Comparison Chart: The Best DJ Controllers
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Best Overall
- A standalone controller (no laptop needed) that outclasses the competition
- 4 decks, each with a VU meter and EQ
- Control of real-time stems
- Ability to access remote sound libraries
- Touch screen and jog wheel make for simple navigation
- Loads of connectivity options and supported streaming services
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Best for Beginners
- Excellent layout for beginners: Industry-standard 2-deck mixer layout with silent jog wheels
- Serato DJ Lite Included
- Supports multiple applications
- Lightweight and USB-powered
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Best Under $500
- Quality build with touch-sensitive, motorized jog wheels
- Great Price
- Comprehensive Traktor integration
- Intuitive, ergonomic layout
- Doubles as an audio interface
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Best Under $1000
- A controller with both extensive Serato integration and a drum machine with a coveted, vintage TR-series sound library
- Serato DJ Pro Included
- Lightweight – built for mobile DJs
- Supports two laptops at once for easy handoffs
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Best Premium Controller
- A versatile, workhorse for professional DJs that functions as a standalone unit or with Serato/Rekordbox integration
- Ideal layout that balances easy setup with micro-control
- Excellent value
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Best for Scratching
- A versatile controller with responsive, weight-adjustable, full-size jog wheels ideal for scratching
- Serato and Rekordbox Integration
- Designed for both creativity and performance
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Best for Serato
- A hidden gem with a high-performance motorized DJ controller and a beautiful, sturdy build and feel.
- Serato DJ Pro included
- Intuitive integration with Serato DJ Pro and Serato Stems
- Ability to fine-tune effects with depth and beat-parameter controls
- Fantastically smooth crossfades
In this buyer’s guide, we hope to make sense of the crowded DJ Controller market. We tested popular controllers and narrowed them to seven favorites covering all budgets and popular software applications.
How We Tested DJ Controllers
We tested the performance of these DJ Controllers and got our hands dirty mixing some tracks. We looked specifically at details regarding touch and response – such as how the jog wheels feel for cutting or scratching or how the crossfaders and paddle controls function.
It was also important to us to check how deeply the controller integrates with its software. We wanted the controller to manage the most essential elements of the software and be user-friendly.
Finally, we checked the output of each controller, seeing how well things like EQ or other paramater controls delivered.
In our ratings, software integration, build, feel and response, sound, ease-of-use were the key factors.
See here for all of our audio gear reviews.
Best Overall
Denon DJ Prime 4 +
our rating
5.0
Bottom Line:
A standalone DJ controller that outclasses the competition.
What We Liked
DJ controllers this sophisticated are expensive and extensive, which will push beginner and intermediate-level DJs toward other products. But if you’re looking for one of the best DJ controllers, it doesn’t get much better than this.
The Denon DJ Prime 4+ kind of does everything. The controller is mobile, it streams everything, and its layout is user friendly while still offering micro-control over your sound. It even handles real-time stems which is rare for a standalone system.
With four USB inputs, a SATA hard drive input, SD-card slot, and more streaming options than any controller on this list (including Amazon Music, SoundCloud GO+, TIDAL, Dropbox to name a few), you won’t have any trouble getting a music source.
The controller also supports a range of peripheral hardware, including control for StagelinQ, DMX, Philips HUE, and Nanoleaf lighting rigs.
As a standalone system, this machine simplifies your DJ setup to one control surface. But the Denon DJ PRIME 4+ still allows you all the access to your sound libraries. Engine Remote Desktop lets you access remote file libraries via WIFI if you can’t fit them all onto the SATA drive. And, the unit’s uncompressed file support lets users work with high-quality tracks.
Layout & Features
Extensive is the best word to describe the DJ Prime’s layout. The four-deck design makes it an all-in-one workstation – no computer needed! Sixteen beat pads and controls like Hot Cue and Slicer offer ways to work with new ideas in real-time.
Each deck has a VU meter and 3-band EQ. The multi-feature touchscreen and jog wheel make navigation as easy as possible, impressive for a system this full featured. The crossfader has a wealth of adjustable controls, and the jog wheels have assignable colors for easy identification.
It’s also very easy to create remixes and mash-ups with the onboard stem extraction – unique for an all-in-one DJ system. More than 25 effects per channel let you add excitement and movement within the unit.
