Which DJ Controller is Best for Beginners?

Those who want to start DJing usually head straight to a DJ controller from renowned manufacturers.

No wonder, since the technical possibilities are advanced, and getting into the world of DJing with a controller is easier than ever.

However, in the jungle of manufacturers, names, and feature lists, there's a lot to consider. So you don't lose track, we've written a comprehensive guide here that answers all your important questions if you're a beginner looking to choose a DJ controller.

This guide is constantly updated and expanded with the latest and most recommended models. So, it's worth stopping by more often!

How many channels should the DJ controller have?

The number of channels a DJ controller should have depends on your personal preferences and needs and whether you want to dive right in or prefer to start slowly.

Generally, DJ controllers have either two or four channels.

DJ controllers with two channels are generally easier to use and offer enough flexibility for most DJs. DJ controllers with four channels, on the other hand, offer more possibilities for creative sets and are ideal for advanced DJs or DJs playing in larger clubs or festivals.

If you've never DJed before, a 2-channel controller is more than sufficient for a long time! Some DJs don't need more than 2 channels in general and still put together professional sets.

• HERE you'll find all 2-channel controllers
• HERE you'll find all 4-channel controllers

Which DJ software is best for beginners?

This question can't be answered universally. Every DJ Software has its pros and cons. However, they all have one thing in common: as a beginner, you need to get familiar with each software and learn to use it. So, it doesn't really matter which software you choose, or which software the controller comes with.

In any case, you can't avoid the major market leaders: rekordbox and Serato DJ. These two programs are the main players in the market and prove every day that even professional DJs can work with them and create really good sets.

The best thing is to watch some YouTube videos to get a rough idea of how the workflow of the respective software works and if it could suit you.

However, we recommend not basing the choice of controller on the software, as beginners, as mentioned above, still need to get familiar with the program. Often, you also stick with the software you started with!

Together with the standalone software Engine OS, integrated only in Denon standalone controllers, these 4+1 programs represent over 90% of the market.

As a beginner, we recommend choosing one of these 4 programs from the list above, as you'll find the most support and tutorials on YouTube, in forums, and from the community.

What should the controller offer in terms of equipment to get started

To give you a rough overview, we've compiled a list of what a good beginner controller should definitely offer in terms of features.

• Two channels: This allows playing and blending two music tracks simultaneously
• Jogwheels: These little wheels enable precise movement of music tracks or scratching. They shouldn't be too small (very common with very cheap controllers)
• Crossfader: The Crossfader controls the transition from one channel to the other
• Equalizer: The Equalizer allows individually boosting or cutting frequency bands (e.g., bass, mid, treble) to adjust the sound of the music and for transitions
• Filter: The controller should be equipped with a filter knob per channel to make transitions sound professional
• Effect section: Good entry-level controllers offer an effects section coupled to the DJ software
• Loop section: The loop function allows looping specific sections of a music track
• CUE Button and Performance Pads: To quickly jump to preset points of the track or trigger samples

These are the basic functions that every good controller should be able to handle currently and are generally found even in reputable entry-level controllers up to 300 euros. Only with extremely cheap controllers in the 100-150 euro category should you actually expect compromises on basic functions.

What is the CUE button actually for?

The CUE button (also called Cue Point) on a DJ controller is used to set the playback point of a music track. With the CUE button, you can mark a starting point within a music track and then return to this point by pressing the button again.

The CUE button is especially useful when preparing a music track for DJing and you want to remember a specific section or breakpoint where you can resume the track later. The CUE button can also be used to "cue" a music track, i.e., to play it without the sound being output through the speakers (this function is often also referred to as "Cue-to-Ear").

The CUE button is usually part of the DJ software and is controlled via the DJ controller. It is usually located next to the Jogwheels or near the Equalizer knobs. Depending on the DJ controller, there may also be multiple CUE buttons referring to different channels.

Especially with the advent of performance pads, most controllers also offer the Hot-Cue function, which allows jumping to multiple points in the track via the pads.

Hot Cues are particularly useful when you want to play a music track repeatedly or when you want to quickly switch between different sections of a track during a DJ set. They also allow quickly accessing specific sections of a music track to apply effects or mix them together.

How much does a good DJ controller for beginners cost?

