The Most Popular DJ Controller, Ranked

Choose the controller you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:35
For a budding DJ, finding the right controller can be a pivotal step in crafting a personal sound. With numerous options on the market, each offering a different set of features, the search for the perfect mixer can quickly become overwhelming. A well-curated list of the most popular DJ controllers, shaped by community votes, can simplify this decision by highlighting the top preferences of both new and experienced DJs. As each DJ has unique needs and preferences, a dynamic list that adjusts based on real-time voting offers a fresh perspective on what is currently resonating within the DJ community. Your votes help ensure that the ranking reflects the latest trends and innovations in DJ technology. Weighting in not only guides newcomers but also keeps seasoned artists informed of their peers' favored tools.

What Is the Most Popular DJ Controller?

  1. 1
    58
    votes

    Pioneer DDJ-SB3

    Pioneer DJ
    One of the most popular DJ controllers due to its affordability, intuitive layout, and compatibility with popular DJ software.
    The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 is a popular DJ controller designed for both beginners and professionals. It offers a wide range of features and a user-friendly interface, making it a preferred choice for many DJs.
    • Dimensions: 19.2 x 9.5 x 2.3 inches
    • Weight: 4.63 lbs
    • Soundcard: 24-bit/44.1 kHz
    • Jog Wheels: Responsive 128 mm aluminum jog wheels
    • Performance Pads: 8 velocity-sensitive pads per deck
  2. 2
    48
    votes
    A budget-friendly option with a sleek design, touch-sensitive jog wheels, and versatile software compatibility.
    The Numark Mixtrack Pro III is a popular DJ controller designed for both beginner and professional DJs. It offers intuitive control over various DJ software and comes with a host of features to enhance performance and creativity.
    • Dimensions: 21.61 x 9.92 x 1.18 inches
    • Weight: 4.7 pounds
    • Built-in Audio Interface: Yes
    • Mixer Section: 3-band EQ, filter knobs, and gain controls
    • Platter: Touch-sensitive with adjustable sensitivity
  3. 3
    26
    votes
    A high-end controller with advanced features such as motorized jog wheels, dual audio interfaces, and sample decks.
    The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 is a professional DJ controller that offers a complete DJ system in a compact and portable design. It is designed for use with the Traktor Pro 3 software, providing DJs with advanced features and excellent control over their mixes. With its intuitive layout and powerful performance capabilities, the Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 is a popular choice among DJs of all skill levels.
    • Dimensions: 542 mm x 340 mm x 60 mm
    • Weight: 4.3 kg
    • Audio Interface: 24-bit/44.1 or 48 kHz
    • Jog Wheels: Haptic Drive, motorized with tension adjustment
    • Channels: 4 channels
  4. 4
    21
    votes

    Denon DJ MC7000

    Denon DJ
    A professional-grade controller with dual USB inputs, dedicated FX controls, and 4-channel mixer.
    The Denon DJ MC7000 is a professional DJ controller designed for live performances and studio mixing. It offers a wide range of features and high-quality build to meet the demands of professional DJs. With its intuitive layout and advanced functionality, the MC7000 provides an excellent DJing experience.
    • Number of Channels: 4
    • Supported Software: Serato DJ
    • Inputs: 2 microphone, 4 line, 4 switchable phono/line
    • Outputs: XLR, RCA, Booth, Headphone
    • Performance Pads: 16 multicolor pads with velocity sensitivity
  5. 5
    15
    votes

    Roland DJ-808

    Roland
    A unique controller that combines DJ performance features with drum machine and sequencer capabilities.
    The Roland DJ-808 is a highly acclaimed DJ controller that offers a comprehensive set of features, designed especially for professional DJs and music producers. It is a collaboration between Roland and Serato, resulting in a powerful and versatile device.
    • Built-in Drum Machine: TR-S drum machine integration with the iconic sounds of Roland's TR-808 and TR-909
    • Serato DJ Pro Integration: Seamless integration and powerful control over Serato DJ Pro software
    • VT Voice Transformer: Ability to modify vocal pitch and formant control in real-time
    • External Instrument Integration: Connect and control external instruments via MIDI or AIRA Link USB
    • Built-in Sequencer: 8-track sequencer with TR-S drum sounds and the ability to sequence Serato sampler
  6. 6
    15
    votes
    A premium controller with motorized platters, touch-activated knobs and filters, and support for Serato DJ.
    The Numark NS7 III is a high-performance DJ controller designed for professionals and enthusiasts. It combines the feel of a traditional vinyl turntable with the convenience and versatility of modern technology. With its advanced features and intuitive interface, the NS7 III offers unparalleled control and creativity in DJing.
    • High-resolution displays: 3 high-resolution color screens
    • Motorized platters: 7-inch motorized platters with adjustable torque
    • Serato DJ integration: seamless integration with Serato DJ software
    • Performance pads: 16 sensitive velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads
    • Touch-capacitive knobs: knobs with touch-capacitive technology
  7. 7
    11
    votes

