May 2024
DJ Controllers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of DJ controllers rankings posted by key online experts, as of May 2024.
Summary
On 2 May 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 80 DJ controller endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
51 DJ controllers were endorsed in total, only 23 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 2 May 2024, Traktor Kontrol S2 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed DJ controller with 5 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 5 recommended it as the '#1 DJ controller' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
Pioneer: 13 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ-FLX4)
-
Numark: 6 DJ controllers
(#1 is Numark Party Mix)
-
Native Instruments: 5 DJ controllers
(#1 is Traktor Kontrol S2)
-
Pioneer DJ: 5 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR)
-
Roland: 3 DJ controllers
(#1 is Roland DJ-202)
Price breakdown
At a glance - May Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | DJ Controller |
Home DJ Studio
|
Consordini
|
MSpot
|
LandR
|
Prime Sound
|
DJ Tech Reviews
|
Music Radar
|
Equipboard
|
Music Critic
|
Passionate DJ
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $331 |
Traktor Kontrol S2
|
5
|
1
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
12
|
|
2
|
- | $299 |
Pioneer DDJ-FLX4
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
|
3
|
+13 | $300 |
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $1249 |
Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $1599 |
Pioneer DJ FLX10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
1
|
-
|
|
7
|
+3 | Check price |
Native Instruments S2 MK2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
|
8
|
+1 | $100 |
Hercules Starlight
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
-1 | $179 |
Numark Party Mix
|
-
|
5
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
+3 | Check price |
Reloop Mixon-4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
11
|
-4 | $700 |
Pioneer DDJ-SB3
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
+2 | $1499 |
Rane Four
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
+2 | Check price |
Numark Mixtrack Pro II
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
|
14
|
-3 | $996 |
Native Instruments S4 Mk3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
|
15
|
-12 | Check price |
Pioneer DDJ-400
|
-
|
2
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
+1 | Check price |
Native Instruments S4 MK2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
7
|
-
|
|
18
|
+1 | $300 |
Roland DJ-202
|
-
|
3
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
-7 | $279 |
Pioneer DDJ REV1
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
|
20
|
+2 | $1349 |
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
21
|
- | Check price |
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
+1 | $990 |
Pioneer DDJ-FLX6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
|
23
|
+2 | Check price |
Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
|
24
|
+2 | Check price |
Pioneer Pro DDJ-SX2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
We ranked Traktor Kontrol S2 #1 in May 2024 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Traktor Kontrol S2 as #1.
Home DJ Studio
Best For Traktor
|
Refined Layout
Solid Build Quality
Full Version Software
iPad Connectivity
|
Limited FX Controls
|
Consordini
The best DJ controller under $500
|
Comes with Traktor Pro software.
Plug and play functionality allows you to make music anywhere as long as you have a computer.
Includes generous mixing effects and other useful tools for transitions and beat matching.
|
Low volume output.
Only has RCA outputs which is a bit outdated.
|
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Budget Traktor Choice
|
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
|
Lacking FX controls, the S4 is the option for that
Jog wheels and pads feel a bit cheap
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 #2 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 as #1.
Home DJ Studio
Editor’s Choice
|
Excellent Layout
Extensive Performance Features
Broad Range Of FX
Multiple Software Platforms
|
No Balanced Outputs
|
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Overall Choice
|
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
|
Jog wheels feel a bit loose (but that is me being picky)
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend DJ controllers.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of DJ controllers, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for May 2024 ranking
Home DJ Studio
Consordini
MSpot
LandR
Prime Sound
DJ Tech Reviews
Music Radar
Equipboard
Music Critic
Passionate DJ
We ranked Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 #3 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Home DJ Studio
Best For Beatmatching
|
Excellent Beatmatching Experience
DJ Software Flexibility
Pro Connections
DJ Software Flexibility
|
Small Tempo Faders
|
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Budget Choice
|
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!)
|
Jog wheels are VERY sensitive
Pads feel a bit flimsy
Feet stands feel like they might break easily
|
Music Radar
The best affordable Serato controller
|
CDJ-style layout
Lots of functionality
Competitive price
|
A sound quality compromise at this price point is inevitable
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR #4 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR as #1.
Prime Sound
Editor's Choice
|
Standalone functionality liberates you from laptop dependencies.
Seamless Rekordbox DJ integration for a smooth performance workflow.
Professional, club-standard layout in a compact form.
|
The premium price tag might not sit well with budget-conscious DJs.
Limited to a 2-channel mixer which may feel restrictive to some.
|
Music Critic
Editor's Pick
|
Professional Controller
Simple Setup
Lightweight & Portable
Plenty of Effects
7” Color Screen
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ FLX10 #5 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ FLX10 as #1.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Premium Pioneer DJ Choice
|
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
|
The price, at almost $2,000 it’s not cheap
Steep learning curve for beginners
|
Music Radar
The best flagship DJ controller
|
One of the most feature packed controllers on the market
Plug-and-play control of both rekordbox and Serato
Hands-on control of stem separation features
|
Expensive
More features than many DJs will need
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 #6 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 as #1.
Music Critic
Our Recommendation
|
Comes with all of the same features as the famous Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB in addition to new professional features like trim pots, level meters, pad trans effect etc.
