Yes, you can DJ with an iPad these days…or even a smartphone!
Nuts eh?! So, today we look at some of the best DJ controllers for iPads on the market.
Where only a few years back DJing was a fairly analog experience, today, things have changed drastically.
In just normal society, we’ve seen a huge influx of people showing an interest in various digital devices. A recent study revealed that over 50% of all US adults had or used at least one tablet device in their lifetime.
When you consider the fact that that is just over a coin toss, it becomes apparent that we are becoming increasingly digitally minded.
And with those in the DJ space following behind with a similar interest, it was only a matter of time before a greater focus was put on best DJ controllers that were easier to use and much more portable.
Today, as DJing has become more accessible to just about everyone, a new revolution has been sparked. Now, more and more people have shown an interest in controller devices that offer some type of dedicated setup specifically for iOS and DJ-related apps for the iPhone as well as the iPad.
Luckily, we’ve got you covered.
What is the Best DJ Controller for iPad Use? (in short)
The Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 is an extremely durable and well-made iPad DJ controller, the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 offers very impressive jogwheels while also working well with the Traktor DJ iOS app.
Below, we’ve broken down and gone over 5 of the most impressive DJ controllers out there that have a strong focus on iPad and iOS compatibility.
Here, we’ll go over what their strengths are, what their weaknesses are, and which option is ultimately the one you should pick based on your interests.
1. Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 (Editor’s Choice)
If there’s one thing that Native Instruments have proven capable of doing time and time again, it’s making awesome controller units.
Here, the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 not only meets those set expectations, it easily exceeds them as an iPad DJ controller.
Placing a focus on build durability and overall portability, the Kontrol S2 Mk3 is pretty much great for anyone seriously interested in playing using an iPad.
In terms of software inclusions and compatibility, the Kontrol S2 comes with a complete version of Traktor Pro 3 already installed, ensuring you have many of the more advanced and impressive options from Native Instruments.
In addition, the controller is also compatible with the iOS app, Traktor DJ 2, as well as having integration features with SoundCloud Go+.
All in all, while there are a lot of great iPad-compatible controllers on this list, if you want the best of the best, you should definitely consider the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3, and if it checks off all the boxes on your list.
Read this next: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 – New Favourite?
Unit Specs:
- Software: Traktor Pro 3
- Inputs: 1 Mic (1/4th-inch)
- Outputs: 2 Master (RCA & TRS) / 1 Headphone Monitor (1/8th-inch)
- Channels: 2
- Deck Control: 2
What We Like:
- Impressive Layout Design: A huge benefit here is the controller’s professional layout design. This layout works well both for DJs that have been around a while – who will be able to quickly master the controller’s intricacies – as well as starter DJs, who will be able to appreciate better gear much more thoroughly.
- Includes Software: One of the more impressive aspects of the controller is that it comes with Traktor Pro 3 already installed and ready to play. As a result, you’re able to get up and start performing some major controller feats pretty much right off the bat.
- Good-Sized Jogwheels: You would think that controllers of this size would have a fairly unimpressive set of jogwheels to play with. In reality, it’s kind of the exact opposite. An impressive size considering the DJ controller itself.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited Software Options: The one downside to the Mk3 is its inability to work with any software outside of Traktor. While MIDI mapping is available as an option, the fact that the DJ controller can’t be used for any other software is a slight sting.
2. Pioneer DJ DDJ 200 (Value Choice)
While not quite at the same level as the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3, Pioneer has always been known for producing stellar devices and the Pioneer DJ DDJ 200 is no exception.
Not only is it an incredibly affordable device (Pioneer’s least expensive DJ controller to date), but it is specifically made and designed for the DJ that wants to keep things light and not as intensive as using a laptop or PC.
To do this, the DDJ 200 implements a number of useful features, their most well-regarded one being its “Smart Integration”, which hosts a variety of different apps to choose from instead of just one or two.
Again, you’re not going to get something on the same level as the Mk3, however, the DDJ 200 is more than durable enough to be handled during travel without any issues.
