Serato is a name that is synonymous with DJing. Serato is also the most widely supported DJ software platform on the planet. But with that comes a staggering amount of choices, which can be challenging to navigate.
This guide will help you discover which Serato controller is suitable for you. Our Editor’s Choice is the rock-solid Rane Four. It features excellent connectivity, performance features, and deep Stem integration.
After over 15 years of using DJ controllers, we have seen everything from glorified toys to industry-defining choices. This experience puts us in a perfect position to only recommend the best.
Due to how ubiquitous Serato is, our research method spanned multiple weeks as we carefully dissected what each controller had to offer. We then tested our top choices to ensure they met our high standards. The result is a pure showcase of the best on the market.
Quick Summary
- Editor’s Choice: Rane Four
“Ultra high-quality DJ controller with deep integration with Serato DJ features, extensive performance features, and onboard Stem controls.” - Best For Scratching: Pioneer DDJ-REV7
“Featuring a battle style layout and outstanding motorized jog wheels, the REV7 is an ideal premium choice for scratch DJs.“ - Best Value: Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7
“A DJ controller that punches well above its price point. Excellent motorized jog wheels and performance controls at a great price.“ - Best For Beginners: Pioneer DDJ-REV1
“Straightforward and logical layout ensures new DJs can rapidly evolve their skills. Large jog wheels are also excellent for learning scratching.“ - Best Budget: Numark Mixtrack Pro FX
“A low-cost option that provides all the essentials new DJs need. Long tempo faders, full 3-band EQ, and performance pads.“ - Best For Producers: Roland DJ 505
“Blur the lines between DJing and producing with this innovative DJ controller with a built-in drum sequencer., and essential DJ features.“
Product Reviews
There are plenty of choices when it comes to Serato-compatible controllers. From budget options to the top DJ controllers. Let’s check out the range of options to choose from.
The Rane Four is an outstanding controller with tight integration with Serato. Multiple onboard buttons offer direct control over various Serato features, making it an ideal choice for Serato DJ Pro fans.
The central mixer section offers an abundance of features, including a four-channel mixer with dedicated 3-band EQ, Channel FX with four available filters, and FX paddles for added creative flexibility.
Supporting this is an expansive performance pad section with multiple performance modes. Additional controls for loops and onboard Stem controls add to the comprehensive feature set.
For a dedicated Serato DJ Pro user, it’s a near-perfect DJ controller. But the abundance of buttons, functions, and channels can be overwhelming if you are a new DJ. However, you’ll become familiar with the layout and features in time.
The Rane Four is also built like a tank. Ultra-durable and ready to handle the rigors of constant gigging. Large jog wheels with onboard screens and comprehensive connection options add to the appeal, making it a workhorse option that will last.
For Serato DJ Pro fans who want everything at their fingertips, no controller is as refined as the Rane Four. Every essential feature we tested and assessed was available, and the execution was outstanding.
Read our full Rane Four review for more detailed information.
Browse customer reviews from people who have purchased this product.
Watch the official video below or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information and full product specifications.
Pioneer DDJ-REV7
Best For Scratching
Overall Rating (9/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
Most scratch DJs use Serato DJ Pro, and the DDJ-REV7 offers exceptional integration and features that marry perfectly with Serato and the general layout that scratch DJs expect high-end gear.
The central mixer section replicates the popular DJM-S7 with a natural and logical battle-style layout. Even the decks replicate the default layout of turntables, making this controller an ideal choice for scratch enthusiasts.
If you are a DJ used to Pioneer’s club setups, the layout is quite different, and you’ll need time to get familiar. However, once you get into a groove, you’ll appreciate the thought that has gone into this DJ controller.
The jog wheels are also among the best-motorized platters on a DJ controller. They offer a turntable feel that is perfect for scratching. You’ll need to play around with the torque settings to find your sweet spot, but once dialed in, it is sublime.
Everything else you expect from a high-quality controller is also present. Robust build quality from an industry juggernaut, an excellent selection of inputs and outputs, and ample performance features.
The Magvel Fader is also superb, but the clunky power brick is a slight letdown. The Pioneer DDJ-REV7 could easily take the top spot, but its scratch-focused design will only be for some. But if you are a scratch DJ, the REV7 is a premium bit of kit you’ll adore.
Read our full Pioneer DDJ-REV7 review for more detailed information.
Browse customer reviews from people who have purchased this product.
Watch the official video below or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information and full product specifications.
Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7
Best Value
Overall Rating (8/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
The first two options I’ve showcased come with a hefty price tag. If you are searching for something more affordable yet still highly capable, the Inpulse T7 is worth exploring.