The price of a DJ controller for beginners depends on various factors, such as the features and performance capabilities of the controller, the manufacturer, and the material it's made from. There are DJ controllers for beginners in various price ranges, ranging from a few hundred euros to several thousand euros.

A good DJ controller for beginners should generally cost around around 300 euros. For this price, you usually get a device with sufficient features and performance capabilities to gain first experiences in DJing and put together first good sets. DJ controllers in this price range typically have two channels, jogwheels, a crossfader, equalizer, and integrated DJ software.

However, there are also cheaper DJ controllers for beginners on the market, available for as low as 100 euros. These devices are usually much simpler in features and offer significantly fewer functions than more expensive models. They are particularly suitable for beginners who want to test whether DJing is right for them without spending too much money.

Which beginner DJ controllers are recommended?

Let's get down to business now. Here we always give you an overview of which DJ controllers we believe offer the best overall package in each price range.

DJ controllers from 100 - 200 euros

This price range offers interested newcomers a good basic set of functions and features to create initial mixes or to test if DJing is right for them at all. Usually, compromises have to be made especially with the jogwheels and features, which are usually more limited.

Numark PartyMix MKII The Party Mix is a popular entry-level controller currently available for less than 130 euros. It works with Serato DJ Lite and offers a good set of features to start DJing. It has a neat layout and all basic functions are easily accessible. We recommend ignoring the integrated light show.

AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 The most affordable entry into the DJ world from AlphaTheta/Pioneer DJ is currently the DDJ-FLX2. For a price around 189 €, you get a well-equipped 2-channel DJ controller that works with the DJ software rekordbox and Serato DJ. Additionally, you can also use djay for iOS/Android to DJ. In addition to all the basic features like jog wheels, mixer, filter and effect section, the controller offers music streaming, 8 performance pads per channel, as well as Bluetooth functionality and smart-mixing features that make getting started easier.

Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 300 MK2 This controller works with the slightly lesser-known DJCUED software, which is mainly geared towards beginners. Hercules devices are consistently designed for entry-level use. The software offers a DJ Academy that illustrates all DJ techniques with videos, a Beat-Match Guide with light indicators, and a Music Assistant that suggests tracks. In addition to all basic features, the Inpulse can also cover all major streaming platforms. If you prefer to DJ with Serato DJ, you can also do so with this controller. Find more information in the review HERE in the DJ blog

DJ Controllers from 200 to 350 €

This price range is one of the most popular and the sweet spot for entry. Here you can get really well-equipped controllers that not only offer everything you need to start but are also suitable for Semi-Professionals, useful for professionals to prepare sets or as Backup Controllers. The selection in this price range is one of the widest, and the market is fiercely competitive. Here are our recommendations:

Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 The new FLX4 controller is the successor to the extremely popular DDJ-400 controller and is our unequivocal recommendation in the price range up to 350 €. It can be used with both Serato DJ and rekordbox. The FLX4 effortlessly masters the basic functions. Of interest to beginners are the Smart-Mixing features that help you with transitions. The FLX4 adopts the modern USB-C standard and has a Microphone Input that can be mixed with audio playback. Find more information in the review HERE in the DJ blog

Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX This Serato DJ controller can impress with some interesting features and specialties that are not found in this price range. In addition to all the basic concepts that the Numark controller effortlessly handles, the large 6-inch jogwheels immediately catch the eye. They are even equipped with On-Jog Displays that show you the most important information. You can DJ on 2 decks, quickly switch between decks via a switch, giving you a total of a 4-channel controller. The FX Paddles are also very practical, allowing you to trigger Serato effects quickly and easily. Quick Access buttons for the most important effects complete everything.

Gemini G2V We would also like to recommend you a Virtual DJ controller. The Gemini G2V is richly equipped and offers everything you need to start in a compact space. The Gemini controller effortlessly handles all basic DJ functions. Other features that make it special include: a built-in 24-bit Audio Interface, individually assignable Quick Buttons, a Tempo Slider per Channel in turntable style, and a sturdy metal housing.