This best iPad DJ controller pick also comes with several access options, including Spotify, SoundCloud Go+, Deezer, as well as Beatport LINK.
If you’re someone that doesn’t have an existing collection of music and just wants to play their music out via streaming, the DDJ 200 is the device for you.
Read this next: DDJ 200: The Perfect Entry Level DJ Controller from Pioneer DJ?
Unit Specs:
- Software: WeDJ
- Inputs: N/A
- Outputs: N/A
- Channels: 2
- Deck Control: 2
What We Like:
- Easily Affordable: The first thing anyone that plays with the Pioneer DDJ 200 will notice is its incredibly cheap price. Not only is it very affordable overall, but, when you consider all of the different features included, it becomes an absolute steal.
- Very Beginner Friendly: Not only is this great for starting DJs due to its cheap price, ease of use, and highly accessible compatibility. If you’re just getting started, this is a great option for you.
- Has A Full Mixer Section: The DDJ 200 comes with a full 3-band EQ filter.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Currently Missing Output Options: The DDJ 200 is missing some fairly important output options – namely the external options. This means that, if you want to hear anything from what you’re playing, you’re going to need to use a split cable to connect to your iPad or other speaker setups.
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
3. Traktor Kontrol S3 (Premium Choice)
The Kontrol S3 should hardly be counted out of the game. In fact, while not quite at the level of the Mk3 or the Z1, the S3 does come with its fair share of flexibility and feature variety.
As with the others on this list, the Kontrol S3 comes with a full version of the Traktor Pro 3 software, offering you its huge treasure trove of available features to play with.
In terms of connections to the iPad, the Kontrol S3 can easily go along with the Traktor DJ2 app, making it an incredibly versatile option for iPad-compatible controllers.
The one major downside is that the size is just a bit too much on the larger side. This means it’s going to be just a bit too big to fit in most standard backpacks or laptop bags.
Read this next: Traktor Controller Picks: The Big 7 from Native Instruments
Unit Specs:
- Software: Traktor Pro
- Inputs: 1 Line-In (RCA) / 1 Mic-In (XLR/TRS)
- Outputs: 2 Master (RCA & XLR) / 1 Booth (TRS) / 1 Headphone Monitor (1/4th-inch & 1/8th-inch)
- Channels: 4
- Deck Control: 4
What We Like:
- Great Design: Probably the first thing you’ll notice is the controller’s impressive look. Completely revamped.
- Extensive Connection Variety: A great factor here is that the S3 comes with a ton of connection options to play with, having a ton of output types that are handy for those that want to play in many different places with many different plug options.
- 4 Channels: Immediately, one of the biggest things that you’ll notice is that this DJ controller has 4 channels. These additional channels make multiple tracks mixing simultaneously possible.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Traktor DJ 2 Only Has 2 Channels: A huge point of frustration that many users are likely to have is the fact that, while the Kontrol S3 normally comes with 4 available channels, you can only use 2 of them when using the iOS app.
Additional Best DJ Controllers For iPads Picks
4. Traktor Kontrol Z1
The Traktor Kontrol Z1 prides itself, not on having a ton of bells and whistles on which it can rely, but instead on its simplicity and portability.
Simply put, if you’re looking for a device that is ideal for traveling around, you’re going to love the Kontrol Z1.
Useful for putting out the fundamentals and basics of mixing one song into another, the Z1 offers very smooth and easy sound integrations, especially while using either the iOS app, Traktor DJ 2, or the introductory copy of Traktor Pro 3 (which comes with an upgradable voucher).
Read this next: Best DJ Controller for Beginners (Our Top 5)
Unit Specs
- Software: Traktor
- Inputs: N/A
- Outputs: 1 Master (RCA) / 1 Headphone Monitor (1/8th-inch)
- Channels: 2
- Deck Control: 2
What We Like:
- Impressive Build: As with the rest of the different Traktor options on this list (and in general) the Kontrol Z1 makes itself known by its impressive build quality. It is very long-lasting and rugged, meaning it can run for a surprisingly long time if it has a charge.
