The Best DJ Controllers under €300
We primarily appreciate DJ controllers because they enable a quick entry into the world of DJing, offering many important functions.
The advantage of controllers is that they control the software functions with physical knobs and buttons, allowing you to mix with the software just like with a setup of mixers and players. The layout is always similar to a standalone setup, with a mixer section in the middle and jog wheels, tempo controls, and hot cue/sample pads on both decks.
For those just starting out with DJing, it can be challenging to decide which beginner controller to choose, as most major DJ manufacturers now release various hardware with different software.
We can't make the decision for you, but we can help narrow down the selection and give you some tips on what to look for in choosing a DJ controller. The following controllers, ranging up to 300 euros, have proven themselves and we can recommend them with confidence:
Overview of all featured controllers
(Click to jump directly to the controller)
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 - Rekordbox and Serato
- Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 - Traktor
- Numark Mixtrack Pro FX - Serato
- Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX - Serato
- Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 - Serato / DJUCED
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 - Serato
- Roland DJ 202 - Serato
- Gemini G2V - Virtual DJ
- Gemini G4V - Virtual DJ
THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP: CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOFTWARE, NOT THE HARDWARE!
As any DJ who has been in the business for many years can confirm, it's much easier to change hardware than software. Therefore, it's important to make the right choice from the beginning so you don't have to get used to a completely new ecosystem over time.
It's important to know that all the work is done by the software. With the controller, you're simply telling the software which track to load from the collection, how much volume to give to a particular track, where to set the EQ, tempo, etc., so you don't have to do all of this with a mouse and keyboard. Most software also has smartphone/tablet versions with limited functionality.
Most DJ controllers are already pre-mapped to specific software, so once purchased, you're bound to that particular user interface. In some cases, you can assign a controller to different software (e.g., Rekordbox controllers to Traktor), but we advise against it as it may cause technical issues and not work as expected in most cases. The important thing is that as a beginner, you can simply plug in the USB cable and start.
The 4 most common DJ applications and recommended hardware:
Rekordbox
The greatest strength of Pioneer's DJ software is its ability to accompany you anywhere, from the bedroom to the club. The playlist created in Rekordbox can be used with both laptop and controller, but you can also export it to a USB stick and take it to an event to play on CDJs.
In the free version, you can only organize music. However, once you connect a Rekordbox-compatible controller, the Performance mode is activated, allowing you to immediately use all basic DJ functions. For those needing more features than the Performance mode, additional functions can be unlocked with an extra subscription fee, such as RMX effects or Cloud Sync.
Pioneer DJ-DDJ FLX4
In our opinion, the best entry-level Pioneer DJ controller is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4.
The FLX4 is Pioneer DJ's latest answer to the question: What should an entry-level controller be able to do?
The answer is EVERYTHING. With the FLX4, you are maximally flexible as it can be used with both Serato DJ and Rekordbox on PC and Mac. Starting from 2023, you can also DJ on Android and iOS using the Rekordbox app for mobile operating systems.
The clean Pioneer Club layout is particularly beginner-friendly but offers enough options for professional users as well. The Jogwheels are very responsive despite their small size and can even be used for scratching.
The DDJ-FLX4 could also be a good option for professional DJs as it works with the Rekordbox library, which can be exported to a USB stick and played on CDJs. So, if you want to practice at home or try out the selection you've chosen for your next gig, the controller could be a good choice.
» Go to Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 in the shop
Traktor
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
Traktor is one of the most prestigious DJ software and is used by everyone, from hobbyist DJs to legends like Richie Hawtin or Carl Craig. The Traktor PRO package can be used with simple, clean 2-deck layouts, 4-deck layouts, or even sampler decks.
The main advantage of Traktor is that it allows you to create extremely complex setups and offers the possibility of MIDI synchronization with DAWs. But if you're just starting out, that's probably not what you're looking for.
However, if you're not only an ambitious DJ but also a music producer and already working in a KOMPLETE/MASCHINE ecosystem, you'll find Traktor an ideal solution.
Regardless of your mixing style, the entry-level model Traktor S2 MK3 is ready for everything. Additionally, it unlocks the full version of Traktor PRO, giving you all the options.
The S2 MK3 is an extremely clean controller, and despite being an entry-level model, it is made of high-quality materials. The case is made of sturdy plastic, the knobs and buttons are high-quality, and the jogwheels respond well, not too loose, not too heavy, and certainly not wobbly.
As a bonus, there are 4 FX controllers: 1 = Filter; 2 = Reverb; 3 = Dual Delay; 4 = Flanger, and these can be triggered with 2 larger controllers below the EQ. The effects are mapped to Traktor's internal effects, but with the S2, you can only use the above 4, you cannot assign Traktor's other built-in effects to the hardware.
The S2 MK3 is an ideal and practical option for entry-level DJ hardware or as a backup for smaller parties where you don't want to bring a lot of DJ equipment.
Rekordbox
The greatest strength of Pioneer's DJ software is its ability to accompany you anywhere, from the bedroom to the club. The playlist created in Rekordbox can be used with both laptop and controller, but you can also export it to a USB stick and take it to an event to play on CDJs.
