DJ Software for Windows - Download Free Now
I've put together this guide sharing the best DJ software for Windows - to help out all my Windows DJs out there.
I'm a Windows user myself (and an avid DJ), so I've tried out pretty much every option when it comes to DJ software on Windows machines.
I will say, that while most of the common software is fairly similar, there is still a decent level of difference between various brands.
Some are more suitable for certain types of DJing, so make sure you check out my tips at the end to help you find the best match for you.
Keep reading for my full comparison of the best DJ software for Windows!
(You might also be interested in MacOS DJing Software!)
TL;DR - Best DJ Software for Windows 10#
There are many brands of DJ software for Windows, most of them working in the same way.
For live DJ mixing, rekordbox, Traktor, Serato, and Virtual DJ are some of the best choices for Windows DJs
DJ.Studio is a unique piece of software designed for making DJ sets using a mouse and keyboard alone.
The best choice for you depends on your needs and style as a DJ.
The Best DJ Software for Windows: Comparison #
Now I'll share the best options when it comes to Windows-compatible DJing software.
It's worth noting that most of these downloads come with a range of versions. A lot of them have free versions, that let you start using their basic features.
But, you will need to pay to unlock extra features if you want a more professional experience.
All of these programs offer a free version, which is a good idea to test before paying for a full version.
1) DJ.Studio - A Unique DJ App#
This Windows DJ software offers a revolutionary approach to digital DJing, giving users a system for making mixes without the need of a DJ controller.
Pros
Offers a different approach to traditional live mixing, and is designed for mouse and keyboard creation.
Use the AI automixer to instantly arrange a seamless, harmonically mixed DJ set.
Refine, perfect, and edit your mixes on a user-friendly timeline - don't worry about making mistakes!
Record and export your mixes up to 10x faster than real-time.
Cons
Not designed for live performance.
Doesn't have hardware support for hands-on control.
About
DJ.Studio is a powerful piece of DJ software that uses a unique workflow. This is the ultimate tool for creators who need to produce mixes with minimal speed and effort.
I use it to prepare mixes, and create promotional mixes for sharing online. I've also used it to make radio shows, and seamless mixes for long journeys and workout sessions.
Unlike the majority of other DJ software, DJ.Studio uses a timeline-based workflow. This moves away from the antiquated paradigm of a 'mixer and decks' type setup to play tracks live - which most DJ software tries to emulate.
Rather than using this old-fashioned setup, DJ.Studio uses a more powerful and non-linear approach. Of course, augmented with a range of cutting-edge technology.
The distinctive workflow and tools provided by DJ.Studio enhances users' creative and expressive potential, enabling them to build flawless mixes in record time.
Every component of DJ.Studio is designed to achieve the same (or better) final results that a professional DJ could achieve with a standard setup - even if the user has limited knowledge and experience.
Here is how it works:
Open DJ.Studio - You can run it in your browser, but the downloaded Windows app offers a larger range of features.
Create a Project - There are three main projects:
Local File - This makes mixes from your downloaded music collection, and integrated software libraries, like your iTunes or rekordbox library.
YouTube - Make mixes with music on YouTube and Spotify, you can even import your own playlists from either platform.
Beatport - Connect to Beatport Streaming to access over 12 million tracks.
Import Songs - Pick music that you want to use in the mix and add it to your project.
Automix - If you don't want to manually arrange the setlist, use the automix AI to detect the best sequence, taking into account harmonic mixing techniques and beatmatching.
Edit and Refine - Now you can use our powerful timeline editor to customize your mix in infinite detail. Use transition presets to instantly create a seamless mix, or use the manual editor to make it more personal. Add extra samples, use stem separation, and even make your own music videos!
Finish and Export - When you're happy with your mix, you can quickly export it to a range of locations. Rather than having to record it manually, DJ.Studio creates a recorded file in nearly 1/10th of the time it would take to record live. You don't need to worry about making mistakes either!
DJ.Studio has a bunch of other cool features, including a video creator with audio-reactive visuals, the ability to export mixes as an Ableton Live multitrack project, a range of cool effects, and more. It boasts a range of integrations with all popular DJ software, making it the perfect companion for mix planning and preparation.
You can even craft transitions using all the effects in parallel, meaning you can create more expressive mixes and exciting transitions than would normally be possible with two hands, two decks, and a mixer.
While it isn't designed for live performance, it's the best choice in any other situation. It's a unique piece of AI DJ Software which will make you much more productive as a DJ!