Roland DJ-202 And once again Serato DJ. The high-quality Roland controller naturally masters all basic functions effortlessly, but can incorporate some new innovative ideas derived from Roland's experience in the groovebox area, combining DJing with producer functions. It features 2 channels that can be switched, thus providing 4 decks. Roland's cult drum kits are also onboard, along with an internal 16-step sequencer. The jogwheels have very low latency and are therefore particularly suitable for scratching. More information can be found in the review HERE on the DJ blog

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 Those who want to start with Traktor have it relatively easy with Native Instruments. For beginners and in the €300 price range, there's only one controller available. However, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 is a very solid, well-built, and tidy controller with a club layout that aims to make it easy for beginners to get started. It provides everything needed to put together a professional set. A 24-bit audio interface, a large effects section, 16 pads, large 5.5-inch jogwheels, and a full version of Traktor 3 Pro offer a very comprehensive package that doesn't require further additional costs and is available at an affordable price.

Frequently Asked Questions about DJ Controllers

Here, we try to answer the most common questions we constantly receive from newcomers, as brief and concise as possible:

Question: What is the best DJ controller for beginners?

• Short answer: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 - It offers everything you need to start.
• Long answer: There is no "best" DJ controller for beginners, as every DJ has different needs and preferences. However, a good DJ controller for beginners should have the most important functions and should be compatible with the software you are most comfortable with.

Question: Do I need DJ software to use a DJ controller?

• Answer: For a beginner controller up to €500, it is common for it to be used with software and cannot function without a laptop or computer.

Question: Can I perform live with a DJ controller?

• Answer: Yes, it is possible to perform live with a DJ controller. Many DJ controllers are robust enough to be used in live performances. However, it is important to note that connecting to large PA systems often requires special outputs that budget controllers do not offer.

Question: Which DJ controllers are compatible with which DJ software?

• Answer: Most DJ controllers come with specific software. It is important to ensure that the DJ controller is compatible with the desired DJ software before purchasing it.

Question: How do I connect my DJ controller to my computer?

• Answer: To connect the DJ controller to the computer, you usually need a USB cable. This is plugged into a free USB port on the computer and into the DJ controller. Then, you start the software that recognizes the controller, and you're ready to go.

Question: How do I learn DJing?

• Answer: DJing can be learned in various ways. One possibility is to watch tutorials on the internet or attend DJ workshops. There are also books and DVDs that deal with DJing and offer tips and tricks for getting started in the DJ scene.

Question: What music is best for DJing?

• Answer: There are no fixed rules for what music is best for DJing. It depends on the type of DJ set you want to play and your preferred music genres. Typically, DJing suits music with a 4/4 beat, produced electronically or with a sequencer.

Question: Can I produce music with a DJ controller?

• Answer: Yes, it's possible to produce music with a DJ controller. Some DJ controllers are even specifically designed for music production and have additional features like sequencers, synthesizers, or samplers. However, you usually also need compatible music production software to produce music with a DJ controller.

Question: What's the difference between a DJ controller and a DJ mixer?

• Answer: A DJ controller is a device that allows mixing and editing music tracks. It typically has jog wheels, a crossfader, equalizers, and controls DJ software. A DJ mixer, on the other hand, is a device that allows mixing and editing multiple audio signals. It usually has multiple channels, equalizers, effects, and requires additional hardware like CD and media players or turntables.

Question: Can I play music from streaming services like Spotify with a DJ controller?

• Answer: Yes, it's possible to play music from streaming services like Spotify with a DJ controller. You need to use the corresponding DJ software that allows integration of streaming services. Most DJ software programs now offer integration of streaming services, so you can play and mix music directly from there.

Question: What DJ controllers are suitable for professionals?

• Answer: For professionals, there are special DJ controllers that have extensive equipment and performance features and are suitable for professional use. These DJ controllers are usually more expensive than beginner models and have additional functions and features needed for professional DJing.

Question: What DJ controllers are suitable for Mac computers?

• Answer: Most DJ controllers are suitable for MACs, as they have USB ports that can be connected to any type of computer. All major DJ software is also available for MAC, so there should be no restrictions.

Further Links

If you want to deepen your knowledge about DJ controllers, we recommend the following links with guides:

• The best DJ controllers under 300 €
• Pioneer DJ controllers - Comparison of all DJ controllers
• DJ mixer vs controller - What is better for your setup?
• Ultimate DJ setup guide - Everything you need to know about the right equipment for performing
• Are studio monitors suitable for DJs?