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It’s time to take a look at the best DJ controllers on the market in 2024. With many expensive options, it can be hard to decide which one might be the best for you, so we’ve broken things down to help you make the best choice. Keep reading and you’ll find reviews of the best premium professional DJ controllers.
Here are the best DJ controllers 2024:
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3
- Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX2
- Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
- Denon DJ MCX8000
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX3
- Reloop Touch
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
- Numark NV II
1. Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT
The best controller for Serato DJ
Pioneer DJ has come out with the new Serato DJ compatible version of their beloved, popular DDJ-1000 controller, the DDJ-1000SRT. The DDJ-1000SRT is a 4-deck DJ controller for Serato DJ.
The DDJ-1000SRT has some amazing features that are great for professional and seasoned DJs. Some of these features include 14 Beat FX, 16 multi-color performance pads, and 2 full size jog wheels. Scratching with the DDJ-1000SRT is very intuitive due to full-size jog wheels. You can set the resistance of the jog wheels using the Jog Adjust function and a MAGVEL fader. The MAGVEL fader is also great for use during intricate and detailed performances.
All the information you’ll need to see is laid out in LCD screens in the center of the jog wheels. You can see BPM, playback position, and even monitor playback time. As for the layout of everything, the buttons and knobs on the DDJ-1000SRT are arranged in the same way as Pioneer DJ’s other club standard NXS2 DJ equipment. Because of this, transitioning from the 1000SRT to a setup you might find in a DJ booth feels very natural.
While performing you can use 4 different Sound Color FX: pitch, filter, dub echo, and noise, as well as 14 Beat FX to spice up your performances and add more creativity. The DDJ-1000SRT has 4 inputs for connecting CDJs and more, as well as 2 mic inputs and 2 master inputs, so you won’t feel like it’s lacking in connections.
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The Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT is a top-end choice if you want one of the best 4-channel controllers. With its Serato DJ compatibility, its intuitive jog wheels, and extensive connectivity, it is a great choice for a top-rated DJ controller. It is easily one of the best Pioneer DJ controllers and packs a big punch.
If you enjoy having a full-size jog wheel experience, you will love how the DDJ-1000SRT’s jog wheels feel and operate. If you plan to move on to bigger and better gear in the future and do booth performances, this DJ controller is a good choice to help you make that transition as smoothly as possible.
2. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3
The best controller for Traktor
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 is another top controller with a large amount of flexibility and handy features that allow you to focus on your mix rather than continuously monitoring your computer. Traktor Kontrol S4 is a 4-channel DJ controller and comes with Traktor Pro.
Diving into the features, the first most notable feature is the jog wheels. They’re motorized, touch sensitive, and give you haptic feedback. They spin like vinyl, so you can nudge tracks, scratch, and spin all while having a realistic feeling experience. Spinning the deck also enables you to go to different cue points.
The decks are color coded with lights, so you can keep track of which mode you’re using and get real time visual feedback. There are also two display screens on the unit that allow you to see tempo, looping, track time, and waveform information as well as the Remix and Stem deck elements.
Mixer FX are an included feature of the onboard mixer that allows you to create interesting transitions and buildups. You can choose from eight effects and three filters including gate, reverb, delay, and more. A pattern recorder is another awesome feature that anyone will appreciate for on the fly performance. With the pattern recorder, you can input a 16-step sequence using the performance pads with up to four one shot samples.
The layout of everything is very professional and easy to reach, the faders are high-quality and the whole unit is really durable. There are also plenty of inputs and outputs for connecting microphones and other gear, and you can even mix external audio through the controller without needing a computer.
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The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 is an incredibly powerful DJ controller with robust controls and incontestable beat matching capabilities. It is great for using stems and remixing songs, so if you like to get extra creative with your sets this is a good model to get.
I very highly recommend you check this model out if you’re in need of a new all-in-one controller; you’ll be extremely impressed with the features of the S4.
3. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3
The best premium budget controller for beginners
The DDJ-SB3 from Pioneer DJ is easily one of the best all-in-one DJ controllers, but it’s a premium model with a layout more suitable for beginners. The DDJ-SB3 is a 2-channel Serato DJ controller and comes with a copy of Serato DJ Lite that you can upgrade when you’re ready.
The DDJ-SB3 combines the popular features of the best-selling DDJ-SB2 model with Serato DJ to add a new level of accessibility. Some of these features include transition FX and Pad Scratching. Transitional FX (FX Fade) allow you to fade between songs, and the Pad Scratch feature allows you to record scratches onto tracks when you touch the Performance Pads, without using a turntable. The famous DJ Jazzy Jeff contributed eight of his different scratch recordings for this feature to allow you to create different patterns.
