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Whether you're a beginner or professional, comparing DJ controllers is exhausting! Our soundscape is ever-evolving, and keeping up with the latest advances in equipment can feel impossible. Should you buy a modular or all-in-one, is Serato DJ or Ableton software integration better, and are Native Instruments controllers worth the money?
In this article, we attempt to answer these questions and more, uncovering some of the best DJ controllers available on Amazon and Gear4music from top-rated brands, including Numark, Pioneer and Roland. With options under £200, £500, and even £100, read on for our top 10 ranking favourites!
Alex is a passionate and experienced engineer in the music industry with six years of experience working in the field of Studio and Live production and engineering. Specialising in Live Engineering, he always aims to ensure the highest quality of audio is provided for his clients' performances and advises all newcomers to the field on what equipment and production methods are best required in order for the optimum end result.
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Alex is a passionate and experienced engineer in the music industry with six years of experience working in the field of Studio and Live production and engineering.
Specialising in Live Engineering, he always aims to ensure the highest quality of audio is provided for his clients' performances and advises all newcomers to the field on what equipment and production methods are best required in order for the optimum end result.
For more information on the services that Alex offers, take a look at his LinkedIn profile here.
Modular DJ controllers allow you to piece together separate controllers and sound sources into a custom rig. Many of these have specific focus and functionality, such as midi or analogue mixers, although some combine various functions into one unit.
These types of controllers are generally better suited to more experienced DJs, digital vinyl enthusiasts and those of you who play clubs, as they allow for more flexibility than an all-in-one set up.
All-in-one DJ controllers combine pretty much everything you need to start mixing in one controller unit. This includes (but is not limited to) media players, mixers and a software interface. These are better suited for those just starting out, although they have plenty of benefits for DJs of all experience levels. They are nice and portable too, and generally quick to set up with a good deal of plug-and-play options on the market.
When choosing your DJ controller, carefully consider the hardware it comes with so that you do not need to find additional equipment yourself. Think about the basics you require, as well as keeping an eye out for cool features to enhance your set.
Core features you should expect your controller to include are a play/pause button, cue button, and sync functionalities. Tempo, EQ, volume faders and cross faders are also fairly standard on most controllers. These let you alter the speed, switch between channels and allow for more fluid beat matching. Velocity-sensitive drum pads are also great for live performances, and if you like to use sound FX, look for loops or samples.
A sound card is required for the audio conversion of digital music files from your computer to an output source, such as your headphones or speakers. All-in-one controllers almost definitely come with an inbuilt sound card. However, if you’ve chosen to go for a modular controller, there’s a high likelihood you’ll need to buy one separately – whichever you decide upon, checking beforehand will save a lot of hassle.
Once you've figured out exactly what your controller comes with, you now need to find out what can it do. By this, we mean the optional modes and ways in which the controller can be used alongside your DJ software.
First, let's circle back to the topic of FX buttons and drum pads. Straight out the box, these often come pre-programmed with MIDI mapping and FX programming functions, which let you re-allocate sounds and customise each button.
If your controller has a platter, or jog wheel, you'll have the option to use 'slip' and 'vinyl' modes. Slip mode is a tactile way to regulate tempo using the platter, while vinyl mode allows it to function the same way as a vinyl turntable. This is ideal for those interested in scratching, for the record!
Here are the best turntables and MIDI keyboards you can buy in the UK.
Whether you plan on using a computer, laptop or tablet, the software you use is incredibly important for both mixing and playback. Almost all controllers will come packaged with some form of software, so before you dive in, check to see what’s included.
Some of the leading software packages to look for are Traktor Pro, Ableton Live, Serato DJ, Rekordbox DJ and VirtualDJ. If you’re unsure which one to go for, many offer free trials so you can try them out in advance!
However, you'll often find the software included is the 'Lite' version, which is a stripped-back variation of the full or 'Pro' option. They'll generally have just about enough in them to get you started, although you'll likely want to upgrade eventually to access the full range of features, which may affect how much you're willing to spend.
Discover the best home studio monitors that will give you unparalleled sound.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 | £715.00 High | Reliable All-In-One DJ Controller With Onboard FX and Stem Control | ||
2 | Reloop Neon | £82.38 Low Mid | A User-Friendly Introduction to Modular Controllers | ||
3 | Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 | £288.99 High Mid | Affordable All-In-One Developed by DJ Jazzy Jeff | ||
4 | Numark Mixtrack Pro FX | £182.00 Mid | Pro All-In-One Controller for All Levels of Experience | ||
5 | Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 | £167.75 Mid | A Professional Touch Strip Controller for Easy Software Navigation | ||
6 | Roland DJ-202 | £229.00 Mid | A Legacy DJ Controller With In-Built TR-808 Drum Kit | ||
7 | AKAI Professional MPD218 | £69.00 Low Mid | Compact MPC Pad DAW Controller for Use With Ableton Live | ||
8 | Reloop Mixon 4|236534 | £625.00 High Mid | Dual-Software Hybrid With Spotify Integration | ||
9 | Numark DJ2GO2 Touch | £69.00 Low Mid | Ultra-Portable, Feature Packed 2 Channel Controller | ||
10 | Numark Party Mix II | £82.00 Low Mid | Starter Controller for At-Home DJS and House Parties |
What is there to say about the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 that hasn't already been said? An excellent all-in-one option, the S4 prioritises only the most important functions and features into a reliable, tactile, four deck controller.
