When we started Crossfader 10 years ago, rekordbox had just released its 4.0 update, introducing Rekordbox DJ, and turning the library management tool into a fully-fledged DJ software. This shook up the industry and helped push rekordbox to a new level of popularity.
Since then, rekordbox has gone on to become practically the go-to choice for many DJs, both in terms of its library management and DJing software.
But why do so many professional DJs still swear by rekordbox? And are any of its competitors ready to step up and steal its crown? We’ll break down the features that set it apart from the rest and explain why it’s still a must-have for pro club DJs today.
What is rekordbox?
First, let’s start with what rekordbox actually is. Developed by Pioneer DJ (now AlphaTheta), rekordbox started as a music management tool for DJs to keep on top of their library and analyse the tracks so they’re ready to play on Pioneer’s gear. Since then, it’s evolved into a full-fledged performance software used by DJs worldwide.
At its core is still the library management, which now allows you to sync and manage your music across multiple devices on the cloud. You can also create and manage playlists, which makes it easy to organise your tracks, ready for your next gig.
Performance wise, it’s also able to compete with just about anything else out there. You get a selection of performance tools such as Hot Cues, Beat FX, and Pad FX that help you create unique sets. It also integrates with streaming services like Tidal, Beatport, Beatsource, and SoundCloud Go+. That gives you access to a vast library of tracks, without having to worry about any downloads.
Rekordbox also has a clean, streamlined interface, which makes it easy for beginners to get up to speed.
Why rekordbox is so popular
The simple answer is that you’ll find Pioneer CDJs in 99% of the DJ booths around the world. And if your tracks haven’t been run through rekordbox beforehand, you won’t be able to use all the CDJs features, like BPM or key signature and beat analysis. Basically, you need rekordbox to DJ in pretty much any professional venue.
That means that unless you want to solely DJ with a laptop running a different system, you’re basically forced into the rekordbox ecosystem, even if it’s just for music management and analysis.
Pioneer have also positioned rekordbox as a product that works at every single stage of your DJing journey. When you’re first starting out on a $200 controller, you could be using rekordbox as the software powering it all. And then all the way through to when you’re DJing huge festivals or clubs, you’ll still be using rekordbox to get your tunes ready for their CDJs. That means you don’t have to worry about the stressful process of switching software at any point in your career.
Ultimately, Pioneer is the clear industry leader in pro DJ gear. Constantly switching back and forth between your personal DJ setup and what you’ll find in clubs can be time-consuming and frustrating. Having that familiarity with your home system makes the transition to CDJs so much easier.
Pioneer and rekordbox’s dominance of the pro gear space isn’t without its downsides, however. They’re rarely one to push forward quick innovation as their large user base often craves familiarity. That leaves some of their users longing for new features, especially Pioneer’s rivals are driving DJ technology forward. That said, they do still occasionally come out with exciting new features, and their 7.0 update has brought some fresh excitement to rekordbox.
Rekordbox vs. Serato DJ:
Serato DJ is another widely used DJ software and is seen by many as the main competitor to rekordbox. It’s got a few notable benefits that mean it may be a better pick depending on your needs.
Its stem separation technology gives you far better, cleaner results when isolating vocals, drums, or instruments within a song in real time.
It’s also become the scratch DJs’ weapon of choice as it’s a brand that really supports that culture. Pre-rekordbox, Serato had one of the largest user bases, meaning there are still lots of DJs using it today.
Rekordbox has a huge advantage over Serato when it comes to library management and music organisation. It also offers you a slightly larger range of performance features.
Recently, AlphaTheta (formerly Pioneer DJ) tried to acquire Serato DJ, but faced backlash from the authorities and wider industry, leaving the acquisition dead in the water.
This highlights the issue with Serato DJ having to lean on hardware manufacturers to make equipment that supports their software. They’re at the mercy of those who make the gear, making it harder for them to innovate and move the industry forward.
Rekordbox vs. Traktor Pro:
When we started Crossfader 10 years ago, Traktor was a market leader. They were already a well-known name in the electronic music production scene, which attracted many DJs to their Traktor software, which works with the DJ controllers that they also make.
But after building one of the best DJ software options, Native Instruments, the company behind it, basically forgot about it. All the competitors’ DJ software made massive advances and Traktor got left behind. But there are good signs of life for Traktor, as Pro 4 has just been released. This could help it get back to being a real contender for the top spot in the market.
Despite this, Traktor Pro still has a dedicated following, particularly among house and techno DJs.
Even now, Traktor has some unique features that stand out over rekordbox. Its remix decks are incredibly powerful, and allow hybrid DJs and producers to build really unique live sets. The effects are another area that Traktor is known to excel in, as it gives you a huge box of tricks that you won’t get from rekordbox.
The learning curve for Traktor can be a little steeper, as some things may seem a little complex at first. But once you’ve got your head around it, it’s still a very strong option.
Rekordbox vs. Virtual DJ:
Virtual DJ is one of the oldest DJ software options out there and to this day has a passionate fanbase. Its feature set and versatility are hard to beat and it works on almost any hardware.
That’s why it’s become the weapon of choice for many function and event DJs. You can set it up in all sorts of different ways, and it works with loads of different hardware and streaming services. That makes it perfect for the versatile needs of DJs who play weddings and parties.
What makes Virtual DJ different from other DJ platforms like rekordbox is that it’s software first. By that, we mean that if you start off with Virtual DJ, you can be confident it’s versatile enough to stick with, no matter what hardware you end up with down the line.
Rekordbox vs. Algoriddim djay Pro:
Another popular choice when it comes to DJ software is Algoriddim’s djay Pro. They’ve got a reputation as a company that’s always pushing the boundaries of technology, even building a spatial DJ app for the Apple Vision Pro. But even though they’re constantly innovating, they’ve struggled to make a real dent in the pro DJ market.
Djay pro is a great choice for beginners, as it’s great fun and only needs a smartphone to get started. However, it’s certainly not just beginners that will make the most of djay Pro. There are some advanced features including real-time stem separation, sequencers and loopers that effectively let you remix tracks on the fly. Algoriddim are also at the forefront of AI in the DJ world, and djay Pro can even use AI to automatically mix for you
Rekordbox vs. Engine DJ:
Engine DJ is a bit different to the other software we’ve mentioned, as it’s specifically designed as an operating system for Denon and Numark’s players and all-in-one units.
It’s a tool for DJs to manage and prepare their libraries before playing them out on Denon and Numark’s hardware. The library management tools are a little more basic than rekordbox’s but it’s more than capable of everything you’re likely to need to do.
It’s a powerful piece of software, but your choice to use it will just depend on the hardware you buy. If you’ve got gear that needs Engine DJ, you’ll have to use it; otherwise, there’s no reason to download it.
Learn to DJ on rekordbox
If you like the sound of rekordbox and want to learn more, we’ve got you covered. Our industry-certified courses are suitable for any DJ who’s looking to grow their skills and get confident on any rekordbox device.
For a complete introduction to rekordbox, check out our beginner rekordbox course, which will cover everything you need to know to get started.
5.5 hours 37 lessons Beginner
Rekordbox DJ Course
And to fast-track your success as a DJ, our Complete DJ Package includes all our past, present and future courses to keep your skills up to date on the latest DJ technologies, techniques, resources, and so much more!
835 hours 1300+ lessons Creative
Complete DJ Package
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