July 2024
DJ Controllers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of DJ controllers rankings posted by key online experts, as of July 2024.
Summary
On 16 Jul 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 90 DJ controller endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
57 DJ controllers were endorsed in total, only 21 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 16 Jul 2024, Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed DJ controller with 4 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 4 recommended it as the '#1 DJ controller' this month.
Brand breakdown
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Pioneer: 12 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ-FLX4)
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Pioneer DJ: 9 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ REV1)
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Numark: 7 DJ controllers
(#1 is Numark DJ2GO2 Touch)
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Native Instruments: 6 DJ controllers
(#1 is Native Instruments S2 MK2)
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Hercules DJ: 4 DJ controllers
(#1 is Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7)
Price breakdown
At a glance - July Ranking
Rank | Change | Price | DJ Controller |
Passionate DJ
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Music Critic
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Equipboard
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Music Radar
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Prime Sound
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LandR
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MSpot
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Home DJ Studio
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Guitar Center
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gear4music.com
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1
|
- | $299 |
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The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 DJ Controller is a versatile and user-friendly option suitable for both beginner and intermediate DJs, offering a wide range of effects and compatibility with various devices and software options.
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
8
|
5
|
2
|
+1 | $1499 |
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-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
12
|
3
|
+9 | $279 |
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The Pioneer DDJ REV1 DJ Controller is a versatile and reliable controller suitable for both beginner and advanced DJs, with a battle-style layout, powerful effects section, and compatibility with Serato DJ software.
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
13
|
4
|
4
|
- | Check price |
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The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 is a durable and versatile DJ controller with a user-friendly interface, a variety of effects, and compatibility with Serato DJ Pro and DJUCED software.
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-
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-
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-
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2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
6
|
5
|
- | $1049 |
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The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR is a versatile and user-friendly DJ controller that offers a range of features to enhance your DJ performance, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
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-
|
2
|
-
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-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
+10 | $89 |
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The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is a compact and portable 2-channel DJ controller with touch capacitive jog-wheels, pitch faders, and four pad modes, ideal for beginner DJs or as a backup setup for small gigs.
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
|
3
|
-
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6
|
2
|
7
|
- | Check price |
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The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 is a portable and versatile two-channel DJ controller with high-quality built-in effects, intuitive layout, and compatibility with various DJ software.
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-
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1
|
3
|
-
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-
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-
|
-
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-
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-
|
-
|
8
|
+1 | Check price |
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The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ controller is a versatile and efficient option suitable for both beginner and professional DJs, with a compact size, user-friendly layout, compatibility with a range of software and operating systems, durable build quality, and standout features such as a wide range of effects, multiple inputs and outputs, and precise control over mixes.
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-
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5
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-1 | $92 |
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The Hercules DJControl Starlight is a compact and lightweight DJ controller with touch-sensitive jogwheels, performance pads, and a variety of effects, suitable for novice DJs who want a simple and easy-to-use device for their gigs.
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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1
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5
|
-
|
-
|
-
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10
|
- | $1999 |
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-
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-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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1
|
11
|
11
|
+11 | Check price |
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The Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX is a versatile and portable 4-channel DJ controller with built-in LCD screens, large jog wheels, and dedicated FX buttons, making it an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate DJs who prioritize ease of transportation and compatibility with Serato DJ software.
|
13
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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4
|
-
|
3
|
12
|
-1 | $996 |
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The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 DJ Controller is a versatile and feature-packed device that is well-suited for DJs who require multiple channels and a variety of inputs and outputs for their performances.
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2
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
|
12
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7
|
13
|
- | Check price |
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The Reloop Mixon-4 DJ Controller is a versatile and durable device with a user-friendly interface, multiple inputs and outputs, and compatibility with various software packages and operating systems, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
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-
|
8
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-
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6
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7
|
-
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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14
|
-12 | $331 |
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The Traktor Kontrol S2 DJ Controller is a well-designed and feature-rich two-channel controller suitable for beginner and professional DJs, with a club-standard layout, smooth and accurate physical controls, and compatibility with both Mac and Windows operating systems.
