I've actually used both, first obviously was Serato Pro and then moved to Rekordbox. The move wasn't because there were problems with Serato Pro but because I bought a Pioneer DDJ-1000 controller for mobile gigs which forced the change when using it. Although, I will say that "forcing the change" was a very easy transition and one that I have no problem with. Will I ever go back to Serato DJ? Possibly, but it's not a necessity due to any flaws in Rekordbox DJ.
I`m currently thinking about getting a DDJ-1000, using DDJ SX2 at the moment. What`s your opinion on the DDJ-1000 compared to other serato controllers if you`ve used it before.
@@mkarakas95 I have both but prefer ddj sx2 I purchased the sx3 and all 3 units were defective so I'm waiting it out. Coming from your serato set up there isn't really any advantage to switch. I much prefer working in the serato environment and feel rb needs a ton of work with library and even basic functions like analyzing a track. It's get the bpm way off on a lot of them & has trouble with certain beat grids. It's really behind in the analysis dept and library/music Mgmt. Coming from serato I feel serato is for the Dj who does 4 hour club gigs and rb is for people making sets at home or a headliner with a short set.. Not for the working dj
I use Traktor, Serato, Rekordbox, and Djay Pro 2 (only for simply Spotify gigs such as tailgating event or a wedding). All of them have their pros and cons, so I wouldn't say one is an absolutely winner or better than the other one. It all depends on your style, what kind of gig you are doing, what kind of mixer effects you're after, do you want video, do you want lighting, do you want music streaming, and of course your physical HARDWARE. BTW, if you have a Pioneer DDJ-SX2 controller, it's compatible with all four of those DJ software programs.
Thanks for the info! I had been using Serato with my Pioneer DDJ-SB3 just upgraded to the DDJ-1000. Excited to start using Rekordbox thanks to seeing the features in this video
Serato DJ. In my DJ collective, most of the crew use Serato, whereas a handful of those also use Rekordbox. I, myself, has just received a DDJ-SX3, deciding that I do want that plug-and-play and ease-of-use functionality that Serato’s been known for, but also something that my crew and other DJs I know can plug into, as it can handle two laptop users. I’m curious to give Rekordbox a try one day, but my focus right now is just on getting what we need to do our gigs and to get the job done.
The best video I've ever seen on youtube! Thanks so much! I use Serato Dj Pro and am very pleased with it , along with a Pioneer DDJ SB 2 controller, I can say I'm doing my job with him in clubs, bars and so on.
I started with Serato and moved to Rekordbox. The transition from Mix in Key was a bummer at first but I had a musical foundation from my K-12 days and so it took me a few days to get back into the swing of things. Now it's all I use.
I’m a Serato user, Have DJay Pro as a backup, plus it’s great to have on my phone and iPad to try new ideas etc instead of pulling out my MacBook. The RANE ONE is flagship Controller & The DDJ-REV1 is my work horse…going to the majority of my gigs. The ONE is for larger bookings, ALL of my weddings etc. I pay monthly to have access to use the Rev1 and I’m open to try RekordBox
You’re forgetting one key point. You need to spend more money on Serato to use a keyboard to do dj functions. You don’t with Rekordbox. It’s always good to have a backup plan in case hardware fails. For Serato, you need to spend more for that freedom.
For DVS users: - Serato has more features: sticker lock, better designed disks/ functionality, longer runout groove (for stickering), plus better INT mode switching behaviour. - For Rekordbox, it works okay, but it's just a checklist item and has zero dvs-specific features. Even though it's said it 'works with any soundcard', there's no software switch to enable through mode to play vinyl mid set, if using anything other than Pioneer mixers. And even if using Pioneer's own interface, the implementation is a total afterthought.
I have been a serato user for about 6 years. If I were to start now I reckon I would use rekordbox. I think the fact that you library and cue points etc can be synced between a laptop and just a usb is brilliant. It's also great that it come free with many of pioneer controllers on the budget end rather that serato just having serato lite. Also i think the best feature of rekordbox is the fact that if you have a full pioneer setup of CDJs and DJM mixer linked with ethernet cables you can connect everything with a single ethernet cable (Pro DJ Link). This so much more convenient than the 3 usb cables you would need to same set up with Serato DJ.
Very nice review. Ive been using serato dj for the past few years with a controller. It was great! I now tried the recordbox dvs with turntables and a pioneer xp1. For me, the files management is much better with recordbox. But with all the other features, they are just the same to me. Its ok either way. It just depends on the preference of the user.
Thank you, I'm just starting out & I hear serato is the best. I've been using my friends controller & downloaded rekordbox, I like it, I see no issues for what I want to do
it's only about habbit, every DJ knows what is best for him, or what he started to use in past... When im doing gigs with my controller, Im using Serato, cause im accustomed on it and have everything organized there, but when im going play in club, if they have CDJs im using rekordbox, working with grid, hot cues and final export on USB. (Cause i can do it only with Rekordbox)
Rekordbox actually can work with any hardware, you can midi map anything and use almost any audio interface but there is just no official support with anything non-PioneerDJ. I also think that you should have included traktor.
I've been using Serato for a couple of years now and I like it. I really do like it. It's the software I learn to DJ with.. about a week and a half ago I installed rekordbox so I can prep a flash drive to take to a gig. I'm not as comfortable with rekordbox as I am with Serato but I do like all the extra customization.
Having to open every single track and rekordbox just add my hot cues it's kind of annoying I wish rekordbox would either see the hot cues that Serato makes or that Serato would just let us export for pioneer stuff..
