If you’re just starting as a DJ, you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the number of equipment options available. A beginner DJ controller is an essential tool that can help you get started in the right direction.
The best beginner DJ controller can provide you with a solid foundation for learning the fundamentals of DJing, including beatmatching, track selection, and basic mixing techniques. It can also help you develop your skills quickly, allowing you to progress to more advanced equipment in the future.
Finding the best beginner DJ controller can be a challenge due to the wide variety of options available on the market. With so many brands and models to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. Additionally, beginner DJ controllers can vary significantly in terms of quality, features, and price, making it challenging to identify the ideal option.
Fortunately, we’ve reviewed a wide range of beginner DJ controllers and can help you choose the one that’s right for you. Our team of experts has researched and tested various models, taking into account factors such as build quality, ease of use, compatibility with software, and affordability.
By relying on our expertise, you can feel confident that you’ll find a beginner DJ controller that meets your needs and helps you achieve your DJing goals.
Contents
Top 9 DJ Controller for Beginners
Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX – Best For Serato DJ
The Mixtrack Platinum FX is very similar in layout and functionality to the Mixtrack Pro 3, but with one major difference: it has a central LED screen on each turntable that displays the basic track information.
This is the first entry-level DJ controller with a screen within $500, and the turntable screen is a great use of interface space. Displaying BPM information on the turntable is helpful for beginners, as finding BPM data quickly in a data-heavy software interface is quite a time-consuming task.
Mixtrack Platinum works with Serato DJ Intro (Lite), or with Serato DJ if you have bought the software.
Overall, the Mixtrack Platinum’s touch bar, a wide range of speed faders, a turntable display, and other professional features give a beginner DJ the features he needs.
Software: Serato DJ Lite
Input: 1 X Microphone
Output: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- No auxiliary AUX input
- Perfect support for Serato DJ full version
Cons
- The pad function is slightly confusing
- Turntable LCD
Pioneer DJ DDJ-400 Pioneer – – Best for rekordbox DJ Software
The biggest change with the DDJ-400 compared to the RB is that the effects section has moved to the mixer section. This gives the whole machine a similar feel to the CDJ/DJM, and if you have the opportunity to go to a club gig and use the CDJ/DJM, then you will find the operating feel quite familiar. The speed fader range is also much larger than RB, making it more beginner-friendly.
The included Rekordbox DJ license key makes the DDJ-400 even better value. Its powerful software features along with 8-strike pads make the playability greatly enhanced.
In addition, the DDJ-400 can use computer speakers in addition to the standard entry-level input/output methods, which other brands of entry-level controllers do not have.
Software: Rekordbox DJ
Input: 1 X Microphone
Output: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros:
- Full DJ software included
- Supports a wide range of software features
- Industry-standard interface layout
- Larger range of speed faders than RB
Pros:
- No AUX input
Roland DJ-202
The DJ-202 is Roland’s entry-level Serato DJ controller. It has a large number of features, even including sequencers and drum machines.
In general, it is very similar to the DDJ-SB series in that it has a high-quality turntable, a good layout feel, and low latency. However, its percussion pads are not rubberized, but considering the price, this is very good.
The sequencer and drum machine are nice additions to the feature set, but a little tricky to use, with the activation buttons and percussion pads not clearly labeled.
Software: Serato DJ Lite (with the full version of Serato DJ Pro)
Input: 1 X Microphone
Outputs: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros:
- The complimentary full version of the software
- Premium turntable
- Basic sequencer and drum machine functions
Cons:
- All plastic body
- Sequencer and drum machine functions are not easy to operate
Traktor Kontrol S2MK3
The S2MK3 is the entry-level DJ controller for Traktor software, with a changed interface layout from the previous generation to bring it more in line with industry-standard layouts. The biggest advantage is that it comes with the full version of Traktor Pro 3 software and can now be used with the mobile app Traktor DJ 2.
The S2MK3 turntable feels great in the hand and also has a level light display for each channel, while the percussion pad display makes it easier to use the percussion pad. However, the pad is not as versatile as the DDJ-400, and the effects are not as intuitive to control as its high-end counterpart, the S4MK3.
Software: Traktor DJ 2 for mobile (comes with Traktor Pro 3)
Input: 1 X Microphone
Outputs: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros:
- Supports mobile devices, comes with the full version of the software
- High-quality turntable
- Industry-standard interface layout
- Large range of speed faders
Cons:
- Slightly less percussive pad functionality
- Slightly fewer effects
Hercules Inpulse 300
Although the Impulse 300 is priced at under $300, it has some features that only more expensive DJ controllers have, such as a full 8-hit pad, Slip and Quantize buttons, and a larger turntable.
In addition, Impulse 300 also provides a guide to the beat, which helps you learn how to beat by adding LED indicators to the turntable and speed fader. These LEDs will prompt you in which direction the speed fader and turntable should move to align the tracks.
There’s also a smart music assistant that suggests tracks based on your collection and colors them according to mood (from blue to red) so you can easily find the ideal track to play next.
Software: DJUCED
Input: None
Outputs: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros:
- With pair of shooting guides and a music assistant function
Cons:
- Smaller range of speed faders
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3
As an upgrade to the SB2, the DDJ-SB3 lists the play/cue buttons separately, guaranteeing the independence of the 8-strike pads. Although Pad Scratch is quite controversial, for beginners, it is your role model for practicing Scratch.
