The 10 Best DJ Controllers for DJs in 2025 - DJ Controller Review

I love DJ controllers, and I think they're one piece of DJ gear which has consistently evolved in terms of quality and functionality over the last decade or so. When I first started DJing, DJ controllers weren't all that good - they were either super expensive, or cheap and weak. 

These days, you can get some fantastic budget DJ controllers with all the features and controls you need for a killer mix. But, if you want to splash out on a bigger investment, you can get some insanely cool DJ controllers in the mid and upper price brackets - even some that are completely standalone (with built in FX, speakers, and batteries!)

In this guide, I'm going to share the best DJ controllers (or at least my favorites). I'll cover a range of price and skill levels, and at the end of the page I'll help you work out which is most compatible for you!

Interested in DJ gear? Check out some of my other reviews

• The Best DJ Headphones

• The Best DJ Accessories and Gifts

Best DJ Controller Comparison Table#

The 10 Best DJ Controllers#

I've sccoured the market, tested the gear, and listened to the community. Here is my breakdown of the best DJ controllers you can get your hands on in 2025, each with its own unique strengths.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 - $$ #

Best All-Round Beginner Controller

This is the perfect DJ controller for beginners who want a professional layout and features that they can grow into. This is actually my main DJ controller that I use at home. While it's affordable, it has a suprisingly deep level of advanced features tucked away inside it - it's easy to jump on, but has depth you can master for skilled DJs too!

Key Features & Benefits:

• Multi-Platform Support: Works seamlessly with rekordbox, Serato DJ Lite (upgradeable to Serato DJ Pro), and the djay app on both iOS and Android.

• Smart Mixing Features: Smart Fader for effortless blending and Smart Sound Color FX to apply complex FX with a single knob turn.

• Club-Standard Layout: The design mimics Pioneer DJ's professional equipment, making the transition to a club setup feel natural.

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 is the gold standard for new DJs. It’s compact, affordable, and packed with functions that make learning to mix intuitive and fun. The ability to connect to a laptop, tablet, or even an iPhone via USB provides incredible flexibility. Its feature set gives you the power to grow from a bedroom DJ to performing at parties. I love the analog and beat FX included, for a realy personal sound. 

Denon DJ SC LIVE 4 - $$$$ #

Best Standalone for Stems & Streaming

This is the perfect DJ controller for professional mobile and club DJs who demand standalone power and cutting-edge stem separation.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Standalone Power: Features a 7-inch touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi for streaming directly from services like Beatport, Tidal, and SoundCloud Go+.

• Onboard Stem Separation: The world's first controller with onboard Engine DJ stem separation, allowing you to isolate vocals and instruments in real-time.

• Built-in Speakers: High-quality onboard speakers make it the ultimate all-in-one unit for practice, content creation, and small events.

The SC LIVE 4 is a game-changer in the DJ experience. Free yourself from the computer and perform anywhere. The 4-channel DJ mixer section and dedicated controls for Neural Mix style performance open up new creative doors. This is a true main controller for the modern digital artist.

Numark Party Mix II - $#

The Ultimate Entry-Level Party Starter

This is the perfect DJ controller for anyone taking their very first steps into DJing, with a focus on fun and instant results.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Built-in Light Show: Three multi-colored LEDs sync to your mix, creating an instant party atmosphere.

• Core DJ Functionality: Features two jog wheels, a crossfader, and performance pads for looping and firing off samples.

• Plug and Play: Comes with Serato DJ Lite and is easy to connect to your computer, so you can start playing tracks immediately.

The Numark Party Mix II proves that you don't need to spend a lot to start DJing. It’s incredibly affordable and beginner friendly. The touch sensitive jog wheels are responsive enough for basic scratching and pitch bending, giving you all the essential control you need to learn the fundamentals.

Numark Mixstream Pro Go - $$$#

Best for Battery-Powered, Speaker-Equipped DJing

This is the perfect DJ controller for the DJ who wants to play anywhere, anytime, without needing a power outlet.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Battery Powered: A built-in rechargeable battery provides hours of performance time, offering true portability.

• Onboard Speakers & Wi-Fi: Like the SC LIVE 4, it features streaming and built-in speakers for a complete, wire-free DJ experience.

• Engine DJ OS: Runs on the same powerful standalone operating system as Denon DJ's professional gear.

Numark has created a truly unique piece of equipment. The Mixstream Pro Go is a standalone beast that lets you leave the laptop and power cables behind. Whether you're at a beach party or a backyard barbecue, this controller has everything you need to deliver a powerful mix.

Pioneer DJ AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 - $#

Most Affordable Pioneer DJ Experience

This is the perfect DJ controller for the absolute beginner who wants the reliability and feel of the Pioneer ecosystem at the lowest possible price.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Intuitive Layout: A simple, uncluttered design that makes it easy for beginners to find their way around the mixer.

• Multi-Device Compatibility: Works with PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Android devices, offering a versatile portable solution.

• Core Pioneer DNA: Despite its low price, it offers the responsive feel and core functionality that Pioneer DJ is known for.

The AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 is the most accessible entry point into the vast world of Pioneer DJ products. It’s designed to work with a range of software, including Serato DJ Lite and rekordbox, giving new DJs options. It’s the ideal choice for someone who wants to learn the basics on quality gear.

