Best DJ Controllers 2025
Best DJ Controller 2025 – Top Picks for Beginners & Pros
Choosing your first — or next — DJ controller in 2025 can feel overwhelming. With new standalone systems, streaming integration, and constant updates from Pioneer, Denon, and Numark, the options are endless.
Whether you’re a bedroom selector, a club regular, or a festival headliner, this guide breaks down the best DJ controllers for every type of DJ.
I’ve tested and played on most of these rigs myself, so you’ll get a real DJ’s perspective — not just specs and marketing hype.
🎧 If you’re serious about playing unique sets, make sure your library stands out too — check out Doing The Damage for exclusive DJ-only edits and bootlegs you won’t find anywhere else.
Quick Picks – The Best DJ Controllers of 2025
|
Category |
Controller |
Best For |
Software |
Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
⭐ Overall Best |
Club-level experience |
Rekordbox / Standalone |
£2,600+ |
|
|
🎚 Beginners |
Plug-and-play learning |
Rekordbox / Serato |
£149 |
|
|
💼 Mobile DJs |
Pro standalone setup |
Engine DJ |
£1,700 |
|
|
✈️ Compact Setup |
Portability & practice |
Engine DJ |
£600 |
|
|
🎧 Scratching |
Serato performance mixing |
Serato |
£1,700 |
Best DJ Controller Overall (2025)
Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3
Still the benchmark for all-in-one DJ systems, the XDJ-RX3 gives you that full Pioneer club feel — without needing CDJs or a mixer.
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Dual-deck standalone system
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10.1” touchscreen with full waveform view
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Same workflow as the CDJ-3000 & DJM-900NXS2 combo
Perfect for pros who want to practice club-style mixing at home or for venues that want a reliable, Rekordbox-ready rig.
💬 Pro tip: if you already play in clubs, this feels instantly familiar.
Best DJ Controller for Beginners
AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2
If you’re new to DJing, the DDJ-FLX4 is a no-brainer. It’s compact, affordable, and works with both Rekordbox and Serato — no licence fees, no setup drama.
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USB-C powered (works with laptops, tablets, or even phones)
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Smart Fader & Smart CFX make learning transitions effortless
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Solid layout that mirrors club gear
The best part? Once you upgrade to a bigger controller, your Rekordbox library carries over seamlessly.
Best Standalone DJ Controller
Denon DJ Prime 4+
The Denon Prime 4+ is an absolute monster. It’s the most powerful standalone DJ controller available — no laptop required.
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10.1” multi-touch screen
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4-channel mixer with Engine OS
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Wi-Fi music streaming (TIDAL, Beatport, Amazon Music)
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Onboard FX and professional I/O
For mobile DJs, bars, and event setups, it’s unbeatable. You can literally turn up, plug in, and play — no computer needed
Best Budget DJ Controller
Numark Mixstream Pro Go
If you want something portable and wireless, the Mixstream Pro Go is the move. It’s the first DJ controller with built-in speakers and a rechargeable battery.
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Engine DJ OS — no laptop required
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Streaming from Amazon Music, TIDAL, or SoundCloud Go+
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Compact and lightweight — ideal for travel or practice
It’s surprisingly powerful for the price. Perfect for home DJs or casual sets where simplicity is key.
Best DJ Controller for Scratching & Performance
Rane Four
For open-format and performance DJs, the Rane Four is the ultimate Serato controller. Built like a tank, this is all about precision, durability, and creativity.
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4-channel Serato DJ Pro controller
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Dedicated Stems control (vocal, melody, bass, drums)
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Motorised jogs with OLED displays
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Pro-grade faders and effects
It’s pricey, but this is a long-term investment for DJs who want top-tier control.
Honourable Mentions
If none of those quite fit your setup, here are a few more that deserve a look:
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Pioneer DDJ-REV7 – the scratch DJ’s dream.
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Native Instruments Traktor S4 Mk3 – still loved by die-hard Traktor users.
What to Look for When Buying a DJ Controller
1️⃣ Software Compatibility
Most controllers are built for either Rekordbox, Serato, or Engine DJ. Choose based on your preferred workflow and where you’ll play out.
2️⃣ Standalone vs Laptop-Based
Standalone gear like the RX3 or Prime 4+ runs without a computer — perfect for reliability. Laptop setups give you more flexibility and cost less.
3️⃣ Build Quality & Portability
Metal chassis and full-size jog wheels feel better for long sets. Lighter plastic builds are ideal for travel or quick gigs.
4️⃣ Inputs, Outputs & Features
Check for:
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XLR outputs (for pro sound systems)
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USB inputs (for back-to-back sets)
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Mic and booth outs if you play live
FAQs – Best DJ Controllers (2025 Update)
Q: What’s the best DJ controller for beginners in 2025?
A: The AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 — it’s affordable, plug-and-play, and future-proof.
Q: What’s the best standalone DJ controller right now?
A: The Denon Prime 4+, hands down. Full standalone power and streaming built in.
Q: Do I need a laptop to DJ in 2025?
A: Not necessarily. Controllers like the RX3, Prime 4+, and Mixstream Pro Go work completely standalone.
Q: What software should I learn first?
A: Start with Rekordbox or Serato DJ — both are club standards used worldwide.
Final Thoughts
The truth? The best DJ controller is the one that fits your workflow and inspires you to play more.
If you’re just starting, grab a Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 and get mixing. If you’re ready to play bigger shows, look at the XDJ-RX3 or Prime 4+ — they’ll last you for years.
And once your controller’s sorted, make sure your tracks are next-level.
👉 Check out Doing The Damage — the DJ pool built for DJs who want to play exclusive edits, bootlegs, and remixes that no one else has.