The 17 Best DJ Controllers On The Market For 2023

We’ve reviewed the best DJ controllers on the market in 2023 to help you choose the right gear for your needs.

With a growing range of DJ controllers coming onto the market each year, it can be difficult to find the solution that works best for your needs. This list takes into account price, features, and overall usability to bring you 17 of the best DJ controllers in 2023.

A DJ controller is an essential piece of equipment for most beginner DJs. It's a device that allows DJs to manipulate a computer program without using a mouse. This gives them more freedom and mobility during performances.

DJs often move onto DJ controllers as their first piece of hardware once they’ve mastered how to DJ on a laptop. It’s essentially an affordable solution to the much more costly and professional CDJ setup.

Of course, you can learn to DJ on CDJs straight away and skip learning how to DJ on a controller. With Pirate, you can rent professional DJ studios by the hour, any time of day and get access to this industry-standard gear. This being said, if you want to practice DJing at home, a DJ controller is probably your best option, so let's see what's out there.

BEST DJ CONTROLLERS FOR 2023

DJ controllers are the best way for beginner DJs to start learning how to DJ. If you're not sure where to begin, check out our list of the best DJ controllers 2023:

1. The best DJ controller for scratching: Pioneer DDJ-REV1
2. The best iOS and android controller: Reloop Mixon 4
3. The best portable controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
4. The best controller for beginners: Pioneer DDJ-200
5. The best standalone system: Pioneer XDJ-RX3
6. The best controller with a screen: Denon DJ Prime 4
7. The best turntable-style controller: RANE TWELVE MKII
8. The best controller for a CDJ feel: Pioneer DDJ-1000
9. The best budget controller under £200: Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 200
10. The best budget controller under £500: Pioneer DDJ-SB3
11. The best DJ controller for professionals: Pioneer XDJ-XZ
12. The best budget rekordbox controller: Pioneer DDJ-400
13. The best Traktor controller: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3
14. The best budget Traktor controller: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
15. The best Serato controller: Roland DJ-505
16. The best Pioneer controller: Pioneer DDJ-REV7
17. The best new controller: RANE ONE
18. Bonus option: Hercules DJControl Mix

The Best DJ Controller For Scratching: Pioneer DJ REV-1

The ideal controller for budding scratching and turntablism lovers

PRICE: £259 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 52.6 cm
• Height: 5.9 cm
• Depth: 25.5 cm
• Weight: 5.3 kg

I/O

• XLR MASTER
• BOOTH (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• RCA OUT
• MIC
• (2) PHONES

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Lite
• Serato DJ Pro (Licence/subscription not included)

IN THE BOX

• DDJ-REV1
• USB cable
• Warranty (for some regions)
• Quick start guide
• Precautions for use

WHY BUY

Simple, compact, and portable.

WHY AVOID

Lacks in some areas that might be needed for professional DJs.

MORE ON THE PIONEER DJ REV-1

The Pioneer DJ REV-1 is a simple, compact and portable controller that allows you to get creative with your DJ sets. It features four-deck control, two large jog wheels, built-in Serato soundcard and a simple mixer section with EQs and filters, while the top of the unit features eight pads with eight modes, including hot cue, roll, slicer, sampler and more.

The larger than average jogwheels of the DJ REV-1 makes it a great budget option for learning how to scratch, particularly useful for hip hop DJing.

The Best IOS And Android Controller: Reloop Mixon 4

Great for practising on the go between gigs

PRICE: £635 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 52.6 cm
• Height: 5.92 cm
• Depth: 25.5 cm
• Weight: 5.30 kg

I/O

• XLR MASTER
• BOOTH (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• RCA OUT
• MIC
• (2) PHONES

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Lite
• Serato DJ Pro (Licence/subscription not included)

IN THE BOX

• DDJ-REV1
• USB cable
• Warranty (for some regions)
• Quick start guide
• Precautions for use

WHY BUY

Compact, mobile, and compatible with iOS and Android devices.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE RELOOP MIXON 4

The Reloop Mixon 4 was designed to work with Algoriddim’s djay Pro software, as well as being compatible with Serato DJ Pro and Virtual DJ.