One thing to mention is that Rekordbox is always up and ready to handle any OS updates, while as of right now after 6 months of Big Sur release Serato still does not offer support for this OS, whereas rekordbox had the compatibility release on week after the OS was released, supporting also surprisingly M1 chips. So if you are a Mac lover and like to always keep your OS up to date, I will think twice before getting Serato.
@@digitaldjtips it really did actually I just got my sr2 and after I ordered found out that it's compatible with all the other DJ programs and gave me a lot of extra add-ons. I had also acquired Ableton and then came to learn that you could link them together to use your midi controllers.. so your video actually gave me the last bit of information I needed and it turned out to be the perfect decision. I really appreciate it saved me a lot of time and money lol hopefully that little bit of extra info I added will help somebody else too.
Any pro DJ software comparison that doesn't take "the big three" into the equation is just inadequate and short-sighted. I have no other words for it. The American reviewer doesn't seem to understand that you simply can not leave out Traktor in such a comparison because it's huge, especially in Europe and especially in the professional house and techno scene. It actually comes with unique features that are arguably more catered to house DJ's (stems, remix decks), not to mention it has the widest variety of effects built into it and offers by far the deepest interface customization options (like macros). Which means depending on what kind of DJ you are, Traktor should definitely be taken into comparison. Mind you, and I haven't even touched on Virtual DJ here, which is by far the most elaborate and innovative DJ software package of them all, although less common in the professional DJ world. Denon's Engine Prime is also making big strides nowadays, with their new XDJ-RX2 -killer hardware Prime 4 and offering compatibility with its competitors.
We've done other "Head To Head" pieces in the past, and will do others in the future as each software gets more advanced - often Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox DJ are what certain DJs (typically club or scratch) are deciding between. We absolutely haven't forgotten about Traktor! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us! :)
@@digitaldjtips Head to head in this case just doesn't make sense at all because there is a "big three" out there, not a "big two". And if you're heavily into house music, the "head to head" if anything should be between Rekordbox and Traktor, not Serato, which is more catered towards turntablism and traditional, open format DJ-ing. The fact that Serato is more popular in the US (where they rather speak of EDM than of house music) doesn't change that. This is an international channel, not a US-only channel.
@@Drrolfski Hey rolf! Loved your comment man! So I'm Beginner level DJ, just learnt Mixing on pioneer nexus 2. But I have absolutely zero idea about digital DJ'ing! But then I'm ardent Techno/House lover! So can you please in simple language explain me how Traktor will be better than RB or Serato specifically for Techno /House. Much thanks
Traktor's looping is the best of all of them, especially "loop shift" or "loop move" which lets you get really creative with techno. It falls down when you want to use non-electronic music though.
I'm using Serato DJ Pro as my Denon DS1 DVS system came with a license for it. But I have used the free version of Rekordbox for exporting music to USB on my CDJ2000 over the years as well. :) good competition
Using Rekordbox and Rekorbox Dj for my hardware...when updating my hardware to Denon dj prime will use Serato Dj Pro.... both software are great...to the End it's the DJ WHO makes the difference ;-)
Serato til I die. I have a DDJ-SX2 and I love it! Serato is the shiznit. I'm going to be getting two turntables soon, so I'll upgrade to Serato DVS when that time comes. Can't wait to have the full setup. I wish Serato would incorporate some of the library tools that Rekordbox has though. I tried Rekordbox for 30 days off and on, since it works with the SX2, but I didn't like it very much....
Hey, just bought my first DJ Table, and didn't realize its only usable with rekordbox. However, after watching this video, I am perfectly OK with that. Thank you!
This was very helpful because I am just getting into mixing and have not purchased my first controller. I like the customization of Rekordbox but also the customer service and simplicity of Serato. I am torn! Will think about it. I will probably get Rekordbox. Thank you.
I settled on Rekordbox because you get full "PRO" software bundled with an entry level controller (I'm new to this and got the DDJ 400). You can't use Serato DJ Pro on entry level Serato controllers, and you have to license every controller/mixer you own. Someone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong about that, but that's my understanding of it.
I used Serato Scratch Live during my Vinyl years from early 2004 - 2013 but continued on using it via HID mode on CDJs up until mid 2016 myself, then I finally gave in and updated to Serato DJ Pro.. I tried out Rekordbox DJ Performance mode on a number of occasions over the last 2 years though and I have to say that over the last couple of updates Pioneer have made to it, I’ve been leaning more towards that over Serato lately!! That’s basically more so since the collaboration formed between Rekordbox and Beatport with the Beatport Link Pro and Pro+ subscriptions though which I got onto 2 days after the Beta version was released, so straight away basically and I’ve been using only that pretty much since.. I personally believe in my own opinion now that the testing stage is all over and done with, I think that Rekordbox will start to dominate the market very soon and it’s very hard to turn away from Serato but yeh Rekordbox is slowly but surely winning me over!! Just saying it as I see it personally though, I love both programs to be totally honest though but Serato definitely still has a stronger liking to myself on a sentimental level 😐 Long story short it’s hard to judge really haha, so I’ll just leave it at that I suppose 👍 Ok bye 🙋♂️😂
Based on the features shown in this video, I would have liked to see it compared with Traktor Pro 3 as well. There really wasn't anything in this video that doesn't exist in that universe (e.g. there was no speak of RBDJ Lighting, Serato's compatibility with SoundSwitch, or the use of video). I actually think that Traktor Pro 3 has some great sound quality improvements, perhaps better than Pitch N Time. When it looked like NI had given up, I switched to Rekordbox DJ and a Pioneer controller about 2-3 years ago. Since the release of the Kontrol S4 MK2 and TP3, I've transitioned back. It's just so much more fun to DJ on the NI software and hardware.