As it’s designed to be much more than just a set of turntables, it could be too sophisticated for users who don’t need the rich extra features.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- TIDAL
- Beatport
- Beatsource
- SoundCloud GO+
- Dropbox
- Amazon Music Unlimited
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- StagelinQ, DMX, Philips HUE, and Nanoleaf lighting controls
- USB ports x4
- SD card slot
- USB keyboard support
- Assignable phono/line outputs x4
- Master, booth, zone outputs
- 2 XLR inputs
- Wi-Fi / Ethernet + Bluetooth
Honorable Mentions for the Best Overall DJ Controller
Best DJ Controller for Beginners
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
our rating
4.0
Bottom Line:
Super-cool tone shaping controls, premium build, wide (adjustable) sweep, and loads of features. Our favorite Wah.
What We Liked
The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is not just a solid DJ controller for beginners, it’s a good choice for users looking for a smooth experience that doesn’t weigh itself down with too many features.
The DDJ-FLX4 is compatible with PC and Mac computer systems and Android and iOS mobile devices. It is USB bus-powered, eliminating the need to drag a bulky power supply around. The downside is the USB power drains the battery of the device that powers it, so don’t forget your computer’s power cable!
Auto mixing playback from microphone input audio means you don’t need a separate mixer – a boon for DJs who don’t want to transport extra gear. At a little over four and a half pounds, it’s easy to move around from gig to gig.
Rekordbox compatibility makes pulling music from your mobile device and streaming services easy. We like that the unit supports several applications. It comes with Serato DJ Lite and also works with the Rekordbox IOS/Android App.
Layout & Features
The streamlined layout is built for fast maneuverability and features eight performance pads for each deck for easy cue and loop control. A center strip lets you dial in the trim, equalize, add effects, and set the master volume.
Its layout is one of the most appealing things about it. Both decks are identical and the center strip is symmetrical, which helps beginner DJs get used to the workflow of using a controller.
Smart Fader automates low-end, volume, and tempo for a smooth performance. Smart CFX lets you group effects and use a single control over the groups, great for controlling the chaos that comes with DJ sets.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- Serato
- Rekordbox
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- ¼” microphone input
- Dual RCA stereo output
- USB-C x2
Honorable Mentions for Best DJ Controller for Beginners
Best DJ Controller Under $500
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
our rating
4.5
Bottom Line:
A quality DJ controller that doubles as an audio interface with motorized jog wheels, comprehensive integration with Traktor, and a great price.
What We Liked
This combination DJ controller and audio interface is a great bargain if you’re in the market for a sub-$500 controller.
The onboard audio interface provides convenient recording capabilities, and terrific conversion through Cirrus Logic converters. During our tests, the sound quality was just as good as a dedicated audio interface.
The setup is quick. Just plug in your computer and start spinning with flexible cue points, grid mapping, and a reliable sync engine. We like the feel and travel of the jog wheels, even if they are on the smaller side.
As for streaming integration, it only works with iTunes and iPod. So if you use other streaming platforms or devices, another model is a better choice. And noteworthy, it syncs with Ableton – usually the DAW of choice for DJs.
Notably, there are software limitations to this machine. It only works with Native Instruments Traktor (Pro 3 included with purchase). If Traktor is not your thing, consider one of the honorable mentions below.
Layout & Features
Uncluttered is the best way to describe the S2’s layout. It might even be the most ergonomic model on this list. Every channel has controls for gain, a 3-band EQ, filtering, and four effects sends. Each deck has eight RGB backlit performance pads with visual feedback – great for high SPL environments.
The center channel is designed like a traditional mixer with gain, EQ, and faders, as well as deck panning and output volume. Native Instruments moved the Cue and Monitor controls to the top for easier access.
High-resolution, silicone-damped, motorized jog wheels with touch sensitivity make scratching easy and accurate. Magnetic braking has a realistic analog feel. They are on the smaller side though. Flux Mode provides users with more advanced mixing techniques like chopping, backspinning, and cueing.
Also included is a 4-channel, 24-bit/96kHz audio interface with a microphone input, stereo master, and headphone outs that’s bus powered.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- Traktor
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- XLR-¼” combination microphone input
- Dual RCA stereo input, dual RCA stereo mains outputs
- Dual XLR outputs
- ¼” booth output x2
- ¼” and ⅛” headphone outputs
- USB type-B and type-A
Honorable Mentions for Best DJ Controller Under $500
Best DJ Controller Under $1000
Roland DJ-707M
our rating
4.5
Bottom Line:
A DJ Controller built for the mobile DJ that has both extensive Serato integration and a drum machine with a coveted, vintage TR-series sound library.
What We Liked
We love that the Roland DJ-707M includes grooves from the coveted Roland TR-series drum machines. Modeled with proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior, you get 909 hi-hats, snares, claps, and the revered sub-bass of the 808.