This DJ controller offers motorized platters at a price that is hard to beat. Felt slipmats and 7-inch replica vinyl records deliver a superb mixing and scratching experience.
Below these excellent jog wheels is a bank of performance pads with ample modes, allowing you to get as creative as you want. Dedicated stem controls support these pads, which opens up even more creative mixing opportunities.
The central mixer section offers a two-channel setup with paddle FX. Easy to understand and fun to use. Add to this beatmatch and beat align guides, and the Inpulse T7 becomes a solid premium choice for new DJs.
The only stumbling block is including the intro version of Serato DJ software. DJUCED is a solid DJ software platform. However, I suggest using Serato and paying the one-time upgrade fee for the complete experience. However, the Inpulse T7 still represents outstanding value even with this added cost.
The Inpulse T7 also offers balanced outputs and mic-in. Still, it does lack some of the more extensive connectivity of more expensive controllers. If you want maximum bang for your buck, the Inpulse T7 is a value-packed choice that punches well above its price point.
Watch the official video below or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information and full product specifications.
Pioneer DDJ-REV1
Best For Beginners
Overall Rating (7/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
For people new to the world of DJing, handing over a lot of money is not always a great idea. If you want to get started but want to keep costs low, the Pioneer DDJ-REV1 is an excellent option for beginners.
The REV1 offers a scratch DJ focus with a familiar battle-style layout in a compact package. This compactness makes the mixer feel slightly cramped, and the performance pads are on the small side. But in our testing, we adapted rapidly to this smaller work area.
The large and responsive jog wheels are great for new DJs to begin mastering the fine art of scratching. The REV1 also offers multiple performance pad modes and paddle FX.
As with most entry-level controllers, the tempo faders are a little short, but you’ll have access to Sync if you find it challenging to beatmatch songs. Looping functionality is also readily accessible.
The low price point does result in some omissions. You’ll only have access to the intro version of Serato DJ software, and the controller lacks balanced outputs. But at this price point, these drawbacks are unsurprising.
Starting your DJ journey can be daunting, but the Pioneer DDJ-REV1 makes that initial learning experience a joy. If you have ambitions of scratching and using Serato, the DDJ-REV1 is an ideal entry point.
Read our full Pioneer DDJ-REV1 review for more detailed information.
Browse customer reviews from people who have purchased this product.
Watch the official video below or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information and full product specifications.
Numark Mixtrack Pro FX
Best Budget
Overall Rating (7/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
Taking the low-cost mentality even further is the budget-priced Numark Mixtrack Pro FX. This Serato DJ controller offers a more traditional club-style central mixer section while still giving you access to plenty of performance features.
Some budget controllers skimp on vital inclusions, but that isn’t the case with the Mixtrack Pro FX. You’ll have access to a full 3-band EQ, level meters, filters, performance pads, loop controls, and FX features.
The FX controls are ultra-easy to use, with quick access to the most popular FX via dedicated buttons and paddles to instantly activate FX. The long tempo faders are also excellent for new DJs coming to grips with beatmatching.
As with other lower-priced controllers, the Mixtrack Pro FX features the intro version of Serato. It is enough to get started, but you’ll eventually want to upgrade to the full version to take advantage of more features like recording your mixes.
You’ll also have access to an unbalanced RCA Master Out and a microphone input. The overall design is an improvement from previous Numark DJ controllers. Still, it isn’t as refined and attractive as some of the competition.
Despite a few minor gripes, it’s difficult to be overly critical when considering how affordable this DJ controller is. It’s a fantastic DJ controller for new DJs without stacks of cash to splurge on more expensive choices.
Read our full Numark Mixtrack Pro FX review for more detailed information.
Browse customer reviews from people who have purchased this product.
Watch the official video below or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information and full product specifications.
Roland DJ 505
Best For Producers
Overall Rating (7/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
The Roland DJ 505 is an innovative DJ controller with excellent Serato integration. The built-in drum machine is a unique inclusion that sets it apart from the competition.
The drum machine functionality opens access to iconic TR-series elements for on-the-fly beat creation—an ideal feature for producers who want to be more creative in their DJ sets.
But it’s not just about the drum machine. The rest of the unit features everything you need to DJ. A complete central mixer section gives you control over your tracks.
The DJ 505 also features extensive performance pad modes, detailed FX options, and looping controls. When you combine all this with the drum machine, the DJ 505 stands out as one of the most versatile and creative options at this price point.
The jog wheels, while on the smaller side, still offer excellent responsiveness. Enough tactile control and precision to also incorporate scratch routines into your DJ sets.
The drum sequencer does represent a steep learning curve, and this controller isn’t for everybody. However, if you prioritize uniqueness and want to blur the lines between DJing and producing, the Roland DJ 505 is a superb choice.