The updated version of the S4 MK2 is a portable, professional piece of kit that'll give you an almost limitless scope for creativity with onboard FX and stem control. With tight jog wheel integration, club-ready audio output, and Traktor Pro 3 included, what more could you want?
The Reloop Neon is an affordable yet powerful pad controller for use with Serato DJ Pro. If you’re looking for an introduction to modular controllers, the Neon is a nice user-friendly piece of kit. The 8 velocity-sensitive drum pads are colour-coded for instant visual feedback.
Being an official Serato accessory, the software integration is as seamless as you'd hope. All you have to do is plug it in and you're ready to play. You can even connect it to a second Neon controller via the Smart Link function to save precious USB ports.
The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 is the revised version of the DDJ-SB2, which builds on its predecessor with the addition of an all new pad scratch for pro scratch performances, developed by legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff!
While perhaps not as flashy as others, the DDJ-SB3 has an intuitive and thoughtful design with a few higher-end features. Use the trim knob to check and adjust input volume for each channel, the FX fade for smooth transitions, or the pad transform to cut the volume in time with the beat.
Beautifully engineered with high-performance capabilities, the Mixtrack Pro FX is a professional grade all-in-one controller that even beginners can easily get to grips with. With a few best-sellers under their belt, when it comes to plug n’ play USB controllers, you really can’t go wrong with Numark.
This controller provides all the core DJ functions, blended with dynamic features for improved creative control – and all bundled in one high-quality, lightweight package! It's portable and comes with everything you need to get a party started.
The Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 is a highly portable touch-strip controller offering playback, loops and FX. 11 knobs and 31 colour-coded buttons make software navigation effortless, providing you with an ultra-precise command over track position, pitch bend, and multiple FX.
A welcome addition to any set up, you can say goodbye to awkwardly fiddling about with a laptop mid-performance. However, this is one for the pros, so we suggest only selecting the X1 if you already have a decent amount of prior experience.
It’s almost impossible to forget Roland's famous TR-808 drum machine. Luckily, the DJ-202 keeps that legacy alive with built-in drum kits from Roland’s legendary TR-808, TR-909, and TR-606 for that old-skool analogue sound!
While you’re at it, why not try your hand at scratching using the 202’s large, low-latency platters? We think it's an incredible controller that combines retro sounds with modern tech for an entirely new experience.
Akai Professional’s MPD218 is a compact MPC pad controller that's ideal for producers, musicians and DJs alike! With the perfect DAW interface, not only is the MPD218 optimised for use with Ableton Live, but also Pro MPC Essentials, Sonivox Big Bang Cinematic Percussion, and Big Bang Universal Drums.
Because of the new, highly sensitive Thick Fat MPC pads, user interaction is incredibly responsive, and there's no need for an AC converter thanks to the easy USB power. Plus, all three pad banks can be expanded with up to 48 fully-assignable triggers for drums, samples, FX, loops and more!
Reloop's premier hybrid controller, the Mixon 4, lets you flip between two of the leading DJ software packages for almost endless possibilities. Plug in and dive straight into Serato DJ Pro, or switch over to Algoriddm’s seamless Spotify integration for instant access to over 30 million tracks.
A robust, club-ready 4 channel mixer, the Mixon 4 is built for precision, and optimised parts provide incredible accuracy and stability for improved comfort and confidence. There’s even a docking station for your iPad!
This compact 2 channel USB DJ controller is ultra-portable, yet packed with handy features to help you give the best performance. It is compatible with both Mac and PC, with Serato DJ Lite included. Connectivity is also covered, providing full hookup versatility with DJ equipment such as DJ mixers, speakers, and PA systems.
Stream millions of music from SoundCloud and TIDAL right into Serato DJ Lite, including everything from the newest underground sounds to certified classics. Four pad modes give you complete control over cue-points, while auto/manual looping and sample playback help you spice up your performance.
A high-quality all-in-one controller for under £200? Yes please! A popular best-seller, the Numark Party Mix offers a similar high-end build quality as their other controllers, such as the Mixtrack Pro III, but at a reduced price point.
The Party Mix model is one better suited to home DJs, or for use as a learning tool, as it's not quite club standard. But, with a built-in light show that automatically syncs with your music, it's an excellent option for getting your house parties started!
No. 1: Native Instruments |Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3
No. 2: Reloop |Neon
No. 3: Pioneer DJ|DDJ-SB3
No. 4: Numark |Mixtrack Pro FX
No. 5: Native Instruments |Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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