September 2023
DJ Controllers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of DJ controllers rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2023.
Summary
On 3 Sep 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 101 DJ controller endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
59 DJ controllers were endorsed in total, only 26 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 3 Sep 2023, Traktor Kontrol S2 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed DJ controller with 6 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 6 recommended it as the '#1 DJ controller' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
Pioneer: 15 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ-1000)
-
Numark: 8 DJ controllers
(#1 is Numark Party Mix)
-
Native Instruments: 7 DJ controllers
(#1 is Traktor Kontrol S2)
-
Pioneer DJ: 6 DJ controllers
(#1 is Pioneer DDJ REV1)
-
Roland: 4 DJ controllers
(#1 is Roland DJ-202)
Price breakdown
At a glance - September Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | DJ Controller |
DJ Tech Reviews
|
Music Radar
|
Consordini
|
MSpot
|
LandR
|
Music Critic
|
Passionate DJ
|
Equipboard
|
Home DJ Studio
|
Prime Sound
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $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.
|
14
|
8
|
1
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
12
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $2400 |
Pioneer DDJ-1000
The Pioneer DDJ-1000 DJ Controller is a high-quality and versatile device that offers a range of features and functions ideal for professional DJs who prioritize functionality over portability.
|
16
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $958 |
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.
|
3
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
|
4
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DDJ-SB3
|
19
|
7
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $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.
|
12
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $279 |
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.
|
8
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DDJ-400
The Pioneer DDJ-400 DJ Controller is a user-friendly and versatile device that is perfect for beginner to intermediate DJs who want to learn the basics of DJing and for professionals who want a streamlined and efficient workflow.
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $214 |
Numark Party Mix
The Numark Party Mix DJ Controller is a beginner-friendly and versatile device that is suitable for those who want to learn basic mixing techniques and add some flair to their DJ performance.
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
+2 | $88 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $3698 |
Pioneer XDJ-RX2
The Pioneer XDJ-RX2 is a versatile and professional-grade two-channel DJ controller with advanced features, solid build quality, and compatibility with a variety of software and operating systems.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
12
|
-2 | Check price |
Native Instruments S2 MK2
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $400 |
Roland DJ-202
The Roland DJ-202 is a beginner-friendly, two-channel DJ controller with a built-in drum machine, USB connectivity, and compatibility with Serato DJ software, making it a versatile and portable option for DJs of all levels.
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | 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.
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
15
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
|
17
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | Check price |
Gemini G4V
The Gemini G4V DJ Controller is a versatile and durable 4-channel mixer with a wide range of effects, suitable for beginner to professional DJs, and compatible with both Mac and PC operating systems.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
|
19
|
- | $999 |
Pioneer DDJ-800
The Pioneer DDJ-800 is a versatile and reliable two-channel DJ controller with high-quality effects, versatile connectivity options, and an intuitive interface, making it a great choice for both beginner and intermediate DJs who use the Rekordbox DJ software.
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
20
|
- | Check price |
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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
21
|
- | $1189 |
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.
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
- | $826 |
Roland DJ-505
The Roland DJ-505 is a versatile mid-range DJ controller with a well-laid-out effects section, a drum sequencer, and a compact form factor, making it suitable for beginner to intermediate DJs and professional DJs looking for a streamlined and efficient workflow.
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
23
|
- | Check price |
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3
The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 is an entry-level DJ controller that is portable, versatile, and suitable for beginners or DJs who do not need to mix multiple tracks simultaneously.
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
24
|
- | Check price |
Pioneer DDJ-RZ
The Pioneer DDJ-RZ is a high-quality and versatile DJ controller that is ideal for professional DJs who require a reliable and durable mixer for long-term use, featuring a four-channel mixer, various effects, an intuitive workflow, and a well-designed user interface.
|
17
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
25
|
- | $1899 |
Denon DJ Prime 4
The Denon DJ Prime 4 is a professional-grade, four-channel standalone DJ controller with advanced features, a large touch screen display, and a durable metal construction, making it ideal for professional DJs who prioritize standalone capabilities over portability.
