The term Detroit techno refers to a style of techno music in the tradition of early (1985-1995) techno recordings from Detroit, Michigan, not necessarily indicating the music's geographic origin. A discriminating trait of Detroit techno is the use of analogue synthesizers and early drum machines for its production or - increasingly - the digital emulation of the characteristic sound of those machines.

Detroit techno is described as a combination of Kraftwerk and George Clinton thrown into an elevator by legendary DJ/producer Derrick May. Notable Detroit-area producers include:

• Juan Atkins
• Kevin Saunderson
• Derrick May
• Carl Craig
• Eddie Fowlkes
• Jeff Mills
• Mike Banks
• Octave One
• Suburban Knight
• Drexciya

These are some classic Detroit techno labels:

• Underground Resistance
• 430 West
• Transmat
• KMS
• Metroplex

These producers from other world regions have infused much of their music with a strongly Detroit techno sound:

• Slam
• Maas
• Surgeon
• Richie Hawtin
• Darren Price
• Fabrice Lig
• Aril Brikha