Whether your interest in DJing is a newfound passion, a desire for musical self-expression, or you’ve been deterred by the traditionally high costs of entry, a beginner DJ controller will seriously help you achieve your goals. A DJ controller is your ticket to mastering the art of mixing, providing a hands-on experience with jog wheels, faders, and cue buttons — elements you’ll encounter when you step up to a club set of decks.
Nowadays, the barrier of entry has been considerably lowered with brands like Pioneer, Numark, and Roland offering fantastic beginner DJ controllers for a variety of different budgets. There are even ultra-compact DJ controllers that you can throw in your backpack and mix whilst at work or traveling. The best beginner DJ controllers will come with accompanying free software, meaning you don’t have to fork out for important software.
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As an audiophile deeply entrenched in the music equipment industry for over six years, I’ve not only immersed myself in daily conversations about audio and music gear, but I’ve also had hands-on experience with most of these DJ controllers. Moreover, I’ve gone through the process of trial and error associated with selecting beginner DJ controllers and gaining an interest at a young age. With that in mind, let’s check out the selections and find the best one for your needs.
Best DJ controllers for beginners: Our favorite picks
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
1. Best beginner DJ Controller overall
Pioneer’s perfect controller for beginners
$300 $360 Save $60
The biggest player in the game, Pioneer, is unsurprisingly the champion of producing the best DJ controller for beginners with the DDJ-FLX4. Responsive controls, plenty of connectivity options and a choice between software make the DDJ-FLX4 a stellar all-rounder which will get you mixing to intermediate levels.
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Some high-tech controls
- Both rekordbox and Serato compatible
- Build quality could be better
Chances are, if you make it to a club, step into a booth and look down at the decks, it’ll be a Pioneer product you encounter. The Japanese brand is truly an industry standard and to date, has a plethora of different DJ equipment, from top-end professional to beginner. However, it’s the latter we’re concerned with and the DDJ-FLX4 controller is the best option overall.
The DDJ-FLX4 is Pioneer’s newest addition to its controller range, and it instantly became a classic, replacing the long-standing DDJ-400. It’s a two-channel controller with a club-style layout with two decent-sized jog wheels. This is ideal if your goal is to play in a club. All elements, including the volume faders, crossfaders, and jog wheels, exhibit a commendable quality for their price point, leaving you with little to complain about in terms of responsiveness.
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The built-in effects and loop functions will help create some atmosphere and tension between tracks and there are plenty of up-to-date functions for the modern DJ. Such as built-in Bluetooth, which will allow you to connect to a smartphone or tablet and wirelessly mix without a cable in sight. Lastly, the DDJ-FLX4 is much more appealing than its predecessor as this controller can function with rekordbox and Serato DJ Lite software, which is included for free when you purchase.
Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
2. Best compact beginners DJ controller
Mix some big sounds with this tiny controller
If you regularly travel, or find yourself bored on an hour-long lunch break, then the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch controller is a fantastic compact option you can easily take with you. The key controls aren’t compromised because of size and they are surprisingly responsive.
- Doesn’t compromise on key controls
- Super portable
- Responsive controls
- The size is a problem for big hands
- No EQ controls
Numark is known for producing quality, affordable controllers, but the DJ2GO2 Touch is a little different. Much smaller than its counterparts, this tiny controller is a fantastic choice for those looking to DJ on the move. Now, being so small, there are some features Numark needs to leave out. However, all the most important controls are present: jog wheels, a crossfader, and tempo controls.
All of these controls are musically responsive and, since the jog wheels are touch-sensitive, you can actually scratch with this little guy. With a master out and headphones out, you can connect the DJ2GO2 Touch to other DJ equipment or external speakers. The headphones out allow you to hear the tracks as you cue them, a vital addition for any beginner learning the ropes.
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Having four control pads that take care of cue points, auto/manual looping and sample playback is brilliant for a controller this size and will add some pizzazz to your performances. Although there aren’t any EQ controls, you can tinker with audio settings on the free Serato Lite software which comes with every purchase of the DJ2GO2 Touch. So, if you’re looking for a compact, beginner controller that is a lot of fun, the DJ2GO2 Touch is a solid option.
Roland DJ-202
3. Best beginner DJ controller for features
Beat match and create with the Roland DJ-202
Roland stands as an icon in the music scene, with their synthesizers and drum machines having not only left an indelible mark but also paved the way in the history of electronic music. The DJ-202 borrows from their fantastic history and this DJ controller has an on-board sequencer and drum machine. Pretty cool, right?
