Careful Considerations for any Controller Purchase

The following is a brief guide for anyone considering a new controller, be it custom or commercial.

Usage

In the broadest strokes… how will it be used? As a DJ tool? As a live performance tool? Is it a Studio aid? In many cases, the controller will tell you this with its design. But sometimes you have to be the one to make this decision.
Is this controller the centerpiece of your music, or a complement? Is it your command station, or does it sit next to your instrument of choice?

How will you be traveling? Do you wish to gig without checking your bags at the airport? Size matters here.
What kinds of plugs are on your computer? Do you have enough to accommodate a new piece of gear? Does your existing gear require a certain plug directly on the laptop, instead of a connection from a hub? (Do you want the hassle of an extra USB hub?)
What environments will you be stepping into? Is your controller going to sit in a studio, or will it need to survive intense temperature and humidity? Would you feel comfortable taking your “baby” to Burning Man? If not, do you have a spare or a suitable workaround?

What are you willing to concede to get where you want?
Price, Quality and Features: you can’t have an unlimited quantity of each. Where are you willing to give in?

Additional guides, specific to 60 Works’ services: