Pioneer DJ Controller - Comparison of all DJ Controllers 2024
If you're considering a Pioneer DJ controller, it's easy to get lost in the options. Here's an overview of the models available in 2024 and how they differ:
Which Pioneer DJ controller is right for me?
It all depends on your budget and the features you need. Beginners will find a wide range of affordable Pioneer controllers that are great for taking those first steps into mixing. At this stage, you don't need the advanced pro features and gimmicks like samplers, sequencers, or Beat FX. They're pared down to the essentials. Here's a brief Pioneer controller buying guide with models categorized by user level, which we find particularly interesting.
Beginners and Novices
If you're in the market for a Pioneer beginner controller, you'll find plenty of options. Pioneer covers the beginner segment very well, offering high-quality controllers at a reasonable price. For a quick overview of all the features, check out our comprehensive comparison table below.
For beginners just starting out with DJing, the following Pioneer DDJ models are recommended:
 Pioneer DDJ-FLX4: With the FLX4, beginners get a fully equipped controller that leaves nothing to be desired. In addition to Serato DJ and rekordbox for PC and Mac, the compact FLX also supports rekordbox for iOS and Android. The clean layout and integrated smart mixing features make it easy for users to get started with DJing. |
 Pioneer DDJ-REV1: The latest Serato DJ controller for beginners can impress with a wealth of new features. Especially the extra large jog wheels and a microphone input are not a given in this price range. |
 Pioneer DDJ-200: The currently most affordable model from Pioneer is aimed at all beginners who want to dip their toes into DJing. Nevertheless, the controller is well-equipped and is compatible with rekordbox, WeDJ, and other apps on iOS and Android. The recommendation for all newcomers! |
Intermediate Users
If you've been DJing for a while and have some experience, or maybe you want to switch from analog to digital, then the Pioneer controllers in the mid-range price segment might be of interest. Equipped with 4 channels, professional effects, and many features that make DJing easier, they offer enough equipment to make intermediates and even professionals happy.
 Pioneer DDJ-FLX10: The flagship controller and successor to the DDJ-1000 impresses both intermediates and professionals. Can convince with the familiar club layout and many professional features such as STEMS. One of the most sought-after Pioneer DJ controller models on the market and our recommendation for those looking for a reliable and high-quality controller and want to work with both Serato and rekordbox! |
 Pioneer DDJ-FLX6: Anyone looking for a controller that is suitable for both rekordbox and Serato DJ and can convince with an excellent price-performance ratio will find the DDJ-FLX6 perfect. The controller offers 4 channels, 206mm full-size jog wheels, and Merge-FX buttons, making it easier to mix difficult tracks. |
Professionals & Power Users
Anyone who DJs professionally or maybe works in radio or television will also find the right controller in the professional segment at Pioneer. Equipped with tons of features, the power user will be happy here.
 Pioneer DDJ-REV7: The Serato flagship offers all the features expected of a professional DJ controller and more. With its motorized jog wheels with acrylic finish, the REV7 comes extremely close to real vinyl in feeling and operation. Naturally, you can expect a fully equipped controller, limited only by the user's skills, including 22 Beat FX, performance pads with multiple modes, adjustable crossfader curves, and much more! |
All current Pioneer DDJ controllers at a glance
Here are all the characteristics, details, and features of the Pioneer DDJ controller series listed. This way, you can directly compare all models and see what features the controller has and what it should be missing.
This table is horizontally scrollable!
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| Model | DDJ-200 | DDJ-REV1 | DDJ-FLX4 | DDJ-XP2 | DDJ-FLX6-GT | DDJ-REV5 | DDJ-FLX10 | DDJ-REV7 |
| MSRP | 169 € | 309 € | 319 € | 369 € | 649 € | 1099 € | 1649 € | 2149 € |
| Channels | 2 channels | 2 channels | 2 channels | 2 channels | 4 channels | 2 + 2 channels | 4 channels | 2 channels |
| Type | DJ Controller | DJ Controller | DJ Controller | Add-On Controller | DJ Controller | DJ Controller | DJ Controller | DJ Controller |
| Standalone | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Pads | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Display | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
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| Soundcard | - | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz | 24 Bit/48 kHz | - | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz | 24 Bit/48 kHz |
| Jog Wheels | Plastic | 154 mm Plastic | 111 mm Plastic | - | 206 mm Plastic - On Jog Displays | 206 mm Plastic - On Jog Displays | 170 mm Plastic - On-Jog Displays | 207 mm Acrylic - On-Jog Displays |
| Pad FX | Yes | Yes | - | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | - | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter |
| Sampler | - | 8 Memory Slots x 4 Banks | 16 Slots (rekordbox) 4 Slots (Serato) | - | 16 Memory Slots x 4 Banks | 8 Memory Slots x 4 Banks | 16 Memory Slots x 4 Banks | 8 Memory Slots x 4 Banks |
| Hot Cues | 8 | 4 | 4 (Serato) | 8 (rekordbox) | - | 8 | 8 | 16 | 8 |
| Beat Jump | - | - | Yes | - | Yes | Yes | Yes | - |
| Manual Loop | Yes | Yes | Yes | - | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Autoloop | - | Yes | Yes | - | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Slip Mode | - | - | - | - | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Needle Search | - | - | - | - | - | Yes | - | - |
| Weight | 1.2 kg | 2.1 kg | 2.1 kg | 1.5 kg | 3.8 kg | 6.4 kg | 7.2 kg | 4.3 kg |
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| Notes | Smartphone holder included | Pad Scratch, FX Fade | Bluetooth, DVS Upgrade Ready | - | Full-sized jog wheels | Full-sized jog wheels | Full-sized jog wheels, built-in USB hub | Beat FX, 5.1 Channel Surround Sound |
Pioneer Standalone Controller - XDJ Series
The DDJ series consists solely of controllers that require a laptop or computer as a host. They are controllers that do not function autonomously. If you want to be completely independent from the computer, you need a DJ controller that can operate standalone, meaning it doesn't require a PC or laptop and comes with its own processor, memory, and operating system. Pioneer designates these controllers with an XDJ in the name.