It has a built-in audio interface, three-band EQ controls and filter knobs, as well as eight multi-function performance pads per deck. These have a variety of functions depending on the software you’re using, including triggering hot cues and loops. They’re also velocity-sensitive and backlit for easy reference in low light conditions.

The Best Portable DJ Controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch

Great for anyone who wants to dip their toe in the water

PRICE: £79 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 31.5 cm
• Height: 1.6 cm
• Depth: 8.6 cm
• Weight: 0.3 kg

I/O

• PHONES (1/8 inch)
• MAIN OUT (1/8 inch)

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• DJ2GO2 Touch controller
• Serato DJ Lite download card
• Two month SoundSwitch subscription
• USB cable
• Quick-start guide
• 1/8” to RCA cable

WHY BUY

iOS Compatibility.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE NUMARK DJ2GO2

Numark has a long history of making the best cheap DJ controllers, and the DJ2GO2 is no exception. It's a very small unit, measuring just over 6 inches wide. This makes it one of the most portable options on the market, and it's great for those who want to take a controller to parties.

The layout is pretty basic, with two touch-sensitive jog wheels, 16 performance pads and a 2-channel mixer section with EQ knobs and faders.

THE BEST DJ CONTROLLER FOR BEGINNERS: PIONEER DDJ-200

The best starter DJ controller

PRICE: £140 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 37.8 cm
• Height: 4.9 cm
• Depth: 20.9 cm
• Weight: 1.2 kg

I/O

• USB

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• WeDJ (iPhone/Android)
• rekordbox (PC/Mac)
• djay (iPhone/iPad/Android)
• edjing Mix (iPhone/iPad/Android)

IN THE BOX

• DDJ-200
• USB cable
• Split cable
• Warranty (for some regions)
• Quick Start Guide (WeDJ/rekordbox)
• Quick Start Guide (djay)
• Quick Start Guide (edjing)
• Precautions for use

WHY BUY

Compact, affordable, and ideal for beginners.

WHY AVOID

Limited IO.

MORE ON THE PIONEER DDJ-200

A DJ controller you can connect to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Compatible with a range of apps including WeDJ for iOS and Android.

BEST STANDALONE SYSTEM: PIONEER XDJ-RX3

The most complete package

PRICE: £1449 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 72.9 cm
• Height: 11.9 cm
• Depth: 46.9 cm
• Weight: 9.3 kg

I/O

• (2) LINE (RCA)
• (2) PHONO (RCA)
• (2) MIC (XLR & 1/4 inch TRS jack)
• AUX (RCA)
• MASTER (XLR)
• MASTER (RCA)
• BOOTH (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• PHONES (1/4 inch stereo phone Jack)
• PHONES (3.5-mm stereo mini jack)
• 3.5 mm stereo mini jack x 1 (Unbalanced input)

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• rekordbox
• Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• Power cable
• USB cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Software license notice
• Precautions for Use
• Warranty (for some regions)

WHY BUY

2 band mic EQ.

WHY AVOID

One of the most expensive controllers on the market.

MORE ON THE PIONEER XDJ-RX3

Featuring a 10.1-inch touch screen, and the ability to browse playlists, mix, and apply FX.

BEST DJ CONTROLLER WITH SCREEN: DENON PRIME 4

Full featured with touchscreen makes the DENON Prime 4 a serious contender

PRICE: £2099 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 72.9 cm
• Height: 10.6 cm
• Depth: 49.6 cm
• Weight: 9.6 kg

I/O

• Professional grade Neutrik XLR outputs (Master, Zone, and Booth)
• (2) MIC
• (2) MASTER OUT
• (2) LINE (RCA)
• (2) PHONO (RCA)
• (1) PHONES OUT 1/8” (3.5 mm)
• (1) PHONES OUT 1/4” (6.35 mm)
• (1) Ethernet link port
• (1) IEC power inlet
• (4) USB type A media port (female)
• (1) USB type B host port (female)
• (1) SD card slot
• (1) SATA + power for internal 2.5" hard drive

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Apple Music App/iTunes
• rekordbox
• Serato DJ
• Traktor

IN THE BOX

• Prime 4 Standalone DJ System
• Display Protective Cover
• Display Cleaning Cloth
• IEC Power Cable
• USB 3.0 Cable
• Hard Drive Mounting Screws
• Engine Prime Software Download Card
• Quickstart Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

WHY BUY

The touchscreen.

