Which DJ controllers are compatible with Virtual DJ software? Which of those controllers are the best?
The entry level controller starts with a great look utilizing an aluminum top panel and JOG wheels that illuminate with red and blue LEDs. For increased versatility, the DDJ-WeGO3 is compatible with a variety of software including djay 2 for iPad and iPhone, djay for Mac, Serato DJ Intro, TRAKTOR PRO 2, and VirtualDJ Limited Edition. Learning to DJ has never been easier than with the DDJ-400 2-channel DJ controller for rekordbox dj. Packed with features to help you comfortably develop your skills, this controller’s layout mirrors that of our flagship NXS2 set-up, with shared elements like dedicated cue buttons, Beat FX, CDJ-style looping controls and more.
With over 100,000,000 downloads, Virtual DJ is one of the most popular DJ software on the planet. Considering many DJ controllers are not compatible with Virtual DJ, many DJs have been wondering which ones are compatible. To take it a step further, which of the DJ controllers compatible with Virtual DJ are good. Nonetheless, we scoured our DJ friends, made phone calls to many manufacturers, and have had many experiences in using most DJ controllers on the market.
It took a bit of time, but after a while, we finally found all of the DJ controllers that are compatible with Virtual DJ. Of them, We picked the 11 very best controllers for any budget and all levels of experience. Some of the controllers on this list are great for beginners.
Others are better for intermediate, and a few for top-tier professional DJs. Keep in mind that any DJ controller on this list will be a great pick. Some controllers may be more suitable for you and your situation.
Without further ado, here are the best and highest-rated DJ controllers that are compatible with Virtual DJ.
In Short, Here Are 11 Best DJ Controllers Compatible With Virtual DJ
- Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000
- Numark NV II
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2
- Numark Mixtrack 3
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3
- Numark DJ2GO2
- Pioneer DDJ-SX3
- Numark Mixtrack Pro II USB
- Denon DJ MC6000MK2
- Pioneer DJ DDJSR
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
1. Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000
Of every single DJ controller on the market, the Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000 has the highest ratings of them all. Although the manufacturer claims it’s mainly compatible with the software Recordbox, it works perfectly with Virtual DJ as well. If you’re an intermediate to professional DJ with the extra cash to spend, I highly recommend this controller.
Without spending $8000 on a full club setup, this is the controller you want for the most professional-sounding audio for any club or festival. It has full-sized jog wheels that have a great feel. The magvel faders are fantastic and are incredibly smooth. Night club DJs will tremendously benefit from this controller since it’s very well lit for the darkest of venues.
Unlike most Pioneer DJ controllers, the Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000 is not compatible with Serato since it uses Rekordbox. However, getting used to Rekordbox was much easier than I expected. Something I like about the Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000 is the display is located in the center of the jog wheels.
You are able only to pull up exactly what you need to look at. In terms of the build quality, I give it an 11 out of 10. One purchase of this controller is all you will ever need for a lifetime and more. Since it’s built for superior longevity and durability, the DDJ-1000 is more than capable of withstanding vigorous touring conditions.
Overall, the Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000 is, in my opinion, the best DJ controller for professionals without spending 7-8K. I highly recommend it.
Features and Details
- Rekordbox is the compatible software
- Very well lit
- Great magvel faders
- Adjustable LCD display on jogwheels
- Pioneer recommends you to download the latest firmware from their website for all of their DJ controllers
- Full-sized jog wheels
- Flawless build quality
2. Numark NV II
Next up, the Numark NV II is an incredible DJ controller with four channels. It comes with the Serato DJ software, but it’s also compatible with Virtual DJ as well. Something I like about it is the abundance of controls nicely compact throughout the portable-sized board.
The 5-inch jog wheels have a great feel, look, and are very responsive. Both of the screens on the top left and top right of the Numark NV II have a great look and work relatively well. With the screens, you can scroll through your library without touching your laptop. You can also sort songs on your playlist by the song’s keys or BPM making it very beneficial for your set and transitions.
Above the 8 performance pads on each deck are 5 labeled velocity-sensitive pads. The five pads are cues, auto, loop, sampler, and slicer. You can also trigger an effect simply by touching the touch-sensitive knobs. The design is beautiful, and the controller is relatively compact, making it easy to travel with. All of the controls and functions work exceptionally well without any hesitation.
