Finding the right DJ controller can quickly become a headache. With dozens of models on the market, it's important to choose one that suits your skill level and needs. Here's a comparison of the 5 best DJ controllers to help you make the right choice.
Comparison of the 5 best DJ controllers
Pioneer Dj AlphathetaDDJ-FLX4
Compact, portable design
Ideal for beginners
Rekordbox and Serato, Virtual DJ compatibility
Smaller jog wheels
Requires external software
299.00 €
Denon DjPrime 4+
4 Autonomous turntables
6-inch metal jogs
Stem integration
High price
Complex in use
2119.00 €
NumarkMixtrack Platinum FX
4-deck control
Good value for money
6" Jog Wheels
Less complete than high-end products
Requires computer
279.00 €
RanePerformer
High-torque motorized platens
Advanced stem control
4 tracks
High price
Requires a good grip
2095.00 €
Pioneer Dj AlphathetaXDJ-RX3
Large 10.1-inch touchscreen
Numerous effects
Rekordbox and Serato dj pro compatible
High price
No Pro Link/Ethernet connection
2099.00 €
Learn more about the 5 best Dj controllers
Pioneer Dj Alphatheta DDJ-FLX4
The DDJ-FLX4 is a controller designed for novice DJs who want to learn how to mix on a simple, effective device. It's compact and affordable, yet offers full compatibility with Rekordbox and Serato. Thanks to its intuitive interface and precise jog wheels, it's easy to get to grips with. However, it has fewer advanced features than its bigger brothers, and its jog wheels are smaller.
This stand-alone dj controller is designed for DJs who don't want to depend on a computer. It features a 10-inch touchscreen and direct access to streaming platforms. Its power and flexibility make it an ideal choice for pros, although its size and software interface may put some users off.
The Mixtrack Platinum FX is the ideal controller for DJs looking for a balance between performance and affordability. It features jog wheels with integrated displays, offering precise visual feedback on tempo and song playback. Its built-in effects and compatibility with Serato DJ Lite make it an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates. However, it requires a computer to operate, and its functionalities remain limited compared with high-end models.
The Rane Performer is a high-end controller designed for professional DJs looking for advanced performance. It offers full compatibility with Serato DJ Pro and features ultra-responsive performance pads, perfect for scratch routines and dynamic sets. Its robust faders and integrated effects enable precise, creative mixing. Thanks to its solid construction and extensive connectivity, it's equally at home in clubs and studio sessions. However, its high price and demanding handling make it ideal for experienced users.
The XDJ-RX3 is a stand-alone controller that combines performance and flexibility. Featuring a large 10-inch touchscreen, it offers an intuitive interface and compatibility with Rekordbox and Serato. Its smooth workflow and advanced features make it ideal for DJs who want an all-in-one solution. However, it doesn't support streaming, and its cost remains high.
To select the right model, you need to start by identifying the type of controller you need, and for what purpose. There are three types:
USB DJ controller:
USB controllers require a computer to operate, and use DJ software (Rekordbox, Serato, Traktor, VirtualDJ). They are suitable for beginners and professionals alike.
Stand-alone DJ controllers:
These controllers don't need a PC to operate. They feature an internal operating system capable of playing tracks stored on a USB stick or hard disk, making them ideal for mobile DJs.
Battery-powered dj controllers:
These models operate without an external power supply, perfect for mobile DJs.
USB dj controller
Pioneer Dj Alphatheta DDJ-FLX2
The DDJ-FLX2 is a compact, intuitive DJ controller designed for beginners and advanced DJs alike. Lightweight and portable, it's compatible with a wide range of DJ software and streaming services. Its Smart CFX and Smart Fader features facilitate transitions and effects. It features a 3.5 mm mini-jack audio output, headphone output, USB-C port and Bluetooth 4.2.
This 2-channel DJ controller is designed for scratching. It features large jog wheels, MAGVEL FADER for precise mixing, and innovative functions like Auto BPM Transition and Piano Play mode. Its dedicated Stems buttons offer advanced control of sound elements. Its scratch deck-inspired design and advanced features make it an ideal choice for DJs of all levels.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro FX is a 2-channel DJ controller designed for Serato DJ Lite (included). It features two 6-inch touchscreens, a 24-bit sound card and 16 backlit performance pads. Its effects section features six quick-select buttons and two FX levers. Equipped with a 3-band equalizer, 100 mm pitch faders and RCA and headphone outputs, it ensures a precise mix. Compatible with Serato DJ Pro (optional), it's perfect for DJs of all levels, combining simplicity with advanced functionality.
Professional all-in-one 4-channel DJ system, offering a complete mixing experience. It incorporates standard-sized jog wheels similar to the CDJ-3000. Its 10.1" capacitive touchscreen makes it easy to navigate and control tracks. Thanks to integrated Wi-Fi, DJs can access their rekordbox cloud library directly and stream tracks from Beatport Streaming.