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
|
26
|
- | Check price |
Native Traktor Kontrol S8
The Native Traktor Kontrol S8 DJ Controller is a versatile and powerful tool for professional DJs who prioritize hands-on control and versatility over extreme portability, offering a wide range of high-quality effects, numerous inputs and outputs, high-resolution screens, touch-sensitive controls, high-quality user-replaceable faders, and built-in DVS support.
|
18
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
|
27
|
- | Check price |
Native Instruments Traktor X1 MKII
The Native Instruments Traktor X1 MKII DJ Controller is a versatile and portable controller with intuitive controls and a variety of effects, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
|
20
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
|
-
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We ranked Traktor Kontrol S2 #1 in September 2023 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Traktor Kontrol S2 as #1.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ Controller for Traktor
|
Excellent compact design
Excellent entry-level price
Very portable
Bigger jog wheels
|
Exclusive use with NI software
Soundcard isn’t that great
|
Music Radar
A solid budget controller for Traktor,with iOS compatibility
|
Laptop and iOS compatible
Compact and affordable
Well-built
|
Just two decks with no extra inputs
|
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.
|
Home DJ Studio
Excellent Traktor Controller For Beginners
|
Solid Build Quality
DJ Software
Portable
Pro Layout
|
Plastic Knobs
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-1000 #2 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Pioneer DDJ-1000 as #1.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ controllers (Discontinued)
|
Advanced performance
Wide range of effects
Large jog wheels
HD screens included
New beat FX feature
|
Complicated set-up
Not the smoothest jog wheel
Very heavy
|
Music Radar
Pro-level rekordbox control with a CDJ feel
|
Large jog wheels with HD screens
DJM-900 inspired mixer section
Updated Magvel crossfader
|
Significant size/weight footprint
|
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 September 2023 ranking
DJ Tech Reviews
Music Radar
Consordini
MSpot
LandR
Music Critic
Passionate DJ
Equipboard
Home DJ Studio
Prime Sound
We ranked Native Instruments S4 Mk3 #3 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ Controller for Traktor
|
Excellent performance
Very solid and reliable
Easy to understand
Dedicated section for remixing
|
Only one effect per module
Plastic rotary knobs
|
Music Radar
Flagship Traktor controller with ‘haptic’ jogwheels
|
Innovative haptic jog wheels
Tight Traktor 3 integration
Flexible selection of analogue I/O
|
Users of previous versions may feel a little lost
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-SB3 #4 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ controllers (Discontinued)
|
Helps with learning how to scratch
Lightweight design
Plug and play
Amazing value
|
Bit too simplistic
Only comes with Serato Lite
|
Music Radar
New to DJing? This is the best Serato controller for you
|
Pad scratch function
Bundled with Serato DJ Lite
|
Small pitch faders
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 #5 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 as #1.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ Controller for rekordbox DJ
|
CrossFading & BeatMatching Easier
Super User Friendly
Serato & rekordbox Compatability
Great Sound Quality
Works Well With Streaming Services
|
No External Inputs Or Outputs
Only 2 Channnels
|
Home DJ Studio
The Best DJ Controller For Beginners
|
Professional Layout
Detailed FX Controls
Software Selection
Modern Styling
|
Lacks Balanced Outputs
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ REV1 #6 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
|
Workflow Is At The Top of Its Game, Being Fast, Easy, & Clear
The Control Scheme Is Impressively Comprehensive
Includes the "Instant Scratch" Button, Offering Incredible Precision
Crossfader Feature is Super Responsive
|
Very Pricey Considering It Isn't A Standalone Controller
|
Music Radar
The best budget controller for scratch DJs
|
Decent scratch capabilities at a low price
Battle config and DJM-style layout
Decent crop of performance pads
|
No software license included
|
Home DJ Studio
Entry-Level Battle Style Serato Controller
|
Big Jogwheels
Affordable Serato Controller
4 Channels Available
Battle Style Layout
|
Intro Software
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-400 #7 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Music Radar
The best affordable rekordbox controller
|
CDJ-style layout
Easy-access loop controls
Great value
|
Lacks deeper effects control
|
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 Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 #8 in September 2023 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 Numark Party Mix #9 in September 2023 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 Hercules Starlight #10 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hercules Starlight as #1.