This controller allows you to use up to six effects at the same time per channel. Overall, the Numark NV II is a great DJ controller at a competitive price.
Features and Details
- 4 decks
- 4 channels
- Touch-sensitive jog wheels
- Compact design
- 3-band EQ
- Full-size pitch fader
- 2 built-in screens on the top left and top right
3. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2
The popular and Highly-rated Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 is a fantastic and affordable DJ controller. It is compatible with Serato, Rekordbox, Virtual DJ 8, and DJ Pro software. For the competitive price, you will be surprised by how well it functions and the robust build quality.
This controller also comes with a quarter-inch if you want to hook up a microphone. It has 4-decks total with multiple different functions. To access decks 3 and 4, you must press the button located on the left and right-hand side of the console.
The mixer section is the center of the SB2 controller has a filter and three separate EQ knobs for each channel. Overall, this controller is a top-tier product for entry-level DJs who want to start performing at parties and clubs at a reasonable price.
Features and Details
- Crossfader
- 2-deck
- 2 filter knobs
- Pioneer recommends you to download the latest firmware from their website for all of their DJ controllers
- Serato recommends downloading the latest Serato DJ software version from their website
- RCA output jack
- USB Jack
- Compatible with Serato, Virtual DJ 8, DJ pro, and DJ Pro
4. Numark Mixtrack 3
Next up, the Numark Mixtrack 3 is a great entry-level controller that is very affordable. Not only compatible with Virtual DJ, but it also comes with a 30-day free trial of Virtual DJ 8 LE. Upon opening the box, you will be surprised by its size and build for the low price.
Although it’s made of plastic, it is a sturdy plastic that has a robust feel to it. This controller does not come with a sound card. You must either purchase an additional USB soundcard to plug your headphones into the controller.
The jog wheels are not a full-size but are quite decent and responsive. Unfortunately, it gets a bit dirty since it keeps your fingerprints on the wheels. You may need to clean it every so often. I do love how this controller comes with just about all of the controls you need. Many DJs also use this to gig at parties and clubs until they gather the funds to upgrade controllers. Overall, the Virtual DJ compatible Numark Mixtrack 3 is an affordable DJ controller that is great for beginners.
Features and Details
- 30-day free trial of Virtual DJ 8 LE
- 16 pads total
- Compatible with Virtual DJ
- Made of plastic
- Great for beginners
5. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 is, in my opinion, the most performance-worthy portable DJ controller on the market. Most, if not all, DJ controllers at this compact size are not nearly as good as the DDJ-SB3. Not only is it the most gig-worthy compact DJ controller, but it is also very well priced. I tend to think they underpriced this system by about $50. While it is compatible with Virtual DJ, you must pay an additional $20 to use it.
With its 24-bit/44.1kHz audio interface, the sound quality is outstanding for the affordable price. Not only do I think that, but the majority of users say the same. It was very well-built made out of high-quality audio circuitry for maximum durability and sound clarity.
The FX fade feature makes it very easy to mix. Many claim the DDJ-SB3 is the absolute best entry-level Controller on the market. Beginners will like the fact that it’s relatively compact, cost-effective, easy to navigate and use, and it performs exceptionally well to the point it can be your full-time setup for years.
Overall, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 is the best on this list for portability. I highly recommend this controller for DJs that don’t mind the extra space that needs a high quality, yet, smaller gig performance-ready option. It is, however, very highly rated across the board!
Features and Details
- Pioneer recommends you to download the latest firmware from their website for all of their DJ controllers
- Serato recommends downloading the latest Serato DJ software version from their website
- Must pay additional $20 to use virtual DJ
- 16 performance pads
- Great for Scratching
- Unnoticeable latency with jog wheels
- 2 volume faders
- 2 tempo faders
- High pass filter
- Low pass filter
- Depth: 10.7 inches
- Height: 2.3 inches
- Width: 19 inches
6. Numark DJ2GO2
First and foremost, the Numark DJ2GO2 is the cheapest DJ controller on the list. However, it is an extremely portable and great entry-level controller. There is a catch, for it to be compatible with Virtual DJ, you must pay a $50 license. On a more positive note, it’s quite ridiculous how low of a price it is compared to its value. It has a built-in audio interface that can connect to Mac or PC via USB. With this controller, you can either replicate turntables or digital.