I prefer rekordbox. Edit : because pioneer had the the only decent all in one unit with the xdj rx When I came away from vinyl amd I've always preferred pioneer mixers so using rekordbox was ideal. Now I've gone back to using vinyl and my tunes where already rekordbox analysed it made sense for me to use rekordbox dvs and get a pioneer mixer with a RB compatible sound card.
I think im going to be going with rekordbox because it is included in the entry level ddj-rb, alot of the entry level serato controllers only come with serato lite :(
Serato definitely will win just with the tech support/customer service alone. The few times I have dealt with Pioneer they seem to be arrogant in their ways.
If I could jump in with a quick add to the video. Serato DJ has that Pitch n' Time expansion pack you mentioned. However, with Rekordbox DJ it's included right out the gate. No expansion pack required.
Great video thanks! Its a good first level overview on both. I was actually using Serato scratch live and dj pro for a long time now. When I do mobile gigs I use a pioneer controller so I might check out record box.
I am considering the DDJ Rev7 and retiring my DDJ1000 for the improved format functionality. My hesitation is solely that I use Rekordbox not Serato. I move from Serato w the 1000 Rekordbox purchase. Ugh, I like the organizing and tagging in Rekordbox and wondering should I do it or can ithe Rev be remapped to work w Rekordbox performance software?
gonna stick with Rekordbox, though it still seems to have little glitches in functionality from time to time, but i am 100% that they will be fixed fast and with quality like Pioneer always does. it may also be related to my controller (ddj-1000), but in general the problems are small and are fixed as the software is being developed.
Rekordbox all the way as its not tied to having to use a MacBook! Rekordbox also is less "heavy" on CPU & as such even my core i5 laptop without dedicated graphics plays videos & I can still use on board effects without it crashing. which not possible with Serato. Rekordbox also has better music management & assistance features not available on Serato
Thanks for this comparison! It’s helpful. I’m a vinyl dj, finally trying a controller (XDJ-XZ) along with my turntables and was debating Serato vs Recordbox. Gonna try Serato first and see, based on your advice...
I use Traktor with Ddj t1 and xdj 1000 with djm 850 for big gigs. I considering moving to Rekordbox Dj because Ddj 1000 controler instead of my Ddj t1, and the mixer is almost the same as my djm 850.
If you're looking to play in Clubs then get Rekordbox, if not just choose your controller and go with whatever works with it and crack on with the important part - DJing :)
I’ve used Serato but every time Apple updates it’s iso it’s a Pain in the butt. I went to recordbox boom synced iTunes no problem. I really tried everything on serato to sync and nothing, seems like their software is a little sus.
Are they both equally compatible with Mac and PC? Once purchased, do these softwares only work with the laptop they were first connected to? How many different laptops will either software work on?
Hey! I've been producing with FL studio heavy Dubstep/Tearout for about 5 years now. Looking into performing live, and completely lost where to start. Just bought a DDJ REV1 so I'm starting with Serato. Will I be able to double layer drops in the same way with Serato?
We like them both for different reasons (you can see a more detailed version of our thoughts here...): www.digitaldjtips.com/2019/01/head-to-head-serato-dj-vs-rekordbox-dj-2/
UNLESS you're a club Dj that wanna prepare his set in RB, theres absolutely no fucking reason to go by any of these 2 ...I know imma get alot of mixed feelings about this 1 but by far THE ABSOLUTE best software i've used is VDJ Pro. Before all the buthurt Serato faggboys..pardon..fan boyz go apeshit right here, lemme tell u why: -I've never,ever,ever,not a single fuckin time have i experienced a crash on VDj -The ease of use and user friendliness is just unparaleled -The smoothnes is outta this world, the responsivenes aswell -The costumizabilty is far ahead those two -The mapping freedom is centuries ahead -The abilty to scan your tracks from the actual laptop folders and play them straight outta there, without havin to add them to a library and so on.. also , everytime you add a new track, it shows in VDJ right away, you aint got to rescan the drives -The fact that pretty much every piece of hardware imaginable comes ready mapped/plug and play -The DVS tracking is by far the best of the bunch, Serato saves, if ya dont believe me just giive it a try first ;) -The str8 vid output is just killin it. -Abilty to use Sandbox to preview your mixes ahead of the main output. -Lowest CPU load of the three by a long margin and the examples can keep goin Wtf more do ya want you stuck up mofos ???
Lol, you make your point... forcefully JAD. Seriously though, we hear you - Virtual DJ has many, many fans for all of those reasons and will be featured in future Head to Heads.
Hey Digital DJ Tips how about u guys give a good review about Virtual DJ vs Serato DJ Pro I have to say I am a Pioneer DJ user and I have a Rekordbox controller and I use VDJ with mine so yall guy give virtual dj some love please do a video about how great virtual DJ is
Yea vdj gets no love. Im a proud professional user of it..never had an issue with it. I give props to serato for having a better sound engine. But other than that VDJ is hands down the best!! To me it's like apple vs android
Great video! I think rekordbox would be better for me but I'm concerned about realiability. I've seen many reviews where something was wrong with the software where I haven't seen that with serato. I curently use traktor. While I'm pleased with traktor, I want an option that is reliable and used by other djs so if I get a bar gig and they have a dvs setup and have serato, I can just plug in and play. More advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
I always thought that serato had good customer support until I asked for a refund on my dj pro that they charged me for no reason when I had proper equipment to make it free
@@urbanprojectz get a rekordbox controller and find a mapping for serato or Traktor. From what I gather, you can't get a Serato or Traktor controller and map it to Rekordbox. I still think you can use a Serato controller for Traktor though. But I'm also only researching, and would love this to be confirmed by someone with experience.
This video came just in time. I've been using Serato for some years now, but I recently got a DJM-250 MK2 mixer which came along with the Rekordbox license. I used it for a while and it's very similar to Serato, I even mapped my keys the same as Serato. I have a pair of CDJ-850s and would like to use them stand alone and at some point upgrade to the DDJ RX2 or a pair of XDJ 1000 as I'm so used to using Pioneer CDJ's. Transitioning crates/playlists from one to the other was made easy using the Rekord Buddy software.
Being a Serato user I would like to buy a Pioneer DDJ-800 but do not know much about Rekordbox, can you tell me if Rekordbox is as easy to use as Serato and does it have as good features.
The DDJ1000 and DDJ1000SRT are the model numbers for the two controllers. The DDJ1000 uses Rekordbox, whereas the 1000SRT is the Serato model and is also $100 more expensive (to cover Serato charging Pioneer to have them as an option).
its okay to blink
😂😂😂😂
LOool
It's not! If you do that, people will think you're a pervert. Didn't you knew that? :O
lol damn... He did a good job though but I feel guilty for laughing
I think he blinked 3 times :)
I use Windows media player.
Borderlands808 I’m more of a Real Player user.
Lol!
Winamp!
The real OG over here
Windows media player (Windows 95 Edition)
I've actually used both, first obviously was Serato Pro and then moved to Rekordbox. The move wasn't because there were problems with Serato Pro but because I bought a Pioneer DDJ-1000 controller for mobile gigs which forced the change when using it. Although, I will say that "forcing the change" was a very easy transition and one that I have no problem with. Will I ever go back to Serato DJ? Possibly, but it's not a necessity due to any flaws in Rekordbox DJ.
Same here - but keep in mind the possibilities using all CDJ equipment in Clubs with your pre analyzed library - amazing!
Thanks all for weighing in :)
same story for me :)
I`m currently thinking about getting a DDJ-1000, using DDJ SX2 at the moment. What`s your opinion on the DDJ-1000 compared to other serato controllers if you`ve used it before.
@@mkarakas95 I have both but prefer ddj sx2 I purchased the sx3 and all 3 units were defective so I'm waiting it out. Coming from your serato set up there isn't really any advantage to switch. I much prefer working in the serato environment and feel rb needs a ton of work with library and even basic functions like analyzing a track. It's get the bpm way off on a lot of them & has trouble with certain beat grids.
It's really behind in the analysis dept and library/music Mgmt.
Coming from serato I feel serato is for the Dj who does 4 hour club gigs and rb is for people making sets at home or a headliner with a short set.. Not for the working dj
I've been a Serato user since 2010. I love it and I use a wide variety of products from different brands. I think I will stick with Serato.
Cool, glad to hear it!
I use Traktor, Serato, Rekordbox, and Djay Pro 2 (only for simply Spotify gigs such as tailgating event or a wedding). All of them have their pros and cons, so I wouldn't say one is an absolutely winner or better than the other one. It all depends on your style, what kind of gig you are doing, what kind of mixer effects you're after, do you want video, do you want lighting, do you want music streaming, and of course your physical HARDWARE. BTW, if you have a Pioneer DDJ-SX2 controller, it's compatible with all four of those DJ software programs.
Great points Brandon, cheers!
Which one is the best for scratching? I heard it was Traktor
Serato and Traktor are comparable in our opinion.
I was almost tempted to move to denon bcuz of prime 4 . But I love my pioneer .hurry up pioneer and ad wifi direct to win!!
DDJ-SX3 works with Serato.
Thanks for the info! I had been using Serato with my Pioneer DDJ-SB3 just upgraded to the DDJ-1000. Excited to start using Rekordbox thanks to seeing the features in this video
Awesome, enjoy the new controller!
Serato DJ. In my DJ collective, most of the crew use Serato, whereas a handful of those also use Rekordbox. I, myself, has just received a DDJ-SX3, deciding that I do want that plug-and-play and ease-of-use functionality that Serato’s been known for, but also something that my crew and other DJs I know can plug into, as it can handle two laptop users. I’m curious to give Rekordbox a try one day, but my focus right now is just on getting what we need to do our gigs and to get the job done.
Can't argue with that Velanche. Thanks for feeding back - Phil
i used both and feel more at home with rekordboxdj. good job pioneer :)
The best video I've ever seen on youtube! Thanks so much! I use Serato Dj Pro and am very pleased with it , along with a Pioneer DDJ SB 2 controller, I can say I'm doing my job with him in clubs, bars and so on.
Thanks for your support!
I started with Serato and moved to Rekordbox. The transition from Mix in Key was a bummer at first but I had a musical foundation from my K-12 days and so it took me a few days to get back into the swing of things. Now it's all I use.
Thinking of doing the same thing, wonder how many people have moved DJ softwares in the last year and where they're moving from and to - Scott
I’m a Serato user, Have DJay Pro as a backup, plus it’s great to have on my phone and iPad to try new ideas etc instead of pulling out my MacBook.
The RANE ONE is flagship Controller & The DDJ-REV1 is my work horse…going to the majority of my gigs. The ONE is for larger bookings, ALL of my weddings etc. I pay monthly to have access to use the Rev1 and I’m open to try RekordBox
Using serato for years... but I am tempted with rekordbox. Still not able to decide while I am still sticking to serato for now.
You’re forgetting one key point. You need to spend more money on Serato to use a keyboard to do dj functions. You don’t with Rekordbox. It’s always good to have a backup plan in case hardware fails. For Serato, you need to spend more for that freedom.
