Best DJ Controllers For Beginners In 2022

Compare and finding which is the best DJ controller for beginners can be an overwhelming task if you are starting a DJ career.

Here is our recommendation for the best controllers you can find on the market today.

Which DJ controller to buy to get started? Buying guide

There has never been a better time to get into the art of DJing. Technology has brought a once expensive hobby/profession to the mass market for beginners. All major manufacturers of high-end DJ equipment now offer affordable digital DJ controllers.

But before getting your first DJ controller, you need to ask a few key questions. These initial answers will help you select something appropriate for your needs.

• Do you plan on scratching?
• Is the mixer section fully equipped?
• Which DJ software to use?
• How often will you use the controller?
• Do you have a built-in sound card?
• What features does the driver offer?

• Best DJ controllers to get started

Do you plan on scratching?

If you want to incorporate scratching into your DJ performance, you’ll want to make sure that whatever you buy has solid jog wheels.

Small jog wheels will make it difficult for you to have the control you’ll need to scratch effectively. Low quality jog wheels will also make scratching quite difficult.

Is the mixer section fully equipped?

The DJ controller should have a solid mixer section with all the controls you need to alter music and play with effects. Having access to a good EQ will help you learn the subtleties of mixing.

All good beginner controllers should also have a proper cue/master output for your headphones. This is what will allow you to preview and prepare your mix.

Which DJ software to use?

There are many choices of DJ software, but not all are equal. When selecting a controller, you should know if it comes bundled with DJ software. It also is worth knowing if the software is a trial or full version.

To get the most out of your purchase, you’ll want full version software, which may mean having to spend a bit more.

Many controllers are designed to be used with certain software. But if you already have DJ software, you’ll want to check to see if it’s compatible.

How often will you use the controller?

Build quality is important when it comes to choosing the best DJ controller for beginners. Many controllers designed for beginners can be made with inexpensive materials.

If you plan on using decks on a regular basis, you’ll want something that can handle the job. This becomes even more important if you plan to take your DJ setup to a friend’s house or parties.

Entry-level controllers are usually compact, but they must connect to a laptop or PC.

Do you have a built-in sound card?

A dedicated sound card is a nice feature. It will allow you to plug and play without having to rely on the capabilities of your computer or laptop. It also allows you to send sound directly to your sound system.

What features does the driver offer?

While most controllers follow the same general design philosophy, there are many differences in features.

Overlaying multiple effects will require something that has many options and effect controls built in.

Most entry-level DJ controllers support two channels, but some have some solutions for four-channel mixing.

It’s important to know how likely you are to use these features. It will help you get a setup that allows you to fully explore the side of DJing that you are most passionate about.

Best DJ controllers to get started

Pioneer DDJ 400 Review

The best DJ controller for beginners

• Software: Rekordbox DJ full version
• Channels: 2
• Deck Control: 2
• Outputs: 1 master (RCA) / 1 headphone monitor (1/8″)
• Inputs: 1 microphone (1/4 inch)
• Size ( W / H / D ): 482 mm – 58.5 mm – 272.4 mm | Weight: 2.1kg

Pros

• Professional design: this controller emulates Pioneer’s high-end club-based equipment configuration. This makes it easy to transition to other Pioneer controllers in the range if you end up upgrading later.
• Rekordbox DJ software: unlike other controllers on the market, this one comes with the full version of the software. This can save you a considerable amount of money.
• Tutorial feature: it comes with a tutorial designed specifically for beginners. It covers setup and also basic controls. For veterans, it may not seem like much. For those starting out, it will make the initial learning curve much smoother.
• Long pitch fader: for its size, it offers a much longer pitch fader than Pioneer has offered in the past. For DJs looking to master syncing beats by ear, this longer pitch fader will make it easier to make precise adjustments to perfect your mix.

Cons

Smaller mixer section: The center mixer section feels a bit too compact. For those with large hands, it can be a bit of a hassle.

Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 Review

The best Traktor controller

• Software: Traktor Pro 3
• Channels: 2
• Deck control: 4
• Outputs: 1 master (RCA) / 1 headphone monitor (1/8-inch)
• Inputs: 1 microphone (1/4 inch)
• Size: (W / H / D): 486 mm – 59 mm – 265 mm | Weight: 2.4kg

Pros

• Solid build quality: you can tell that Native Instruments takes pride in their gear. The Traktor S2 Mk3 is another well-built unit. It can withstand the demands of constant use.
• Full version software:  the Traktor S2 Mk3 includes the full version of Traktor Pro 3. This excellent software has all the features a DJ needs to be a digital DJ.
• Portable: the small form factor makes it an excellent controller for beginners or even a backup for a larger setup. The added connectivity to the iOS Traktor DJ 2 app makes this an excellent portable option.
• Professional design:  a well-designed layout that mimics more expensive Native Instruments controllers. This makes it easy to migrate to for better gear on the track.

Cons

Plastic knobs: Native Instrument’s previous entry-level controllers had rubber knobs that felt more comfortable. But the new plastic knobs are more durable.

Pioneer DDJ 200 Review

The best Serato controller

• Software: Serato DJ Lite
• Channels: 2
• Deck control: 2
• Outputs: 1 master (RCA) / 1 headphone monitor (1/8-inch)
• Inputs: 1 microphone (1/4 inch)
• Size ( W / H / D ): 482.6 mm – 58.5 mm – 272.4 mm: Weight: 2.1kg

Pros

• Quality jog wheels:  low latency and durable jog wheels are ideal for any DJ who wants a DJ controller for scratching at a reasonable price. The jog wheels are also a good size for this price.
  Logical layout: all functions are arranged in a way that feels natural when using the deck. This is ideal for beginner DJs who may be intimidated by the layout of high-end DJ controllers.
• 2 channels available: access to run 2 channels at the same time using the deck switch buttons.
• FX Fade: instantly add pre-designed effects to help with transitions. New DJs will appreciate having some safe options when mixes start to fail or you’ve run out of time to transition.

Cons

Introductory software: it comes with Serato DJ Lite. To unlock all the features, you must pay for the full version of Serato, which is an additional cost. Keep this in mind if you are on a tight budget.

Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 Review

• Software: Serato DJ Lite
• Channels: 2
• Deck Control: 2
• Outputs: 1 master (RCA) / 2 headphone monitors (1/4 inch and 1/8 inch)
• Inputs: 1 microphone (1/4 inch)
• Size ( W / H / D ): 550.9 mm – 30.3 mm – 233 mm | Weight: 1.9kg

Pros

• Built-in sound card: Having a built-in sound card is a great advantage for Numark Mixtrack Pro 3. Connect your sound system directly to the unit without relying on your computer to handle the sound. This also makes headphones much louder, making it easier to preview and prepare mixes.
• Really long pitch faders: with full 100mm pitch faders, it is perfectly suited for mastering beatmatching by ear. Beatmatching is a challenging skill to learn – this is a great advantage.
• Touchstrip:  quickly scrolling through tracks via touchstrips can help reduce the amount of time evaluating tracks before setting up a mix.
• Great value: this controller offers many of the features you see in the more expensive options. If you’re on a tight budget, this is a great way to get all the features you need while saving some money.

Cons

Introductory software – Serato DJ Lite is included. It may be a budget option, but there is still the hidden upgrade cost if you want the full version of Serato.

Roland DJ 202 Review

The best for creative mixing

• Software: Serato DJ Lite
• Channels: 2
• Deck Control: 4
• Outputs: 1 master (RCA) / 1 headphone monitor (1/4 inch) / MIDI Output
• Inputs: 1 microphone (1/4 inch)
• Size (W / H / D): 478 mm – 62 mm – 297 mm | Weight: 2.1kg

Pros

• Built-in drum machine:  activates 8 drum sounds from Roland’s selection of drum machines. This allows the creation of rhythms on the fly. If you like the idea of remixing and producing, you’ll enjoy this addition to a beginner DJ controller.
• Responsive Jog Wheels: high quality and low latency for precise control. For scratch DJs, this is a must-have. Scratching and using the drum machine can be a rewarding creative outlet.
• 4-channel DJ controller: Like the SB3, you can access up to 4 channels. This expands your creative options as a DJ.
• Midi output: a Midi port on the back of the unit gives you the flexibility to add an additional piece of equipment. Considering the various components available from Roland, you can start migrating to a more live DJ performance aspect.

Cons

Flimsy-feeling build quality: while I don’t expect premium materials in an entry-level DJ controller, it feels a bit hollow and flimsy.

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