April 2024
DJ Controllers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of DJ controllers rankings posted by key online experts, as of April 2024.
Summary
On 2 Apr 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 87 DJ controller endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
53 DJ controllers were endorsed in total, only 25 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 2 Apr 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)
-
Native Instruments: 6 DJ controllers
(#1 is Traktor Kontrol S2)
-
Numark: 6 DJ controllers
(#1 is Numark Party Mix)
-
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 - April Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | DJ Controller |
Passionate DJ
|
Music Critic
|
Equipboard
|
Music Radar
|
DJ Tech Reviews
|
Prime Sound
|
LandR
|
MSpot
|
Consordini
|
Home DJ Studio
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $331 |
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.
|
12
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
1
|
5
|
|
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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
3
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
2
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $1249 |
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.
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $1599 |
Pioneer DJ FLX10
The Pioneer DJ FLX10 is a highly versatile and comprehensive DJ controller that offers a wide range of features, high-quality effects, user-friendly navigation, and compatibility with various software programs, making it suitable for professional DJs who require a durable and portable controller for frequent use and travel.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | 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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
+2 | $141 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $100 |
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
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
-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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
+1 | $996 |
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.
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
+2 | $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.
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
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.
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
+1 | $1499 |
Rane Four
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
15
|
+1 | 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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
+1 | $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
|
|
18
|
- | 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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | $300 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
3
|
-
|
|
20
|
+1 | $899 |
Rane Twelve MkII
The Rane Twelve MkII DJ Controller is a powerful and versatile tool that offers precise control, creative mixing capabilities, and an authentic turntable experience for DJs using popular DJ software.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
21
|
+2 | 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.
|
-
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-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
22
|
-2 | $1349 |
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.
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
23
|
-12 | $649 |
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.
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
24
|
-2 | $680 |
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.
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
25
|
-1 | 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.
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
|
26
|
-1 | 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.
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Traktor Kontrol S2 #1 in April 2024 because:
- 5 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 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
|
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
Best For Traktor
|
Refined Layout
Solid Build Quality
Full Version Software
iPad Connectivity
|
Limited FX Controls
|
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 #2 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 as #1.
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)
|
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 April 2024 ranking
Passionate DJ
Music Critic
Equipboard
Music Radar
DJ Tech Reviews
Prime Sound
LandR
MSpot
Consordini
Home DJ Studio
We ranked Pioneer DDJ-400 #3 in April 2024 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 XDJ-RR #4 in April 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.
Music Critic
Editor's Pick
|
Professional Controller
Simple Setup
Lightweight & Portable
Plenty of Effects
7” Color Screen
|
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.
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ FLX10 #5 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Pioneer DJ FLX10 as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 #6 in April 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 Pioneer DDJ-SB3 #7 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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 Numark Party Mix #8 in April 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 Hercules Starlight #9 in April 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 Native Instruments S2 MK2 #10 in April 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 Native Instruments S4 Mk3 #11 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Music Radar
Flagship Traktor controller with ‘haptic’ jogwheels
|
Innovative haptic jogwheels
Tight Traktor 3 integration
Flexible selection of analogue I/O
|
Users of previous versions may feel a little lost
|
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 REV1 #12 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
Best For Scratching
|
Big Jog Wheels
Battle Style Layout
4 Channels Available
Affordable Serato Controller
|
Intro Software
|
We ranked Reloop Mixon-4 #13 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
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.
|
We ranked Rane Four #14 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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.
Source: https://primesound.org/best-dj-controller
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro II #15 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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.
|
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.
|
We ranked Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 #16 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
Home DJ Studio
Best For Beatmatching
|
Excellent Beatmatching Experience
DJ Software Flexibility
Pro Connections
DJ Software Flexibility
|
Small Tempo Faders
|
We ranked Native Instruments S4 MK2 #17 in April 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 #18 in April 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 Rane Twelve MkII #19 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
Music Radar
The best turntable-style controller
|
Solid build and pro feel
Genuinely vinyl-like action
Works with most DVS setups
|
Bulky
No mixer control
|
DJ Tech Reviews
Best Budget Scratch Style Choice
|
Very convincing vinyl-like feeling
Build quality is superb and weighty
Integrates well with a range of DJ software (with DVS too)
Simple interface makes it accessible to DJs new to vinyl
|
Quite expensive for just a single unit
Only part of a bigger setup
|
We ranked Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 #20 in April 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 DJ DDJ-SR2 #21 in April 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 Pioneer DDJ-FLX6 #22 in April 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 Roland DJ-505 #23 in April 2024 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 Platinum FX #24 in April 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 #25 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best DJ controllers” rankings.
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
|
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.
|