We ranked Pioneer XDJ-RX2 #11 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer XDJ-RX2 as #1.
We ranked Native Instruments S2 MK2 #12 in September 2023 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 Roland DJ-202 #13 in September 2023 because:
- 3 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.
|
Home DJ Studio
Great Choice For Creative DJs
|
Built-In Drum Machine
Responsive Jog wheels
4 Channel DJ Controller
Midi Out
|
Flimsy Feeling Build Quality
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX #14 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
|
Easy to use
Excellent jogwheels
Full-sized pitch faders
Powerful built-in soundcard
Touchstrip functionality
|
Limited output options with only one RCA
A little basic for some more advanced DJs
|
Home DJ Studio
Best Beginner DJ Controller With Screens
|
Long Pitch Faders
Screens on Jog wheels
Soundcard
4 Deck Mixing
|
Appearance
|
We ranked Reloop Mixon-4 #15 in September 2023 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
|
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 Native Instruments S4 MK2 #16 in September 2023 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 Gemini G4V #17 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-800 #18 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
|
Compact design
Professional inputs and outputs
LCD screen with a feature-rich mixer
|
Only two channels
Effects only work with the Rekordbox DJ tech
|
We ranked Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 #19 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ Controllers Under $500 (Affordable)
|
Amazing Build Quality and Durability
A Non-Cluttered Layout
Two Different Software Options
Ergonomic Popup Feet
|
Some Plastic Elements May Not Appeal
Not The Best Option For Avid Serato Fans
|
Home DJ Studio
Best Option For Learning Beatmatching
|
Excellent Beatmatching Experience
Built-In Feet
Pro Connections
DJ Software Flexibility
|
Serato Upgrade
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 #20 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ Controllers Under $1000 (Mid-Range)
|
Multiple connections so you can link to a professional PA system
Lightweight and portable design
Large jog wheels included
Fantastic range of integral controls
Plug and play performance
|
Small pitch fader
Lots of knobs and buttons make the interface cluttered
|
We ranked Roland DJ-505 #21 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Music Radar
A Serato controller with classic drum sounds onboard
|
Plug-and-play setup
Easy to use
Quality built-in sounds
|
Looks a little garish
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 #22 in September 2023 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-RZ #23 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ controllers (Discontinued)
|
Build Is Very High Quality
Performs On the Level of a Full CDJ
Has a Relatively Small Learning Curve
Offers A Ton of Features And Functionality
|
Pretty Expensive For What It Offers
|
We ranked Denon DJ Prime 4 #24 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Standalone DJ System
|
Beautiful design
Excellent beat and loop controls
Pitch feels smooth and amazing
Plug and play
Easy to use
|
Jog wheels feel very loose
Screen layout is a bit cluttered
Lack of buttons
|
We ranked Native Traktor Kontrol S8 #25 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Best DJ controllers (Discontinued)
|
Incredible high-quality performance
MIDI connectivity and Stems compatibility
Easy enough to transport
Fantastic range of analogue inputs and outputs
Fun to use
|
No Jog wheels included
No pitch faders
|
We ranked Native Instruments Traktor X1 MKII #26 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
DJ Tech Reviews
Bonus Alternative
|
Great for tactile control of multiple effects with various FX units
Touch-sensitive knobs for extensive access to a range of performance components
Multi-purpose touch strip for loops and FX
Very small and portable
|
No Jogwheels included
Doesn’t feel like a full DJ setup
|
Music Radar
The best add-on Traktor controller
|
Assignable touch strip
LEDs and digital readouts
|
No included software
|