Read our full Roland DJ 505 review for more detailed information.
Browse customer reviews from people who have purchased this product.
Watch the official video below or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information and full product specifications.
Buying Advice
There are a few key considerations to factor in when you’re looking to buy DJ controllers with Serato. This guide covers the top 3 elements you must be aware of.
Serato DJ Lite vs. Serato DJ Pro
The first thing to consider is what level of software comes with the controller.
Serato DJ Lite is free-to-use DJ software often bundled with entry-level controllers. This stripped-back version retains all the core features new DJs need to start DJing.
You can crossfade, beatmatch, and adjust EQ to create mixes. You’ll also be able to set cue points and loops. You can also use Serato DJ Lite in practice mode without a controller.
Serato DJ Pro is a powerful and popular DJ software platform.
Serato DJ Pro, as the name implies, is a professional piece of DJ software. It’s available as a monthly subscription or via a one-off purchase. Many controllers will come with the full version of the software. It’s worth factoring this in when you’re comparing prices between controllers.
Serato DJ Pro opens up the full range of 46 built-in FX. It also provides further track analysis, like the song’s Key, to give you more detailed information. A sampler also opens up to provide you with more creative options when mixing.
But, by far, the most significant upgrade is the ability to record your mixes. This becomes even more important for new DJs. You want to be able to record and playback your mixes for your enjoyment and to analyze and critique your mixes.
Two vs. Four Channel
The other thing to consider is what type of DJ you are and if you’ll need four channels. When I began my DJ journey, I had a cheap 2-channel controller. This allowed me to grasp and master the fundamentals.
As my skills evolved, I moved on to a 4-channel controller. While I did use four channels, it was a smaller game-changer than I imagined.
The style of mixes I created then only needed access to two channels. I’ve since embraced four-channel controllers and the creative options it opens up. Still, it is optional for many DJs, including professionals.
Not all DJs mix using four channels.
Keep this in mind when selecting a controller. If you are a new DJ, stick to a two-channel option. Not only will it be cheaper, but it will also be easier to learn. Then, once you better understand the type of DJ you are, you can explore different options.
If you find two channels are enough, you can get a two-channel controller stacked with features without paying the extra for a four-channel version. Suppose you want to get more creative with how many tracks you play simultaneously. In that case, you can look at buying a quality four-channel controller.
FX Integration
One of the deciding differences between various Serato controllers is how they handle FX. Having access to a good set of knobs to control the wet/dry mix makes using DJ effects much more accessible.
Many Serato DJ controllers also offer paddle FX. It’s a tactile and fun way to add FX to your DJ sets. It’s also a staple of scratching-focused mixers, making it an excellent learning experience if you ever play on pro scratch gear.
If adding FX is a critical part of your DJ experience, it’s worth paying extra close attention to this section of the controller. Some Serato controllers handle this better than others.
The Future Of DJ Software
For a long time, the only natural alternative to Serato was Traktor, which limited you to the Native Instruments ecosystem of controllers. But Native Instruments does make some fantastic controllers.
Virtual DJ is another popular and powerful DJ software platform, but it is often not what you would encounter in clubs, making it more for hobbyists.
For a long time, Serato had a firm grip on the marketplace. As a result, all the major DJ gear manufacturers were creating Serato DJ equipment, which they still do.
With the release of the rekordbox DJ from Pioneer and associated Pioneer DJ equipment, the game changed, and many thought the days of Serato dominance might come to a close.
However, Serato’s continued popularity and excellent feature set have kept it one of the most popular DJ software platforms.
Serato also offers a comprehensive range of tutorial videos that can rapidly get you up to speed with all the features this powerful DJ software platform offers. You can access the complete list of videos below.
The growing interest in portable DJing has also led to a rise in apps that allow DJs to use their smartphones or tablets as an alternative to a laptop. While Serato has dipped its toes in the water, its strengths lie in the classic laptop environment.
While Rekordbox is the preparation platform for many club DJs and gear, Serato is here to stay, and it is still the go-to choice for many professional DJs.
Our Verdict
The landscape of controllers available for Serato is broad. All levels of DJs can dive in and experience one of the world’s best pieces of DJ software. And it’s all backed by outstanding Serato DJ hardware. Determining the best can be difficult as every DJ has different needs and budget levels.
However, after countless hours of research and testing, we have refined the list to offer something for every level and type of DJ. But the standout choice is the superb Rane Four.
This high-quality DJ controller is suitable for both regular and scratch DJs. It offers tight integration with Serato and rock-solid build quality. While it is an expensive piece of DJ gear, its features are unrivaled for Serato DJ fans. A controller built to last and at the top of professional-level Serato DJ controllers.