Seven dedicated inputs and three output sections give you plenty of options for expansion. And the high-visibility LCD screen makes navigating the unit easy even in sunny environments. Gain metering for each of the four channels keeps levels in check, and routing selectors let you decide how the signal flows.
We also liked the separate USB ports to support two laptops running Serato sessions for handoffs. The Serato integration is extensive offering fine-tuning of effects, loops and cues over its four playback decks.
On the whole, these unique features on the Roland DJ-707M make it stand out in the competitive market of controllers under $1000.
Layout & Features
At first glance, the layout looks a little cluttered, but it’s designed in a convenient four-channel format for DJs who want to take their productions to the stage. The standard dual deck and center channel are here, with EQ controls at the top left and the LCD menu at the top right.
Two studio-quality XLR microphone inputs let you run vocals through the device without additional gear. Included onboard effects like reverb, pitch correction, and anti-feedback BLANK.
The flexible I/O provides different types of hardware integration with a three-way assignable output section, MIDI out lets you integrate external devices into the flow, as well as stereo master, zone, and booth outs.
A 24-bit/96kHz interface is ready for Serato DVS, but it would be nice if the software came bundled with the controller. This lets you integrate time-code vinyl into your setup.
Its features are tailored for live performance and probably won’t appeal to casual hobbyists and beginners.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- Serato
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- XLR microphone inputs x2
- Dual RCA Stereo (line) x2, dual RCA Stereo (line/phono) x2
- ¼” auxiliary x2, ⅛” auxiliary stereo
- XLR master outputs x2
- Dual RCA Stereo (master), dual RCA stereo (zone out)
- ¼” booth x2
- ¼” and ⅛” headphone outputs
Honorable Mentions for Best DJ Controller Under $1000
Best Premium DJ Controller
Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ
our rating
4.6
Bottom Line:
A versatile, workhorse for professional DJs that functions as a standalone unit or with Serato and Rekordbox integration. A great layout that balances easy setup with micro-control.
What We Liked
Comparing this unit to other controllers in its class, the XDJ-XZ offers some serious value. First, we liked the versatility: a two-deck, four-channel DJ system that works as a standalone unit or with Serato or Rekordbox integration.
One of our favorite features is the intuitive 7-inch touchscreen that lets you easily browse through tracks. The display is crystal clear and allows access to sound essentials like cues, waveforms, and loops. Users can focus on the music instead of technical menu diving.
We loved the connectivity options, specifically the RJ45 connections for the Rekordbox integration. No matter what strange cables the club is throwing at you, You will have the right ports with this machine. And, stellar audio quality through the DSP FX engine lets you add depth, movement, and shine to your tracks.
The micro-controls on the interface can be daunting, but remember it’s a system, not just a controller. If you’ve used Pioneer DJ gear before it shouldn’t take long for you to get into the swing of the XDJ-XZ workflow.
The Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ won’t disappoint if you decide to go with a premium controller. In our tests and trials, there was no better value in this price range.
Layout & Features
With a DJ controller this robust, an intuitive layout is critical. Pioneer nailed it here. Full-sized jog wheels with colored displays give real-time feedback and provide a tactile experience, great for users who want a realistic feel. This level of precision is perfect for scratching and beat matching too.
The interface is user-friendly, even with so much going on. Setup is fast and intuitive. That said, there is a steep learning curve if you want to get into the weeds. It’s not just a controller, but a full-on DJ system.
Each deck has uniform controls. Above the left deck are the mic preamps and EQ, and above the right is the master section with level knobs, EQ, and USB inputs with stop buttons.
It should be noted that the XDJ-XZ is NOT a four-deck DJ Controller. The unit has a four-channel mixer with channels 3 and 4 assigned to external devices.
The master section is laid out like an analog mixer. All onboard FX are powered by a 64-bit DSP engine that includes modulation, reverb, and delay. A high-definition LCD screen has waveform readouts like a DAW and song timecode and tempo for the audio routed to either deck.
This many connection options let you integrate it into any type of setup. Even better, it supports computers, USB hard drives, and external hardware like turntables and playback devices. For modern DJs constantly working in different environments, this level of versatility is almost a requirement.
Notably, the controller is large and heavy (13 kg). The size and layout will impress clubs and make you look cool, but practical, mobile DJs might prefer something like the Denon DJ Prime 4+.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- Rekordbox
- Serato
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- XLR/1/4” combination input x2, Dual RCA stereo (phono) x2, Dual RCA stereo (line) x2, Dual RCA stereo (auxiliary)
- XLR master out x2
- ¼” booth outputs x2, ¼” (send) x2
- Dual RCA stereo (master 2)
- RJ45 (Pro DJ links) x2, RJ45 (extension)
- USB type A x2, USB type B
- MIDI via USB
Honorable Mentions for Best Premium DJ Controller
Best DJ Controller for Scratching
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV5
our rating
4.8
Bottom Line:
A scratch-friendly beast with Serato and Rekordbox integration and effortless stem access.