The layout also features jog wheels, play and cue buttons, Auto Loop buttons, and all the knobs and faders are in places that are easy to reach and will feel comfortable to you.
Digging further into the FX Fade feature, you can choose eight combinations of different FX patterns (high-pass filter, low-pass filter, loop playback, and back spin) to blend tracks from even the most different genres.
This controller is a smaller, more compact model which makes it great for travel. That being said, the jog wheels are still plenty big for scratching, have low latency and give a really nice scratch response and lots of accuracy so the compact size of the DDJ-SB3 won’t cause issues for you.
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The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 is definitely the best compact DJ controller and it’s an amazing high-end option for beginners. It’s definitely more expensive than other beginner DJ controllers, but it’s one that will last you years and help you facilitate easy transitions to even more premium DJ controllers. I highly recommend it for those who want to start out with DJing but want gear that’s a little bit nicer.
4. Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX2
The best 2-channel DJ controller
The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX2 is a newer premium-quality DJ controller system and the latest model after its predecessor, the XDJ-RX. It is definitely one of the best standalone DJ controllers and provides you with a whole advanced DJing rig for your performances and sets.
The XDJ-RX2 is a complete digital DJ system, which means that it has software built in. In the case of the XDJ-RX2, the included built-in software is Rekordbox, Pioneer DJ’s flagship DJing software. The XDJ-RX2 provides an intuitive workflow in a 2-channel DJ setup. It features a touchscreen display, Beat Jump, Needle Search, 16 multi-colored pads, and more, for great performances.
With the XDJ-RX2, you can prepare your tracks on the Rekordbox DJ software and then view all the track information, scan ahead, select loops, go to cue points, browse through more tracks, and more, through the touchscreen. It’s an incredibly handy feature that helps you stay focused on mixing and performing rather than monitoring your computer.
Nexus performance features like Beat Sync, Quantize, and Slip Mode also add to the high quality of this controller by opening up more avenues for creative transitions and catchy loops. Beat FX and Sound Color FX add even more to your tracks as well.
As for the layout and design, it is highly professional and intuitive. The jog wheels, performance pads, buttons, and faders all feel great to use. The whole unit is extremely sturdy, although you should take caution when transporting or storing due to the touchscreen. As for connections, the XDJ-RX2 has 2 XLR mic inputs, there are dual USB inputs, and line inputs for incorporating external gear like turntables and audio players.
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The XDJ-RX2 is an optimal model for those who want to upgrade from entry-level DJ controllers and move to a more advanced controller. If you are a professional and enjoy working with Rekordbox over Serato or other software, you will quickly feel at home with the XDJ-RX2. The XDJ-RX2 is intuitive enough to learn quickly for any skill level.
5. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
The best controller for advanced creativity
The Traktor Kontrol S8 by Native Instruments is a flagship 4-channel DJ controller and mixer that takes DJing to a whole new level by focusing on DJing with track stems rather than just one whole track. This opens up so much more room for extensive and advanced creativity. Traktor Kontrol S8 comes with Traktor Pro software for full mixing and DJing experience.
Getting into the features, the Kontrol S8 comes ready for track stems and allows you to transition between stems, add effects to certain stems, or even swap elements between decks. The knobs, faders, and LED guided touch strips are touch sensitive and add a splash of color to your performance to help keep you focused on performing rather than on your laptop.
The S8 features 2 color displays that allow you to browse through waveforms, tracks and stems, effects, and any pertinent elements you might need to keep track of, like BPM or track playtime, or you can use the displays to edit tracks and improvise on the fly.
A cool feature included is the Remix Deck, which gives you the ability to remix tracks through the employment of samples and loops. The S8 is built for performance, and in the mixer section of the controller you’ll find wear resistant faders and Mode buttons for switching between standalone mode and using Traktor.
The Traktor Kontrol S8 also has a ton of different controls that are directly on the unit, like transport controls and buttons for triggering loops and setting cue points. There are four analog inputs with phono and mic preamps for connecting external gear with the built-in audio interface. Not only that but you can even connect MIDI keyboards and synthesizers to this controller. It really is versatile.
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If you want to experience the future of DJing, the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8 is one of the best DJ controllers on the market. It offers some of the best value for the money considering it has many features for creative DJing with stems. I highly recommend it to those who don’t like jog wheels and prefer to focus on mixing and adding effects.