Easy to use
USB powered
It's a compact controller that can fit in the smallest of DJ setups and is extremely portable
|
We ranked Native Instruments S2 MK2 #7 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Native Instruments S2 MK2 as #1.
Music Critic
|
Comes with plug-and-play support for hands-on control with iPhone and iPad. Great for mobile DJ use.
High-resolution cueing and scratching. Comes equipped with silicone-damped jog wheels with aluminum top plates.
Can be played with a desktop, laptop, iPhone or iPad.
|
We ranked Hercules Starlight #8 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hercules Starlight as #1.
We ranked Numark Party Mix #9 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Numark Party Mix as #1.
Consordini
The best beginner DJ controller for around $100
|
Optional light show feature.
Pad Mode for extensive looping.
Automatic beat syncing.
|
Loading performance pad files can be difficult.
Pitch sliders are not as precise as a deck.
Not ideal for those with epilepsy or other similar issues due to the light show feature.
|
We ranked Reloop Mixon-4 #10 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
High Performance Choice
|
Exceptional multi-platform support.
High-performance features for professional use.
Robust build quality.
|
High price point.
Less portable due to its size and weight.
|
Music Radar
The best iOS and Android DJ controller
|
Multi-platform support
Plug and play with djay PRO and Serato DJ Pro
Integrated docking station can hold an iPad Pro
|
Mic input not XLR
|
Music Critic
|
Industry-first hybrid designed to work with djay Pro and Serato DJ software
Capable of supporting multi-platforms such as IOS, Android, PC, and Mac
Comes with multiple inputs and outputs
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-SB3 #11 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
We ranked Rane Four #12 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
Best for Professionals
|
Motorized platters with a real vinyl feel.
Premium build quality.
MAG FOUR crossfaders for precise scratching.
|
Hefty price tag.
Tailored for scratching, might not appeal to DJs with a broader focus.
Source: https://primesound.org/best-dj-controller
|
Music Radar
The best all-round Serato controller and stem separation
|
Hands-on control of all of Serato’s most creative features
Rugged build quality
Good range of inputs and outputs
|
Expensive
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro II #13 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
Best for Beginners
|
User-friendly interface ideal for beginners.
Sleek and compact design, easy to carry around.
Affordable price point making it accessible.
|
Might lack some advanced features desired by more experienced DJs.
Build quality might not stand up to heavy gigging.
|
Music Critic
Best Value
|
Easy to use and compatible with Serato DJ software.
Lightweight and compact for easy travel.
Comes with an auto-loop feature.
Outstanding durability.
|
We ranked Native Instruments S4 Mk3 #14 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Premium Traktor Choice
|
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
|
Quite big, so the size might not suit all DJs (542mm x 339mm)
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-400 #15 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Consordini
Perfect for absolute beginners
|
Controller is set up more professionally so that you feel comfortable when you upgrade.
Durable enough to take on the road.
Comes with rekordbox DJ software.
|
Not suitable for those who are not absolute beginners.
Not compatible with software other than rekordbox DJ.
|
We ranked Native Instruments S4 MK2 #16 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Music Critic
|
4-deck product specifically designed to work with TRAKTOR DJ software.
The look, feel and the visual feedback of this unit have been upgraded from previous models.
Plug-and-play, with TRAKTOR DJ for iPhone and iPad.
|
We ranked Roland DJ-202 #17 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Consordini
Impressive features for DJing anywhere
|
Solid construction with handles for transport.
Mic inputs for performing.
Large selection of drum kits for on the fly creation.
|
Drivers can be difficult to set up on your computer.
A bit too lightweight.
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ REV1 #18 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Home DJ Studio
Best For Scratching
|
Big Jog Wheels
Battle Style Layout
4 Channels Available
Affordable Serato Controller
|
Intro Software
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 #19 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
Best for Serato DJ Pro
|
Tailored for Serato DJ Pro with tight integration.
Compact design with an intuitive layout.
Feature-packed, offering a lot of creative freedom.
|
Lack of standalone functionality.
The compact design might feel cramped for some.
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 #20 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Consordini
A fantastic all-in-one controller
|
Extremely realistic feeling platters with pitch control.
16 pads for launching loops and going between hot cues.
Precision crossfader for seamless mixing.
|
Platters don’t move as smoothly as original vinyl records do.
Lack of individual gain control for the decks.
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX6 #21 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
Best for Rekordbox DJ
|
Innovative features like Merge FX and Jog Cutter.
Versatile and creative-centric design.
Intuitive layout for ease of use.
|
Build quality might not match up to more premium models.
Might be overwhelming for beginners.
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX #22 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Home DJ Studio
Best With Screens
|
Screens On Jog Wheels
Long Pitch Faders
Fun FX Controls
Access To 4 Channels
|
Lackluster Appearance
|
We ranked Pioneer Pro DDJ-SX2 #23 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
Best for Scratching
|
Exceptional jog wheels for a superior scratching experience.
Seamless integration with Serato DJ.
Well-organized layout with a clear separation between mixer and deck sections.
|
Might feel bulky for some.
Tailored mainly for Serato DJ, not the best choice for other software users.
|
Music Critic
|
4 channel performance productcompatible with Serato DJ
Comes with dedicated buttons for Serato FLIP
Has multi-colored velocity sensitive pads to support you in any lighting conditions
|