Music apps are becoming more and more advanced these days, and when it comes specifically for DJ’s or those wanting to scratch, mix or tweak some tunes, we’re in luck since there are quite a few capable solutions out there. We remember when we were in awe when DJ controllers and DJ software became more widespread, but with smart devices, it’s becoming even more technologically sound. Today we wanted to see what exactly which apps were out right now — what’s worth buying, has a free trial we should spend our time on, and more? What about merely free apps? We found a mixture of all of the above to help out your search through the rubble.
The best DJ apps for iOS and Android
Traktor DJ
First we look at in our opinion one of the most-professional choices for iOS, Traktor DJ, which revolutionary and easy-to-use software makes it one of the best DJ apps. It allows you to perform powerful, hands-on sets with your standard iOS hand gestures, while also having plug-and-play compatibility with iOS Traktor DJ controllers. Traktor DJ for iOS lets you make mixes in seconds, touching and manipulating music as it comes down the bass line – the app even has an Auto Tempo detection that makes track syncing virtually effortless. The software also comes with a 2-channel mixer and two fully featured virtual decks – each coming with Pro-grade DJ effects that add powerful options for breakdowns, build-ups, and smooth transitions.
This application also recommends songs in your iTunes library based on the key and tempo playing in the track which simplifies mixing. You can also use the SuperSlicer add-on to ‘slice’ up your tracks and fiddle with your loops using the Scratch, Brake, Reverse, Slice or even Pitch-Shift effects. Active Freeze Mode also allows you to slice a track in playable parts and remix it on the fly – setting your cues, scrubs, song queues, and navigating through the app, just like you would with the actual controller. Nothing changes with Traktor DJ on the iPhone (from the iPad), every intricate setting and option is still available, just in a smaller workspace. If you want to be the life of the party, grab the Tracktor DJ for your iPhone or iPad at a very affordable price. Unfortunately there isn’t an Android version out right now, but we’re crossing our fingers for NI to make one soon.
djay 2
Buy for iPhone | iPad | Android
Up next we have another pick as the best DJ app specifically designed for your iPads (but also compatible with iPhone and Android), the djay 2 – the next generation of one of the world’s best DJ apps. The djay 2 transforms your device into a full-featured DJ software and controller that integrates music directly from your iTunes music library AND Spotify. The app allows you to spin live, record mixes on-the-go, or even enable the party-friendly ‘Automix mode’ which creates seamless mixes for you automatically. It also comes equipped with different audio FX (like Flanger, Phaser, Echo, Gate, and more), but also gives you the option to download FX expansion packs that has over 30 DJ sound FX.
Different mixing features like the looping and cue points, automatic beat detection, key detection and matching, and Key Lock all make it easier for you starter DJs that want to learn the ropes. Whether you’re a professional DJ or a beginner who just wants to spin, djay 2 offers one of the most engaging and learning experiences on an iPad, iPhone and Android device at a very manageable price.
Cross DJ
Buy for iPhone | iPad | Android
Here we have the a solid pro DJ app available for both iOS and Android platforms. The mixing features of Cross DJ include BPM detection, Beatmatcher (parallel waveforms to make sure your tracks are synced), stable syncing (one-press and the 2 tracks never go out of phase), progressive pitch blend, custom pitch range (4, 8, 16, 32, 100%), and accurate beat-grid editing – all to ensure your tracks are sync properly, making transitions smooth. The app also has an intuitive, multi-channel interface which features turntables, separate tabs, and navigation by folders – which makes it easier finding and selecting your tunes. Don’t forget to switch to portrait mode in case you want one large single-player.
Cross DJ also allows you to explore, mix and play all SoundCloud directly in the app – no premium account is needed. You can plug-and-play Cross DJ on your Android device to the U-Mix Control-Pro and select Pioneer MIDI controls if you feel like becoming the next Tiësto. Download this DJ app for free if you’d like to try it so you can learn the basics on how to spin, before actually buying a high-end software.
edjing 5
Buy for iPhone | iPad | Android
Now we look at the newest version of the most downloaded best DJ Apps out there. The edjing 5 offers a brand new user interface that simplifies all DJ controls, and now has features that stretch the limit to mobile mixing – making this one of the best DJ applications out. The new interface has direct and quick access to all the essential features needed to make a good mix, while also coming equipped with smart FX management and Audio FX lists that make sure you are using your audio FX properly. It also has little audio spectrum to navigate through your files, and wide audio spectrum for optimal beat detection. Edjing 5 allows you to integrate your Deezer files (requires a premium account), SoundCloud music, and iTunes library, sorting the music by BPM, length, or alphabetical order for quick searching.
The real-time audio analysis of this features automatic BPM detection, a Tap BPM feature to manually adjust the BPM, multiple syncing features, Looping and Scratching modes to give the mobile app a realistic experience. This also comes with 16 free samples for you mixing pleasure. Just like Cross DJ, this app is useful for people who want to learn, but don’t want to spend any money just yet since a free trial is also available.