WHY AVOID

On the pricier end of the range.

MORE ON THE DENON PRIME 4

Features promoted by Denon include the ability to touch, move and orchestrate your mix with an advanced, multi-gesture touchscreen. The option to entertain two different audiences, one for Room 1 and another for chilled-out Room 2 vibes for example. You can access and play your set, fully standalone, from vast music collections and media sources. The Prime 4 also features a built-in WiFi card to connect and play songs from streaming services or your own cloud service.

BEST TURNTABLE-STYLE CONTROLLER: RANE TWELVE MKII DJ CONTROLLER

For the turntablist

PRICE: £739 / CHANNELS: 1

I/O

• USB Type-B port
• IEC power cable input

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 36.8 cm
• Height: 9 cm
• Depth: 41.3 cm
• Weight: 9.3 kg

IN THE BOX

• Twelve MKII Base
• Platter Assembly: Aluminum Platter, Slipmat, Control Disc with Quick Release Adapter & 4 Spacers
• Power Cable
• USB Cable
• Stereo RCA Cables
• User Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

WHY BUY

For scratching.

WHY AVOID

Single unit, lacks features of full DJ controllers.

MORE ON THE RANE TWELVE MKII

Vinyl enthusiast? Then the Rane Twelve MKII is worth considering.

With a no-latency 12” turntable platter, this compact DJ controller is ideal for anyone who wants the full feel with their turntablism.

The TWELVE MKII boasts USB MIDI and DVS control for Traktor, Virtual DJ and Serato DJs.

Whichever is your preferred DJing platform, you can connect these RANE decks and get that authentic scratching experience with all of the abilities of digital.

The Best For A CDJ Feel: Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000

Best for professional performers and seasoned DJs who require a full set of features

PRICE: £1059 / CHANNELS: 4

I/O

• XLR MASTER
• BOOTH (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• (2) RCA OUT
• MIC
• (2) PHONES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 70.8 cm
• Height: 7.34 cm
• Depth: 36.14 cm
• Weight: 6 kg

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• rekordbox
• Virtual DJ

WHY BUY

Fully-featured controller that doesn’t miss a beat. Best for pros who want that classic CDJ feel.

WHY AVOID

On the expensive end of the spectrum. Not all features are necessary for beginners.

MORE ON THE Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000

If you're a seasoned DJ, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000 is a fantastic investment. This 4-channel controller includes the same layout as Pioneer's top-of-the-range CDJs and has all the features of the professional DJM mixer, giving you all the tools you need to play your best.

Even though this model is expensive, it's well worth the price tag if you're looking for a reliable controller that will last through years of gigs. Of course, it's too much for someone who's just starting out, but if you're ready to take your DJing to the next level, this is one of the best options on the market.

The DDJ-1000 has plenty of professional features and is extremely customizable. It can be used with rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro and comes with built-in sound cards for both platforms.

You can connect up to four devices at once using this controller so you can mix from any source. It has two USB ports and two mic inputs so you can connect an MC or vocalist without any trouble.

THE BEST BUDGET DJ CONTROLLER UNDER £200: HERCULES DJCONTROL INPULSE 200

Great as a starter kit

PRICE: £99 / CHANNELS: 2

I/O

• XLR MASTER
• (2) PHONES 1/8” stereo (3.5 mm)

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 32 cm
• Height: 4.8 cm
• Depth: 19 cm
• Weight: 0.9 kg

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• rekordbox
• Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• DJControl Inpulse 200
• Braided USB cable attached to the controller
• DJUCED® version 4
• Warranty card

WHY BUY

2 band mic EQ.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE HERCULES DJCONTROL INPULSE 200

Intuitive design and make this controller a great way to get started with DJing. Featuring DJUCED® software, offering ways to help you learn.

THE BEST DJ CONTROLLER UNDER £500: PIONEER DDJ-SB3

Great for a medium-sized budget

PRICE: £450 / CHANNELS: 2

I/O

• 1 MIC (1/4 inch Jack)
• 1 MASTER (RCA)
• 1 HEADPHONE MONITOR (Mini-jack)
• 1 USB B port

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Unlocks Serato DJ Lite
• Paid upgrade to Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• DDJ-SB3
• USB cable
• Warranty (for some regions)
• Operating Instructions (Quick Start Guide)

WHY BUY

Affordable considering how many features it has.