Numark NS4FX - $$$#

Best Value 4-Channel Serato Controller

This is the perfect DJ controller for event DJs and livestreamers who need 4-channel control and professional I/O without a premium price tag.

Key Features & Benefits:

• 4-Channel Serato Control: Dedicated volume faders on four channels with layer buttons on each deck to mix up to four tracks.

• Professional FX Section: Large paddle triggers give you tactile control over Serato DJ software FX.

• Jog Wheel Displays: See essential info like playback position and BPM at a glance on the bright, in-jog displays.

The NS4FX packs a huge amount of functionality into a compact and portable unit. With balanced XLR outputs to connect to professional PA systems and two microphone inputs, it's a workhorse for mobile DJs who need versatility for weddings, corporate events, and other parties on the stage.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 djcontrol mix ultra- $#

Best for Guided, Hands-On Learning

This is the perfect DJ controller for learners who want interactive help to master the art of beatmatching.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Beatmatch Guide: Integrated light guides next to the tempo faders and jog wheels show you how to manually beatmatch your tracks.

• DJUCED Software Included: Comes with its own powerful software that includes tutorials from the DJ Academy.

• Compact & Portable: Small and light enough to take anywhere, powered directly via USB.

Hercules has built its reputation on creating beginner friendly controllers, and the Inpulse 200 MK2 is a standout example. It’s more than just hardware; it’s a learning tool. The guided features help build muscle memory for the essential skills of DJing, making the learning process less intimidating and more fun.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 - $$$#

Best for an Authentic Turntable Feel

This is the perfect DJ controller for DJs who crave the authentic feel of vinyl turntables combined with modern digital control.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Motorized Platters: Two 7-inch, belt-driven motorized platters provide the genuine tactile feedback of real vinyl for scratching and mixing.

• Premium Feel: Features a metal backing plate on the mixer section, retractable feet, and a professional layout.

• Stems Control: Dedicated buttons for controlling stems in Serato DJ, allowing for on-the-fly acapella and instrumental creation.

The Inpulse T7 brings the dream of motorized control to an incredibly affordable price point. It bridges the gap between classic turntablism and modern controllerism. The precision and feel of the platters deliver an unmatched DJ experience in this category, offering a taste of high-end innovation. The hercules djcontrol mix ultra is another good model from this brand. 

Beginner DJ Set (Numark-based) - $$#

The Complete, All-in-One Starter Package

This is the perfect DJ controller package for the beginner who wants everything they need to start mixing, right out of the box.

Key Features & Benefits:

• All-in-One Solution: Bundles a DJ controller (like the Party Mix) with headphones and M-Audio monitor speakers.

• Includes Software: Comes with Serato DJ Lite so you have everything you need to play music from your computer.

• Unbeatable Value: Purchasing as a bundle saves money and removes the guesswork of choosing separate components.

For someone brand new to the world of DJing, figuring out what equipment to buy can be overwhelming. This beginner DJ set solves that problem. You get a capable controller, headphones for cueing, and speakers for listening to your mix aloud, ensuring a smooth start to your creative journey.

Denon DJ PRIME GO+ - $$$#

The Ultimate Professional Portable Solution

This is the perfect DJ controller for the professional DJ who needs a powerful, feature-rich, and ultra-portable solution.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Rechargeable Battery: A lithium-ion battery provides up to 4 hours of performance, making it the ultimate grab-and-go unit.

• Standalone with Wi-Fi: Access streaming services and your own music library from the 7-inch HD touchscreen without a laptop.

• Professional Connections: Despite its size, it includes balanced XLR and RCA main outputs, and a booth output.

The PRIME GO+ is a marvel of innovation. It's small enough to fit in a backpack but powerful enough to handle a professional gig. For DJs on the move, from globe-trotting stars like Laidback Luke who need to prep sets on the go, to mobile DJs needing a compact backup, this is a professional yet portable solution without compromise.

Tips for Choosing Your DJ Controller#

• Software is King: Match the Controller to Your World: The biggest decision is the software ecosystem. Are you drawn to the club-standard workflow of Pioneer's rekordbox, the open-format flexibility of Serato DJ Pro, or the laptop-free power of standalone systems from Denon DJ and Numark? Your controller is your key to that world, so choose wisely.

• Channels & Decks: How Much Do You Need? A 2-channel controller is perfect for most beginners and many professionals. However, if you plan to mix with more than two tracks, use samples, or perform complex transitions, a 4-channel controller like the Numark NS4FX provides much more creative freedom.

• Portability vs. Features: Do you need a main controller for your studio, or a portable solution to take to parties? Larger controllers offer more features, bigger jog wheels, and more inputs/outputs. Smaller units, like the ultra-compact Hercules DJControl Mix, offer incredible portability for DJing with just a smartphone. Find the balance that fits your lifestyle.

Summary#

Choosing the right DJ controller is a foundational step in your creative journey. The technology available in 2025 offers unprecedented power and flexibility at every price point. Whether you're drawn to the learning tools of a Hercules, the standalone freedom of a Denon or Numark, or the club-standard layout of a Pioneer DJ unit, the perfect control surface is waiting for you. Use this guide to assess your needs, and get ready to connect with your music in a whole new way.

Good luck choosing your new DJ controller!

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