The 5 BEST DJ Controllers of 2021
2021 is coming to a close so we are going to review some of the best DJ Controllers from the year. Watch our video covering a variety of DJ controllers at price points to help you find something that fits your budget.
#1 Pick – Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT gives you full control of Serato DJ software and gives you everything you need to DJ live events and parties.
The DDJ-1000SRT is our #1 pick because it is a powerful controller that you can use to DJ any type of event or club and at $1,350 is really a great value for pro level gear.
The DDJ-1000 has 4 inputs so you can connect to CDJs or analog turntables, and use it as a stand-alone DJ mixer. You can also connect directly to PA speakers and microphones thanks to a Booth, 2 Masters with XLR Out, and 2 Mic inputs.
Also, check out this video we made that reviews the HL12000 from Headliner. This is a great carrying case made specifically for either version of the DDJ-1000 and will keep your controller safe without adding a ton of weight.
The DDJ-1000SRT has a current retail price of $1350 and will take your gigs to the next level.
#1 Value – Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 is a strong DJ system with great value because it is a strong controller that retails for $599.
The DDJ-FLX6 is features full size jog wheels, Merge FX, and dual sample decks. The jog wheels on this unit are the same you’ll find on the industry standard CDJ-3000, which will help you get a feel for top of the line gear, while you sharpen your skills at a lower price point.
This controller features two decks to play your tracks, while the other two decks support sample playback. Using the rekordbox Sample Scratch feature, you can load up samples and layer them over your mix. When used along with Jog Cutter mode, you can take samples you’ve loaded into your sample decks and use them as the sonic basis for the Jog Cutter effect.
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 is compatible with both rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro software, and is in stock today and ready to ship. The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 retails for $599.
#2 Overall Pick – RANE One
The Rane One Motorized DJ Controller stands out from competitors with 7 inch motorized platters.
The RANE One was created to take your DJ skills to the next level and is made by a legendary company in the DJ space. The RANE One is our #2 overall pick because it is a strong controller with motorized platters but is higher in price than the other units shown here retailing for $1,599.
The first thing you will notice about this unit are the 7 inch motorized platters, which give you an authentic turntable-like control over this unit. These motorized platters come with an adjustable torque setting which allows you to customize the performance to your style. This is the main feature that sets the RANE One apart from competitors, other controllers at this price point simply do not have motorized platters.
Another big feature of this unit is the Mag Four crossfader. This is the lightest crossfader from Rane yet, and also features an adjustment capability that gives you the freedom to adjust the tension and fit the crossfader to your style.
The RANE One also features dual USB connections which are ideal for clubs and multi-DJ setups where quick DJ switches are necessary without stopping the music.
The RANE One comes with Serato DJ Pro and has a current MSRP of $1599.
Best Budget Release of 2020/2021 – Hercules Inpulse 500
The Hercules Inpulse 500 is a solid entry level controller that is perfect for beginner club and mobile DJs but also works well as a backup controller for Pros.
This is a great budget option because it only costs $299 and we all know, gear can fail at any time. You need to be prepared to finish the gig no matter what.
Having a backup controller like the Inpulse 500 is a great way to stay prepared in case of an emergency. The Inpulse 500 includes a balanced 1/4″ microphone input, aux output, and live streaming support for DJs looking to share their set online in real time.
Hercules is known for entry level controllers and sometimes limiting the amount of features is beneficial for entry level DJs. Less distractions allow you to focus on mixing and becoming a better DJ; you can always upgrade your controller as you become more experienced.
The Hercules Inpulse 500 retails for $299.
#1 Standalone Controller – Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ
The Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ is an all in one DJ system that is perfect for live performances and studio work alike.
This is a bigger budget investment compared to other controllers on this list and is an all in one system that will have you ready for any club or event. This piece is quickly replacing the SZ2 as a club standard, and has replaced some of the full CDJ setups as a club standard.
The flexible media support of this unit allows you to use an external USB drive or laptop to load your music and does not require a laptop connection.
The XDJ-XZ is also the first all in one controller that supports Pro DJ Link, which is Pioneer’s innovative DJ tool that can also be found in the CDJ and XDJ controllers. Pro DJ Link allows you to load music from a laptop or smartphone, and share metadata between multiple units, as well as sync CDJs and other media players with your mix.
The XDJ-XZ also allows you to connect up to two laptops at a time for back-to-back performances and smooth handoffs when mixing with multiple DJs. This has helped establish it as a standard in the nightclub scene, and is a great value alternative to a full CDJ Setup.
The Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ comes with Rekordbox DJ software and retails for $2,399.
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