WHY AVOID

Short on the IO for some pro use-cases.

MORE ON THE PIONEER DDJ-SB3

Borrowing many of the benefits of the Pioneer range, condensed into a budget friendly and reasonably mobile option.

THE BEST DJ CONTROLLER FOR PROFESSIONALS: PIONEER XDJ-XZ

No stone unturned in this feature-packed controller

PRICE: £2049 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 87.8 cm
• Height: 11.9 cm
• Depth: 46.7 cm
• Weight: 13 kg

I/O

• (2) LINE (RCA)
• (2) PHONO (RCA)
• AUX (RCA)
• (2) MIC (XLR & 1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• (2) MASTER (XLR, RCA)
• BOOTH (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• (2) PHONES (1/4-inch stereo jack, 3.5-mm stereo mini-jack)
• SEND (1/4 inch TRS Jack)

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Unlocks Serato DJ Pro 2
• rekordbox

IN THE BOX

• XDJ-XZ
• Power cord
• USB cable
• Operating Instructions (Quick start guide)
• Software licence notice

WHY BUY

It has everything you’ll ever need.

WHY AVOID

Overkill for most use-cases. Not ideal for beginners.

MORE ON THE XDJ-XZ

Familiar to those used to the NXS2 plus all of the features you’ll ever need. Full-sized jog wheels for the turntablist, and the On Jog Display giving you the track information you need. Crammed with built-in beat and sound colour FX.

The Best Budget Rekordbox Controller: Pioneer DJ DDJ-400

Pioneer's DJ DDJ-400 might be the best DJ controller under £300

PRICE: £259 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 48.2 cm
• Height: 5.9 cm
• Depth: 27.4 cm
• Weight: 2.1 kg

I/O

• MIC (1/4 inch TS Jack) input
• MASTER (RCA) output
• HEADPHONE MONITOR (Mini-jack) output

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• rekordbox

IN THE BOX

• DDJ-400
• USB cable
• Warranty (for some regions)
• Operating instructions (Quick Start Guide)

WHY BUY

Pad modes.

WHY AVOID

Slightly limited in features for professionals.

MORE ON THE PIONEER DJ DDJ-400

Supremely portable and reasonably priced, The Pioneer DDJ-400 is one of the best rekordbox controllers for beginners, with enough features to keep you busy as you work your way up the ranks.

THE BEST TRAKTOR CONTROLLER: NATIVE INSTRUMENTS KONTROL S4 MK3

Definitely the best Traktor controller, probably the best DJ controller under £1000 on the market

PRICE: £749 / CHANNELS: 4

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 54.2 cm
• Height: 3.3 cm
• Depth: 6.05 cm
• Weight: 4.3 kg

I/O

• (4) STEREO IN
• (2) STEREO OUT
• LINE OUTPUTS (XLR & 1/4" BOOTH)
• LINE OUTPUTS (RCA)
• PHONES OUT

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Traktor Pro 3

IN THE BOX

• KONTROL S4 MK3
• USB CABLE

WHY BUY

Monitor with 1280 x 800 screen resolution.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE NATIVE INSTRUMENTS KONTROL S4 MK3

Native Instruments' Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 is the third iteration of this popular all-in-one DJ controller that includes everything you need to get started mixing.

In fact, the Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 comes with a copy of Traktor Pro 3, so if you don't already have software, you're ready to go.

The S4 Mk3 is also designed for comfortable and familiar mixing. It's based on the classic 2-channel mixer setup, with faders, EQs, and filters for each channel. Each deck has its own looping controls and remix deck access. You also have tempo faders on each side for manual beatmatching.

