Best DJ Software Of 2023 (Ranked & Reviewed)
As a fellow music enthusiast and Kaskade-inspired DJ, I couldn’t be more excited to share with you what the experts believe are the top five most superior DJ applications to help take your skills to the next level.
I’ve done my research, tried out all these platforms in practice, and compiled them here in one place so that DJs like yourself can access everything they need quickly and easily when taking their mixes to an audience.
So grab your turntables and favorite light board controllers—it’s time to dive into this list of top five must-haves!
What Are The Best DJ Software?
Here are my top picks for the best DJ Software.
1. Rekordbox ver. 6
Rekordbox DJ software is highly regarded for its seamless integration with Pioneer DJ’s CDJ media players and DJM mixers.
With advanced track analysis, customizable hot cues, and an intuitive interface, it’s no wonder that professional DJs favor Rekordbox for its outstanding reliability and versatility.
Key Features:
- Innovative ‘LEARN’ feature which remembers your preferred hotkeys.
- Comprehensive search and filtering systems to easily locate tracks.
- Detailed analysis feature offering in-depth info on songs like BPM and key info.
User Experience:
- Using Rekordbox is a pleasant experience for most DJs due to its straightforward layout.
- The LEARN function is especially useful for those who want ultimate control over their workflow.
- Additionally, its advanced search and filtering system makes it easier than ever to keep track of your music library.
Pricing:
Rekordbox offers these pricing plans:
- Basic (Free) – Free plan for beginner DJs.
- Core ($12/month or $120/year) – Affordable plan for intermediate DJs
- Creative ($18/month or $180/year) – Plan for advanced DJs and music producers
- Professional ($36/month or $360/year) – High-end plan for professional DJs and music industry experts.
The basic version includes plenty of features while the paying plans add more such as USB MIDI controller support, cloud integration, and recording capabilities.
Pros
Cons
Get started with Rekordbox.
2. Traktor Pro 3
For DJs looking for an effective piece of software that can handle all their mixing needs, Traktor Pro 3 may be just the tool they need!
This powerful DJ software offers plenty of features that make producing great sets easier than ever before.
Key Features:
- Intuitive waveforms which provide excellent visual feedback.
- Advanced beat synchronization system helps keep tracks aligned.
- Multiple deck playback options including external media devices.
- Automix function lets users automatically mix tracks together.
User Experience:
- Traktor Pro 3 stands out from other similar DJ software due to its combination of robust mixing ability alongside intuitive design principles.Its wide range of effect filters make producing amazing mixes effortless while its compatibility with external media players open up extra possibilities when playing live or in the studio.
Pricing:
Traktor Pro 3 is available in two versions:
- Update (€49) – A prior version of TRAKTOR is necessary for this requirement.
- Full Version (€99) – One-time payment.
Both versions come with the same set of features including advanced effects, nonlinear timeline sequencing and support for major MIDI controllers.
Pros
Cons
Get started with Traktor Pro 3.
3. Virtual DJ
Virtual DJ is a DJ software that has been preferred by DJs for a long time.
It has many features like video mixing, karaoke support, and automatic beat matching.
Additionally, Virtual DJ has an extensive library of user-generated content, which includes skins, effects, and plugins.
Key Features:
- Innovative playlist creation tool for professional sorting options.
- Advanced beat matching system allows users to sync up different tracks.
- Has support for multiple MIDI controllers from different brands.
User Experience:
- Virtual DJ provides DJs with an easy and intuitive way to mix their music.Its waveform visualizer helps users quickly identify each track while its inbuilt library management system helps keep things organized.The beat matching tool also makes it simple to synchronize different songs together into one cohesive mix.
Pricing:
Virtual DJ is available in four versions:
- Free (Available for non-professional use).
- Pro ($19/month).
- Business ($99/month).
- VirtualDJ Pro Infinity – One-time purchase ($299/Lifetime license)
The free version is great for anyone looking to test the waters before diving in, as it includes all the core features plus some additional ones like DVS support and four deck control.
The paid versions includes even more features like timecode vinyl support, cloud streaming integration and access to the exclusive pro content.
Pros
Cons
Get started with Virtual DJ.
4. Serato DJ Pro
Serato DJ Pro is a powerful and versatile DJ software suite for any aspiring DJ.
This comprehensive tool provides DJs with the tools to create perfect sets every time, as well as plenty of features that make mixing a breeze.
Key Features:
- Advanced cue point sequencing and looping system to quickly mark points in tracks.
- Comprehensive track analysis feature provides info on BPM and key information.
- Supports multiple formats including MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF, FLAC and ALAC.
User Experience:
- Serato DJ Pro is relatively easy to learn but also offers plenty of advanced features for more experienced DJs.Its intuitive layout makes it simple to manage audio levels and navigate through each track while its precision pitch controls let you fine-tune tempo levels easily. The effects engine also opens up new possibilities when crafting one-of-a-kind sets.
Pricing:
Serato DJ Pro is available in two versions:
- Pro ($9.99/month).
- Suite ($14.99/month).
The pro version comes packed with plenty of useful features like MIDI integration, support for different audio formats, and basic FX filters.
The suite version adds more advanced features such as 8-channel audio outputs and a range of additional plugins like Slip Mode or remix packs.
Pros
Cons
Get started with Serato DJ Pro.
5. Mixxx
Mixxx is a DJ software that is free and open-source.
