If you're diving into the world of Serato DJing, choosing the right controller can make all the difference. Whether you're a beginner learning the ropes, a club DJ mixing across genres, or a turntablist perfecting your cuts, Serato-compatible controllers offer a range of options tailored to different needs. From budget-friendly setups with essential features to high-end models with motorized platters, advanced effects, and professional-grade mixers, there's a perfect controller for every style of DJing. The trick is finding the one that balances performance, workflow, and price. In this guide, we break down the best Serato DJ controllers by price range, highlighting their standout features and what makes them great. Whether you're looking for an affordable way to start mixing, a versatile mid-tier controller with professional touches, or a high-end battle-style rig with next-level performance, we've got you covered. Here are the top Serato controllers to consider in 2025.

Best DJ Controllers for Serato: Top Picks for Every Budget

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Budget Options

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 – Best for beginner DJs learning the basics

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is an excellent beginner-friendly controller that helps new DJs develop fundamental skills while offering a smooth Serato DJ Lite experience. Its intuitive layout is designed to teach aspiring DJs proper beatmatching, EQ control, and track blending through visual learning aids, such as built-in LED guides that assist with tempo adjustments. The 5.5-inch jog wheels offer responsive control, and the dedicated FX, loop, and performance pad sections provide a solid foundation for creative mixing. One of its standout features is the beat alignment assistant, which visually guides users in matching BPMs correctly—an ideal tool for those learning to DJ without relying on sync mode.

Unlike many budget controllers, the Inpulse 300 MK2 has a full two-channel mixer section with a dedicated three-band EQ and filter per channel, making it feel more like a professional setup. The controller is bus-powered via USB, making it lightweight and portable for easy practice or small gigs. While it doesn’t offer standalone functionality or high-end build materials, the Inpulse 300 MK2 is one of the best choices for new DJs who want an affordable, well-designed controller that actively helps them develop core DJing skills. For those looking to step into Serato without breaking the bank, it’s a fantastic pick.

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Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 – Best for versatility on a budget

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 is an excellent entry point into the world of Serato DJing, offering a balance of affordability and features. It’s lightweight, compact, and compatible with both Serato DJ Lite and Rekordbox, making it a flexible choice for beginners who may want to explore multiple DJ software options. The layout is simple but effective, with responsive jog wheels, a two-channel mixer, and performance pads for basic cueing and looping. The FLX4 also introduces Smart Fader, a feature that helps automate smooth transitions, perfect for DJs still learning the ropes.

One of its standout features is the USB-C powered design, making it easy to set up anywhere without needing an external power source. The inclusion of built-in audio outputs also means you won’t need an extra interface to plug in speakers. While it lacks pro-level features like standalone operation or motorized jog wheels, the FLX4 is a solid, future-proof choice for beginners who want an intuitive and easy-to-use controller that can grow with them.

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Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 – Best for entry-level scratching

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 is tailor-made for aspiring scratch DJs who want an affordable battle-style setup. It features a turntable-inspired layout, with long-throw tempo faders positioned above the jog wheels—mimicking a traditional DJM-S mixer and Technics turntable setup. This layout makes it an ideal introduction to scratch techniques while still offering the familiarity of a DJ controller. The large jog wheels feel smooth and responsive, making scratching feel natural, even for beginners.

While the REV1 is a budget controller, it still packs some solid performance features. The Performance Pads allow quick access to hot cues, samples, and effects, while the dedicated Scratch Bank function lets users quickly recall scratch samples—a feature previously found on higher-end controllers. Since it’s designed for Serato DJ Lite, you won’t get full effects control out of the box, but it’s upgradeable to Serato DJ Pro if you want more advanced features down the line. For those getting into scratching and open-format DJing, the REV1 is a fun and affordable starting point.

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Mid-Range Options

Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV5 – Best for non-motorized scratch DJs

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV5 is an impressive mid-range option for scratch DJs who want a battle-style layout without motorized platters. Unlike traditional DJ controllers, its tempo faders are placed at the top, just like a classic turntable setup, making it feel more natural for DJs transitioning from vinyl. The large jog wheels offer excellent responsiveness, and the Magvel crossfader is buttery smooth, ensuring precise control for scratching.