BEST BUDGET TRAKTOR CONTROLLER: NATIVE INSTRUMENTS KONTROL S2 MK3

The go-to controller for Traktor loyalists

PRICE: £239 / CHANNELS: 4

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 48.6 cm
• Height: 2.6 cm
• Depth: 5.9 cm
• Weight: 0.34 kg

I/O

• PHONES OUT 1/8 inch
• MAIN OUT 1/8 inch

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• NATIVE INSTRUMENTS KONTROL S2 MK3
• USB cable

WHY BUY

iOS Compatibility.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE NATIVE INSTRUMENTS KONTROL S2 MK3

One of the best controllers for Traktor, the Kontrol S2 Mk3 from Native Instruments comes with a full Traktor Pro 3 licence and is one of the best all-rounders when it comes to entry level solutions. The jog wheels feel much better than many other models at this price point.

THE BEST CONTROLLER FOR SERATO: ROLAND DJ-505

The best way to get out of the box with Serato

PRICE: £570 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 53 cm
• Height: 7.3 cm
• Depth: 4 cm
• Weight: 3.5 kg

I/O

• INPUT (1–2) jacks: RCA phono type
• MIC IN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
• MASTER OUT 1 connectors: XLR type (balanced)
• MASTER OUT 2 jacks: RCA phono type
• BOOTH OUT jacks: TRS phone type (balanced)
• PHONES jacks: stereo 1/4 inch phone type, miniature phone type
• PC port: USB type B
• MIDI OUT connector
• DC IN jack
• PHONO GROUND terminal

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• Startup Guide
• Leaflet "USING THE UNIT SAFETY"
• AC Adaptor
• Power code
• USB cable
• Serato TOOL KIT VOUCHER

WHY BUY

• Two channels and Deck Select for up to four decks.
• Large, low-latency platters optimised for scratching.
• Eight dedicated pad controls for Serato DJ Pro with Hot Cue, Roll, Slicer, TR, Pattern, and Sampler modes.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE ROLAND DJ-505

The Roland DJ-505 is a two-channel, four-deck Serato DJ controller that builds on the success of its predecessor, the Roland DJ-808. A compact and portable controller with a rugged metal casing, the Roland DJ-505 is ideal for professional mobile DJs as well as club and event venue installations.

It includes a built-in drum machine with TR-style sounds and sequencer controls, plus two low-latency platters and a FX section with hands-on knobs for intuitive performance with Serato. Plus it comes bundled with Serato Pitch ‘n Time DJ expansion pack for advanced key-shifting and time-stretching.

The Roland DJ-505 has many of the functions of its big brother, the Roland DJ-808, but in a more compact form factor. As such it’s also around half the price of its sibling — making it an attractive option for those learning how to use Serato DJ or who need a compact controller for gigs or events.

If you’re looking for a good all rounder that offers great value for money then the Roland DJ-505 could be right up your street!

THE BEST PIONEER DJ CONTROLLER: PIONEER DJ DDJ-REV7

Money no object

PRICE: £1825 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 73,2 cm
• Height: 8.2 cm
• Depth: 38.2 cm
• Weight: 10.7 kg

I/O

• (2) PHONO/LINE (RCA)
• (2) MIC (XLR & 1/4 inch TRS Jack, 1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• AUX (RCA)
• (2) MASTER (XLR, RCA)
• BOOTH (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• (2) PHONES (1/4-inch stereo jack, 3.5-mm stereo mini-jack)
• (2) USB B ports

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Pro

IN THE BOX

• DDJ-REV7
• AC adaptor
• Power cord
• USB cable
• Warranty (for some regions)
• Quick Start Guide
• Precautions for use
• Serato DJ Pro Expansion Pack Voucher (Serato Pitch 'n Time DJ)
• Marking Sticker

WHY BUY

The ultimate controller from Pioneer. Has everything for 99% of use-cases.

WHY AVOID

When money is an object.

MORE ON THE PIONEER DJ DDJ-REV7

The DDJ-REV7 is designed to get the most from the Serato DJ Pro. Pioneer promotes their brand-new design featuring large, motorised jog wheels, making for a tactile mixing experience. Layout emulates a professional DJM-S mixer + PLX turntable setup, including features for open-format DJs and turntablists.

