Overview
In this buyer’s guide, we break down the 7 best DJ controllers for beginners in 2026.
These are the standout entry-level options under $700 — ideal for learning at home, playing small parties, or taking your first serious step into DJing.
If you’re looking to spend even less, our rundown of cheap DJ controllers under $300 highlights the most accessible options for getting started.
Want to become a club DJ?
Check out this free DJ mini-course from our friends at Club Ready DJ School. When you sign up, you’ll get immediate access to 16 high-quality HD video lessons
Who are these controllers for?
The controllers on this list will be most appropriate if you fall into one of these four categories:
- You’re an aspiring DJ just getting started.
- You’re a bedroom or party DJ working within a tight budget.
- You want something simple, portable, and easy to set up at home or for casual use.
- You’re an experienced or working DJ looking for an affordable backup controller for your home or studio setup.
How to choose?
As all of these controllers are roughly in the same price bracket, their specs will often be fairly similar by comparison. With that said, we’d suggest focusing more on their unique selling points and what that means to YOU and your situation.
If you want a deeper breakdown before diving in, we’ve put together a dedicated guide on how to choose a DJ controller, written specifically for beginners. It covers everything you need to think about before buying.
So then, here are the best DJ controllers for beginners in 2026.
1. Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4
Description:
The DDJ-FLX4 is the flagship beginner DJ controller from Pioneer DJ/AlphaTheta. It comes with their proprietary music management and DJ software, Rekordbox, and also works with Serato and Algoriddim’s djay.
Others in the series include the mid-range DDJ-FLX6 and the DDJ-FLX10 in the professional price bracket.
Best suited to:
1} Aspiring club DJs looking to get started with Rekordbox, 2} Hobbyists who are looking for a versatile beginner unit with streaming and multiple software options, and 3} Anyone looking for a budget controller for house parties, etc.
Approximate price:
$300 USD | £320 GBP | €350 Euro | $630 AU
Overview video:
| Key features/specs |
|---|
| 2-deck, 2-channel DJ controller |
| Works with AlphaTheta’s Rekordbox DJ software and Serato DJ Lite out of the box (subscription needed to activate Serato DJ Pro) |
| ‘Smart CFX’ – executes a combination of FX with a single knob (beginner-friendly) |
| Layout designed to emulate Pioneer’s CDJ media players and DJM mixer club set-up |
| 3-band EQ as standard, with filter and gain knobs on each channel |
| Beat FX and sound colour FX |
| 8 back-lit rubber performance pads on each channel for Hot Cues, Pad FX, Beat Jump and Sampler |
| ‘Smart Fader’ – adjusts the volume, bass, and BPM as you transition (think of it like a ‘do it for me’ transition) |
| ‘Smart CFX’ – executes a combination of FX with a single knob (beginner friendly) |
| Connected via USB-C for a more secure connection compared to the standard USB-B |
| USB audio output for recording mixes as well as microphone audio |
| 1 x 4-inch microphone input |
| 1 x 4-inch headphone jack |
| Size: Width 482mm x Depth 272.8mm x Height 59.2mm |
| Weight: 2.1kg |
| Visit the FLX4 product page for full tech specs |
DDJ-FLX4 conclusion:
Released in November 2022, the DDJ-FLX4 effectively replaced the popular DDJ-400 as Pioneer DJ’s flagship controller for beginners.
As well as being a more versatile unit than the DDJ-400 – in part because it also works with Serato DJ – the company has introduced beginner-friendly features on the FLX4 such as the “Smart Fader’’ (think of it like a ‘do it for me’ transition), and also “Smart CFX”, which executes a combination of FX with a single knob.
Other than that, in terms of build quality and layout – ie Jog wheels, faders, knobs, buttons, performance pads, etc. – the FLX4 is very similar to its older counterpart.
Whilst the FLX4 works perfectly well with Serato DJ Lite, we’d recommend sticking with Rekordbox. This way, you can utilize 16 pad modes rather than 8 straight out of the box, and you won’t have any need for a paid upgrade later, as with Serato (note: both software providers support DJ-relevant streaming services, including Spotify, Beatport Streaming, Beatsource Streaming, Apple Music, TIDAL, and SoundCloud Go+).
In conclusion: There’s no doubt this unit has everything you could ask for in an entry-level DJ controller – and you really can’t go wrong at 300 bucks. Additionally, if you use it with Rekordbox on your phone, you’ll be able to connect via Bluetooth or a USB cable, which may appeal to some.
2. Numark Mixstream Pro / Pro + / Pro Go
Description:
Aimed at beginner DJs, the Mixstream Pro is a standalone DJ system from Numark. It comes with the Engine DJ operating system built into the unit itself and also works with Serato DJ and VirtualDJ using a connected laptop.
Originally released in October 2021, the Mixstream Pro is the only standalone system on this list, which means it doesn’t require a laptop to operate. It also has built-in speakers and WiFi connectivity – two more unique features in this category.