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12
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
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7
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
15
|
-1 | Check price |
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The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 DJ Controller is a versatile and user-friendly option for beginner and intermediate DJs, offering essential controls, customizable features, and compatibility with popular DJ software.
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
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16
|
-1 | Check price |
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The Numark Mixtrack Pro II is a user-friendly and versatile two-channel DJ controller that offers a range of features and functions for DJs of all skill levels.
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-
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3
|
-
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-
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3
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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21
|
-2 | Check price |
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The Native Instruments S4 MK2 DJ controller is a versatile and powerful 4-channel controller that is ideal for DJs who want to mix and transition between multiple audio sources in real-time, with an intuitive and comprehensive design, high-quality effects, and durable build quality.
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-
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7
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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22
|
-2 | $1349 |
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The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 is a professional-grade DJ controller with a range of features and controls, ideal for DJs who prefer a simpler setup and focus on creating a seamless transition between two tracks.
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8
|
-
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-
|
-
|
5
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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23
|
-2 | $649 |
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The Pioneer DDJ-FLX6 DJ Controller is a versatile and feature-packed device that offers a range of capabilities for DJs, with its four audio channels, wide range of effects, user-friendly interface, high build quality, portability, and compatibility with popular DJ software.
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4
|
-
|
-
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-
|
10
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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24
|
New * | $1099 |
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-
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-
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-
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4
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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10
|
25
|
-2 | Check price |
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The Pioneer Pro DDJ-SX2 DJ controller is a versatile, high-quality, and user-friendly device that offers exceptional build quality, portability, and compatibility with most software and operating systems.
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-
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9
|
-
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-
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8
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 #1 in July 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 as #1.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_500,h_500/imported/jefhddf2gvf0z5rlttrf.webp)
Home DJ Studio
Editor’s Choice
Excellent Layout
Extensive Performance Features
Broad Range Of FX
Multiple Software Platforms
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No Balanced Outputs
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gear4music.com
User-friendly layout for easy navigation
High-quality controls for a professional DJ experience
Beginners’ DJing made easy with Smart Mixing and Smart FX
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Experience DJs might need more channels and outputs
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We ranked Rane Four #2 in July 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_500,h_500/imported/es4dytmqa8fxkxzrny2o.png)
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
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Expensive
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Prime Sound
Best for Professionals
Motorized platters with a real vinyl feel.
Premium build quality.
MAG FOUR crossfaders for precise scratching.
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Hefty price tag.
Tailored for scratching, might not appeal to DJs with a broader focus.
Source: https://primesound.org/best-dj-controller
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gear4music.com
Creative mixing enabled by Serato Stems integration
Unique effects addition made possible by extensive internal FX suite
Precise control offered by quality jog wheels and crossfader
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Platters are fixed, not motorised
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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 July 2024 ranking
![Passionate DJ](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/holzorkouu0szlyxdqew.jpg)
![Music Critic](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/fppgzzow8ctmnchvnfly.png)
![Equipboard](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/lrvhgc5rxnxwhgmh71sk.png)
![Music Radar](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/xapjxwmfbb9k6m0j4bks.png)
![Prime Sound](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/w0mi2emmmsdfzskxpvxz.png)
![LandR](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/mdashjv0ivg4qktobdd8.png)
![MSpot](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/zxuzgjfuykpn3cguuvgv.jpg)
![Home DJ Studio](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/n5gk56ot8wah4ut1prws.png)
![Guitar Center](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/usio3zaxan9mbqt5u7pg.webp)
![gear4music.com](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_50,h_50/imported/uxcdhrtzrq3opkulzhrw.webp)
We ranked Pioneer DDJ REV1 #3 in July 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/411EybnxnKL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
Home DJ Studio
Best For Scratching
Big Jog Wheels
Battle Style Layout
4 Channels Available
Affordable Serato Controller
|
Intro Software
|
gear4music.com
User-friendly interface for easy navigation
Durable build ensures reliable performance
Compatibility with popular DJ software
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Limited compatibility with certain operating systems
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We ranked Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 #4 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41KPSOsZbOS._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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
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Home DJ Studio
Best For Beatmatching
Excellent Beatmatching Experience
DJ Software Flexibility
Pro Connections
DJ Software Flexibility
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Small Tempo Faders
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gear4music.com
Intuitive user interface for easy navigation
Durable design for long-lasting use
Versatile decks and mixer for creative mixing
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Limited compatibility with other DJ software
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We ranked Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR #5 in July 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.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_500,h_500/imported/kcutvvqlges9r1exrhbi.jpg)
Music Critic
Editor's Pick
Professional Controller
Simple Setup
Lightweight & Portable
Plenty of Effects
7” Color Screen
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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.