In the free version, you can only organize music. However, once you connect a Rekordbox-compatible controller, the Performance mode is activated, allowing you to immediately use all basic DJ functions. For those needing more features than the Performance mode, additional functions can be unlocked with an extra subscription fee, such as RMX effects or Cloud Sync.
Pioneer DJ-DDJ FLX4
In our opinion, the best entry-level Pioneer DJ controller is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4.
The FLX4 is Pioneer DJ's latest answer to the question: What should an entry-level controller be able to do?
The answer is EVERYTHING. With the FLX4, you are maximally flexible as it can be used with both Serato DJ and Rekordbox on PC and Mac. Starting from 2023, you can also DJ on Android and iOS using the Rekordbox app for mobile operating systems.
The clean Pioneer Club layout is particularly beginner-friendly but offers enough options for professional users as well. The Jogwheels are very responsive despite their small size and can even be used for scratching.
The DDJ-FLX4 could also be a good option for professional DJs as it works with the Rekordbox library, which can be exported to a USB stick and played on CDJs. So, if you want to practice at home or try out the selection you've chosen for your next gig, the controller could be a good choice.
» Go to Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 in the shop
Traktor
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
Traktor is one of the most prestigious DJ software and is used by everyone, from hobbyist DJs to legends like Richie Hawtin or Carl Craig. The Traktor PRO package can be used with simple, clean 2-deck layouts, 4-deck layouts, or even sampler decks.
The main advantage of Traktor is that it allows you to create extremely complex setups and offers the possibility of MIDI synchronization with DAWs. But if you're just starting out, that's probably not what you're looking for.
However, if you're not only an ambitious DJ but also a music producer and already working in a KOMPLETE/MASCHINE ecosystem, you'll find Traktor an ideal solution.
Regardless of your mixing style, the entry-level model Traktor S2 MK3 is ready for everything. Additionally, it unlocks the full version of Traktor PRO, giving you all the options.
The S2 MK3 is an extremely clean controller, and despite being an entry-level model, it is made of high-quality materials. The case is made of sturdy plastic, the knobs and buttons are high-quality, and the jogwheels respond well, not too loose, not too heavy, and certainly not wobbly.
As a bonus, there are 4 FX controllers: 1 = Filter; 2 = Reverb; 3 = Dual Delay; 4 = Flanger, and these can be triggered with 2 larger controllers below the EQ. The effects are mapped to Traktor's internal effects, but with the S2, you can only use the above 4, you cannot assign Traktor's other built-in effects to the hardware.
The S2 MK3 is an ideal and practical option for entry-level DJ hardware or as a backup for smaller parties where you don't want to bring a lot of DJ equipment.
Virtual DJ
Gemini G2V | Gemini G4V
Virtual DJ is one of the oldest DJ programs in the market, and although it might not have the visual appeal of Serato or Rekordbox, the software has all the essential features you need for DJing, even some advanced ones like Stems, which allow you to manipulate different musical elements of a track independently while playing.
Furthermore, the standard version is free to download, and the paid version can be purchased either through a monthly subscription or a lifetime license with unlimited updates.
Virtual DJ doesn't have its dedicated hardware, but many controllers can be used in Plug & Play mode, such as the Gemini G2V and Gemini G4V.
Both controllers come in a very sturdy metal chassis with pressure-sensitive jogwheels and XLR/RCA outputs, allowing them to handle even larger sound systems. The faders, knobs, and buttons are of extremely high quality.
The FX controls are configured for Virtual DJ, and there are quick controls for Hot Cue, Autoloop, Sampler, and manual loops. The only difference between the two mixers is the number of channels. As the name suggests, the G2V can handle 2 channels, and the G4V can handle 4 channels simultaneously. Additionally, both controllers can be mapped to Traktor.
» Go to Gemini G2V in the shop
» Go to Gemini G4V in the shop
Summary
Choosing the first DJ software and hardware can be a bit confusing but is also an exciting process. Before deciding on hardware, we recommend doing some research and considering what features you need exactly, which software you can envision using long-term, and what your friends are using.
If you plan to mix standalone with CDJs in the future, Rekordbox is the best possible choice as you can export your playlists to a USB stick and fully utilize the functionality of CDJs in clubs while simultaneously having stable, reliable DJ software on your computer.
For those who appreciate the ecosystem of Native Instruments, the myriad connection options, and functionality, Traktor is a good choice. At an entry price, you get a full-fledged controller. Traktor is also very popular among techno and tech-house DJs for its extensive loop control.
If you want a bit more variety in hardware options, Serato offers many options and is particularly advantageous if you like scratching. Additionally, the software is very stable and intuitive and can be used in various visual modes (more club-like or in battle mode).
If you're not looking for a specific ecosystem and don't care too much about the interface but just want to use all the essential features, then Virtual DJ could be the perfect choice as it can be connected with almost any controller.
Regardless of your choice, with all the mentioned controllers, you can create professional mixes. We promise that all the devices mentioned above offer maximum fun for their value.