Dex Jones
Traktor has always been the thinking DJ's software. Where Serato and rekordbox focus on replicating the club experience, Native Instruments built Traktor for DJs who want to push creative boundaries — deep effects chains, Stems manipulation, Remix Decks, and Flux Mode are features you won't find implemented as well anywhere else.
The trade-off is ecosystem lock-in. Traktor Kontrol hardware is designed to work best with Traktor software, and the integration between the two is genuinely impressive. We've tested the current Kontrol lineup and ranked the best options for different budgets and needs.
What to Look For
Before choosing a Traktor controller, understand these key factors.
All-in-one vs modular. Native Instruments offers two approaches: all-in-one S-series controllers (S2, S3, S4) that include everything you need, and modular units (F1, X1, Z1) that handle specific functions. Most DJs should start with an all-in-one controller. Modular pieces are best added later to expand your setup.
Channel count. The S2 is 2-channel, the S3 is 4-channel without jog wheels, and the S4 is 4-channel with motorized jog wheels. Two channels cover most mixing scenarios. Four channels open up Stems, Remix Decks, and multi-track layering.
Motorized jog wheels. The S4 MK3's motorized jog wheels are a standout feature — they spin, stop, and provide haptic feedback that simulates vinyl resistance. This gives you physical feedback during scratching and cueing that standard jog wheels can't replicate.
Stems and Remix Decks. Traktor's Stems feature lets you isolate and manipulate individual parts of a track (vocals, drums, bass, melody). Remix Decks let you trigger samples and loops on the fly. Both features benefit from dedicated hardware controls on the S4.
1. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3
Editor's Choice
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Software | Traktor Pro (included) |
| Channels | 4 |
| Jog Wheels | Motorized with haptic feedback |
| DAC | 24-bit Cirrus Logic |
| DVS | Yes |
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 is the definitive Traktor controller. Its industry-first haptic feedback engine sends physical vibrations through the motorized jog wheels — you can feel cue points, loop boundaries, and track endings without looking at the screen. It's a feature that sounds gimmicky on paper but genuinely changes how you interact with the software.
The 24-bit Cirrus Logic DAC delivers cleaner audio than the previous generation, and the improved channel meters and master section make mixing more intuitive. Four channels give you full access to Traktor's Stems and Remix Deck features, and the pro mixer layout with Mixer FX alongside classic effect banks gives you deep creative control.
It's larger and heavier than expected, the haptic cueing isn't yet the game-changer Native Instruments promised, and the layout takes adjustment if you're coming from a Pioneer-style controller. But as a complete Traktor experience in a single unit, nothing else comes close.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4
NI went above and beyond — haptic jog wheels and deep Traktor integration make the S4 MK3 a standout.
2. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
Best Budget
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Software | Traktor Pro (included) |
| Channels | 2 |
| Jog Wheels | Touch-sensitive, 1000-point |
| Audio | 24-bit/96kHz interface |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
The Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 proves you don't need to spend S4 money to get a great Traktor experience. At just 6 pounds, it's one of the most portable full-featured DJ controllers available. The touch-sensitive 1000-point jog wheels are responsive and precise, and the club-standard layout is immediately intuitive.
The built-in 24-bit/96kHz audio interface is excellent for the price — it's bus-powered via USB with no audio cutouts, so you don't need an external power supply. A full Traktor Pro licence is included, giving you access to effects, loops, hot cues, and sample decks right out of the box. Sixteen high-performance pads give you hands-on control of loops and cues.
The trade-off is build quality — the plastic faders and knobs feel cheaper than the S4's. There's no EQ kill switch, no aux input, and no hardware control for FX units 3 and 4. You also lose the motorized jog wheels and haptic feedback that make the S4 special. But as an entry point into the Traktor ecosystem, the S2 MK3 is the smartest investment.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 DJ Controller might be small, but it’s mighty. It’s an unashamedly...
Other Controllers Worth Considering
Beyond the S2 and S4, Native Instruments offers several other Traktor-compatible options:
Traktor Kontrol S3 — sits between the S2 and S4 with 4 channels but without motorized jog wheels. It's the sweet spot if you want 4-deck mixing and Stems control without the S4's price tag. Standard jog wheels are functional but lack the S4's haptic feedback.
Traktor Kontrol S8 — a screenless, jog wheel-less 4-deck controller with dual high-resolution colour displays and touch-sensitive knobs. It's designed for DJs who mix visually through software rather than manually with jog wheels. Unique approach, but not for everyone.
Modular options (F1, X1, Z1) — purpose-built accessories that expand an existing setup. The F1 controls Stems and Remix Decks, the X1 handles deck transport and effects, and the Z1 is a compact 2-channel mixer with a built-in audio interface. These are add-ons, not standalone controllers — pair them with an S2 or S4 for the full experience.
FAQs
Is Traktor Pro included with Kontrol controllers?
Yes. All current Traktor Kontrol S-series controllers (S2, S3, S4) come bundled with a full Traktor Pro licence. You don't need to purchase the software separately. Older modular controllers (F1, X1, Z1) come with Traktor LE, which has limited features.
Can I use Traktor with non-NI controllers?
Yes, but with caveats. Traktor Pro supports MIDI mapping, so you can technically use any MIDI controller. However, you won't get the deep integration features (screen control, haptic feedback, auto-mapping) that Kontrol hardware provides. Some Pioneer DJ controllers also have official Traktor compatibility.
How does Traktor compare to Serato and rekordbox?
Traktor excels at creative performance — it has the deepest effects engine of the three, excellent Stems support, and unique features like Flux Mode and Remix Decks. Serato is the standard for scratch and open-format DJs. Rekordbox mirrors the Pioneer club ecosystem. Traktor tends to attract DJs who prioritise creative mixing and production-style workflows.
What is Flux Mode in Traktor?
Flux Mode (called Slip Mode in other software) maintains a track's playback position on a virtual timeline while you use loops, hot cues, or scratching. When you release, the track snaps back to where it would have been if you hadn't touched it. This lets you perform creative tricks without losing your place in the mix.
Do Traktor controllers work with other DJ software?
Traktor Kontrol controllers are designed primarily for Traktor, but most can function as generic MIDI controllers with other software. The S4 MK3's motorized jog wheels and haptic feedback won't work outside of Traktor, however. If you want multi-software flexibility, consider controllers from Pioneer DJ that officially support multiple platforms.
What is the difference between the S2 and S4?
The S2 MK3 is a 2-channel controller with standard jog wheels — compact, lightweight, and affordable. The S4 MK3 is a 4-channel controller with motorized jog wheels, haptic feedback, and a more comprehensive mixer section. The S4 also supports Stems and has a higher-quality DAC. Choose the S2 for portability and budget, the S4 for the full Traktor experience.
Verdict
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 is the best Traktor controller for DJs who want the complete experience. Its motorized jog wheels with haptic feedback, 4-channel layout, and deep Traktor integration make it the ultimate tool for creative mixing. If Traktor is your platform, the S4 is the hardware it was designed for.
For budget-conscious DJs and beginners, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 delivers a surprisingly complete Traktor experience in a lightweight, affordable package. It includes a full Traktor Pro licence and sounds excellent for the price — the best entry point into the Native Instruments ecosystem.
