of Features
- A Bit Pricey For Beginners
XDJ RX2
The Pioneer DJ XDJ RX2 is very much the successor of the Nexus 2.
Considered one of the company’s most popular controllers on the market, the RX2 is an impressively powerful, world-class controller that offers a variety of different features that simply aren’t available for other devices.
It is a 2-channel controller that takes much from the DJM-450 mixer. The device has a full-sized jog wheel that is both slick and responsive.
For some, this responsiveness may be seen as “looseness”, but once you get the hang of it, you’re probably not going to go back to the “tighter” options. The RX2 has a touch screen as well as a QWERTY keyboard to give DJs the most freedom while performing.
While it probably won’t be the perfect option for everyone, the RX2 is very easy to use while simultaneously having a very professional, high-quality layout and design.
If you are interested in taking the plunge, there is a lot to be gained from the RX2.
- Fantastic build quality
- 8 performance pads per deck
- Excellent jog wheels
- Large touchscreen
- Pro DJ features included
- Quite bulky
- Touchscreen can be buggy
XDJ RX3
If you are a fan of the XDJ-RX series, you’ll love everything that Pioneer DJ’s XDJ-RX3 has put together. It’s an all-in-one system that hosts a variety of features that greatly improve the RX2 while also pulling from Pioneer’s DJM-900NXS2 Mixer and CDJ-3000.
The XDJ-RX3 gives you the option of either using rekordbox’s Performance mode via your laptop or their track analyzer through their USB drives. Later in 2022, there is talk about Serato DJ Pro support as well.
The RX3 comes with a huge 10.1-inch touch screen, a high-end mixer with a ton of features, as well as a variety of different input and output options.
Its only downside is the fact that you’ll need to set up rekordbox to have all of the features active as well as its price tag.
Beginner DJs will probably be overwhelmed with everything offered, so you’ll ideally want to have some experience performing before playing with this awesome machine.
- An All-In-One System
- Has the Largest Pioneer Screen Available
- Mixer Has Impressive Metering
- Has Expansive Number of Connection Ports
- Pretty Expensive
Pioneer DJ Controller Guide: Summary
As you can see by our comprehensive Pioneer DJ Controller list, Pioneer DJ has a wide range of DJ controllers catering to all skill set levels and software.
In short, their DJ Controllers are industry standard, incredibly well built, and intuitive and have an all-around excellent reputation.
If you have plans on purchasing high-end club-level gear Pioneer DJ controllers are certainly going to be at the top of your shopping list.
However, even if you are brand new to the DJ world you will still be able to find a Pioneer DJ controller that will totally suit your needs.