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The premium price tag might not sit well with budget-conscious DJs.
Limited to a 2-channel mixer which may feel restrictive to some.
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We ranked Numark DJ2GO2 Touch #6 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416uq8VTqsL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
gear4music.com
Ideal for mobile DJs due to compact size
Precise track control with touch-sensitive jog wheels
No need for extra gear thanks to built-in audio interface
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Fewer controls than larger DJ controllers
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We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 #7 in July 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.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/effix/c_auto,c_pad,w_500,h_500/imported/oigl7e0e53gbimtp5puk.jpg)
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
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We ranked Native Instruments S2 MK2 #8 in July 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.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41SJ8aGCmuL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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.
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We ranked Hercules Starlight #9 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hercules Starlight as #1.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mG4cl3c+L._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 #10 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 as #1.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51AX1meuIvL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
gear4music.com
Realistic and intuitive scratching/mixing with motorised platters
Versatile performance options with multi-function RGB pads
Creative sound manipulation with Scratch Pad and LPF/HPF filter
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Power supply is quite bulky
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We ranked Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX #11 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/4112LL5ectL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
Home DJ Studio
Best With Screens
Screens On Jog Wheels
Long Pitch Faders
Fun FX Controls
Access To 4 Channels
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Lackluster Appearance
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gear4music.com
Enhanced creativity with four-deck layering
Dynamic performances enabled by quick-launch effects
High-quality sound ensured by 24-bit audio output
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Software upgrades might be necessary for advanced DJs
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We ranked Native Instruments S4 Mk3 #12 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Ni8mXVz+L._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
gear4music.com
Tactile feedback from Haptic Drive enhances performance
Versatility to control stems, loops, and samples
Wide range of sound options with onboard FX
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Despite its compact size, this controller is actually quite heavy
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We ranked Reloop Mixon-4 #13 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41pMpiIC5RL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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
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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
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Mic input not XLR
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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.
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We ranked Traktor Kontrol S2 #14 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mhoJP4fML._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
Home DJ Studio
Best For Traktor
Refined Layout
Solid Build Quality
Full Version Software
iPad Connectivity
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Limited FX Controls
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We ranked Pioneer DDJ-SB3 #15 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41pIk1jdoHL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro II #16 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51+t8uKw+8L._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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.
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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.
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Might lack some advanced features desired by more experienced DJs.
Build quality might not stand up to heavy gigging.
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We ranked Native Instruments S4 MK2 #17 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51w0q7RGdRL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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.
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We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 #18 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51jela8KSfL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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.
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Lack of standalone functionality.
The compact design might feel cramped for some.
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We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX6 #19 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51X8HPSUbtL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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.
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Build quality might not match up to more premium models.
Might be overwhelming for beginners.
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We ranked Pioneer DDJ-REV5 #20 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31JZHtz-DEL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
Music Radar
The best mid-level controller for scratch DJs
Quality, scratch-focused controls
Hands-on control of stem separation features
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Can’t connect external decks
Controls can be a little cramped
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gear4music.com
Scratch-optimised design is suitable for scratch DJs
Large jog wheels and Magvel fader ensure precise control
Unique ‘Piano Play’ mode adds versatility to performances
|
Feels a bit plasticky compared to other Pioneer DJ controllers
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We ranked Pioneer Pro DDJ-SX2 #21 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
![](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61SYQwhMtdL._AC_SR500,500_.jpg)
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
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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.
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Might feel bulky for some.
Tailored mainly for Serato DJ, not the best choice for other software users.
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