With so many DJ controllers to choose from, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work for you! Whether you’re a beginner or looking to upgrade, this guide highlights the best budget, mid-range, and high-end options to match your budget and skill level.

What is a DJ Controller?

A DJ controller is a versatile piece of equipment that combines hardware and software to help DJs mix tracks, apply effects, and manipulate audio seamlessly. They typically include jog wheels, faders, knobs, and performance pads, offering a hands-on way to control DJ software and rock a crowd.

Entry point Controller

Let’s kick things off with our top budget pick. DJ controllers have become more affordable in recent years, offering impressive features at lower prices—making it easier than ever for aspiring DJs to get started. Our top choice is packed with essential features and more than capable of delivering a great performance. Remember, whether you’re using a £150 controller or a high-end £2,000 unit, the crowd won’t care or even notice the gear. A controller is simply a tool—what truly matters are your music choices, creativity, and personal flair as a DJ.

Best Budget pick – Numark Mixtrack Pro FX

Our budget pick comes from Numark, and is priced comfortably under the £200 mark. While there are even cheaper options available, this compact gem stands out as a more reliable choice for DJs planning to play out live.

Perfect for aspiring and entry level DJs, it features a straightforward layout with two jog wheels, a central mixer, and a range of performance controls. Equipped with six built-in FX buttons, responsive performance pads, and pitch sliders, everything is there to inspire and enable creative DJing sets. Its compact size makes it portable yet powerful enough for small gigs, Bedroom mixing or House Parties.

The Mixtrack Pro FX is compatible with Serato DJing software and comes bundled with their entry-level software – DJ Lite. This, however, can be upgraded to Serato DJ Pro, unlocking a range of advanced and sophisticated features.

While it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, the Mixtrack Pro FX offers outstanding value and serves as an ideal entry-level choice for any aspiring DJ.

Numark Mixtrack Pro FX: Top Features

  • 6 Quick-Launch FX Buttons: Instantly trigger effects like echo, reverb, and flanger for creative transitions.
  • Large 6-Inch Jog Wheels: Responsive jog wheels with a tactile feel, perfect for scratching and precise track cueing.
  • 16 Performance Pads: Use for hot cues, loops, sample triggering, and other creative functions.
  • Dedicated Filter Knobs: Independent high-pass/low-pass filter controls for each channel.
  • Pitch Sliders: Long-throw sliders for precise BPM adjustments, ideal for beatmatching.
  • Serato DJ Lite Integration: Comes with Serato DJ Lite, with the option to upgrade to Serato DJ Pro for more advanced features.
  • Compact and Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to transport, suitable for small gigs and practice sessions.
  • Built-In Audio Interface: High-quality sound output with headphone and main output connections.
  • USB-Powered: Eliminates the need for an external power supply, making it convenient to set up anywhere.
  • Beginner-Friendly Layout: Intuitive design that’s perfect for DJs who are just starting out.

Current Best Price: £190

Mid-Range Option

For DJs wanting to step it up and take it to the next level, there are a wide number of options. It’s important to find the right balance between build quality and a robust feature set while also factoring in any DJ software preferences you may have. Once you get into this price range you should be good for pretty much any DJing scenario from Big Room Clubs to Festivals.

Let’s check out our suggestion for a mid-range sub £1000 DJ Controller.

Under £1000 Pick – Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3

The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 from Native Instruments is a versatile, feature-packed DJ controller perfectly placed for professional use. Unlike our previous model that runs on Serato DJ Software the Kontrol S4 MK3 utilises Native Instruments Traktor software. As this controller is made by Native Instruments – the company behind Traktor, it offers seamless integration and access to Traktors advanced tools like remix decks and the game-changing Stems.

Its standout feature is the motorized, haptic feedback jog wheels. These spinning wheels mimic the feel of vinyl, providing a tactile mixing experience and precise control over tracks. It also features a four-channel layout enabling multi-deck mixing.

This unit is built for durability and the heavy demands of gigging, boasting a robust design with high-quality faders, knobs, and RGB performance pads. Additional features like built-in effects, independent mixer controls, and a clean audio interface make it a comprehensive solution for live performances or studio use.

We consider the S4 MK3 to be a top choice for DJs seeking professional-grade performance and cutting-edge features.