What We Liked
Some controllers are meant for live performance, and some are designed for creativity. In our tests, the REV5 was the best controller for both of these DJ tasks. If you’re a DJ that incorporates scratching into performances, the REV5 has to be on your list.
We are fans of the vinyl-textured jog wheels. They are responsive and weight adjustable so you can set your ideal action and resistance. The pads on the REV5 are designed for a tactile experience and effects and filter processing
Two deck modes (Move and Dual) add utility and make it easier to create remixes and mash-ups by changing how the decks interact.
The build of the REV5 is solid and large. Compatibility with Serato and Rekordbox adds versatility, and the way it integrates with Serato is next level. With the DJ Pro software, extracting and manipulating stems is simple and straightforward.
Layout & Features
The REV5 is built for battle and scratch-friendly with pitch faders above the full-size jog wheels and a unique four-deck, two-channel design. The performance pads are in the middle with the lever effects by the DJM-style mixer.
The unit sports a number of onboard performance tools like multi-deck movement, easy stem separation, and automatic tempo transitions. The Magvel crossfader, although not up to the standard of the Magvel Fader Pro found on high-end mixers, is a quality addition to this model.
Unique modes let you dive into tracks in ways other controllers don’t. Piano Play mode turns the pads into semitone cue-point triggers like the keys of a piano. Combo Pad mode splits each deck’s pads into different customizable configurations.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- Serato
- Rekordbox
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- ¼” XLR combo, ¼” TRS microphone input
- Dual RCA stereo input
- XLR master outputs x2, dual RCA stereo master
- ¼” booth outputs x2
- ¼” and ⅛” TRS headphone outputs
- USB-C x3 (two for computer connection, one for power supply)
Honorable Mentions for Best DJ Controller for Scratching
Best DJ Controller for Serato
Rane One
our rating
4.9
Bottom Line:
A hidden gem with a high-performance motorized DJ controller and a beautiful, sturdy build and feel.
What We Liked
The Rane ONE feels and looks like a premium controller. We love the aluminium paddle controls, and the feel of the dual 7.2″ motorized jog wheels. Equipped with adjustable torque for customized resistance, the quick-release acrylic disks provide tactile feedback very similar to a vinyl turntable (ideal for scratching).
The Rane One’s features are designed to provide as many sound options as possible. Its ‘Mag Four’ crossfader is a dream for cutting and scratching. All the effects can be fine-tuned with depth and beat-parameter controls. And, accessing the Scratch Bank in Serato lets you keep extra sound assets to use without taking up space on your main drive.
Most DJ controllers offer some level of integration with Serato, but in our tests, this was by far the deepest. It even comes bundled with Serato DJ Pro, which offsets the higher price point.
It’s built with top-of-the-line components and the attention to detail in the overall build is impressive. The more traditional feel offers good customization options even if it is only compatible with one brand of DJ software.
Layout & Features
The Rane One’s layout is clean, organized, efficient for any workflow. Everything from the decks to the mixer section is symmetrical, which makes it easy to dive right into using it.
The mixer section has filtering, EQ, volume, and pitch faders. The effects section has independent metal paddle controls for quick activation. This make it simple to set processing performance parameters.
An ultra-light and customizable Mag Four crossfader with adjustable high/low torque setting offers the perfect amount of travel. Sixteen velocity-sensitive, multi-function performance pads trigger cues, loops, rolls, and samples. They’re backlit and easy to see in different lighting conditions.
The pads can trigger Serato’s Scratch Bank features, and radio buttons activate effects in the software. But since it’s a dedicated Serato controller, DJs that use other software applications have to look elsewhere.
The Rane One sports good connectivity with XLR, RCA, and USB for a wide range of setup configurations, although it’s not as robust as other models on our list. The USB connections are great for sets where quick switches between DJs are needed without killing the vibe of the room.
The casing is sleek and svelte, but rubber non-slip pads elevate it a little, so it works best on a completely flat surface.
Supported Software and Streaming Services
- Serato
- Virtual DJ
Connectivity
- XLR-¼” combination microphone inputs x2
- Dual RCA stereo (deck ½), dual RCA stereo (auxiliary)
- XLR main outputs x2, dual RCA stereo outputs (main), XLR booth outputs x2
- ¼” and ⅛” headphone outputs
- USB type B x2
Honorable Mentions for Best DJ Controller for Serato
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