DJ.Studio can be bought either as a monthly subscription, or at a one-off price. Check it out today DJ.Studio Store.
You can find out more about our backstory in this Interview with DJ.Studio's Creator.
2) rekordbox#
Pros
Easy to use and very common in clubs and venues.
The free version has all the features you need to mix.
Can be used with a range of entry-level controllers, without needing to pay extra for a hardware unlock.
Can be upgraded with extra features like Cloud storage and streaming integration.
Cons
The subscription-only model can be expensive over time
Limited features in cheaper versions
Not as many recent updates as other software like DJ.Studio
About
rekordbox by Pioneer is one of the leading pieces of DJ software in the industry. You'll find this at countless clubs and bars around the world - as well as in the bedrooms of many DJs.
This also came high up in our list of the Best DJ Software, and is my favorite live DJing software. This is what I use with my controller at home, and prefer to use it when I play in clubs.
It's a great choice for anybody who wants to mix live, from beginners to professional DJs.
It has all the features you'd expect in DJ software - including automatic beat matching, effects, a decent library management system, and more.
There are four versions/pricing plans for rekordbox, so you can find one that suits your needs and budget at any level of DJing. These all come as a monthly or yearly subscription, ranging from $15 to $45 per month. Some versions also let you mix music directly from streaming services.
There is also a pretty decent free version of rekordbox, which is a good place to start DJing.
You can use rekordbox to transport your music library and DJ mix plans from home to clubs, thanks to the handy USB transfer setup. This means you can save a rekordbox file to a USB stick, plug it into a club's Pioneer DJ setup and start mixing your set straight away!
It's worth noting that the main downsides of rekordbox are the limitations on which DJ controllers you can use - as you can only control it with Pioneer DJ gear. You also can't use hardware with the free version.
3) Traktor#
Pros
Can be bought once, used forever.
Easy to use and intuitive.
Lets you mix on up to four decks.
Cons
Limited official controllers
Slightly complex in some cases
No subscription model is available
About
Traktor is another popular choice of DJ software for Windows 10 that lets you mix music in real time with ease. It has all the standard features you need to mix live and has other tools for managing your libraries and importing new tracks.
I like the way it lets you create hot cues and cue points easily. This is handy when you're preparing tracks for a live mix, and want to make things a bit easier to line up.
It's largely similar in workflow to rekordbox, although I'm not a huge fan of Traktor. I find the interface to be a bit of an eye-sore, and it's not as speedy and responsive as rekordbox - in my experience at least.
Additionally, just like DJay Pro, you can buy a permanent license for Traktor from Native Instruments, meaning you can save money in the long run compared to a subscription.
Traktor comes in a range of purchase options, including Traktor PRO, Traktor PRO Plus, Traktor LE3, and the free version Traktor DJ 2.
4) Serato#
Pros
Powerful library manager
Can use hardware controllers with the free version
Best DVS systems for low-latency scratching
Cons
Lacks real-time track analysis - difficult for sync-button users
Limited automation and performance tools
Slightly unrefined feeling
About
Serato is one of the other biggest names in the DJ software scene. Again, this uses a similar mixing concept to rekordbox and Traktor, where it simulates a mixer and deck setup.
With a more powerful library management system than other DJ software, Serato is known to be the weapon of choice for mixing artists who like to get their hands on scratching, effects, and live remixing.
Unlike most other DJ software, the free version of Serato works with its hardware controllers, meaning that a physical controller isn't locked behind an additional paywall. This is an attractive feature for newer DJs who want to test the waters of hardware DJing.
Additionally, Serato is a leader in DVS technology. DVS is Digital Vinyl Systems, which is a cool setup where a DJ can mix digital music using a vinyl turntable as a controller, using DVS control discs. This gives DJS the fun, tactile feeling of mixing with vinyl records, but the advantages and freedom of using digital DJ software.
I would only really recommend looking into Serato if you are interested in the digital vinyl and scratching stuff. Otherwise, you're better off going for rekordbox, as it's more universal, and offers a better experience in my opinion.
You can buy Serato in 3 versions - Serato DJ Lite (free), Serato DJ Pro, and Serato Studio.
Serato Studio is more of a tool for creating remixes and producing beats, rather than for DJing.
The free version, Serato DJ Lite, is actually pretty decent, so you should check it out if you are considering going down the Serato route.