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3: Top Features

  • Motorized Jog Wheels with Haptic Feedback: Provides a realistic vinyl-like feel with tactile feedback for more precise control and performance.
  • 4-Channel Mixer: Allows you to mix up to four decks, offering flexibility for complex sets and transitions.
  • Traktor Pro 3 Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Traktor Pro 3 software for access to advanced features like remix decks and Stems.
  • RGB Performance Pads: Trigger hot cues, loops, samples, and effects with color-coded, responsive pads.
  • Built-In Audio Interface: High-quality, low-latency sound output with dedicated headphone and main outputs.
  • High-Resolution Displays: Crisp screens on the jog wheels show track information, cue points, and other vital data for better performance visibility.
  • Dedicated Filter and FX Controls: Independent controls for each channel, plus FX knobs for real-time manipulation.
  • Durable Build: Robust construction with high-quality faders, knobs, and buttons built for heavy use in live settings.
  • USB Powered: Convenient, easy setup with no need for an external power supply.
  • Comprehensive Control: Provides full control over Traktor’s features, including looping, effects, and beatmatching, making it ideal for both beginner and advanced DJs.

Current Best Price: £718

High-End DJ Controller

While a high-end mixer won’t automatically make you a better DJ, it will provide you with the essential tools to help take your skills to the next level. You are likely to have control over everything you will ever need plus things you may have had no idea that you did need!

Many top-tier controllers also feature bigger and better screen displays. This can help to minimise your reliance on a laptop. A big part of DJing is how engaged you appear while performing. If you are too focused on a laptop it can look like you’re catching up on emails.

So, For all you superstar DJs out there looking for the best options on the market time to hit you up with our top choice.

Top Tier Pick – Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3

The Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3 is a powerful all-in-one DJ system that delivers an intuitive, feature-packed DJing experience. At its core, it features a large 10.1-inch touchscreen, making track navigation, waveform matching, and live performance control effortless. Its standalone capabilities eliminate the need for a laptop, allowing you to focus entirely on your performance without the distraction of an additional screen.

The system is fully compatible with Rekordbox, providing seamless integration with the software. It is also compatible with Serato DJ Pro if that is your preferred software.

The build quality, as you would expect at this price point is very high-quality. The XDJ-RX3 includes Large jog wheels, multi-colour performance pads, dedicated FX controls, and everything else you’ll need at your fingertips. Once you’re familiar with this well-considered layout, along with the large touchscreen, you are perfectly placed for smooth, No-Limits DJing sets. The high-quality audio converters are capable of exceptional sound quality making it ideal for both club gigs and mobile DJ setups. While the price may be prohibitive for some, the XDJ-RX3 offers a top-tier, standalone solution for DJs who require a professional-grade setup.

Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3: Top Features

  • 10.1-inch Touchscreen: Large, high-resolution screen for intuitive track browsing, waveform display, and performance control.
  • rekordbox Compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with rekordbox software for full track management, performance features, and customizations.
  • Standalone Operation: No laptop required; can function entirely as a standalone unit when loaded with music from USB drives.
  • Multi-Color Performance Pads: Responsive pads for triggering hot cues, loops, and samples, with color coding for easy identification.
  • Improved Jog Wheels: Larger and more responsive jog wheels for precise control over scratching, cueing, and track manipulation.
  • Enhanced FX Controls: Access to a wide range of built-in effects, with dedicated knobs and buttons for real-time manipulation.
  • 2-Channel Mixer with EQ: Two channels with full EQ, filter, and volume control for versatile mixing.
  • Sound Quality: High-quality sound output with clear, deep bass and crystal-clear mids and highs.
  • USB and SD Card Inputs: Load music from USB drives or SD cards, making it easy to bring your library to any performance.
  • Compact Design: Despite its powerful features, the XDJ-RX3 maintains a sleek, portable design ideal for both mobile and club DJs.
  • Touch FX: Innovative touch-screen FX control for creative real-time manipulation of audio effects.

Current Best Price: £1699

Summary

We hope our selections have provided a solid starting point if you are looking to buy or upgrade your setup. Since prices and availability are always changing, it’s a good idea to do some research to find the best deals. And with Black Friday just around the corner, now could be the perfect time to invest in a new DJ controller. With plenty of practice and perseverance, the DJing world could be yours for the taking.

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