It has four decks, beat looping, and MIDI controller support, which makes it a great alternative to commercial DJ software.
DJs who are on a budget or who prefer using open-source software can consider Mixxx as an option.
Key Features:
- Automix feature seamlessly mixes tracks together automatically.
- Vinyl emulation mode lets users control the audio digitally like a traditional turntable.
- Robust BPM analysis helps ensure accurate beat synchronization between tracks.
User Experience:
- I have personally used Mixxx and found it to be easy to learn yet powerful enough for more experienced DJs.Its intuitive design makes it simple to mix tracks on the fly while its vinyl emulation mode makes me feel like I’m using my old turntables. Additionally, the extensive FX suite allows me to experiment with unique sounds and create dynamic mixes.
Pricing:
- Mixxx is 100% free and open source!
The software comes with all necessary features packed in one package so there’s no need for any additional purchases or subscriptions.
Pros
Cons
Get started with Mixxx.
Key Features Of The Best DJ Software
Choosing the right software can make or break your gigs, which is why I’ve compiled a list of key features that you need to keep in mind when shopping for the best DJ software on the market.
User Interface
One of the most important factors when it comes to the best DJ software is a user-friendly interface.
The software should be easily navigable, with intuitive controls that allow you to quickly and effortlessly access all the features you need.
The best DJ software should have a clean and sleek design, without any clutter that could distract from the task at hand – mixing and editing your tracks.
Audio Quality
Another crucial consideration when selecting the best DJ software is the quality of audio it produces.
The software should be capable of producing high-quality, clean audio, free from distortion or noise.
With the best DJ software, you’ll get impeccable sound capabilities, with top-notch EQ and multi-band compression to fine-tune your tracks to perfection.
Compatibility
Your DJ software must be compatible with all your music collection, whether it’s MP3, WAV, FLAC, etc.
The best DJ software should support multiple file types, as well as integrating with popular online music platforms such as Spotify or SoundCloud, for easy access to new music.
Compatibility with different operating systems is also crucial, giving you the freedom to use the software on any computer or device you choose.
Library Management
Your DJ software should have comprehensive library management tools that help you keep track of your music, including searchability by artist, genre, bpm, etc.
The best DJ software should provide you with the ability to create customized playlists, add tags, and import/export your music library.
Mixing and Editing
Mixing and editing are the core functionalities of any DJ software. The best DJ software should give you full control over your tracks, including pitch-shifting, looping, and beatmatching.
With the best DJ software at your disposal, you can create seamless transitions between tracks, add effects, and manipulate the sound to your heart’s content.
Effects and Plugins
The best DJ software should come bundled with a vast selection of effects and plugins, including reverb, chorus, delay, and EQ.
These plugins give you an added layer of creativity, allowing you to enhance your tracks and create unique sounds to add to your mixes.
Performance Features
The best DJ software should have dedicated performance features, such as hot cue triggers, sampling and looping, and an automix feature for smooth and uninterrupted playback.
The software should also work smoothly with external hardware such as mixers, controllers, and decks to give you maximum versatility.
Price and Licensing
Last but not least, the best DJ software should be priced affordably and have flexible licensing options.
The software should come with different tiers to accommodate your budget, without compromising on key features.
Licensing should be easy to manage, with regular updates and support to ensure you always have the best DJ software at your fingertips.
Best DJ Software Frequently Asked Questions
What software do most DJs use?
The most common DJ software used by professionals are Rekordbox, Traktor Pro, Virtual DJ, Serato DJ Pro, and Ableton Live.
What do most DJs use to make music?
While DJs primarily use DJ software to mix tracks and create live performances, producers typically use Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, and Cubase to produce and create music from scratch.
What is the best DJ software for beginners?
Virtual DJ is often considered to be the best DJ software for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and ease of use. It offers a range of features that allow novice DJs to learn the basics of mixing tracks and create their own performances.
What is the #1 most popular DJ software?
Serato DJ Pro is considered to be the most popular DJ software worldwide. It is used by many professional DJs and offers a wide range of features, including support for hardware controllers.
What’s the best free DJ software for PC?
Mixxx is widely considered to be one of the best free DJ software options available for PC. It offers a range of features found in paid options, such as four decks, effects, vinyl control, and more.
What is the best free DJ software?
Mixxx is considered to be one of the best free DJ software options available due to its range of features and compatibility with various hardware controllers. Other notable free options include Cross DJ Free and Zulu DJ Software.
Conclusion
There you have it, the top 5 DJ software of 2023! From the powerful and versatile Serato DJ Pro to the customizable and intuitive Virtual DJ, each software has its unique strengths catered to different skill levels and preferences.
Choosing the right software might seem daunting, but always remember to prioritize your needs and goals as a DJ.
Are you looking to DJ professionally or just for fun? Do you prefer a certain interface or feature set? These questions will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect software for you.
Beyond the technical aspects, it is also crucial to try out the free versions or demos of these softwares before making a purchase. Not only can you assess their compatibility with your hardware and workflow, but also get a feel of their usability and overall experience. As a DJ, your performance largely depends on the software you use, so invest in the one that resonates with you the most.
In summary, the DJ software landscape is ever-evolving, with new features and advancements constantly emerging. However, these 5 software choices are reliable and popular options for any DJ looking to enhance their craft.
As always, keep experimenting and pushing your limits to create the best possible music and experiences for yourself and your audience.
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