January 2025
DJ Controllers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of DJ controllers rankings posted by key online experts, as of January 2025.
Summary
On 15 Jan 2025, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 91 DJ controller endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
59 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 15 Jan 2025, Rane Four takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed DJ controller with 4 expert endorsements.
Brand breakdown
-
Pioneer: 12 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ-FLX4)
-
Pioneer DJ: 8 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ REV1)
-
Numark: 7 DJ controllers
(#1 is Numark DJ2GO2 Touch)
-
Native Instruments: 6 DJ controllers
(#1 is Native Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3)
-
Hercules DJ: 4 DJ controllers
(#1 is Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7)
Price breakdown
At a glance - January Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | DJ Controller |
gear4music.com
|
Guitar Center
|
Equipboard
|
Music Radar
|
Prime Sound
|
LandR
|
MSpot
|
Home DJ Studio
|
Music Critic
|
Passionate DJ
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $1499 |
Rane Four
|
12
|
3
|
-
|
3
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $299 |
Pioneer DDJ-FLX4
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
|
-
|
9
|
|
3
|
- | $275 |
Pioneer DDJ REV1
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.
|
4
|
14
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
10
|
|
4
|
- | $300 |
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500
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.
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $1049 |
Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $88 |
Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
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.
|
2
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2
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.
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $90 |
Hercules Starlight
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $339 |
Native Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3
|
8
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $1999 |
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7
|
11
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | Check price |
Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX
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.
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
13
|
|
12
|
- | $920 |
Native Instruments S4 Mk3
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.
|
7
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
|
13
|
- | Check price |
Reloop Mixon-4
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | $339 |
Traktor Kontrol S2
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
5
|
-
|
12
|
|
15
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DDJ-SB3
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | Check price |
Numark Mixtrack Pro II
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
|
21
|
- | Check price |
Native Instruments S4 MK2
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.
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
|
22
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
23
|
+1 | $1090 |
Pioneer DDJ-REV5
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
24
|
-1 | $1300 |
Pioneer DDJ-FLX6
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
|
25
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer Pro DDJ-SX2
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
We ranked Rane Four #1 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
Platters are fixed, not motorised
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 #2 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert 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
|
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 January 2025 ranking
gear4music.com
Guitar Center
Equipboard
Music Radar
Prime Sound
LandR
MSpot
Home DJ Studio
Music Critic
Passionate DJ
We ranked Pioneer DDJ REV1 #3 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
gear4music.com
|
User-friendly interface for easy navigation
Durable build ensures reliable performance
Compatibility with popular DJ software
|
Limited compatibility with certain operating systems
|
Home DJ Studio
Best For Scratching
|
Big Jog Wheels
Battle Style Layout
4 Channels Available
Affordable Serato Controller
|
Intro Software
|
We ranked Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 #4 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
gear4music.com
|
Intuitive user interface for easy navigation
Durable design for long-lasting use
Versatile decks and mixer for creative mixing
|
Limited compatibility with other DJ software
|
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
|
Home DJ Studio
Best For Beatmatching
|
Excellent Beatmatching Experience
DJ Software Flexibility
Pro Connections
DJ Software Flexibility
|
Small Tempo Faders
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR #5 in January 2025 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 Numark DJ2GO2 Touch #6 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
Fewer controls than larger DJ controllers
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 #7 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 as #1.
Equipboard
|
Great for beginners, with features appealing to pros
Compact and portable, easy to transport
Good build quality and materials for durability
Intuitive design and easy to learn
Compatible with Serato DJ software, enhancing its functionality
Offers 4 decks, gain knob, and level meter for advanced control
Affordable entry-level option for Pioneer DJ gear
|
Comes with Serato DJ Intro, full version requires additional purchase
Pads not rubber, may affect comfort during use
Platters not the most responsive
Lacks a digital screen for visual feedback
|
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 Hercules Starlight #8 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hercules Starlight as #1.
We ranked Native Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 #9 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Native Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 as #1.
gear4music.com
|
Portability makes it ideal for on-the-go DJs
Jog wheels provide precise control over music
Remix pads offer versatility in performances
|
The one-knob mixer FX is quite limiting
|
Equipboard
|
Jog wheels are much bigger and improved over previous versions
New layout offers better workflow and ease of use
Software upgrades are stable with dedicated updates
Sturdy construction with reliable USB connector
Excellent sound quality on both RCA and mini-jack outputs
Ergonomic design with tactile-friendly controls
Easy setup and connection to a laptop
Lit pads for working in dark environments
Affordable price for the quality
|
No 1/4" TRS outputs, only RCA and headphone jacks
No power adapter provided, although USB power works fine
Missing effect knobs compared to previous MK2 model
Small pitch slider makes beatmatching harder
Sound output is somewhat quiet
Limited I/O options, lacks XLR outputs
Traktor software lacks flexible beat grids, problematic for non-electronic music
Better suited for Mac than Windows, with potential audio issues on Windows
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 #10 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 as #1.
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
|
Power supply is quite bulky
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX #11 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
gear4music.com
|
Enhanced creativity with four-deck layering
Dynamic performances enabled by quick-launch effects
High-quality sound ensured by 24-bit audio output
|
Software upgrades might be necessary for advanced DJs
|
Home DJ Studio
Best With Screens
|
Screens On Jog Wheels
Long Pitch Faders
Fun FX Controls
Access To 4 Channels
|
Lackluster Appearance
|
We ranked Native Instruments S4 Mk3 #12 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
gear4music.com
|
Tactile feedback from Haptic Drive enhances performance
Versatility to control stems, loops, and samples
Wide range of sound options with onboard FX
|
Despite its compact size, this controller is actually quite heavy
|
We ranked Reloop Mixon-4 #13 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
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 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 Traktor Kontrol S2 #14 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Home DJ Studio
Best For Traktor
|
Refined Layout
Solid Build Quality
Full Version Software
iPad Connectivity
|
Limited FX Controls
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-SB3 #15 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro II #16 in January 2025 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 MK2 #17 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Equipboard
|
Intuitive and fun for both live sets and studio use
High build quality at a fraction of the cost of similar setups
Seamless integration with Traktor Pro and Traktor DJ (iOS)
Internal sound card delivers great sound quality
Works well for both beginners and experienced DJs
Can be used with iPad for mobile setups
Solid faders and well-considered button layout
|
Cannot read ALAC or M4A files, may require software downgrade
Constructed with cheap components, prone to breaking
Limited hot cue buttons; may not suffice for advanced users
Requires midi-mapping modifications for Stem or Remix Deck users
|
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 Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 #18 in January 2025 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 Pioneer DDJ-REV5 #19 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
Music Radar
The best mid-level controller for scratch DJs
|
Quality, scratch-focused controls
Hands-on control of stem separation features
|
Can’t connect external decks
Controls can be a little cramped
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX6 #20 in January 2025 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 Pioneer Pro DDJ-SX2 #21 in January 2025 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
|