It’s one of the most compact and portable DJ controls on the market, weighing less than a pound. My friend actually keeps this in his back-pack wherever he goes just in case he runs into a situation where he may need it at a party or for backup.
The NumarkDJ2GO2 has a pretty good soundcard and exceptional abilities to set auto or manual loops. In terms of sound quality, it can stand toe to toe with four cue points and headphone cueing skills; it provides plenty of features for creativity to flow. While most would think blending songs would be a trainwreck with a DJ controller at such a low price, I’ve found that not to be the case at all with the DJ2GO2.
A downside I noticed about the Numark DJ2GO2 was its needed software upgrade. Although it “comes with Serato DJ Lite software,” unfortunately, you are forced to pay a bit of money to upgrade to keep it after 15 days. In my personal opinion, they should’ve increased the price by $15 and have Serato DJ with the purchase.
Overall, the Numark DJ2GO2 a great and affordable backup portable controller. I highly recommend it if you’re in need of a secondary controller, DJing parties, or fun on a budget!
Features and Details
- Must purchase $50 license to use Virtual DJ
- Auto loops
- Master volume
- Browsing knob
- Cue level knob for headphones
- Even curve crossfader
- 4 trigger pads on each side for Cues
- Pitch bending with the jog wheels
- Load buttons on both sides of the deck
- 16-bit/44kHz audio interface
7. Pioneer DDJ-SX3
Next up, the Pioneer DDJ-SX3 is a professional top-tier DJ controller that comes with Serato Flip and Serato Pitch n Time. It’s even compatible with Virtual DJ as well. Even for beginners, the deck is basically universal and incredibly easy to use. With the purchase, you also get a stand and DJ headphones.
The highly-rated DDJ-SX3 has 4-channels, 3 separate mic inputs, and dual USB ports. Each of the two decks onboard has an effects section, transport controls, 8 performance pads, a jog wheel, and more. It has a stand-alone mixer while the channels have multiple effects such as a volume fader, crossfader, assigned switches, etc. What I like about the stand-alone mixer is its ability to mix and adjust the audio for various applications without your laptop.
In general, you will find sound-colored effects in a much more expensive console. However, one of the most significant upgrades Pioneer did to the SX3 is the four separate sound color effects in the center of the console. The four effects are Echo, Jet, Noise, and Filter. They all work incredibly well.
You are also able to use these effects on any audio signal running through the four channels separately. Another upgrade is the three separate microphone input jacks. One is an XLR, another is the combo TRS, and the quarter jack on the front face.
You can route and adjust the mix for your plugged-in microphone directly into the stand-alone mixer. Speaking of using the microphone, you also have the ability to use the four separate sound color effects on the mic signal. Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-SX3 is a reliable and professional mixer/DJ controller that won’t let you down for just about any application.
Features and Details
- Comes with both Serato Flip and Serato Pitch n Time
- 2 decks onboard
- Has a stand-alone mixer
- Pioneer recommends you to download the latest firmware from their website for all of their DJ controllers
- Serato recommends downloading the latest Serato DJ software version from their website
- 2 5-inch jog wheels
- Dual USB jacks
- 3 separate microphone inputs
- Onboard sound colored effects
- Compatible with Serato and Virtual DJ
- 4-channel
- 16 performance pads total, 8 per deck
- XLR outputs
8. Numark Mixtrack Pro II USB
Coming with Numark Remix Toolkit, the Numark Mixtrack Pro II USB is a high-quality DJ controller for beginners. While it also comes with Serato DJ Intro, it is also compatible with Virtual DJ. Due to its built-in audio interface, this DJ controller sounds absolutely fantastic, hooked up to a PA.
While I’m not a big fan, the control wheels feel, are touch-sensitive, and perform incredibly. However, the knobs, sliders, and 16 pads are overall amazing. This controller is pretty easy to use and get started with.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro II USB makes it relatively easy to learn beatmatching for beginners. Something I don’t like about this controller is you must pay extra for the full Serato DJ. In my opinion, it’s costly as it is, and the full version software should’ve come with the purchase. I only recommend this for beginners.