Rekordbox since the release of the DDJ-1000
Nice :)
It’s rumored a ddj1000 is coming for Serato in August😉
We'll see...
DDJ 1000 SRT - for serato is out... what's your selection now ?
@@MentalBlue oooo
For DVS users:
- Serato has more features: sticker lock, better designed disks/ functionality, longer runout groove (for stickering), plus better INT mode switching behaviour.
- For Rekordbox, it works okay, but it's just a checklist item and has zero dvs-specific features. Even though it's said it 'works with any soundcard', there's no software switch to enable through mode to play vinyl mid set, if using anything other than Pioneer mixers. And even if using Pioneer's own interface, the implementation is a total afterthought.
Good additional points, thanks for watching :)
I have been a serato user for about 6 years. If I were to start now I reckon I would use rekordbox. I think the fact that you library and cue points etc can be synced between a laptop and just a usb is brilliant. It's also great that it come free with many of pioneer controllers on the budget end rather that serato just having serato lite. Also i think the best feature of rekordbox is the fact that if you have a full pioneer setup of CDJs and DJM mixer linked with ethernet cables you can connect everything with a single ethernet cable (Pro DJ Link). This so much more convenient than the 3 usb cables you would need to same set up with Serato DJ.
Agreed there, I'm on Serato but often think of moving over to Rekordbox. They're both great though - Scott
Now you need a subscription serato is my clear favourite
Serato is awesome :)
Very nice review. Ive been using serato dj for the past few years with a controller. It was great! I now tried the recordbox dvs with turntables and a pioneer xp1. For me, the files management is much better with recordbox. But with all the other features, they are just the same to me. Its ok either way. It just depends on the preference of the user.
Rekordbox certainly does have the best file management of all.
Thank you, I'm just starting out & I hear serato is the best. I've been using my friends controller & downloaded rekordbox, I like it, I see no issues for what I want to do
No problem!
ua-cam.com/video/svNxZFb4XVU/v-deo.html
it's only about habbit, every DJ knows what is best for him, or what he started to use in past... When im doing gigs with my controller, Im using Serato, cause im accustomed on it and have everything organized there, but when im going play in club, if they have CDJs im using rekordbox, working with grid, hot cues and final export on USB. (Cause i can do it only with Rekordbox)
Great to be adaptable like that Erik 👏
Rekordbox actually can work with any hardware, you can midi map anything and use almost any audio interface but there is just no official support with anything non-PioneerDJ. I also think that you should have included traktor.
We are running a series of these Heads to Heads, and Traktor is coming...
I've been using Serato for a couple of years now and I like it. I really do like it. It's the software I learn to DJ with..
about a week and a half ago I installed rekordbox so I can prep a flash drive to take to a gig.
I'm not as comfortable with rekordbox as I am with Serato but I do like all the extra customization.
The truth is there's no software that can do it ALL - they all do SOMETHING better than each other...
@@digitaldjtips I wish Serato would give us an export feature
Having to open every single track and rekordbox just add my hot cues it's kind of annoying I wish rekordbox would either see the hot cues that Serato makes or that Serato would just let us export for pioneer stuff..
Have you looked at Rekord Buddy to help with this?
Just don't have the money for it right now..
Serato dj + virtual dj best option!!!
Excellent video. Very clearly explains the similarities and differences. Well done!
One thing to mention is that Rekordbox is always up and ready to handle any OS updates, while as of right now after 6 months of Big Sur release Serato still does not offer support for this OS, whereas rekordbox had the compatibility release on week after the OS was released, supporting also surprisingly M1 chips. So if you are a Mac lover and like to always keep your OS up to date, I will think twice before getting Serato.
Thanks for weighing in Ivan
@@digitaldjtips You are welcome, love the channel 🚀
Vdj8 for me, all in one, dj music, audio streaming, video, karaoke, even light control, is the father of weddings :)
I have tested all of them, and agree with you. VDJ is the most versatile and it works directly out of the box
Cool, thanks for sharing!
I’m a DJ software hoarder. I have VDJ8, Serato DJ Pro, Megaseg, OTSDJ, Djay, and a classic...BPM Studio
Love it - if you can learn them all why not? :)
@jim what’s your opinion on djay 2. What controller you use?
djay 2 is good software, bear in mind the company, Algoriddim, is switching to subscription only across all platforms.
Citizens Gate good software. I use sx2
It's a good thing to know all DJ Software.
As a beginner this helped a lot thanks. I think I'll stick to Serato until all hardware is compatible. Good work.
Glad it helped.
@@digitaldjtips it really did actually I just got my sr2 and after I ordered found out that it's compatible with all the other DJ programs and gave me a lot of extra add-ons. I had also acquired Ableton and then came to learn that you could link them together to use your midi controllers.. so your video actually gave me the last bit of information I needed and it turned out to be the perfect decision. I really appreciate it saved me a lot of time and money lol hopefully that little bit of extra info I added will help somebody else too.
Cool, exciting times!
This is very nice video. U have explain it very good. I have to share this video to my facebook. Good job. Keep good work
🙏🙏
Any pro DJ software comparison that doesn't take "the big three" into the equation is just inadequate and short-sighted. I have no other words for it. The American reviewer doesn't seem to understand that you simply can not leave out Traktor in such a comparison because it's huge, especially in Europe and especially in the professional house and techno scene. It actually comes with unique features that are arguably more catered to house DJ's (stems, remix decks), not to mention it has the widest variety of effects built into it and offers by far the deepest interface customization options (like macros). Which means depending on what kind of DJ you are, Traktor should definitely be taken into comparison.
