Some people can work around the DT/DN lack of song mode just fine, as you can easily set up multiple patterns, copy them, adjust the copies, and then line them up how you like. I was not one of those people, and while I appreciate many other aspects of the Elektron workflow, the lack of song mode was a dealbreaker for me.
The deluge song and arranger modes, on the other hand, are perfect for me. I can easily “see” each clip, position it where I need it, tweak as necessary, and play a whole song all together. So if you want song mode, get a deluge, or if you really want the Elektron workflow, the Octotrak (or RYTM, Analog4).
I still struggle with some aspects of using samples on the Deluge. I am trying to figure all the methods out for this, as it is harder without a screen, for sure. I miss some of the ways the digitakt handles samples. But since I don’t use samples as much, it is not a deal breaker for me. IF I decide to get more heavily into samples, I’ll look at picking up the DT again, or better yet, get an OT.