The XDJ series doesn't just comprise controllers but also standalone media players capable of playing music from USB sticks and hard drives. They are primarily aimed at professional DJs who perform in larger clubs and festivals. Since this overview only covers DJ controllers, we focus solely on the controllers in the XDJ series.
Current XDJ Controllers in Detail
In the XDJ series, it's difficult to distinguish between beginner or professional models. All models are aimed at the ambitious (semi-)pro who regularly performs in streams or clubs and seeks a reliable model that remains stable in operation even in critical situations.
Since the entire series operates standalone with its own operating system, a laptop or computer failure can be minimized. Pioneer devices have been tested in clubs and festivals for years and prove to be reliable workhorses. This naturally applies to the XDJ controllers as well.
The decisive factor for the purchase decision here is simply the abundance of features and functions one can expect for their money.
 Pioneer XDJ-RR: With the XDJ-RR, you get a compact standalone controller that provides all the key features and functions of the NXS-2 series. You can create professional sets on a total of 2 channels. A full version of rekordbox DJ is included, which the controller can also work with, of course. Trade-offs must be made with slightly smaller jog wheels, fewer inputs/outputs, fewer effects, and only 4 pads per deck. |
 Pioneer XDJ-RX3: The RX3 comes with an extra-large 10.1-inch WXGA touchscreen display and excels with phenomenal control and some new and clever features. In addition to the extremely rich effects section, equipped with 14 Beat FX and 6 Sound Color FX, jog wheels with On-Jog Displays await their use. New features like Touch Preview for previewing by pressing on the waveform or Release FX for easy exit from effect chains make the RX3 perhaps the most complete of all controllers. Additionally, this controller works both standalone and with rekordbox DJ and also Serato DJ Pro. |
 Pioneer XDJ-XZ: Pioneer's current top model is aimed at all professionals who do not want to compromise. This controller offers all the advantages that a professional DJ seeks. A large 206mm jog wheel with On-Jog Displays, 4 channels (2 standalone), a large display, and a total of 14 Beat FX effects and 6 Sound Color FX will make every DJ's heart beat faster. Rekordbox dj is included. Additional compatibility is available for Serato DJ Pro, rekordbox video, rekordbox dvs, and Serato DVS (paid). Thus, the XDJ-XZ is currently the most comprehensively equipped standalone DJ controller from Pioneer and our hot tip for all (semi-)professionals. |
All XDJ Models Overview
All the features, details, functions, and technical data of the XDJ controller series can be found below in the handy overview:
This table is horizontally scrollable!
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| Model | XDJ-RR | XDJ-RX3 | XDJ-XZ |
| MSRP | 1229 € | 2049 € | 2479 € |
| Channels | 2 channels | 2 channels | 2 channels (4 channels as Midi-Controller) |
| Type | DJ Controller | DJ Controller | DJ Controller |
| Standalone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pads | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Display | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Software incl. | rekordbox dj | rekordbox dj | rekordbox dj |
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| Soundcard | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz | 24 Bit/44.1 kHz |
| Jog-Wheels | 111 mm Plastic | 135 mm Plastic | 206 mm Aluminum |
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| Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter | High and Low Pass Filter |
| Hot Cues | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Beat Loop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Beat Jump | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Slip Loop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Beat Sync | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Quantize | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| WaveZoom | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Manual Loop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 5.2 kg | 9.3 kg | 13.0 kg |
| Width | 625 mm | 728 mm | 878 mm |
| Height | 74 mm | 118 mm | 118 mm |
| Depth | 388 mm | 469 mm | 466 mm |