Mind you, and I haven't even touched on Virtual DJ here, which is by far the most elaborate and innovative DJ software package of them all, although less common in the professional DJ world. Denon's Engine Prime is also making big strides nowadays, with their new XDJ-RX2 -killer hardware Prime 4 and offering compatibility with its competitors.
U deserve multiple likes for this..
We've done other "Head To Head" pieces in the past, and will do others in the future as each software gets more advanced - often Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox DJ are what certain DJs (typically club or scratch) are deciding between. We absolutely haven't forgotten about Traktor! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us! :)
@@digitaldjtips Head to head in this case just doesn't make sense at all because there is a "big three" out there, not a "big two". And if you're heavily into house music, the "head to head" if anything should be between Rekordbox and Traktor, not Serato, which is more catered towards turntablism and traditional, open format DJ-ing. The fact that Serato is more popular in the US (where they rather speak of EDM than of house music) doesn't change that. This is an international channel, not a US-only channel.
@@Drrolfski Hey rolf! Loved your comment man! So I'm Beginner level DJ, just learnt Mixing on pioneer nexus 2. But I have absolutely zero idea about digital DJ'ing! But then I'm ardent Techno/House lover! So can you please in simple language explain me how Traktor will be better than RB or Serato specifically for Techno /House. Much thanks
Traktor's looping is the best of all of them, especially "loop shift" or "loop move" which lets you get really creative with techno. It falls down when you want to use non-electronic music though.
Rekordbox now, I use to use Serato, but I bought the DDJ RZX, 3 years ago and love it. Rekordbox have came a lone way..
They definitely have!
Is it as mobile as ppl say? And how often you use the mp4 feature?
It's not really mobile at all, it's a beast!
I'm using Serato DJ Pro as my Denon DS1 DVS system came with a license for it. But I have used the free version of Rekordbox for exporting music to USB on my CDJ2000 over the years as well. :) good competition
Indeed 👌
Because it can analyse the files to provide more info to a CDJ, XDJ unit etc - like key, volume, cues.
I've been on Traktor for years. Now I need to upgrade but don't know what to!
Why do you need to upgrade?
RB is my weapon of choice, i know how to use VDJ, RB, Djay Pro and Serato. I prefer RB.
I've struggled with RB
Good streamlined review of both platforms without personal bias or non-essential info.
Thank you!
Using Rekordbox and Rekorbox Dj for my hardware...when updating my hardware to Denon dj prime will use Serato Dj Pro.... both software are great...to the End it's the DJ WHO makes the difference ;-)
That is 100% true Sacha.
Thank you so much ! this is just the "vs." review i was looking for, very clear to understand.
Glad it helped , Eric-Jan.
Serato til I die. I have a DDJ-SX2 and I love it! Serato is the shiznit. I'm going to be getting two turntables soon, so I'll upgrade to Serato DVS when that time comes. Can't wait to have the full setup. I wish Serato would incorporate some of the library tools that Rekordbox has though. I tried Rekordbox for 30 days off and on, since it works with the SX2, but I didn't like it very much....
Hey, just bought my first DJ Table, and didn't realize its only usable with rekordbox. However, after watching this video, I am perfectly OK with that. Thank you!
Glad we could help :)
Thank you...going with Serato
Good break down for a start, but was disappointed to not hear the Video and Lighting integrations mentioned.
Is there one that’s easier than the other for beginners?
Nice video. Currently using Rekordbox on ddj 800. Serato is good too but newer pioneer controllers cost $100+ for serato gear with less features.
Thanks for watching!
This was very helpful because I am just getting into mixing and have not purchased my first controller. I like the customization of Rekordbox but also the customer service and simplicity of Serato. I am torn! Will think about it. I will probably get Rekordbox. Thank you.
Thanks for watching Scot, don't overthink it!
I settled on Rekordbox because you get full "PRO" software bundled with an entry level controller (I'm new to this and got the DDJ 400). You can't use Serato DJ Pro on entry level Serato controllers, and you have to license every controller/mixer you own. Someone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong about that, but that's my understanding of it.
can you dj from your soundcloud account while using rekordbox?
No, not at present.
@@digitaldjtips ouch! That might be the deal breaker!
Going with Serato
Rekorbox since I've been using them for 2 years now and I own a DDJ-SB2.
Awesome :)
I own both but starting to have more fun using rekordbox but get me wrong serato is great
Cool :)
iam using serato dj pro and am comfortable with it
Fair enough!
Im using Serato Dj Lite but will move to DJ Pro.
WMAN I like Pro using my Dj505
I used Serato Scratch Live during my Vinyl years from early 2004 - 2013 but continued on using it via HID mode on CDJs up until mid 2016 myself, then I finally gave in and updated to Serato DJ Pro.. I tried out Rekordbox DJ Performance mode on a number of occasions over the last 2 years though and I have to say that over the last couple of updates Pioneer have made to it, I’ve been leaning more towards that over Serato lately!! That’s basically more so since the collaboration formed between Rekordbox and Beatport with the Beatport Link Pro and Pro+ subscriptions though which I got onto 2 days after the Beta version was released, so straight away basically and I’ve been using only that pretty much since.. I personally believe in my own opinion now that the testing stage is all over and done with, I think that Rekordbox will start to dominate the market very soon and it’s very hard to turn away from Serato but yeh Rekordbox is slowly but surely winning me over!! Just saying it as I see it personally though, I love both programs to be totally honest though but Serato definitely still has a stronger liking to myself on a sentimental level 😐 Long story short it’s hard to judge really haha, so I’ll just leave it at that I suppose 👍 Ok bye 🙋♂️😂
We think Rekordbox's growth is slowing a bit - Serato is way out front right now. But let's see..