The DDJ-SB3 works with Serato DJ Lite, but you’ll need to spend $99 for Serato DJ so you can unlock the features offered by the gray logo on the body. In addition, the SB3 can trigger 3 effects at the same time, and after upgrading to Serato DJ Pro, you can switch Decks to control 4 tracks of music.
Software: Serato DJ Lite
Input: 1 X Microphone
Outputs: 1 X RCA main out, 1 X headphone out
Pros
Support for upgrading to Serato DJ
High-quality turntable
Smaller speed fader range
Pad Scratch function for scrubbing practice
Cons:
- The full software is sold separately
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3
If your budget is under $250, the Mixtrack Pro 3 is more than worth your attention. In addition to not having the turntable display of the Mixtrack Platinum, it also offers good practice features for beginners, such as a large speed fader range and the standard 8-strike pads.
In addition, if you purchase the full version of Serato DJ Pro, it works quite well with the full version of software.
Software: Serato DJ Lite
Input: 1 X Microphone
Outputs: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros:
- Super low price
- Plastic body
- Great range of speed faders
Cons:
- Plastic body
Hercules Jogvision
The biggest feature of Jogvision is the large CDJ-style turntable, a feature that adds a lot to it. The turntable also has an LED ring that indicates the progress of the track and an LED pointer that indicates the position of the turntable. These features are very convenient to use, and they can help you get rid of always staring at the computer.
But the layout of this DJ controller is very special, and the whole Loop and effects section above the turntable is rather complicated to operate, so you need to get the hang of it to use it well.
Software: Serato DJ Lite
Inputs: 1 X Microphone, 1 X AUX input
Outputs: 1 X RCA master output, 1 X RCA monitor output, 1 X headphone output
Cons:
- Air effects
- Excellent input/output
- Extra-large turntable
Cons:
- Effects, inconvenient operation of Loop
Pioneer DJ DDJ-WeGO4
DDJ-WeGO4 has a very different design in that all of its performance functions such as Cue/Play, Effects, and Loop are laid out around the turntable, which controls these performance functions in addition to the traditional ones. It supports iOS and Android mobile devices and also comes with a Rekordbox DJ license key.
But it only has two EQ bands, high and low, by default, and you can also add the Filter knob to turn it into a three-band EQ. Besides that, it has a relatively small range of speed faders, which doesn’t seem to be a big problem considering it’s mainly for entertainment-level users.
Software: Rekordbox DJ, mobile version of djay Pro, mobile version of WeDJ
Input: 1 X microphone, 1 X AUX input
Output: 1 X RCA main output, 1 X headphone output
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Simple and clear design
- Great flexibility, supports different mobile devices and computers
Cons:
- Entertaining interface layout that is different from traditional DJs
Best Entry-level DJ Controller What to Look For
Here are 7 key points to consider when selecting the best beginner DJ controller:
- Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on a beginner DJ controller. A basic controller can cost as little as $100, while a high-end model can cost over $1000.
- Software compatibility: Make sure the controller you choose is compatible with the DJ software you plan to use. Many controllers come bundled with software, so consider the features and ease of use of the software as well.
- Size and portability: Consider the size and weight of the controller if you plan to transport it frequently. Smaller, more portable controllers are easier to transport but may have fewer features.
- Several decks: Determine how many decks you need. A two-deck controller is sufficient for most beginner DJs, but some may prefer more decks for more advanced mixing techniques.
- Build quality: Look for a controller with a sturdy build quality that can withstand frequent use. Cheaply-made controllers may break down quickly, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
- Features: Consider the features that are most important to you. Do you need built-in effects, a microphone input, or a jog wheel? Look for a controller with features that will help you achieve your DJing goals.
- Brand reputation: Research the reputation of the brand before purchasing a controller. Choose a brand that is known for producing high-quality, reliable equipment, and has a good track record of customer service and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner DJ Controller
Here are 6 common questions and answers regarding beginner DJ controllers:
- Do I need any additional equipment to use a beginner DJ controller? Most beginner DJ controllers come with everything you need to get started, including software, cables, and sometimes even headphones.
- What kind of software should I use with my beginner DJ controller? Most beginner DJ controllers are designed to work with popular DJ software such as Serato, Traktor, or Virtual DJ.
- Can I use a beginner DJ controller with my laptop or mobile device? Yes, most beginner DJ controllers can be used with a laptop or mobile device, as long as the device meets the minimum system requirements for the controller and software.
- Can I use a beginner DJ controller for live performances? Yes, beginner DJ controllers are often used for live performances. However, it’s important to choose a controller with the sturdy build quality and the necessary features for your performance needs.
- How many decks do I need on a beginner DJ controller? Most beginner DJ controllers have two decks, which is sufficient for most beginner DJs. However, some controllers have four decks for more advanced mixing techniques.
- How do I choose the right beginner DJ controller for my needs? Consider factors such as budget, software compatibility, size, portability, build quality, features, and brand reputation when choosing the right beginner DJ controller for your needs. Researching and comparing different models can help you make an informed decision.