The art of DJing and the skills required to be a great DJ are always evolving and expanding alongside the incremental improvements made by DJ hardware and software companies.
Every day DJs are doing new things in their electronic dance music sets and are always pushing the genre to new heights with the best DJ controllers on the market year after year.
Knowing where to get started can be tricky which is why we have compiled our list of the 9 best DJ controllers for 2023.
Read on and let us help you with your research for your next DJ controller.
If you’re in a hurry, start by checking out the best overall DJ controller for 2023, Pioneers – DJ DDJ 1000.
Table of Contents
Best DJ Controllers for 2023
In a hurry? Here’s the Overview Table:
Best Overall ⭐
- Customizable color LCD on jog display screens are located in the CENTRE of each jog wheel, reveal only the information you need whether that’s BPM, waveform, playback position or Hot cue, loop points
- Transitioning to this DJ controller is a breeze thanks to the familiar jog-wheels and layout, using rekordbox Dj with the DDJ-1000 feels the same as playing from USB drives with a NXS2 set-up
- Improved Magvel Fader is durable for more than 10 million movements the refined software processing of the jog wheel and crossfader significantly reduces latency
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
- Full-integrated 4-deck TRAKTOR controller including TRAKTOR SCRATH PRO 2 software
- 30 touch-sensitive knobs and faders for intuitive control over TRAKTOR software
- 2 bright, full-color displays reveal pop-ups displays, views, and panels
Pioneer DJ DDJ-400
- 2-deck Digital DJ Controller for rekordbox dj Software (Included)
- With 8 Performance Pads and 2-channel USB Interface
Rane One
- Complete Serato DJ System – DJ Controller with integrated DJ mixer for Serato DJ Pro (download included) featuring 2 decks of control and dual USB laptop connections for seamless handoffs
- Personalize your DJ Set - Six quick-launch FX with dual metal paddles; Instant loop controls; Eight performance pads per deck to access cues, loops, rolls, slicer, samples and Serato’s Scratch Bank
- Touch and Feel Your DJ Mix - 7.2" Motorized Platters with Quick Release Acrylic Disks, turntable style start/stop and adjustable high/low torque motors for a traditional vinyl feel
Pioneer DDJ-RZ DJ
- The controller’s layout mirrors the software’s GUI, giving you instinctive control of performance features including Hot Cues, Sampler, Slicer, Sound Color FX, Beat FX, Beat Jump and Pad FX
- Bundled with a rekordbox dj license key, simply activate your license key for our DJ software, connect the controller and start DJing
- Included, is a free license key for rekordbox dvs bundled with this controller for highly responsive scratch control with music from your rekordbox library
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3
- New large motorized jog wheels with haptic feedback in three modes: Feel a 'click' for cue points and loops when scrolling through tracks; Input Impedance: 48.5kΩ
- RGB LED Ring surrounding each jog wheel visualizes deck rotation in jog and turntable modes, track tempo, and deck selection (A and B in blue, C and D in orange)
- High-resolution color displays show track ID, key and tempo, transport data, waveform strip with track position, phase meter, loop length and state, as well as Remix and Stem decks control
Roland DJ-505
- Two channels and deck select for up to four decks
- Large, low-latency platters optimized for scratching
- Eight dedicated pad controls for Serrate DJ Pro with hot cue, roll, slicer, contemporary, pattern, and sampler modes
Denon MCX8000
- Includes revolutionary Denon DJ Engine standalone technology
- 2 USB inputs for Engine playback in standalone mode
- Includes 4 deck Serato DJ software
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7
- 2-deck DJ Controller f Serato DJ with LCD Display-equipped Jog Wheels
- 16 Perfmance Pads
- Magvel Fader Pro
9 Best DJ Controllers for 2023
Best Overall DJ Controller
1. Pioneer DJ DDJ 1000
DJ Controller Features:
- 14 Beat FX and Sound Color FX
- Find Compatible Music with Related Track
- Versatile 4-Channel Mixer
- 3-Band EQ on Each Channel
The Pioneer DJ DDJ 1000 is a cutting-edge controller for DJs of all skill levels. It has powerful features that allow you to do any kind of special effects, as well as straightforward controls for beatmatching and scratching.
The DDJ 1000 is a high-quality controller that competes with much more expensive alternatives. The device features a volume knob and a filter volume knob.
These two knobs are joined by two jog wheels, each of which has its own set of buttons. The unit’s ergonomic rubber grip and two performance pads make it comfortable to hold on to throughout long workouts.
- Customizable color LCD on jog display screens are located in the CENTRE of each jog wheel, reveal only the information you need whether that’s BPM, waveform, playback position or Hot cue, loop points
- Transitioning to this DJ controller is a breeze thanks to the familiar jog-wheels and layout, using rekordbox Dj with the DDJ-1000 feels the same as playing from USB drives with a NXS2 set-up
- Improved Magvel Fader is durable for more than 10 million movements the refined software processing of the jog wheel and crossfader significantly reduces latency
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- High-Quality Build
- Intuitive Layout
- High-Resolution Display
- Excellent Sound Quality
- Professional-grade features
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- Not the most pocket-friendly Controller
- Requires Rekerdbox Software
Also, checkout it’s price on Walmart.
2. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
DJ Controller Features:
- High-Resolution Displays
- Remix In the Moment
- Wear-Resistant Faders
- TRAKTOR Mode Buttons
If you want to take your DJing to the next level, look no further than the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8 DJ Controller. This controller is among the most cutting-edge, high-quality options available, thanks to its development by Native Instruments and its outstanding set of capabilities.
Traktor Kontrol S8 is equipped with eight individual stations, each with its own set of controls. There are many hot cues and transport controls, as well as a crossfader, looping section, X/Y pad, and trigger pads for initiating samples and loops. It features two decks, each with a backlit LCD display for seeing track information live onstage. The decks can be used separately or coupled so that one serves as the master track while the other serves as an auxiliary track for effects like beatmatching and looping.
- Full-integrated 4-deck TRAKTOR controller including TRAKTOR SCRATH PRO 2 software
- 30 touch-sensitive knobs and faders for intuitive control over TRAKTOR software
- 2 bright, full-color displays reveal pop-ups displays, views, and panels
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- The most intuitive design
- Excellent for beginners
- Super-fast response time
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- The S8 doesn’t come with a case or carrying case unless you buy one separately.
3. Pioneer DJ DDJ-400
DJ Controller Features:
- Eight Performance Pads per Deck
- Sound Color and Beat FX
- 2-Channel Bus-Powered Mixer
- Integrated Sound Card
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-400 is a portable and lightweight four-channel controller that can be used in the studio or on the road.
It comes equipped with a Numark NS7II digital mixer, so you can record your sets and play them back at any time.
The DDJ-400 is compatible with Serato’s full suite of functions thanks to the included Serato DJ Intro software. Hot Cue Shuffle, Loop Recorder, and more are all part of this package.
The audio output is AUX-compatible, meaning it can be plugged straight into a set of speakers or headphones without needing any additional wiring or adapters.
- 2-deck Digital DJ Controller for rekordbox dj Software (Included)
- With 8 Performance Pads and 2-channel USB Interface
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- Easily configurable
- Seamless hardware
- Compact and portable
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- Does not come with built-in effects
Also, checkout it’s price on Walmart.
4. Rane One
DJ Controller Features:
- 7.2″ Motorized Platters
- Quick Release Acrylic Disks
- Instant Access FX with 2 FX Paddles
- MAG FOUR Crossfader
The Rane One is the DJ controller you’ve been looking for if you want something customized to your preferences.
It includes all the buttons you need to start the party, and its design sets it apart from other controllers.
The Rane One is a sleek piece of equipment with an LED display on top for seeing currently playing beat tracks.
Each track’s pace is clearly shown, and the speed may be adjusted by dragging the tempo sliders at the bottom of the display to the desired value.
When it comes to effortless flow regulation, The Rane One has you covered.
One-touch controls on the front panel let you quickly and conveniently swap between the device’s three decks.
If you require more than three decks (or just want to make things extremely simple), you may switch between four devices using the buttons on the back panel.
This is especially useful for live performances.
- Complete Serato DJ System – DJ Controller with integrated DJ mixer for Serato DJ Pro (download included) featuring 2 decks of control and dual USB laptop connections for seamless handoffs
- Personalize your DJ Set - Six quick-launch FX with dual metal paddles; Instant loop controls; Eight performance pads per deck to access cues, loops, rolls, slicer, samples and Serato’s Scratch Bank
- Touch and Feel Your DJ Mix - 7.2" Motorized Platters with Quick Release Acrylic Disks, turntable style start/stop and adjustable high/low torque motors for a traditional vinyl feel
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- Master Tempo Control
- Multiple Decks
- Supports all major software
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- It’s not USB powered
Also, checkout it’s price on Walmart.
5. Pioneer DDJ-RZ DJ
DJ Controller Features:
- full-sized jog wheels.
- spacious layout
- On jog display
- jog illumination
If you want a DJ controller that can do it all, go no further than the Pioneer DDJ-RZ.
There is a ton of features, such as 32-bit/192 kHz audio quality and an array of in-built sound effects.
Moreover, the S-HELL Virtual Sound Engine automatically detects the song’s pace and changes the audio to fit the beat, guaranteeing that you’ll never miss a beat.
Beat Jump, included with the DDJ-RZ, allows you to skip songs without losing your place in the current track.
If you’re interested in getting into DJing or just want a controller that can handle a wide variety of music, this is a great option.
- The controller’s layout mirrors the software’s GUI, giving you instinctive control of performance features including Hot Cues, Sampler, Slicer, Sound Color FX, Beat FX, Beat Jump and Pad FX
- Bundled with a rekordbox dj license key, simply activate your license key for our DJ software, connect the controller and start DJing
- Included, is a free license key for rekordbox dvs bundled with this controller for highly responsive scratch control with music from your rekordbox library
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- Fine-tuned controls for perfect performance
- Durable and reliable construction for years of use
- Highly portable design for on-the-go DJs
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- No built-in speakers, so you’ll need to invest in a sound system with your controller.
6. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3
DJ Controller Features:
- Haptic-Drive Motorized Jog Wheels
- Jog Modes: Turntable
- Deck Indicator
- Two High-Resolution Color Displays
Get the most out of your music with the help of the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 DJ controller.
There is a plethora of tools, including a built-in mixer and physical knobs, that allow you to adjust the volume, tempo, and pitch of your tracks in real-time.
But wait, that’s not it!
The Traktor Kontrol also has a bunch of other cool features: it comes with an integrated 4 channel mixer and effects section, so you can mix up beats on the fly; it’s got eight hot cue buttons that let you jump instantly between your song selections; and its rugged build will last through years of heavy use.
- New large motorized jog wheels with haptic feedback in three modes: Feel a 'click' for cue points and loops when scrolling through tracks; Input Impedance: 48.5kΩ
- RGB LED Ring surrounding each jog wheel visualizes deck rotation in jog and turntable modes, track tempo, and deck selection (A and B in blue, C and D in orange)
- High-resolution color displays show track ID, key and tempo, transport data, waveform strip with track position, phase meter, loop length and state, as well as Remix and Stem decks control
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- A 4-channel mixer section
- An integrated sound card
- Remarkable design
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- Does not support vinyl records
- No built-in effects or additional MIDI channels
Also, checkout it’s price on Walmart.
7. Roland DJ-505
DJ Controller Features:
- Two Low-Latency Platters
- 8 x Dedicated Pad Controls for Serato DJ
- Built-In Editable TR Drum Kits
When it comes to DJ controllers, the Roland DJ-505 is one of the most powerful and feature-rich options available.
This unit has everything you need to get the most out of your tracks, including a high-quality mixer, jog wheels, and a wide variety of input and output options.
You may adjust the volume and pan of your tracks directly on the controller’s front panel, or from a remote location using USB or Bluetooth® technology, thanks to the built-in mixer.
Precision navigation is made possible by the high-resolution jog wheels, and music may be personalized with the help of the in-built effects without any further programs.
- Two channels and deck select for up to four decks
- Large, low-latency platters optimized for scratching
- Eight dedicated pad controls for Serrate DJ Pro with hot cue, roll, slicer, contemporary, pattern, and sampler modes
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- It is easy to use and easy to upgrade
- Very durable
- Adapter for both analog and digital audio
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- Less portable
- The control buttons are on top of the unit instead of right underneath.
Also, checkout it’s price on Walmart.
8. Denon MCX8000
DJ Controller Features:
- Includes Bottom 19″ 2U Rack Space
- Built-In Corner Roller Wheels
- Extra Wide Removable V-Cut Front Panel
Denon’s MCX8000 is a feature-rich and versatile DJ controller that can do it all.
It supports USB audio devices and comes with a mixer and DVS software already installed.
If you want to listen to how you’re doing, it offers two separate earbud jacks.
Although this controller was developed with the professional DJ in mind, it is also well-suited for amateurs who wish to get their feet wet without having to shell out a fortune.
- Includes revolutionary Denon DJ Engine standalone technology
- 2 USB inputs for Engine playback in standalone mode
- Includes 4 deck Serato DJ software
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- Built-in phono preamp
- 2 channels of crossfader and EQ controls
- 24-bit/96kHz playback
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- Relatively expensive
9. Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7
DJ Controller Features:
- 7″ Motorized Jog Wheels
- Customizable Color LCD Jog Display
- Eight Performance Pads per Deck
Professional DJs can utilize the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 in both the booth and on the road.
It includes a sound card and mixer already installed, so you can play music from your computer or mobile device.
Rekordbox’s latest iteration simplifies tasks like syncing tracks between devices and managing cue points in a music collection.
In addition, 8 hot cues buttons let you skip back to a specific point in the song without needing to bring out a separate controller.
In addition, there is a dedicated Mixer FX section with fifteen effects, including reverb, delay, and chorus, all of which are easily accessible via four knobs on the console itself.
- 2-deck DJ Controller f Serato DJ with LCD Display-equipped Jog Wheels
- 16 Perfmance Pads
- Magvel Fader Pro
My Pros With This DJ Controller:
- Beginner-friendly
- Comes with a built-in sound card
- Built-in display that shows you what song is playing and how long it will last.
My Cons With This DJ Controller:
- Not the longest battery life
Also, checkout it’s price on Walmart.
Final Remarks
We hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the best DJ controllers for 2023.
If you’re more of a beginner we recommend you also check out our article on the 10 Best DJ controllers for Beginners.
We’re excited to see what the future holds for the DJ market and we wish you luck on your DJ journey.
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Starting with my first EDM event in 2010 at Nocturnal Wonderland and hearing One by Swedish House Mafia and Benny Bennassi’s “Satisfaction” I have been hooked on EDM. While Above&Beyond and Anjunabeats captured my heart in 2012, the genre I love the most is Hardstyle and I feel the most alive when listening to it. My favorite part about the EDM world is the energy that is packed into each genre fan base and event. Writing for Deep In The Mix gives me the opportunity to contribute back to the EDM world I love so much.