Features and Details
- Touch-sensitive control wheels
- 16 pads
- Comes with Numark Remix Toolkit
- Comes with Serato DJ Intro which can be upgraded to Serato DJ after purchase
- Great for scratching
9. Denon DJ MC6000MK2
Coming with Serato DJ Intro, the Denon DJ MC6000MK2 is the upgraded version of the original MC6000 by Denon. The reason why the MK2, rather than the original MC6000 made this list, is because this controller is much easier to navigate and use.
This controller is extremely compact and portable. Better yet, it’s well built and designed for longevity with its all-metal construction. It is compatible with Virtual DJ Pro, Serato DJ, and Traktor Pro 2. With 4-channels and four decks, this controller also has a built-in stand-alone mixer making this a very versatile unit.
Something I really like about the Denon DJ MC6000MK2 is the two separate microphone inputs. One mic input is XLR, and the other is a quarter-inch. Both microphone inputs each have a separate three-band EQ on the front panel. This enables you to mix both microphones independently for different voice types.
The only downside to the Denon DJ MC6000MK2 is that it doesn’t have performance pads. However, every other quality in a professional controller that you can think of, the MC6000MK2 has it down-packed. Overall, the Denon DJ MC6000MK2 is one of the top DJ controllers below $1000. I highly recommend it if your not in need of performance pads.
Features and Details
- Compatible with Virtual DJ Pro, Serato DJ, and Traktor Pro 2.
- USB port
- Made of metal
- 4-channels
- 4 decks
- 2 microphone inputs (one XLR, one-quarter-inch)
- Metal Jog wheels
- Stand-alone mixerNo performance pads
10. Pioneer DJ DDJSR
The 4-channel Pioneer DJ DDJSR is a reliable DJ controller. It comes with Serato DJ in the form of a CD or driver. However, it’s also compatible with DJay Pro, and Virtual DJ 8. I must say, this controller certainly helped expand the growth of my DJ skills.
I recommend it for beginners up to advanced level. It’s easy to use, and it has just about everything you need for an advanced DJ. It has a great design and robust build quality with its aluminum plate, aluminum jog wheels, and tough knobs. Both of the aluminum jog wheels are large and have excellent scratching abilities. This DJ controller is relatively compact and easy to travel with. After the software download, it’s a relatively straightforward set and entirely powered by USB.
The audio controls are designed very well and perform great. The crossfader located on the front panel works excellent for smooth transitions or quick changes. Each channel has a filter for either a low pass or high pass. Something I like about the Pioneer DJ DDJSR is the features of the performance pads. You can trigger samples, effects, and cue points with them easily and effectively. Overall, this DJ controller is a great value.
Features and Details
- 4-channel mixer (total)
- Comes with Serato DJ
- Relatively compact
- Able to layer between decks
- Large jog wheels for great scratching abilities
- Pioneer recommends you to download the latest firmware from their website for all of their DJ controllers.
- Serato recommends downloading the latest Serato DJ software version from their website
- USB powered
- Front panel: Headphone input and volume, crossfader reverse, and crossfader curve, mic input, and mic level.
- Back Panel: Aux input, booth out, master out, USB port, and on/off
- Low and high pass filters
- Sampler volume control
11. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
Once again, Pioneer hit another home run out of the park with the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2. One of the highest-rated on the market, this DJ controller is also quite portable as well. Not only compatible with Virtual DJ, but the overall layout is perfect.
You have all of the features and effects you need to perform just about any gig on a relatively compact controller while the knobs are not crammed too tightly together. The controls are easy to navigate and play with, as well. It also comes with the full version of Serato DJ software. You even can use this DJ controller as a 2-channel standalone mixer.
One of the most important qualities any technological device needs is durability and longevity. Your expensive DJ controller must last you as long as you have it without breaking. If your equipment breaks, that’s basically the equivalent of throwing your hard-earned money away.
That’s what I love about the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2. It is exceptionally durable for its price range. Made of metal on roughly every end, this controller is built to the last regardless of how many gigs you play. The jog wheels are even made of metal as well.