- Built-in drum machine
- Typical Roland quality
- On-board sequencer
- Controls are a little stiff
Although Roland isn’t the first brand that DJs may initially consider when thinking about controllers, the DJ-202 is quickly changing that perspective. The DJ-202 is the entry-level option in Roland’s controller range, making it a brilliant choice for those dipping their toes. The jog wheels are of a generous size at this level, and they have very low latency, so you shouldn’t have a problem with lag.
The most attractive feature is the built-in drum machine. Although new to the DJ game, Roland was a pioneer of drum machines that virtually created electronic dance music. Products like the 707, 808 and 909 drum machines helped shape music culture and are all present in the DJ-202 controller. The included sequencer will allow you to start beat-making alongside mixing music like a traditional DJ.
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Another fun feature for beginners is the microphone input, allowing users to utilize onboard vocal effects such as reverb, delay and filters. In terms of software, the DJ-202 comes with Serato Pro in the US, which is a huge advantage. Most beginner DJ controllers only include the ‘lite’ version, with major points scored there.
A concern for some with the DJ-202 is the controls. They are a little stiff in comparison to others on the market. Now, some DJs prefer more play in their crossfaders, especially when in the groove, but the upside here is that it’s less likely you’ll hit the wrong button by accident. For beginners, that’s a handy feature to keep things smooth and stress-free.
Numark Party Mix II
4. Best beginner DJ controller for parties
Bring lights and banging tunes to the party
If you’re in search of a beginner DJ controller that vibes well with house parties, give the Numark Party Mix II a look. The playful LED lights on the back add a touch of fun, and there’s a host of user-friendly features to help you grasp the basics of DJing.
- Party lights are fun
- Jog wheels are a decent size
- Great value for money
- There are better build qualities out there
So, The Numark Party Mix II perhaps isn’t the controller for you if you are planning on taking your DJ career really seriously. However, the trio of LED lights that flash in tempo with the music is a fun piece that will help light up the room, house, or dorm party without breaking the bank. On those days when it’s a party for one, you can turn off the lights if need be.
Party gimmicks aside, there are plenty of features here that make the Party Mix II a fantastic choice for those looking to learn a thing or two about the art of DJing. There are filter effect knobs on each deck, 2-band EQs, dedicated channel faders and a software-adjustable crossfader. The jog wheels are a decent size and the performance pads allow you to get creative with your performances.
Numark DJ controllers are only applicable with Serato, so if you’d prefer to use rekordbox, perhaps check out a different option. However, you do get Serato DJ Lite, which will get things started.
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2
5. Best beginner DJ controller for value
Lights will guide you to a slamming set
With the Inpulse 200 MK2, Hercules prioritizes two key aspects for beginner DJs: value and learning. The inclusion of light guides, tutorials, and high-quality components collectively makes this beginner DJ controller an exceptional value-for-money choice.
- Included tutorials through DJ Academy
- Light guides to help beat match
- Beat assist feature is brilliant
- Tempo fader is quite small
As far as learning goes, there aren’t many better brands out there than Hercules. A champion of the affordable, the Inpluse 200 MK2 is the newest iteration of a very successful beginner’s DJ controller.
The Beatmatch guide incorporated into the controller will show you a visual representation of how to perfectly match songs’ BPM, often the trickiest part when learning.
Furthermore, there are video tutorials showing you the fundamentals of DJing through the DJ Academy, included for free. Hercules goes the extra mile by offering instrumental and vocal stems, giving you the freedom to experiment and incorporate them naturally into your sets. To top it off, Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software are also included for free.
There’s always going to be a slight compromise going for an affordable controller such as this and the tempo fader is slightly on the small side. There’s also no mid-control on the Inpulse 200 MK2, so if you want a few more bells and whistles, you can always check out the Inpluse 300 or 500. However, with so many beginner-friendly features on offer, the Inpluse 200 MK2 is overwhelmingly suitable for newcomers.
Numark Mixtrack Pro FX
6. Best beginner DJ controller for effects
From reverb to flanger — get whacky
The Mixtrack Pro FX from Numark offers plenty of creative features that will add some spice to your set. If you like to tinker with sounds, then the quick-launch FX with dual paddle triggers will be right up your street. Generous-sized tempo faders and large jog wheels culminate in an attractive option for those starting out.
