Head to head
DDJ-REV1 vs. Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
Both are DJ controllers in the same price bracket (€200 to €350) — which is why you genuinely hesitate between them. Here is what our register says about both, side by side, including what speaks against them.
Pioneer DJ
DDJ-REV1
A battle-layout controller with horizontal tempo faders — built for scratching and Serato.
For
- Battle layout like on turntables
- A real filter knob
- Serato DJ Lite included
Against
- Unusual layout for classic mixing
- Not tied to rekordbox — if that is where you want to go, buy differently
Native Instruments
Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
Two channels, large jog wheels, Traktor layout — the compact entry point for anyone who wants to work with Traktor.
For
- Maps one to one onto Traktor Pro
- Large jog wheels, clear layout
- Compact and light, fits in a backpack
Against
- Only makes sense with Traktor — the wrong choice for rekordbox or Serato
- No club layout: mixer section and buttons are NI's own
Affiliate link: if you buy through it, we earn a commission. You pay the same price, and it changes nothing about our recommendation. How we handle this
The key facts side by side
| Feature | DDJ-REV1 | Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Pioneer DJ | Native Instruments |
| Price bracket | €200 to €350 | €200 to €350 |
| Our classification | Recommended | Entry level |
| Meant for | Nothing yet, Laptop only, Controller setup | Nothing yet, Laptop only, Controller setup |
Where they differ
- We classify the two differently — one is an entry device to us, the other is not. That is an editorial call, not a measurement.
- They are built for different ways of playing: at home, in a club, or for scratching. That is the difference that matters most day to day.
- Different manufacturers, so different software ecosystems, spare parts and control logic. If you already own gear from one brand, that is a reason in itself.
We deliberately crown no winner here. What we can back up is above; anything else would be a claim, and there are plenty of those on this question already.