5) Virtual DJ#
Pros
Compatible with a wide range of hardware and controllers
Lets you do video mixing with music videos
Comes with decent stem separation features (in the paid version)
Cons
Some instability issues
Need a paid license for certain hardware
Very poor customer support
Relatively expensive for the lower quality
About
If you've spent any time DJing, then you'll probably have heard of Virtual DJ. This is one of the oldest pieces of DJ software on the market and has seen years of development.
This uses the standard DJ software workflow and is compatible with most DJ controllers. you can even MIDI map non-DJ MIDI controllers to make your own kind of bootleg DJ setup.
One cool feature is the stem separation technology, which lets you isolate different elements within a track to create cool and unique remixes. For example, you can pull out the vocals of one track to make an a capella and remix it with a different instrumental.
There are three versions - Virtual DJ Free, Virtual DJ Pro, and Virtual DJ Business. Each offers a range of additional features for an extra cost.
I think the Virtual DJ software is a little clunky compared to others on the market, and there are a few annoying elements and limitations. Also, the customer suppoer is a bit lacking in my experience.
How To Choose The Right Windows DJ Software For You#
When you're choosing new DJ software, it's important that you get the right type. Otherwise you could have a frustrating experience which might even put you fof DJing.
In this section, I'll share some important things to think about to help you find the best fit.
Type - Live or Studio#
One of the most important considerations is to pick software that suits your use-case situation. There is a clear difference here, and picking the right type will make a huge improvement to your workflow.
The main thing to figure out is whether you plan on using your software more at home (and in the studio), or on the dancefloor.
If you need to perform live - perhaps at a wedding, in a nightclub, or at a party, then you'll need to pick DJ software that is capable of live mixing. The best choices here are rekordbox, Traktor or Serato.
However, these apps aren't always the best choice, and in many cases can actually slow you down.
If you need to create mixes, but not necessarily live or in real-time, then studio-style software is a better bet. Some examples of this situation are if you want to create radio shows, mix tapes, fitness class tracks, or want to create cool mixes to share online and promote yourself as a DJ.
In this case, there is only one good choice - DJ.Studio. MixMeister used to be an option on Windows machines, although it is no longer developed for the operating system, and doesn't work on later versions.
The studio workflow has the advantage of letting you be more expressive and creative, and efficient, by overcoming the limitations created by mixing live in real time - mostly due to the fact you can only use two hands, when there are loads of controls, and you might make mistakes.
Club DJs will need different software than radio DJs, or other people who are trying to create mixes.
Hardware Integration#
Do you need to use hardware?
Hardware is another important consideration. if you plan on using hardware, then you need to pick software that is compatible. Some software is restricted in the types of hardware it can connect to, while others aren't.
For example, rekordbox will only work with Pioneer hardware controllers, but Virtual DJ can be configured to work with almost any DJ controller
Other DJ Software Integration#
Do you need to connect to other software?
Depending on the type of work you are doing, you might need your software to be able to connect to other software and platforms. This could be for importing playlists and libraries from other places, or for exporting mixes to other programs and platforms.
Not all software has good integrations with others, so if this is important to you, make sure you choose software that has the connections you need.
Budget & Price Model#
What kind of pricing system works for you? What's your budget like?
DJ software comes in a range of different prices and models. Most have a limited free version which can be a good place to test them out.
Most also offer a tiered pricing system, where a basic version can be accessed at a lower price, and you can unlock a pro version with more advanced features by paying a bit more.
There are also two common pricing models - either you buy the software outright for a one-time purchase fee, or you pay a monthly subscription to 'rent' the software. Sometimes a company will offer both systems. The best choice here depends on your budget and needs.
If you think you might outgrow some software, then it's a good choice to stick to a subscription in the meantime. however, if you want to own the software forever, then it's usually cheaper, in the long run, to go for the one-time payment.
Closing Thoughts#
You now have a clear idea of the DJ software options available for Windows 10 users.
Other than DJ.Studio, they all revolve around the same traditional DJ principles, and there are only minor technical and aesthetic differences between them.
If you want to get ahead in the DJ race, DJ.Studio provides a powerful and unique workflow that enables DJs to be more creative, expressive, and efficient than ever before.
Taste the power yourself, and check out the free trial now!
You might also be interested in this list of the Best DJ Software for Beginners.
FAQs About DJ Applications For Windows 10
- What software do most DJs use?
- What is the best DJ app for a laptop?
- What's the best free DJ software for PC?
- Can I DJ with just my laptop?
- Can you DJ with a Windows laptop?