The RANE FOUR is a professional 4-channel DJ controller, optimized for advanced use of Stems with Serato DJ. It features dedicated controls for isolating or deleting vocals, melody, bass and drums, offering unrivalled creative flexibility. Its 8.5" capacitive jog wheels with integrated color LCD screens provide precise control and real-time visualization of essential information.
The Pioneer DJ OPUS-QUAD is an all-in-one 4-channel DJ system, ideal for professional DJs and high-end establishments such as hotels, restaurants and lounge bars. Its elegant design and advanced features enable you to create sophisticated musical ambiences. OPUS-QUAD offers stand-alone playback on up to four decks simultaneously, enabling versatile performances. It supports a variety of multimedia sources, including USB sticks, SSD drives, computers running DJ software, and smartphones via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
The OMNIS-DUO from AlphaTheta Pioneer dj is a portable, all-in-one DJ system, ideal for mobile DJs and amateurs wishing to host impromptu parties. Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a backpack, turning any venue into a dance floor. Thanks to its built-in battery offering up to 5 hours of autonomy, no external power supply is required, reducing the amount of equipment you need to carry.
The Numark Mixstream Pro Go is a self-contained, portable DJ controller, ideal for mobile DJs and amateurs who want to mix on the move. With its built-in rechargeable battery providing up to 5-6 hours of autonomy, it enables wireless performance anywhere. Its high-quality built-in speakers offer a practical solution for mixing on the move. The 7" touchscreen makes it easy to browse music libraries and control tracks. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables access to streaming services such as Amazon Music Unlimited, TIDAL and SoundCloud Go+, offering instant access to millions of tracks.
The Denon DJ PRIME GO+ is a self-contained, portable DJ system, ideal for professional DJs on the move. Its built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 6 hours of autonomy, enabling wireless performance anywhere. Compatible with Serato DJ and Virtual DJ, PRIME GO+ adapts to a variety of performance environments.
Pioneer DJ is the leading brand on the market. Renowned for its high-quality controllers, it offers perfect compatibility with Rekordbox and Serato. Models such as the DDJ-FLX10 and XDJ-RX3 are benchmarks for professional and amateur DJs alike.
Native Instruments
Native Instruments specializes in DJ controllers featuring Traktor software. Models like the Traktor Kontrol S4 offer perfect integration and excellent ergonomics for DJs looking for a complete solution.
Denon dj
Denon DJ stands out for its high-end, stand-alone controllers. The Prime 4 is one of the best on the market, offering an advanced touchscreen and WiFi connectivity for music streaming.
Numark
Numark is a brand renowned for its affordable, intuitive controllers. Models like the Mixstream Pro+ integrate speakers and direct access to streaming platforms, perfect for mobile DJs.
Rane
Rane is a high-end brand specializing in scratch and advanced performance controllers. Its models are acclaimed by hip-hop DJs and scratchers alike for their robustness and precision.
Essential accessories for a dj controller
DJ headphones
Good headphones are essential for pre-listening and live mixing. They enable you to hear every sound detail clearly, without being disturbed by the environment. Choose a model with good sound insulation and precise sound.
Flight case or carrying bag
To protect your equipment when you're on the move, a flight case or transport bag is essential. It protects your controller from shocks, dust and scratches. Ideal for mobile DJs.
Cables and adapters
Good connectivity is essential in DJing. Having the right cables and adapters prevents unpleasant surprises in the middle of a performance. Make sure you always have spare cables.
Effects controller
An effects controller offers more creative mixing possibilities. It lets you add filters, delays and other effects to personalize your sound. An excellent addition for professional DJs.
FAQ
Do I need a computer to use a DJ controller?
It all depends on the model. USB DJ controllers require a computer with DJ software such as Serato, Traktor or Rekordbox, while stand-alone models work without a computer.
Which controller should I choose for live outdoor use?
A battery-powered model like the Denon DJ Prime GO or the Omnis Duo from Pioneer DJ Alphatheta will be more suitable.
What's the difference between a 2-channel and a 4-channel DJ controller?
The main difference lies in the number of mixing channels:
A 2-channel controller lets you mix two audio sources simultaneously, ideal for most basic mixes with two virtual decks.
A 4-channel controller offers four channels, enabling you to mix up to four tracks at the same time, or to add more flexibility (additional players, samples, or external sources on channels 3/4 if the controller allows).
What's the average budget for a good DJ controller?
200 € à 300 € : For beginners.
500 € à 800 € : A good mid-range model.
1,000 € and more: For a professional model.
Which software to use with a DJ controller?
The most commonly used software packages are Serato, Rekordbox and Traktor.
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