- Fully Integrated Sound Card: The Kontrol Z1 hosts a high-quality fully integrated sound card that, as a result, offers you some of the more impressive displays of sound quality.
- High Compatibility: Probably one of the cooler features with the Kontrol Z1, this unit is able to add multiple components to it, allowing for more and additional mixing options.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited Functionality: The Z1’s lack of performance pads or jogwheels is a huge limiting factor no matter how you slice it. As such, you’re going to be pretty limited in the types of mixes you can perform.
- 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
5. Reloop Buddy
The Reloop Buddy is one of the most portable and iPad-centric options on this list and a great option for pretty much any DJ that wants to focus on their iPad.
The DJ controller comes with two huge game-changers in the affordable DJ controller space with the Neural Mix as well as the various FX control options. Quite simply, very, very few other controllers at this price range have unit features this impressive.
On top of that, the Reloop Buddy comes with complete integration with the Algoriddim software. And while that isn’t one of the more popular or impressive options available, it’s still worth noting.
The only big challenge for the Reloop Buddy is its slightly unintuitive setup.
Outside of that, once you’ve managed to get everything going, the DJ controller is a ton of fun with a lot of surprising features you wouldn’t expect to see if you just saw the price.
Unit Specs:
- Software: Algoriddim Djay
- Inputs: N/A
- Outputs: 1 Master (RCA) / 1 Headphone Monitor (1/8th-inch)
- Channels: 2
- Deck Control: 2
What We Like:
- iPad Slot: One of the more impressive and useful options for iPad users is the Reloop Buddy’s dedicated area specifically for docking and holding an iPad.
- Neural Mix: A fairly advanced feature, the Neural Mix feature allows you to isolate specific sounds from the rest of a track. This can lead to some pretty creative mixes and remixes based on the DJ’s skill.
- Compact Size: A super useful aspect of the Reloop Buddy is the fact that the DJ controller is incredibly lightweight and easy to move around virtually anywhere.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fairly Limited EQ Options: One of the bigger issues with the Reloop Buddy controller is that its EQ filter options are incredibly limited.
- Setup Is Unnecessarily Complicated: While the Reloop Buddy is known for being a really fun DJ controller to play with, setting the controller up seems to be overly complicated.
6. Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
Another fantastic best DJ controller for iPads, the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is an excellent and super mini portable controller for Serato DJ Pro fans.
Most DJs would love to have a whirl on this!
This DJ controller comes with plenty of features for a meager price. It’s perfect for taking your skills with you when you are out and about, and it also works with Serato DJ Pro which is a bonus.
If you’re just starting out as a DJ and you want to play around with some fun but essential features, this could be a perfect DJ controller.
Just don’t expect to be able to accomplish the most amazing sets with this product.
Read this next: 6 Best Micro DJ Controllers Picks
Unit Specs:
- Software: Serato DJ Lite
- Inputs: N/A
- Outputs: 1 Master (RCA) / 1 Headphone Monitor (1/8th-inch)
- Channels: 2
- Deck Control: 2
What We Like:
- Jog Wheels: The second version comes with a new set of touch-sensitive jog wheels, which are perfect for maximizing controls and mixing.
- Features: Excellent range of effects and features to learn basic DJ skills.
- Price: Super affordable
What We Didn’t Like:
- No Pro DJ software included
- Very basic
Best DJ Controller For iPad: Takeaway
One of the great things about today’s DJ controllers is that now, more than ever before, there really is something for everyone. In this case, when it comes to controllers that work particularly well with the iPad, you’ve got a wide set of options to choose from.
When deciding which is the best DJ controller for iPad use and which will be good for you, consider what sort of features are important to you as well as how long-lasting they will be.
Our personal “go-to” pick is none other than the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 as it excels in virtually every area.
Simply put, provided you’re a fan of Traktor software, it’s your best bet.
Still, if you’re more a fan of some of the other DJ software option, you have something like the always impressive Pioneer DDJ 200.
Take your time and go through the different devices to see what you feel works best with the type of DJ you are and how you want to be in the future.