6. Denon DJ MCX8000
The best standalone controller for scratching
The Denon DJ MCX8000 is a 4-channel, all-in-one, standalone DJ controller that is quite similar in design to the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8, but includes Serato DJ Pro software. The MCX8000 is quite popular among professional DJs and it has a ton of flexibility due to Denon’s revolutionary DJ Engine built into the controller.
You don’t need a computer with this controller; instead you have 2 high-resolution display screens for monitoring waveforms and browsing track libraries. Importing tracks can be done by plugging in a flash drive into the unit. The built in Engine Prime software can be used to analyze your music library, create playlists, set cue points, and more.
If you want to use Serato DJ Pro and connect your computer, you can do that too. There are 3 built-in sound effects (phaser, noise, echo), 16 velocity sensitive performance pads for cues and samples, a large mixer section, two nice feeling jog wheels, and even microphone inputs. Scratching on this unit feels natural and sounds great too.
There’s no resistance control but they don’t feel heavy and they’re touch sensitive. With the jog wheels, you can switch between the traditional vinyl scratching mode or you can use them to nudge your tracks. The mixer has a 3-band EQ and echo effect button for each of the 4 channels.
Overall this controller is amazing, it’s very sturdy and durable thanks to metal construction, and it is also a good model to use for touring because of this durability. The knobs, faders, performance pads, and buttons all feel nice and are built to last a long time. There are plenty of inputs and outputs and the unit is versatile enough to be used in clubs or your bedroom.
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The Denon DJ MCX8000 DJ controller will be an invaluable asset to your DJ performances. With its flexibility, sturdy quality, and no need for a computer, it provides you with a hassle-free way to DJ without decreasing the quality of its features. It has plenty of inputs and outputs, a generous mixer, and just such a good sound quality. I highly recommend this one to advanced DJs who want a great pro controller.
7. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX3
Best for vocals and DJ collaboration
Pioneer DJ has come out with one of the most versatile DJ controllers in terms of collaboration and performing with others while still being great for solo DJing at events. The DDJ-SX3 is loaded with advanced features for the pro DJ.
Digging into these features, there are 3 microphone inputs for collaboration and performing. Each mic channel includes a 3-band EQ, a low-cut filter, a compressor, and reverb control. Vocals can be further enhanced with Sound Color FX and Serato DJ Pro’s FX like echo, jet, noise, and filter.
There are 16 performance pads that allow you to go to different cue points, play loops, and trigger Serato DJ’s other professional features. The pads also light-up based on what mode they are set to and add a bit of color to your performance. Jog wheel latency is optimized from the previous DDJ-SX2 model to provide you with a perfect scratch response that feels natural and smooth without being overly sensitive.
Pitch ‘n Time DJ and Serato Flip Expansion packs are included in the controller’s software for advanced key shifting, syncing, and more for mixing tracks smoothly. The layout of the SX3 is similar to Pioneer’s other DJ controllers so if you already have used their gear, the SX3 will feel familiar and comfortable to you. It features 4 inputs to connect CDJs and turntables to the controller, and you can also connect to sound booths through the various outputs.
Another interesting feature that intrigued me about this controller is that there are two USB ports that allow you to connect two computers at a time to the controller. This is handy for collaboration and seamless transitions for use with multiple DJs, or for serving as a backup if one of your computers crash during a set.
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The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX3 is a fantastic controller that would be an ideal upgrade from entry-level/budget controllers or a nice option for a seasoned pro that wants something new.
I highly recommend it if you are also a singer or MC and enjoy collaborating and performing live due to the robust mixer with many generous controls and effects for vocal enhancing, as well as the many mic inputs. I’d also recommend this controller to producers who want to start DJing.
8. Reloop Touch
The best premium budget DJ controller under $1000
The Reloop Touch is the world’s first DJ controller with a fully-integrated, full-color touchscreen. It has 4 channels and comes with VirtualDJ 8 PRO. The layout of the Touch is based on the classic club mixer design with a combined EQ and filter section. Decks are color-coded to help you keep track of the decks that are currently playing.
The jog wheels are low latency and are especially great for pitch bending due to their non slip design. There are two fader FX sections (one for each deck) for controlling track FX and video parameters through four faders. They are assignable, so you can change them up to match the tracks you want effects on or to speed up and optimize your workflow.
