The best gifts for DJs in 2024

Are you planning out the best gift for the DJ in your life? There’s no better way to show a DJ you care than with a gift that’s specifically for their needs.

DJs love music and technology, and the best gifts for them are items that they’ll make good use of in their DJ sets. Whether you have a friend or family member who’s an aspiring or professional DJ, our gift guide for DJs has you covered.

Here’s a list of our picks for the best gifts for DJs that’ll guarantee you give them the most memorable (and useful) gift.

Explore the best gifts for DJs:

• DJ controllers
• DJ software
• DJ headphones
• Speakers
• Laptops
• Flight cases and backpacks
• Stocking stuffers for Vinyl DJs
• Microphones

DJ controllers

Controllers are a great solution for DJs who need an all in one DJ setup that’s portable and fun to use. Using a controller, DJs can navigate Traktor, play and loop tracks and add effects.

Many DJ controllers include a DJ mixer, jog wheels, faders, effect controls and more. Controllers can be used to play small to mid sized rooms or clubs, and they’re perfect for at home practice sessions. No matter which controller you choose, your DJ will love you all year long as a controller is one of the best gifts you can give!

Traktor X1 MK3

The Traktor X1 is the latest Traktor controller, a portable and sleek update of the classic Traktor controller. It does double duty as a mixer and FX controller and is a great unit for DJ sets with Traktor. The Traktor X1 features a customizable lighting system that gives DJs important information, like when a track is about to run out or if there’s a loop running. The lights also give a great ambient effect whether in the club or home studio.

Traktor Pro Plus subscribers can use the FX section to add percussion and rhythms to a mix using the Pattern Player. The Traktor X1 is highly versatile, and can be used when performing with Traktor Pro 3, or in addition to CDJ’s in HID mode. Read more about how the Traktor X1 can be used in this helpful guide.

Price: $299

Gift Traktor X1 MK3

Traktor Kontrol S2

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when picking out a DJ controller is choosing the right number of decks for the DJ to mix with; either two or four decks. The Traktor Kontrol S2 is a two deck controller that allows DJs to mix and scratch with Traktor Pro 3 and Traktor DJ 2.

It’s a lightweight controller that’s perfect for house parties and practicing sets at home. It features jog wheels for track control, 16 RGB pads, and mixer FX that allow DJs to add effects. The Traktor Kontrol S2 allows for a microphone connection on the rear of the controller.

Price: $339

Gift Traktor Kontrol S2

Traktor Kontrol S3

If the DJ in your life wants to DJ with four decks, the Traktor Kontrol S3 is a solid choice. This controller offers more connectivity options than the S2, and allows for an external device or microphone to be added. The Traktor Kontrol S3 features 16 RGB pads, mixer effects and a full length pitch control for precise bpm control.

Another notable feature of this controller is a a booth output, which allows DJs to connect a monitor (speaker) to reference their mixes.

Price: $549

Gift Traktor Kontrol S3

Traktor Kontrol S4

If you’re looking for a premium DJ controller for the DJ on your list, the Traktor Kontrol S4 is the way to go. It features haptic drive jog wheels that allow the wheels to spin like a platter for mixing and scratching.

Another key feature is a dedicated screen for visual deck feedback, 16 RGB hot cue pads for samples, a high quality 24-bit/96-kHZ audio interface, effects control, four line or phono external inputs, two microphone inputs and crossfade curve adjust and assign.

Overall, it’s certainly the most advanced and versatile controller on this list, and will give any DJ years of enjoyment.

All of the Traktor controllers include Traktor Pro 3, and two months of streaming at Beatport or Beatsource.

Price: $999

Gift Traktor Kontrol S4

DJ software

DJ software unlocks a universe of creative possibilities, ensuring DJs can effortlessly command the dance floor.

Traktor Pro 3

Traktor Pro 3 is the flagship DJ software that offers professional, four deck mixing. Traktor Pro 3 is at most powerful when paired with Traktor hardware (eg. a DJ controller), however, it can also be used on its own to mix on a laptop or paired with another MIDI controller and Traktor mapping.

Traktor Pro 3 allows the DJ to select and beatmatch tracks, use loops and hotcues, and creatively mix tracks with over forty high quality effects. Traktor Scratch is included in Traktor Pro 3, which means that DJs using timecode vinyl can mix and scratch with any sound card. If you want to try Traktor Pro 3 before gifting it, there’s a free demo available that includes up to 30 minutes of play time.

Price: $99

Gift Traktor Pro 3

Traktor Pro Plus

Traktor Pro Plus is an add-on subscription that includes extra features like the Traktor Pattern Player, which allows DJs to add custom percussion loops to their sets.

There’s other goodies like Ozone Maximizer, which works on Traktor’s master output, and allows DJs to boost the overall level of their mixes without sacrificing dynamics and clarity.

Price: $4.99/month

Gift Traktor Pro Plus subscription

DJ headphones

No DJ can survive without a great pair of headphones! Choosing the right headphones to give your DJ friend or family member comes down to sound quality, comfort, style and personal preference. Here’s a list of our favorite DJ headphones on the market.

Sennheiser HD 25 headphones

This is a classic set of DJ headphones that are widely considered to be the best on the market. They’re designed specifically for monitoring, and are reliable.

The Sennheiser HD 25 headphones provide a high level of attenuation over external noise, and are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Price: $149.95

Gift Sennheiser HD 25 headphones

AIAIAI TMA-2 DJ headphones

AIAIAI TMA-2 DJ headphones are professional modular DJ headphones that feature powerful punchy bass, clear sound at high volume levels, and durable construction. From the drivers to the headband and cables, everything is customizable.

