The Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3 is a compact modular DJ controller designed for Traktor Pro 4. It focuses on transport, browsing, looping, effects and mixer control rather than jog wheels, making it a flexible companion for digital DJ setups built around an external mixer or the Traktor Z1 MK2.
The third-generation X1 adds five OLED displays, extensive RGB feedback and a built-in powered USB hub while keeping the narrow modular format that made the X1 series popular for portable and club-style Traktor setups.
Traktor X1 MK3 key features
- Compact modular controller for Traktor Pro 4.
- Five OLED displays.
- Dedicated transport controls.
- Loop and browsing encoders.
- Direct Deck FX control.
- Mixer mode for channel mixing without a separate controller.
- Extensive RGB button and light feedback.
- Three-port powered USB hub.
- Customisable control mapping.
- Traktor Pro 4 included.
Five OLED displays
Five OLED displays provide direct feedback for track, loop, effects and mixer information. The screens reduce the need to keep checking the laptop for basic performance data and make the compact surface easier to navigate in a dark booth.
Transport and deck control
Dedicated Play, Cue and Sync controls handle the essential deck functions, while touch-sensitive browse and loop encoders speed up library navigation and loop adjustment. The X1 is designed to control digital decks without requiring traditional jog wheels.
Deck FX control
The upper section gives direct access to Traktor’s Deck FX units, including effect selection, parameter control and activation. This makes X1 especially useful for DJs who use Traktor’s extensive effects library as a major part of their performance.
Mixer mode
Mixer mode lets the X1 take over essential channel functions inside Traktor, allowing a very compact software-only setup even when a separate mixer controller is not available.
For a more tactile dedicated mixer, it pairs naturally with the Traktor Z1 MK2.
RGB feedback and lighting
Buttons and side lighting provide colour-coded feedback for deck states and alerts. The visual system is useful in dark environments and helps distinguish different layers and functions on a controller with a relatively small footprint.
Three-port powered USB hub
A built-in three-port powered USB hub simplifies modular setups by allowing additional compatible USB hardware to connect through the X1 rather than occupying several computer ports.
Traktor Pro 4 included
Native Instruments includes Traktor Pro 4 with the X1 MK3, so the controller and software are designed as one integrated workflow rather than requiring a separate DJ application purchase.
Traktor X1 MK3 strengths
- Very compact modular format.
- Five useful OLED displays.
- Excellent effects and loop control.
- Built-in powered USB hub.
- Strong RGB feedback.
- Traktor Pro 4 included.
- Pairs well with Z1 MK2 and external mixers.
Traktor X1 MK3 limitations
- No jog wheels.
- No built-in audio interface for a complete standalone output path.
- Designed primarily around Traktor.
- Best suited to modular workflows rather than DJs wanting one all-in-one controller.
Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3 full specifications
- Displays: 5 OLED screens.
- Control focus: transport, browsing, loops, FX and mixer mode.
- USB hub: 3 powered USB ports.
- Visual feedback: RGB buttons and side lighting.
- Software: Traktor Pro 4 included.
- Format: compact modular controller.
Frequently asked questions
Does Traktor X1 MK3 include Traktor Pro 4?
Yes. Traktor Pro 4 is included with the controller.
Does X1 MK3 have jog wheels?
No. It is designed around transport, loops, browsing, effects and modular control rather than traditional jog-wheel operation.
Overall view
Traktor X1 MK3 is deliberately different from a conventional DJ controller. Its strength is compact, direct control over the functions digital Traktor DJs use most: browsing, transport, loops and effects. Paired with a mixer or Z1 MK2, it can form an extremely portable but capable modular system.