BEST NEW CONTROLLER: RANE ONE

Promising newcomer to the scene

PRICE: £1449 / CHANNELS: 2

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 67 cm
• Height: 12.4 cm
• Depth: 34.5 cm
• Weight: 10.6 kg

I/O

• (2) XLR / 1/4" (6.35 mm) TRS Combo (Mic 1–2)
• AUX RCA stereo pair
• (2) PHONO RCA stereo
• (2) MAIN XLR
• (2) BOOTH XLR
• MASTER RCA stereo pair
• PHONES 1/4" (6.35 mm) TRS
• PHONES 1/8" (3.5 mm) TRS

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• Serato DJ Pro
• Virtual DJ

IN THE BOX

• ONE
• Power Cable
• USB Cable
• Software Download Card
• User Guide
• Safety & Warranty Manual

WHY BUY

Motorised platters, 3-band filters, Vinyl Brake adjust.

WHY AVOID

Lacking in features.

MORE ON THE RANE ONE

Boasting a vinyl-like touch, the RANE ONE supports many DJing programs and is the best controller for Virtual DJ users on this list.

BONUS: HERCULES DJCONTROL MIX

Perfect for dipping your toe in the DJ waters and mixing with your smartphone

PRICE: £79 / CHANNELS: 4

SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 34 cm
• Height: 4.9 cm
• Depth: 10 cm
• Weight: 0.5 kg

I/O

• MIC (1/4 inch TRS Jack)
• MASTER (RCA)
• BOOTH (RCA)
• (2) HEADPHONE MONITOR (1/4 inch Stereo Phone Jack, 3.5mm Stereo mini-jack)
• USB B port

SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY

• djay by Algoriddim

IN THE BOX

• DJControl Mix
• USB Power Cable (Type A)
• DJ Splitter cable
• Smartphone/tablet stand

WHY BUY

Entry-level pricing and smartphone compatibility.

WHY AVOID

Not for serious use-cases.

MORE ON THE HERCULES DJCONTROL MIX

Looking for something very compact and budget-friendly? Hercules has got you covered with one of the best new DJ controllers on the market. Make mashups on the go with Hercules and your iOS or Android device, this is one of the best DJ controllers for iPad.

FEATURES TO LOOK OUT FOR

When looking for the ideal controller, it helps to start at what features you need. But there are so many that it’s easy to forget. So here is a checklist so you don’t miss a beat.

• USB connectivity
• Compatibility with your DJ system (Traktor etc)
• Weight, Height, and Depth (in mm)
• Number of channels
• MIDI
• Included software
• Hardware dependencies (is it standalone or does it need a laptop?)
• Displays (LCD or touchscreen)
• Built in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
• Jack and RCA connectivity
• EQs and filters
• Sync and cue controls
• Transport control
• Jogwheels
• Encoders
• Faders
• Number of inputs
• Number of outputs
• Sound Card spec (e.g. 24 bit/44.1 kHz)
• Beat FX (Echo, Pitch, Reverb etc)

From the above list, make your own short list of needs and another of the more luxury features. Then you can cross-reference that list against the wishlist of controllers you are considering.

And always be sure to check what’s included in the box. You wouldn’t want to unbox it to find you are missing a USB cable, that would be deflating!

So which is the best DJ Controller?

With so many types of DJ controllers out there, it's best to stick to the most popular DJ controller options from respected brands like Pioneer DJ, Native Instruments, Roland and Numark when looking to buy. These companies are experts when it comes to DJ equipment.

There's a big difference between a DJ controller and a mixer/two decks setup. As you progress as a DJ, you'll want to learn how to beatmatch on CDJs, and maybe even how to mix vinyl.

If you're more of a bedroom/house party DJ, a DJ controller is all that's necessary but if you want to play bigger stages or further hone your craft, it's worth getting to grips with more professional equipment as well.

As you comb through the vast array of options out there, it’s generally a good idea to ask people you know (or online) in the DJ community what they’re using and why. Pop into your local music shop as they might have one or more of these models on display. Sometimes seeing is believing!

There are thriving communities of fellow DJs online, including but not limited to r/DJs r/Beatmatch on Reddit.

It’s also important to think hard about what you actually need. Some of the above options may look slick and boast an A4 sized page of features, but if you only necessitate a handful of them, then going for one that does the job is generally the way to go. Of course, you might anticipate (and right should) that you’ll grow as a DJ as you use them, so factor that in to an extent, but starting at your needs and unique requirements is a good jumping off point.