AIAIAI is known for its artist collaborations, including headphone collabs with Ninja Tune, Charlotte de Witte, Richie Hawtin and others.

Price: $199

Gift AIAIAI TMA-2 DJ headphones

Pioneer DJ HDJ-CX headphones

Pioneer DJ HDJ-CX headphones are similar in design to the Sennheiser HD 25 headphones. Designed to be lightweight and sturdy, the HDJ-CX headphones feature replaceable cables and accessories.

Price: $149

Gift Pioneer DJ HDJ-CX headphones

V-Moda Crossfade M-100 headphones

V-Moda Crossfade M-100 headphones are used by many of the world’s top DJs. V-Moda headphones are known for their sturdy construction, sound quality and unique design.

If you like the V-Moda design and are looking for a slightly lower price point, check out the V-Moda Crossfade LP2 headphones as they’re durable and sound good as well.

Price: $249

Gift V-Moda Crossfade M-100 headphones

Speakers

Every DJ starts out by practicing at home, and home speakers/studio monitors are an essential part of any DJ setup. Studio monitors for DJs are small speakers that can fill a space with decent sound. The speakers listed below are active speakers, which means they don’t need an amplifier to work.

For best results, the speakers need to be positioned close for listening, and optimally at ear level.

IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitors

If your DJ has a small space for practicing, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitors would be a good choice. They are made specifically for tiny spaces, yet are able to deliver reasonably good sound quality for their size. If your DJ friend decides to get into music production, they can do double duty as studio monitors.

Price: $349 (pair)

Gift IK Multimedia iLoud Micro monitors

Pioneer DJ VM-70 Active Monitor speaker

Pioneer DJ has an entire line of speakers aimed at DJs, and the Pioneer DJ VM-70 6.5-inch Active Monitor Speaker would be a solid choice for a DJ’s home setup. With this model, Pioneer DJ aims to deliver club-bumping bass and pristine audio into any studio setting.

Price: $229

Gift Pioneer DJ VM-70 6.5-inch Active Monitor speaker

Laptops

A new laptop would be a well-received present for any DJ, and they’ll be grateful for this gift the whole year round! Apple laptops are the best choice for DJs and producers, and the type of machine you choose depends on their needs for DJing and music production.

If your DJ is going to be focusing on using Traktor Pro 3 on a laptop for their DJ sets, the Apple 15-Inch Macbook Air M2 may be a good choice for them. The laptop’s portable design makes it an optimal choice for shows, and the 15” screen allows for ample space to see all of Traktor’s features.

If your favorite DJ is looking to get into production, the new Apple Macbook Pro 14” M3 Pro Chip would be a good option, and the Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro Apple M2 is still a good choice for producers.

Depending on your DJ’s needs, you may want to customize the harddrive space, RAM and other components in the computer. If you’re looking for other gifts for a budding music producer on your list, check out our recommendations for the best gifts for music producers here.

Flight cases and backpacks

Every DJ needs a good quality case to transport their controller. Check out some of the top picks for flight cases and backpacks.

Traktor Flight Case

The Traktor Flight Case is perfect for any DJ on the road with the Traktor Kontrol S3 or S4. It elevates the height of a controller to an industry standard height and doubles up as a laptop stand.

Price: $199

Gift Traktor Flight Case

MONO M80 Classic FlyBy Ultra Backpack

The MONO M80 Classic FlyBy Ultra Backpack is the updated version of the MONO Classic Flyby Ultra Backpack. Both models are rugged and stylish backpacks for DJs on the go. The MONO M80 Classic FlyBy Ultra and the original model are both big enough to fit a portable controller, laptop, cables and accessories and are strong enough to withstand the rigors of travel. 

Price: $299.99

Gift MONO M80 Classic FlyBy Ultra Backpack

Stocking Stuffers for Vinyl DJs

If you’re looking for a few small useful items that vinyl DJs will love, look no further.

Traktor Butter Rug Slips

These will make great stocking stuffers, although you might have to buy a big stocking! Developed in collaboration with the legendary DJ QBert and his brand Thud Rumble, Traktor Butter Rug Slips are super slim and make scratches easier to perform. They’re the perfect accessory for DJing with Traktor Scratch Pro.

Price: $19

Gift Traktor Butter Rugs

Timecode MK2 Vinyl

Traktor Timecode MK2 Vinyl is a good idea for a vinyl DJ or turntablist who needs a pair of vinyl records to control Traktor using turntables.

Price: $19

Gift Timecode MK2 Vinyl

Microphones

In DJ sets, microphones serve as essential tools for DJs to engage with the audience and enhance the overall experience. DJs often use microphones to make announcements, introduce tracks, interact with the crowd, and create a dynamic atmosphere during their performances. Additionally, microphones are instrumental for vocalists or guest performers who may join the DJ on stage, allowing for live vocals and a more interactive and immersive performance.

Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone will make a great gift for the DJ who performs live and likes to emcee or make announcements. This is a classic corded microphone that’s rugged enough for night after night of shows.

Price: $99

Gift Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

If your DJ does a lot of mobile gigs, a better option for them may be the Shure BLX24/SM58 Wireless Handheld Microphone. If you’re looking for two wireless mics,

the Shure BLX288/PG58 is a dual wireless receiver that comes paired with two PG58 wireless mics. The Shure line of microphones are very sturdy and reliable options for shows.

Start your gift list for your favorite DJ today

DJ will adore any of the gifts you pick out for them on this list. Show a DJ your love and make gift giving about their passion for music and technology. If you generously give gifts for a DJ that they can use for their music, the DJ in your life will thank you, and be grateful all year long!

Explore DJ gifts at Native Instruments