The Mixstream Pro Go, released in May 2023, adds a rechargeable battery for DJing on the ‘go’. See our boxout in the conclusion for more details on the different models and how they affect the price.
Best suited to:
Beginner DJs who want to use streaming services and like the idea of DJing without a laptop. It would also make a good gift for someone without an MP3 collection and/or speakers.
Approximate price:
Between US$700 and US$840 depending on which edition you get.
Overview video:
| Key features/specs |
|---|
| 2-channel mixer |
| Engine DJ embedded operating system for laptop-free DJing |
| The unit works as a DJ controller with Serato DJ and Virtual DJ (licenses required, although Serato DJ Lite is free) |
| Built-in WiFi for access to streaming services: Spotify (when using Serato), Beatport Streaming, Beatsource Streaming, Apple Music, TIDAL, and SoundCloud Go+ with the option to stream your music library straight from Dropbox |
| 7-inch multi-touch high-definition touchscreen |
| Built-in speakers with volume control for home use/practising; could also be used as monitor speakers at house parties or a small venue |
| 3-band EQ as standard, with gain controls on each channel and a large filter knob on each deck |
| 6-inch capacitive-touch jog wheels with Smart Scratch feature for on-beat scratching |
| 2 x USB / 1 x SD Card input in the back for loading music files/MP3s |
| Engine Lighting embedded lighting control for Philips Hue smart home and DMX lighting |
| Dedicated FX section with 4 x effects and 2 x spring-loaded toggle switches (1 for each deck) |
| 4 x dual-layer performance pads on each deck (Cue, Saved Loop, Auto Loop, Roll) |
| Pitch Bend buttons and dedicated Pitch Slider with 6 different selectable pitch ranges |
| Balanced XLR / RCA Main outputs; meaning you can connect to professional sound systems |
| 1 x 4-inch microphone input |
| 1 x 4-inch / 8-inch headphone jack |
| Size: Width 566mm x Depth 284mm x Height 74mm |
| Weight: 3.68kg |
Mixstream Pro conclusion:
The Mixstream Pro doesn’t require a laptop and also has WiFi connectivity and built-in speakers. Technically, all you need to get started is a set of headphones and an applicable streaming subscription.
The built-in Engine DJ operating system and large 7-inch touchscreen are a big part of why it costs significantly more than most beginner controllers. They also make it fundamentally different from everything else on this list: it’s a genuine standalone DJ system rather than a controller that needs a laptop to operate.
For a brand-new DJ without a laptop, digital music collection or speakers, it’s arguably the best out-of-the-box option here. And whilst you may eventually want to use your own music files and upgrade the speakers, neither is essential if you’re just getting started at home.
If you DO have a laptop, you can use Engine DJ Desktop to prepare and export your music library or playlists onto a USB drive. The Mixstream Pro can also import libraries prepared in other DJ software, including rekordbox.
Build quality is solid for the price, although the unit is mostly plastic, which is fairly typical for beginner-focused DJ gear. For more, visit the manufacturer’s product page.
The different editions explained:
The three Mixstream models share the same core hardware and standalone Engine DJ workflow. The main differences are:
- Mixstream Pro – The original model released in 2021, now largely superseded by the Pro+.
- Mixstream Pro+ – US$699 – The standard current model, with expanded streaming support including Amazon Music and Apple Music.
- Mixstream Pro Go – US$839 – Adds a built-in rechargeable battery for portable use.
3. Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX
Description:
The Mixtrack Platinum FX is Numark’s flagship DJ controller for beginner DJs. It comes bundled with Serato DJ Lite, which is standard for Serato controllers in this price bracket. It was released in May 2020.
Best suited to:
A beginner DJ looking to get started with Serato most cost-effectively, one that’s not necessarily decided on a particular direction yet.
Approximate price:
$279 USD | £250 GBP | €300 Euro | $450 AU
Overview video:
| Key features/specs |
|---|
| 2-channel mixer, with 4-deck mixing capability |
| Comes with Serato DJ Lite (Serato DJ Pro upgrade available/optional) |
| 3-band EQ as standard, with filter and gain knobs for each channel |
| Large 6-inch jog touch-capacitive jog wheels |
| Hi-res colour LCD multi-function displays on each jog wheel; details essential track data such as BPM, Pitch, and time remaining |
| 6 x onboard Serato FX in the centre of the controller with convenient on/off toggle (as found on some scratch/battle mixers) |
| 8 multi-function backlit performance pads on each deck for auto-looping, cue points and sampling |
| Dedicated loop controls positioned at the bottom-right of each deck |
| Long, sensitive 100mm pitch faders for accurate beat-matching |
| 1 x 4-inch microphone input |
| 1 x 4-inch / 8-inch headphone jack |
| Size: Width 536mm x Depth 246mm x Height 51mm |
| Weight: 2.3kg |
| For full tech specs, visit the official product page |
Mixtrack Platinum FX conclusion:
It has to be said that the build quality of the Mixtrack Platinum FX is excellent – the buttons, performance pads, and jog wheels all feel great. Also, it’s the only DJ controller in this category that offers high-res, ‘on jog’ displays – minimizing the time you’d usually spend staring at your laptop.