Based on the features shown in this video, I would have liked to see it compared with Traktor Pro 3 as well. There really wasn't anything in this video that doesn't exist in that universe (e.g. there was no speak of RBDJ Lighting, Serato's compatibility with SoundSwitch, or the use of video). I actually think that Traktor Pro 3 has some great sound quality improvements, perhaps better than Pitch N Time.
When it looked like NI had given up, I switched to Rekordbox DJ and a Pioneer controller about 2-3 years ago. Since the release of the Kontrol S4 MK2 and TP3, I've transitioned back. It's just so much more fun to DJ on the NI software and hardware.
We'll have to do a big head to head (to head... to head) :)
Really apprecaite the breakdown between the two softwares
No problem! Thanks for watching :)
I prefer rekordbox.
Edit : because pioneer had the the only decent all in one unit with the xdj rx When I came away from vinyl amd I've always preferred pioneer mixers so using rekordbox was ideal. Now I've gone back to using vinyl and my tunes where already rekordbox analysed it made sense for me to use rekordbox dvs and get a pioneer mixer with a RB compatible sound card.
The Prime 2 and Prime 4 blow those plastic RX units with awful screens and SOCs out of the water.
I think im going to be going with rekordbox because it is included in the entry level ddj-rb, alot of the entry level serato controllers only come with serato lite :(
Serato definitely will win just with the tech support/customer service alone. The few times I have dealt with Pioneer they seem to be arrogant in their ways.
Good to hear your experience of it Tony, cheers
Serato is much easier to use and streamlined but rekordbox has way more features and complexity
If I could jump in with a quick add to the video. Serato DJ has that Pitch n' Time expansion pack you mentioned. However, with Rekordbox DJ it's included right out the gate. No expansion pack required.
Thanks for the add, Note.
What controller would be a better choice of comparatively when using any software?
Appreciate your input 👍
Much blessings 🙌
🎛🎤🎧👍
Hey man, loved the video. Where did you get that dope art print of the record players behind you? I want something similar to put above my setup.
Best thing to do is hit Joe up on his own channel: facebook.com/DJJoeMoore :)
Great video thanks! Its a good first level overview on both. I was actually using Serato scratch live and dj pro for a long time now. When I do mobile gigs I use a pioneer controller so I might check out record box.
Glad it helped!
I’m just getting into DJing so I’m not quite sure what to go with. I feel like using serato, I’ve wanted to since I first found out about it.
If you're thinking about playing in clubs one day personally I'd go for Rekordbox
I am considering the DDJ Rev7 and retiring my DDJ1000 for the improved format functionality. My hesitation is solely that I use Rekordbox not Serato. I move from Serato w the 1000 Rekordbox purchase. Ugh, I like the organizing and tagging in Rekordbox and wondering should I do it or can ithe Rev be remapped to work w Rekordbox performance software?
gonna stick with Rekordbox, though it still seems to have little glitches in functionality from time to time, but i am 100% that they will be fixed fast and with quality like Pioneer always does. it may also be related to my controller (ddj-1000), but in general the problems are small and are fixed as the software is being developed.
Yeah they've made massive improvements the last few years and we're sure they'll continue to do so :)
Pricing, can you elaborate? A license costs more, but there are no monthly plans in order to use the software right? You're just paying for a license?
looks like Serato for me, thank you for the informative video!!!!
Glad to help :)
Rekordbox all the way as its not tied to having to use a MacBook! Rekordbox also is less "heavy" on CPU & as such even my core i5 laptop without dedicated graphics plays videos & I can still use on board effects without it crashing. which not possible with Serato. Rekordbox also has better music management & assistance features not available on Serato
Thanks for weighing in Eric!
I think serato runs better on low end notebooks than rekordbox
Interesting...
What year is your Mac ?
Thanks for this comparison! It’s helpful. I’m a vinyl dj, finally trying a controller (XDJ-XZ) along with my turntables and was debating Serato vs Recordbox. Gonna try Serato first and see, based on your advice...
Glad it helped :)
Rekordbox is better, i never had to pay for it, got it with my Pioneer DDJ-RB, and can export my dj playlist's to the CDJ's
I like Rekordbox...
Nice one, any reason in particular?
Thanks I use Serato with Turntables bought a Pioneer DDJ 400 curious about Rekordbox..
It's worth giving it a try if you're not sure :)
Great review!! Thanks so much!
Definitely, cheers Jim!
Good Video, Question 🙋🏽♂️ , can I use Serato with the Pioneer DDJ800 ??
I use Traktor with Ddj t1 and xdj 1000 with djm 850 for big gigs. I considering moving to Rekordbox Dj because Ddj 1000 controler instead of my Ddj t1, and the mixer is almost the same as my djm 850.
I'll go with rekordbox....
Cool :)
I like serato dj pro and traktor over the rest not saying nothing bad or negative about the other two it’s just my preference
Thanks for sharing, Jerry. More comparison head-to-heads on the way...
Great video but I will serato 🙏🏽👑
Which one is better I m a beginer 🤔I m confused ?
Neither is better, both are professional level DJ software
@@digitaldjtips k 😅
If you're looking to play in Clubs then get Rekordbox, if not just choose your controller and go with whatever works with it and crack on with the important part - DJing :)
I’ve used Serato but every time Apple updates it’s iso it’s a Pain in the butt. I went to recordbox boom synced iTunes no problem. I really tried everything on serato to sync and nothing, seems like their software is a little sus.