Beyond its layout, the REV5 offers dedicated Stems controls, allowing DJs to isolate vocals, drums, and instruments directly from Serato. It also supports dual deck control, meaning you can manipulate two decks at once—great for advanced routines. With 16 performance pads, dedicated loop controls, and professional-quality FX paddles, the REV5 is a feature-rich battle-style controller that bridges the gap between affordability and pro-level performance.

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Hercules Inpulse T7 – Best for motorized platters on a budget

The Hercules Inpulse T7 is an exciting entry-level motorized platter controller for Serato DJ, offering the feel of vinyl without the bulk or price of traditional turntables. Featuring 7-inch motorized jog wheels, the T7 replicates the tactile experience of real records, making it an excellent choice for DJs who want to practice scratching or blending with authentic vinyl-style response. The high-torque direct-drive motor ensures smooth performance, while the traditional battle-style layout keeps the tempo faders positioned like they would be on classic turntables. Additionally, the mixer section is designed with performance pads, filter knobs, and a responsive crossfader, making it a well-rounded tool for both creative mixing and turntablism.

Despite its affordability, the Inpulse T7 doesn't cut corners when it comes to features. It comes with Serato DJ Lite out of the box but is fully upgradeable to Serato DJ Pro, allowing users to unlock professional-level features as they advance. It also includes beat-matching guides to help beginners develop tight transitions, an essential skill for any DJ. While it lacks some of the premium build quality found in high-end controllers, the T7 is one of the only budget-friendly options with real motorized platters, making it a fantastic gateway into the world of vinyl-style DJing without requiring a full turntable setup.

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Rane One – Best for compact motorized platters

The Rane One is the perfect controller for DJs who want motorized platters in a compact format. It brings a real vinyl feel to a DJ controller, thanks to its 7-inch motorized jog wheels with adjustable torque, closely mimicking the feel of traditional turntables. It’s a dream for scratch DJs or those who want a more hands-on, tactile approach to mixing. The high-quality Mag Four crossfader is ultra-smooth, making precise cuts effortless.

Beyond the jog wheels, the Rane One includes dedicated paddle FX controls, solid metal construction, and professional audio outputs. While it’s not as feature-packed as high-end controllers, it delivers where it matters most: feel, durability, and professional performance. For DJs looking for a no-nonsense, battle-ready controller with motorized platters, the Rane One is hard to beat.

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Pro Options

Rane Performer – Best for pro-level features

The Rane Performer is a powerhouse for professional DJs who demand the highest quality in a controller. Its motorized jog wheels with built-in displays offer real-time track info, waveform views, and customizable settings for DJs who want precision. The controller features dedicated Stems controls, high-end onboard effects, and a full-metal chassis, making it one of the most robust Serato controllers available.

What sets the Rane Performer apart is its studio-quality sound card, expansive FX section, and ultra-responsive Mag Four crossfader, ensuring every mix sounds flawless. While it comes at a premium price, it delivers an uncompromising club and battle-style experience. If you want the best of the best in Serato controllers, the Rane Performer is a serious investment with no shortcuts.

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Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 – Best for motorized turntable feel

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 is built for DJs who love the feel of real turntables but want the flexibility of a controller. Its motorized 7-inch jog wheels come with built-in displays, showing essential track info like BPM, waveforms, and hot cues directly on the platters. The layout is fully battle-style, with tempo faders at the top and a DJM-S series-inspired mixer section, making it perfect for scratch DJs.

The REV7 also features dedicated FX paddles, built-in Serato Stems controls, and high-quality audio outputs, ensuring it’s club-ready straight out of the box. It’s one of the most immersive Serato controllers available, delivering a true turntable feel without needing external decks. If you want the best controller for scratching and performance, the REV7 is as close as it gets to a pro DJ setup.

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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.