Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 DJ Controller Review

Whether you’re mixing at home, performing in a packed club, or preparing for a summer festival tour, one thing remains true: precision and reliability are everything in a DJ controller. In an age where gear comes and goes faster than your average remix drops, the Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 stands out—not just as a trusted classic, but as a finely-tuned modern essential.

Native Instruments took a good thing and made it even better. The X1 MK2 isn’t just a tool—it’s a statement. It tells your crowd, your crew, and your inner creative self: “I’m here to control the sound.”

Let’s take a deep dive into why the X1 MK2 remains one of the smartest choices for DJs at every level in 2024.

A First Glance: Sleek, Smart, Serious

The first thing you’ll notice about the Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 is its elegant minimalism. It’s sleek, black, and built for action. The layout is clean and intuitive, and Native Instruments clearly designed it with live performance in mind. It’s not just about looking good on a booth—it’s about feeling right under your fingers.

Its compact size is deceptive. The X1 MK2 packs incredible functionality into its form, making it a perfect fit whether you’re in a tight home studio or tight on space in a crowded club booth.

Key Features: Precision Meets Performance

1. Touch Strip Magic

One of the most exciting updates in the MK2 is the multifunction touch strip. Gone are the days of needing a physical jog wheel to nudge, scrub, or fast-forward through tracks. The touch strip allows DJs to manipulate track position and tempo with their fingertips—and it works beautifully.

Visual LED feedback ensures you always know where you are in the track. Whether you’re beat-matching, searching for a drop, or adding subtle FX control, the strip responds with accuracy.

2. RGB Backlit Buttons

Visual feedback has never looked so good. The MK2 comes with RGB backlit buttons that illuminate based on cue points, loops, or effects, helping DJs stay organized and react fast—even in dark venues. The tactile response is satisfying and fast, with zero latency and zero second-guessing.

3. Browser Control and Deck Switching

Load tracks, browse playlists, and switch decks—all without touching your laptop. With the MK2, Native Instruments has brought laptop-free DJing even closer to reality. The deck toggle buttons make it effortless to jump between Decks A and B or C and D, keeping your workflow smooth and uninterrupted.

4. Plug-and-Play Integration

Built for Traktor Pro 3, the Kontrol X1 MK2 seamlessly syncs with your software. Simply plug it in, and it works—no need to waste time mapping controls or troubleshooting firmware. It’s reliable, rock-solid, and always ready to go.

Why It’s Perfect for All DJ Types

Beginner DJs: Simplicity Meets Depth

For beginners, the X1 MK2 offers a gentle learning curve with powerful long-term growth. The layout teaches you the foundations of DJing—transport, hotcues, loops, FX—without overwhelming you. And as your skills grow, so does your appreciation for its depth.

Mobile DJs: Ultra-Portability

Weighing less than a kilogram and roughly the size of a paperback book, the MK2 is made for mobility. It slips easily into any backpack or gig bag. If you’re constantly traveling between gigs, parties, or pop-up events, this controller is your best friend.

Club DJs: Built for Battle

If you’re already spinning at clubs or events, the X1 MK2 is the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed. It’s the ideal add-on to CDJs or timecode vinyl setups, giving you unmatched FX, looping, and browser control. And with its USB bus power, all you need is a single cable to power up.

Producers and Hybrid Performers: A Creative Extension

If you blend live elements into your sets or perform hybrid DJ/live sets, the X1 becomes a creative interface for triggering samples, controlling effects, or navigating live stems. It’s a natural extension of your performance setup, without taking up unnecessary real estate.

Built to Last: Durable and Dependable

The build quality is what you’d expect from Native Instruments—solid, rugged, and ready for real-world abuse. The knobs are rubberized for grip, the encoders glide smoothly, and the buttons hold up even after thousands of presses.

This isn’t a plastic toy controller—it’s a professional tool, designed to endure travel, late nights, spilled drinks, and high-energy sets.

Future-Proof Performance in 2024 and Beyond

While controllers continue to evolve, the X1 MK2 holds its ground by focusing on what truly matters: performance, portability, and plug-and-play simplicity. Even in 2024, it’s still one of the best compact controllers you can buy.

Native Instruments has ensured continued support through Traktor Pro 3 updates, and the community around the X1 is still thriving with custom mappings, mods, and shared workflows.

Want to customize the controller to suit your style? The X1 gives you the freedom to dive deep into MIDI mapping and adjust functionality to your liking.

Pricing: Affordable Power in a Small Package

You might expect to pay premium prices for a controller this refined, but the X1 MK2 hits that sweet spot between budget-friendly and professional-grade.

Price (UK): ~£169 GBP
Price (US): ~$199 USD

At this price point, you’re getting high-end functionality without breaking the bank. It’s an ideal investment for anyone serious about their DJing, whether they’re just starting out or already spinning weekly gigs.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Pros:

Seamless integration with Traktor Pro
High-quality build with premium feel
Multifunctional touch strip replaces jog wheels
RGB backlit buttons for visual feedback
Compact and portable
Easy setup, perfect for any skill level

Cons:

Best performance limited to Traktor Pro (less ideal for Serato or Rekordbox users)
No onboard audio interface (you’ll need a separate one for standalone use)
May require Traktor familiarity for full customization

Who Should Buy It?

The Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 is perfect for:

DJs who want tight, tactile control of Traktor
Those looking for a portable performance tool
Artists who need a reliable secondary controller
Beginners ready to invest in quality
Touring DJs who need compact gear with pro features

It’s the Swiss Army knife of compact DJ controllers. If you’re on the fence, ask yourself: do you want control, confidence, and creativity at your fingertips? If the answer is yes, the X1 MK2 delivers.

Final Verdict: Still the Best Compact DJ Controller in 2024

With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get lost in flashy features and big promises. But the Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 remains a consistent favorite for one reason: it just works. And it works brilliantly.

From the responsive touch strip to the intuitive layout and solid integration with Traktor, it’s clear this controller was designed by DJs, for DJs.

Whether you’re a seasoned selector or just discovering your flow, the X1 MK2 is a controller that will grow with you, challenge you, and ultimately empower your sound.

Ready to Elevate Your DJ Sets?

Don’t wait to take your performance to the next level. The Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 is in stock and ready to ship.

Buy now and unlock the control you’ve been craving: Buy the Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2 Now