- Fun to use built-in effects
- Large jog wheels for the price
- Generous sized tempo faders
- A bit much for total beginners
Numark’s Mixtrack Pro FX is certainly a solid choice for beginners. The six-inch capacitive sensing jog wheels are some of the biggest in the beginner’s sphere. Not only does this help with pinpoint control, it adds a reassuring weight and sturdiness. The Mixtrack Pro FX is a 2-channel mixer and with it, there are eight performance pads dedicated to each side. This makes looping, sampling, cutting and cueing straightforward and very simple to get the hang of.
As the moniker suggests, the Mixtrack Pro FX has lots of fun effects built in. Everything from reverb to phaser and echo are triggered quickly by premium paddle triggers, which can also control effects in Serato. As for the software, Serato DJ Lite comes free with every purchase.
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The connectivity options provide all the essentials, ranging from straightforward USB output to headphone and RCA outputs. There are certainly a lot of features on offer here, so if you’re a total beginner it may seem a little daunting at first, but if you’re coming from a tech or musical background, you should get the hang of it rather quickly.
The bottom line: What is the best beginner DJ controller?
Pioneer, a go-to in the DJ world, introduces the DDJ-FLX4, a top pick for beginners. It steps in for the DDJ-400, bringing a friendly 2-channel setup with jog wheels that just feel right. The controls, from volume faders to crossfaders, are down-to-earth and responsive. Beyond the tech, it sets the vibe with built-in effects, loops, and modern perks like Bluetooth. No hard sell here — this controller even works smoothly with free rekordbox and Serato DJ Lite software. So, if you’re a beginner and looking for the best, this is our top choice.
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
Editor’s Choice
$300 $360 Save $60
Hercules has nailed it with the Inpulse 200 MK2, making it the top choice for beginners seeking exceptional value. This budget-friendly DJ controller incorporates the helpful Beatmatch guide and provides access to the DJ Academy’s free video tutorials, making it a powerhouse for learning the fundamentals. Hercules goes the extra mile by offering instrumental and vocal stems for experimentation and throws in Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software for free. While there are some compromises, like the smaller tempo fader and the absence of mid-control, the Inpulse 200 MK2’s beginner-friendly features make it a standout option for those entering the world of DJing.
How did we choose the best beginner DJ controllers?
With more than six years in the music tech industry personally, and collaboration with the Pocket-lint editors — our expertise allows us to curate the best DJ controllers available today. Our selections stem from hands-on product experiences because nothing beats firsthand knowledge. We also considered various specifications when making our selections, such as included controls, software, features, effects, compatibility, build-quality and price.
What do I need alongside a DJ controller?
If you’re purchasing your first DJ controller, it’s helpful to know what other items you need alongside in order to mix your favorite music. In addition to the DJ controller, consider investing in a good pair of headphones for precise monitoring, and if you plan to perform at events or parties, having a quality set of powered speakers is essential for delivering your mixes to the audience.
However, most importantly, you need to have a reliable laptop or computer with sufficient processing power to run the DJ software smoothly. More and more beginner DJ controllers are now applicable with smartphones and tablets, so if you don’t have a laptop or computer, check out the controllers that have either USB output or wireless capabilities to use in tandem with one of these devices.
What is the function of jog wheels for DJs?
Jog wheels are the circular platters that you see on the surface of DJ controllers. Jog wheels replicate the style and function of traditional vinyl turntable DJ decks. Their primary purpose is to provide tactile control over the playback and manipulation of audio tracks.
DJs use jog wheels to simulate the feel of vinyl records, allowing them to scratch, cue, and manipulate the speed of a track with precision. These wheels are instrumental in creating a hands-on and interactive experience, enabling DJs to express their creativity and style while seamlessly mixing and transitioning between songs.
What DJ controller software is best for beginners?
The main two controller softwares are rekordbox and Serato. Rekordbox is owned by Pioneer, so if you’re considering purchasing one of Pioneer’s many DJ controllers, this will likely be the software that you choose. The other main DJ software is Serato.
Although rekordbox is primarily used with Pioneer controllers, Serato can be used by many different brands of DJ controllers, such as Roland, Hercules and Numark. Ultimately, they both perform the same function; playing and controlling tracks on a computer or smartphone. Your choice may depend on personal preferences, compatibility, and the specific features each platform offers.
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