Are they both equally compatible with Mac and PC? Once purchased, do these softwares only work with the laptop they were first connected to? How many different laptops will either software work on?
Hey! I've been producing with FL studio heavy Dubstep/Tearout for about 5 years now. Looking into performing live, and completely lost where to start. Just bought a DDJ REV1 so I'm starting with Serato.
Will I be able to double layer drops in the same way with Serato?
Which software have better sound quality
serato wat about your thought @@digitaldjtips
We like them both for different reasons (you can see a more detailed version of our thoughts here...): www.digitaldjtips.com/2019/01/head-to-head-serato-dj-vs-rekordbox-dj-2/
I have a DDJ 1000 so I'm Rekordbox ali the way.
For me it's VDJ8. It's mapping is much better than the others. Their analyzation of files is more accurate as well.
Thanks for your feedback Neftali Figueroa.
UNLESS you're a club Dj that wanna prepare his set in RB, theres absolutely no fucking reason to go by any of these 2 ...I know imma get alot of mixed feelings about this 1 but by far THE ABSOLUTE best software i've used is VDJ Pro. Before all the buthurt Serato faggboys..pardon..fan boyz go apeshit right here, lemme tell u why:
-I've never,ever,ever,not a single fuckin time have i experienced a crash on VDj
-The ease of use and user friendliness is just unparaleled
-The smoothnes is outta this world, the responsivenes aswell
-The costumizabilty is far ahead those two
-The mapping freedom is centuries ahead
-The abilty to scan your tracks from the actual laptop folders and play them straight outta there, without havin to add them to a library and so on.. also , everytime you add a new track, it shows in VDJ right away, you aint got to rescan the drives
-The fact that pretty much every piece of hardware imaginable comes ready mapped/plug and play
-The DVS tracking is by far the best of the bunch, Serato saves, if ya dont believe me just giive it a try first ;)
-The str8 vid output is just killin it.
-Abilty to use Sandbox to preview your mixes ahead of the main output.
-Lowest CPU load of the three by a long margin and the examples can keep goin
Wtf more do ya want you stuck up mofos ???
Lol, you make your point... forcefully JAD.
Seriously though, we hear you - Virtual DJ has many, many fans for all of those reasons and will be featured in future Head to Heads.
serato 1 love
😎
Hey Digital DJ Tips how about u guys give a good review about Virtual DJ vs Serato DJ Pro
I have to say I am a Pioneer DJ user and I have a Rekordbox controller and I use VDJ with mine so yall guy give virtual dj some love please do a video about how great virtual DJ is
Yea vdj gets no love. Im a proud professional user of it..never had an issue with it. I give props to serato for having a better sound engine. But other than that VDJ is hands down the best!! To me it's like apple vs android
Good idea Rusty, cheers :)
because virtual dj is still a sloppy piece of software
Hey Rusty can you give us a quick breakdown of why you choose to use VDJ over Rkdbx? Thanks.
Vdj is very much underestimated.
Straight to the point pretty good video thanks
Thanks!
Great video. I feel that serato is better and more accurate at analyzing hip hop tracks than rekordbox. Rekordbox be way off.
Thanks for watching :)
Rekordbox betther chan Serato dj 👍👍
Great video! I think rekordbox would be better for me but I'm concerned about realiability. I've seen many reviews where something was wrong with the software where I haven't seen that with serato. I curently use traktor. While I'm pleased with traktor, I want an option that is reliable and used by other djs so if I get a bar gig and they have a dvs setup and have serato, I can just plug in and play. More advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
You might even look into VDJ - mobile DJs swear by it aka "It just works" :)
Rekordbox for browsing my library
Definitely got strong library management!
Very good and informative video! I agree with all you said
Thanks Andrea!
I always thought that serato had good customer support until I asked for a refund on my dj pro that they charged me for no reason when I had proper equipment to make it free
Ill stick with rekordbox because I love pioneer, serato seems great though
Cool, use what works best for you we say :)
Rekord box is absolutley terrible at analysing track, I cant see how it can be so bad at it. I never once had and issue with the grid on Serato.
This scares me. I am thinking of f**king off RB if this is a potential issues that can occur!
@@urbanprojectz get a rekordbox controller and find a mapping for serato or Traktor. From what I gather, you can't get a Serato or Traktor controller and map it to Rekordbox. I still think you can use a Serato controller for Traktor though.
But I'm also only researching, and would love this to be confirmed by someone with experience.
This video came just in time. I've been using Serato for some years now, but I recently got a DJM-250 MK2 mixer which came along with the Rekordbox license. I used it for a while and it's very similar to Serato, I even mapped my keys the same as Serato. I have a pair of CDJ-850s and would like to use them stand alone and at some point upgrade to the DDJ RX2 or a pair of XDJ 1000 as I'm so used to using Pioneer CDJ's. Transitioning crates/playlists from one to the other was made easy using the Rekord Buddy software.
Thanks for sharing, DJ Cruza. What do you like best about Rekordbox?
Being a Serato user I would like to buy a Pioneer DDJ-800 but do not know much about Rekordbox, can you tell me if Rekordbox is as easy to use as Serato and does it have as good features.
Yes it's pretty straight forward but it'll take you some time to get used to it like any time you move to something new :)
I was considering the DDJ 1000SRT but, I don't understand why Pioneer would make it exclusive for Serato only?
The DDJ 1000 uses Rekordbox
The DDJ1000 and DDJ1000SRT are the model numbers for the two controllers. The DDJ1000 uses Rekordbox, whereas the 1000SRT is the Serato model and is also $100 more expensive (to cover Serato charging Pioneer to have them as an option).