DJ Player Pro
If you are more advanced with your DJ skills, and actually have the luxury of performing in front of people, then the DJ Player Pro is another one of the best DJ apps for you. DJ Player Pro can used standalone, or in any combination of the touchscreen, external mixers, MIDI controllers, sound cards, and Vinyl (DVS), making it one of the most flexible solutions for your DJ setup. The app also allows you to go multitrack with STEMS in which STEMS format is integrated, having 4 decks with 4 stems each – making 16 tracks simultaneously under your control. Everyone’s mixing style is different, so Player Pro allows you to set your own preference settings by manual beat-matching, syncing the tempo and beat – which allows you to find the prefect setting for you.
With this app, you can have desktop-grade performance on your Apple devices, while also experiencing low-latency audio technology – it is the only DJ app that has every component developed in-house. This app is for serious DJs only, no virtual on-screen or toy-like hardware that provides everything you would need in your own professional DJ booth. DJ Player pro supports all USB Class Compliant MIDI controllers, and comes with plug-and-play support for most controllers. Download this professional technology if you’re serious about your DJ career.
Pacemaker
This is the best DJ app if you’re concerned with FX. The Pacemaker is perfect for you beginners because it has an excellent balance between simple and a feature-heavy deck, which gives you exposure to complex features while presenting a less-complex interface. It is compatible with both your iPhone and iPad, letting you instant mobile mix on your iPhone or hands-on live spinning on your iPad. This app integrates music from both your iTunes and Spotify apps that provide an endless amount of tracks at your fingertips – making your party mixes sick! The Pacemaker app also comes with audio FX like ChopChop (allowing you to slice up for a stuttering effect), reverb (controlling the size of your room), echo, white noise, and many more.
If you’re feeling frisky, you can also purchase more sound effects on the app store. Mixing features like Loop, Beatskip and Automatic Beat Syncing make for smoother transitions and easier mixing for you beginners (as well as for you professionals). This app also comes with a built-in equalizer, crossfaders, and a Scratch setting if you like to mix a little old school Hip-Hop/R&B. This app could work for both beginners and advanced DJs, so make sure to take advantage of the free download beforehand. It was number one in The Guardian’s seven best DJ apps article. There just isn’t an Android version out right now.
Dj Studio 5
Here we look at the DJ Studio 5, which is considered one of the more user-friendly mixing applications – being an excellent choice for your college parties. This software is swayed towards your Android devices (V2.3 and more) – working best with your Nexus devices. DJ Studio 5 features 2 virtual turntables with crossfaders, and 7 customizable deck skins to make your interface look lively. All music is accessed through your mp3 library and can be edited or re-ordered by your own settings of choice – maybe order them by BPM or artist name for easiest search.
The app also comes equipped with 8 sound effects (flanger, phaser, gate, and reverb to name a few) and 3-bands EQ for each deck. The Auto-mix feature makes it convenient for when you want to leave your phone at the speakers, and enjoy the party – without having to worry about DJing. Whether you are a novice or a pro, DJ Studio 5 is one of the best DJ apps for both categories and can be downloaded for free if you want to try it out first. It’s Android only, so we’re sorry iPhone and iPad users!
DJ Rig
Moving forward, we introduce the iPhone-only compatible DJ Rig app. This application is on the more advanced-side of using, while also being on the higher price-point for download. The DJ Rig is a full-featured, double-deck interface that gives you direct access to your music library and playlists with an instant-play feature. The double-deck setup comes equipped with a numerous amount of professional DJ features like deck and tempo controls, 3 crossfader curves with filters, as well as multiple output configurations for virtually any setup.
Here’s when this app separates itself from the others – DJ Rig provides tempo sync, Beat Match, automatic looping, accurate scratching with patented CloneDeck technology, and a X-sync mode that detects the BPM from external sources and automatically syncs it with the internal decks. The DJ effects on this app include 12 effects (plus 6 available for purchase), XY touch interface, and all effects are BPM-synced – taking your parties to the next level. If you want real-life feel for DJing and have some experience, then buy the DJ Rig, one of the best DJ apps out there right now.
Serato Pyro
Last but not least, we look at the Serato Pyro, which is one best, newer DJ apps specifically designed to automatically mix your favorite tunes for you. We’ve all heard of Serato software, right? Well, this app isn’t necessarily DJesque — as compared to others, some wouldn’t really consider it a “DJ app” (which is why we have it last here). To get down to what it does, you can play music straight from your iTunes library or stream from premium Spotify account (Spotify premium is subscription-based) that has over 30 million songs to pick from.
When you aren’t streaming music on your own, Serato Pyro will use its intelligent-suggestions algorithm to run playlists for you – perfect for you long-distance runners, or college kids who like to be in charge of the AUX. Spotify premium users can also enjoy the already-made Pyro playlists in the ‘Heat’ tab, which feature the hottest jams out. Pyro is available on all iOS platforms, compromising no features on your smaller devices like the iPhone or Apple Watch. This app is simple, instinctive, and limitless with the features and technology, allowing you to play bangers for hours at a time. Download Serato Pyro if you want to take over the AUX cable at your house parties.