XCoder controls are available for navigating through the different modes and combine three useful functions for editing the loop size, changing the key, and making grid adjustments. Also featured are eight performance pads for each deck for different tasks like jumping to different cues in the tracks, slicing beats, sampling, cueing loops, and saving loops.
You can choose between two different pad modes for performance, one for pad functions and the other (Split Mode) to combine using the different modes at the same time over the eight pads on each deck. The various modes are editable and can be adjusted extensively.
The 7-inch touchscreen is easily the most eye catching feature of this budget premium DJ controller. With the touchscreen, you can edit and add XY effects, browse your library of tracks and stems, and access the settings. The build of the Reloop Touch is pretty solid, it’s not as durable as Pioneer DJ’s or Native Instruments’ DJ controllers but it’s not so fragile that it will break super easily.
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The Reloop Touch is an ideal budget option in the higher end range of quality when it comes to DJ controllers. It is absolutely feature-packed and although it is more oriented towards more advanced DJs, beginners and intermediate users will also love DJing with this thing. With a price substantially lower than $1000, this is an incredible value.
9. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
The best portable controller for traveling
Another notable model from Pioneer DJ, the DDJ-SR2 is a reasonable budget choice that is also good for traveling, but still advanced enough that it belongs on this list of the top 10 DJ controllers. The DDJ-SR2 is a 2-channel controller that comes with Serato DJ Pro. It allows you to control and take advantage of Serato’s features with the press of a button.
As for the features of the SR2, the SR2 has dedicated buttons for triggering key related functions like Key Sync, Key Shift, and Key Reset and allows you to play with keys without having to change the tempo. There are 16 large, multi-colored performance pads for triggering Hot Cues, Roll, and different features of the Sampler. The colors of the pads change based on the performance mode and playing status.
The jog wheels on the SR2 are quite large despite the overall small design of the controller, and they’re very low latency and really accurate, staying true to the quality of Pioneer’s DJing products. The controller is smaller and more compact, making it one of the best portable DJ controllers, ideal for touring and traveling with for DJing on the go or transporting it between various locations or events.
There are balanced XLR outputs for connecting to a sound board, and 2 master outs for sending to your headphones, for even using the SR2 as just a mixer. It is made out of metal and is very durable for that reason – another example of why it’s so great for things like touring and traveling if you prefer to make mixes on the go or are regularly DJing at events.
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The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 is a more than capable choice if you are looking for another budget option in the mid to higher range of DJ controllers. If you especially like to DJ on the go or at events, you’ll love the large jog wheels and the compact size of the controller. I recommend it for beginners who want a slightly higher end model and want to surpass the completely basic, entry-level DJ controllers. It’s within a very reasonable budget for all the features you get.
10. Numark NV II
The best Numark DJ controller
Numark’s NV II DJ controller is last, but definitely not least on this list, with a powerful all-in-one system that will reinvent your DJ performances. The NV II is a 4-channel controller that uses Serato DJ. The NV II features an upgraded layout from the original NV with clearer markings and a very fast response.
The most notable feature is the 2 display screens where you’re able to see track BPM, play time, artist name, and more when you look through the library. There are 2 touch-activated platters that feel really natural and quite similar to vinyl when scratching. The jog wheel resistance is not too strong but the wheels aren’t too sensitive either, making them just right for what you’ll need it for.
Touch capacitive EQ and filters are readily available for you to use to carve out your mix and sculpt your sound with drop/boost. The jog wheels are also smart and adapt to your scratching style while you manipulate your mix on the fly, so it’s easy to facilitate smooth transitions.
Touch capacitive knobs literally allow you to feel your mix instead of just hearing it with its touch feedback. 16 velocity sensitive performance pads allow you to finger drum, loop parts of tracks, slice samples, and employ hot cues. You get pleasing color feedback from the performance pads based on what mode you’re using.
If you’re a DJ who is into producing or a producer getting into DJing, you’ll enjoy the included Toolroom Remix stems that help you get started DJing right away. The NV II has XLR outputs and Booth and Master outputs for monitoring your performance.
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The Numark NV II is a suitable choice for DJs of all skill levels as well as producers who are trying to get into DJing. It has a large amount of features that will help make your mixes stand out in a club or party. The price makes it a compelling model to buy and it’s definitely a top contender in the DJing world.
Conclusion
Hopefully these DJ controller reviews have given you a bit more insight on the best overall DJ controllers available on the market today. Make sure to refer back to this article when browsing for your next high-end DJ controller purchase. You will surely be satisfied with any of the incredible models on this list.