Best DJ Controller Brands: 5 Great Choices
The best DJ controller brands are a topic that has been hotly debated on many DJ forums. For some DJs, it doesn't matter what brand of controller they use because the best controllers have to be custom-built. This is true for those who want to customize their setup or have specific needs such as more decks or VST support. However, if you're just starting out and don't know where to start when it comes to picking a controller, there are plenty of great ones out there that can serve your needs while also being budget-friendly.
In this article, we will discuss the best DJ controller brands available so you can find one that suits your needs!
1. Numark
Numark is best known for its wide variety of controllers that cater to just about every type of DJ. Each Numark has a controller for vinyl turntables as well as traditional CD players, which are two different styles. They also have compact controllers with jog wheels and pads in the middle so you can scratch your digital files without having to switch
2. Pioneer
Pioneer is best known for their DJM-900NXS and 900 Nexus line of mixers which are arguably the best in the industry. The company also offers a number of controllers to go with these mixers, as well as some that work on other Mixer models if you’re not fully convinced that Pioneer’s gear will best suit your needs.
Pioneer offers a variety of controllers such as the DDJ-RZX which is best for creating and mixing music with Pioneer’s best DJ software, Rekordbox DJ. They also have more traditional style CD decks that are great if you’re looking to mix audio from two different sources like vinyl turntables.
3. Denon DJ
Denon DJ is best known for its line of controllers that come in various price ranges to suit any budget. They offer a controller with a jog wheel and eight hot cues, but also have ones without this feature or the ability to mix audio from more than two sources at once. The best thing about Denon's lineup is they're all good quality and have a unique feel that best suits your needs. Denon DJ is newer but offers controllers at every price point which makes them perfect if you're looking to get started without making an investment too quickly!
4. Native Instruments
Native Instruments is best known for its software, Traktor Pro. The company offers a number of different controllers that work well with this software and can also be used with the latest version of Serato DJ as well. Their best controller is arguably the Traktor Kontrol S-Series which comes in two varieties: one without jog wheels or effects pads, perfect if you're using your own mixer; and another model that has both so it's best to use on its own but will still function just fine when plugged into an external mixer. Native Instruments' best controller lineup features plenty of options at every price point!
5. Roland
Roland is best known for its DJ controllers that are built specifically with Serato's new "Serato DJ Lite" software. The company makes a few different models to suit your needs and best of all, they're some of the most affordable on this list!
Best DJ Controller Brand: Our Pick
The market for DJ controllers is always changing as new brands enter the fray, but there are some tried and true favorites that remain popular. Our favorite DJ controller brand has to be Pioneer because they’ve been in the game from day one with their pioneering CDJ-2000s turntables back in 2000! They've continued to innovate and release high-quality gear since then, so you can't go wrong if you're looking for a reliable company that will stand behind your purchase. Here are our favorite Pioneer DJ controllers.
What's your favorite DJ controller brand? Let us know in the comments below!