Photo: IPad + djay app + iDJ Live (MIDI controller) by Scott Schiller, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Serato DJ for iOS arrived on iPhone and iPad on October 20, 2026, letting DJs move prepared crates from a laptop to a mobile device. The app is free to start; the full iOS license costs $149 USD outright, or it is included in the $14.99 USD monthly DJ Suite subscription.
The useful part for existing Serato users is the library transfer. Crates keep their cue points, beatgrids and metadata, giving DJs a way to carry their preparation onto a phone or tablet. For DJs who already prepare music in Serato, the appeal is keeping that preparation available on a second device.
Moving crates from the laptop
Serato's setup guide requires DJ Pro or Lite 5.0 or later on the computer. Transfers work over a cable or wirelessly; Windows users need both devices on the same Wi-Fi network for wireless transfers. Check available storage before sending a large library.
Transferred tracks are stored on the mobile device and can play without an internet connection. The app also supports Apple Music, Beatport, SoundCloud, Spotify and Tidal, with connected playlists alongside local music. Those are separate ways of loading tracks: transferring a local crate is what puts those files on the device for offline playback.
On desktop, the accompanying Serato DJ 5.0 update adds automatic tempo tracking through Lucid Beatgrids and the ability to use several streaming services together. Our earlier Serato 5.0 Beta V2 article covers the beatgrid changes.
Serato DJ for iOS: free and paid options
The iOS pricing page lists basic mixing, Stems, effects, cues, samples and music transfer in the free version. DJ Suite also includes DJ Pro, its expansions and Serato Studio.
The upgrade adds tools including recording, Stems FX and DVS for compatible equipment. An existing DJ Suite license or subscription also unlocks the full app.
The limits that matter in a club booth
Serato lists more than 120 compatible hardware setups, but its iOS FAQ says some need a paid license. CDJ HID mode and Bluetooth hardware connections are not supported. The mobile app also leaves out desktop features including Serato Video, Flip and custom MIDI mapping.
Recording requires the paid version and is unavailable while streaming tracks are loaded. Incoming calls can interrupt a performance, too. Serato recommends configuring Focus or Do Not Disturb to block calls, including repeated calls.
Start with one familiar crate on the free tier. Check whether its four cue points per track cover the way you prepare songs before paying for the upgrade to eight.
Related: Serato DJ Pro 5.0 Is Out of Beta: What to Check First · VirtualDJ 2026 Adds ShoutOut and AI Scripting
Questions people ask
How much is Serato DJ for iOS?
Free to start; the full license is $149, or it is included in the $14.99 a month DJ Suite subscription.
What do I need to transfer crates to Serato DJ for iOS?
Serato DJ Pro or Lite 5.0 or later on the computer. Transfers work over a cable or wirelessly.
Do transferred crates keep cue points?
Yes. Cue points, beatgrids and metadata come across, and the tracks play offline.