    Pioneer DDJ-SX3

    Pioneer DJ
    A versatile controller with dual USB inputs, large jog wheels, and compatibility with Serato DJ Pro.
    The Pioneer DDJ-SX3 is a highly popular DJ controller designed specifically for professional DJs. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities to enhance the DJing experience.
    • Number of Channels: 4
    • Jog Wheels: Large aluminum jog wheels
    • Performance Pads: 16 multi-colored pads
    • Built-in Soundcard: Yes
    • Mixer Section: 4-channel mixer with dedicated EQ, trim, and filter controls
  8. 8
    12
    votes
    A cross-platform controller with support for iOS, Android, and Serato DJ. It also features a built-in audio interface and 4-channel mixer.
    The Reloop Mixon 4 is a highly popular DJ controller designed for mixing and remixing music. It offers a versatile and user-friendly interface with advanced features, making it a go-to choice for DJs of all levels.
    • Number of Channels: 4
    • Connection Type: USB
    • Supported DJ Software: Serato DJ, Algoriddim djay PRO (iOS/macOS), Virtual DJ, and other MIDI-capable software
    • Platter Size: Large jog wheels with a diameter of 15.5 cm
    • Performance Pads: 16 RGB, velocity-sensitive performance pads for triggering hot cues, loops, samples, and slicing tracks
  9. 9
    7
    votes
    A beginner-friendly controller with built-in tutorials and visual aids to help users learn basic DJing skills.
    The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 is a popular DJ controller designed for both beginners and experienced DJs. It offers a range of features that enhance the mixing and performance experience.
    • Channels: 2
    • Deck Controls: 4
    • Jog Wheels: Large, touch-sensitive
    • Built-in Audio Interface: 24-bit/44.1 kHz
    • Performance Pads: 8 multifunction pads per deck
  10. 10
    5
    votes
    A compact and affordable controller with 4-channel mixer, touch-sensitive jog wheels, and compatibility with popular DJ software.
    The Behringer CMD Studio 4A is a popular DJ controller designed to provide a comprehensive and intuitive control experience for DJs. It offers a range of features and functionalities that allow DJs to mix and manipulate music seamlessly.
    • Number of Decks: 4
    • Jog Wheels: Large, touch-sensitive wheels
    • Faders: High-resolution 60mm pitch faders
    • Mixer Section: with 3-band EQs, gain controls, and crossfader
    • Hot Cue and Loop Controls: dedicated buttons for easy track navigation

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Ranking factors for popular controller

  1. Build quality and design
    A well-built and robust controller is essential for long term use. The design should be ergonomic, intuitive, and visually appealing.
  2. Software compatibility
    The controller should be compatible with popular DJ software like Serato DJ, Traktor Pro, and Rekordbox DJ. Easy integration with the software is crucial for seamless performance.
  3. Features and functionality
    The controller should have essential features such as EQ, filters, loop controls, and effects. Additional functionalities like performance pads, touch strips, and jog wheels are useful for creative DJing.
  4. Connectivity options
    A controller with multiple input and output options allows for versatile connections to various DJ equipment, speakers, and headphones.
  5. Portability and size
    A lightweight and compact controller is easy to transport between gigs and set up in various environments.
  6. Audio quality
    The controller should have good audio resolution and deliver a clean, powerful sound.
  7. Price and value for money
    The controller should offer a good balance between price, features, and build quality, providing value for money to the user.
  8. User reviews and popularity
    Online user reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the performance, reliability, and ease of use of a controller. Popularity is important, as it indicates how well-received and widely-used the controller is.
  9. Customer support and warranty
    A good customer support service and a warranty (preferably at least one year) are essential for after-sales assistance and added peace of mind.
  10. Upgradability and customizability
    A controller that offers firmware updates and customizable settings ensures it stays relevant as new software and technologies emerge.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular DJ controller. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or controller is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1757 views
  • 217 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each controller once every 24 hours. The rank of each controller is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular dj controller

When it comes to DJing, having the right equipment is crucial to putting on a successful show. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any DJ is their controller. A DJ controller is essentially a device that allows DJs to manipulate and control their music using various knobs, buttons, and sliders. There are many different types of DJ controllers on the market, each with their own unique features and specifications. Some controllers are designed for more advanced DJs, while others are more beginner-friendly. Additionally, certain controllers may be better suited for specific types of music or environments. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which DJ controller is the most popular. However, by looking at various polls and rankings, it's clear that certain controllers have risen to the top in terms of popularity. From the Pioneer DDJ-SB3 to the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3, there are a handful of controllers that consistently rank high among DJs and music enthusiasts alike.

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