Features and Details
- Pioneer recommends you download the latest firmware from their website for all of their DJ controllers
- Serato recommends downloading the latest Serato DJ software version from their website
- Comes with the full Serato DJ software
- Very durable and able to last (made of metal)
- USB port
- Microphone input
- 2 XLR
- RCA input
- 4 decks total (2 outside decks and 2 digital decks on jog wheel)
Our Winners
We picked a few winners for each different category below. (1) Best entry-level controller for lowest price, (2) Best bang for the buck, (3) Absolute best DJ controller for professionals. Keep in mind that any DJ controller on this list will be a great pick. Some controllers may be more suitable for you and your situation. However, after countless hours of research, we ended up picking a few winners for our best 11 DJ controllers compatible with Virtual DJ.
Bestentry-levelcontrollerforthe lowestprice- The best entry-level DJ controller compatible with Virtual DJ is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3. Unfortunately, you must pay an additional $20 to use Virtual Dj. However, this controller is a flawless entry-level controller that is efficient, durable, and portable. You will be very pleased.
Bestbangforthebuck– The absolute best bang for the buck DJ controller is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2 since it delivers the highest performance for the competitive price.
AbsolutebestDJcontrollerforprofessionals– Our overall top DJ controller pick on the current market that is compatible with Virtual DJ is the Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000. It is an incredible controller for professionals that need nothing less than stellar equipment.
What’s a DJ controller?
A DJ controller is the unit DJs use to mix music with DJ software. DJ controllers and DJ software work together.
How much does a DJ controller cost?
With a few exceptions, most DJ controllers have a vast price range and can run you anywhere from as low as $89 all the way up to $3000. Some of the more popular controllers hover between $140-$700.
How much does a DJ controller weigh?
Although it highly depends on the size, most DJ controllers weigh between 6.6-13 pounds. However, some of the pocket DJ controllers weigh much less than that.
Quick Recap
Here Are The Best 11 DJ Controllers Compatible With Virtual DJ
- Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000
- Numark NV II
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2
- Numark Mixtrack 3
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3
- Numark DJ2GO2
- Pioneer DDJ-SX3
- Numark Mixtrack Pro II USB
- Denon DJ MC6000MK2
- Pioneer DJ DDJSR
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-SR2
Ifyou’reinterestedinthe best DJ controllers on the market, see our top choices here.
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Smart Dj Controller Ddj 200
DJs can now mix their favorite tracks from streaming services on their iPhone or iPad with the latest range of Hercules controllers. The result of close collaboration with Algoriddim, Hercules announces the integrated compatibility of its latest DJControl Inpulse 300, DJControl Inpulse 200 and DJControl Starlight controllers with the award-winning djay app for iOS.
Hercules, manufacturer of DJ solutions for almost 20 years, has partnered with Algoriddim to provide users with endless versatility in their choice of music. Via the djay app for iOS, users of the DJControl Inpulse 200, DJControl Inpulse 300 and DJControl Starlight now have instant access to millions of songs from their premium account on the world’s most popular music streaming platforms.
Once the djay application is installed on a user’s iOS smartphone or tablet, they can connect it to the controller via the USB cable and a Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter (not included) to keep the controller powered and connected to unlimited music selection! Once installed, the DJ can use the controls of the DJControl Inpulse 300, DJControl Inpulse 200, and DJControl Starlight to mix, loop, add effects, scratch and even use the Assistant button, specific to the Hercules DJControl Inpulse range to trigger the automix feature in the djay application.
Hercules DJ controller with Algoriddim's djay app.
Adding the ability to mix via the djay app allows a whole new community of young DJs who get their music via streaming services to explore the art of mixing tracks with their own unique style. Hercules is a brand that has designed their controllers from the ground up to appeal to the aspiring young DJ, so this new hardware/software integration is a great new way to bring first-timers into the mix.
Ddj Controller Compatible Djay Pro 2 Manual
More information about compatible controllers and djay integration can be found on Hercules.com
Djay Pro Ipad
Discover a fun way to learn pro DJ gear and the art of DJing in the Beat.School DJ simulation on Steam here.