Like the other 6 controllers on this list, it has all the necessary functionality (and more) required for a beginner DJ who’s just getting started. And whilst there’s no doubt it’s fantastic value for money, just don’t forget to factor in the software upgrade to Serato DJ Pro later on.
4. Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7
Description:
Released in June 2023, the DJControl Inpulse T7 is a Serato-compatible DJ controller from Hercules. Whilst the price is top-end in this bracket, it’s easily the cheapest controller on the market to offer motorized ‘vinyl-like’ platters.
Best suited to:
1} DJs on a budget who want the authentic feel of mixing vinyl, 2} Beginners looking for ‘something a bit different’, and 3} Aspiring scratch/battle DJs.
Approximate price:
$699 USD | £599 GBP | €700 Euro
Overview video:
| Key features/specs |
|---|
| 2-channel controller; comes with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED (upgrade required for Serato DJ Pro) |
| 3 band EQ, gain + filter knobs on each channel |
| Effects rack: 2 x 3 FX Select buttons |
| 2 x paddle FX controls, Beat -/+ buttons |
| 33⅓ RPM motorized metal platters (can switch to 45 RPM in Serato DJ Pro) |
| Felt slipmats and vinyl records are held in place by the central axis |
| Platter with touch detection, 3.9-inch / 10-cm tempo fader, Play/Pause, Cue, Shift, Sync |
| 8 x performance pads on each channel (8 modes; includes Hot Cue, Loop, Stems +) |
| Browser knob, Assistant, Range, Loop, Loop In/Out, Instrumental/Vocal, Pitch Bend << / >> |
| Stems controls: The Inpulse T7 is fully compatible with Serato DJ, including native one-button Stems control to easily create personalized mixes on the fly |
| Features the same popular retractable feet as the Inpulse 500 |
| 2 x Master outputs (speakers): 2 x XLR + 2 x RCA |
| 2 x headphones outputs: ¼” / 6.35 mm stereo jack + 1/8” / 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack |
| Microphone input: ¼” / 6.35 mm jack (balanced) |
| Audio resolution: 44.1 kHz / 24-bit |
| Weight: 11 lb / 5 kg, has handles on both sides |
| For more, visit the Hercules website |
Inpulse T7 conclusion:
The DJControl Inpulse T7 remains one of the most affordable ways to get motorized platters on a DJ controller. While its 7-inch belt-driven platters aren’t as refined as the direct-drive systems found on more expensive scratch controllers such as the Rane ONE MKII, they make this style of DJing much more accessible to beginners.
Hercules has also since expanded its motorized range with the flagship DJControl T10, which adds larger 10-inch platters and a more performance-focused setup at roughly twice the price.
The unit comes with Serato DJ Lite in the box (paid upgrade required for Serato DJ Pro), and also Hercules’s DJUCED software, giving beginners a choice.
The Inpulse T7 is extremely lightweight, featuring 3-band EQ, filter knobs on each channel, 2 x ‘battle-style’ FX paddles in the middle, on-board Stems controls (for use with Serato), 8 x performance pads per deck, and retractable feet as seen on their Inpulse 500.
For an extra $100, there’s also a premium edition of the T7, which has gold paintwork, improved faders, and an included carry case (more details of that here).
Simply put: It’s best suited to DJs on a budget who want the authentic feel of mixing vinyl and/or aspiring scratch DJs.
5: Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1
Description:
Released in January 2022, the DDJ-REV1 is an entry-level DJ controller from Pioneer DJ that’s specifically targeted at aspiring scratch DJs. Same as the Numark Platinum FX, it comes bundled with Serato DJ Lite, which is standard for Serato controllers in this price bracket. It also works with Virtual DJ.
Best suited to:
As well as aspiring scratch/battle DJs, just any beginner DJ on a tight budget that likes the look of/layout of the controller.
Approximate price:
$279 USD | £300 GBP | €350 Euro | $500 AU
Overview video:
| Key features/specs |
|---|
| 2-channel mixer, 4-deck capability within Serato DJ Lite. Also works with Virtual DJ |
| Comes with Serato DJ Lite (Serato DJ Pro upgrade available/optional) |
| Layout designed to closely mimic a battle-style/scratch DJ setup, i.e. two turntables turned 90 degrees with the tempo adjust and other controls at the top |
| Battle-style Paddle FX controls on the mixer; layout mimics Pioneer’s DJM-S7 and DJM-S11 pro mixers |
| 3-band EQ as standard, with filter and gain knobs on each channel |
| Large, touch-capacitive, 4.5-inch jog wheels optimized for scratching |
| 8 x performance pads for each channel for Hot Cues, Auto Loop, Tracking Scratch, Sampler, Trans and Scratch Bank |
| Multiple ‘Tracking Scratch’ pad modes for assisted scratching |
| ‘Scratch Bank’ pad mode allows you to load scratch samples from 4 banks that you’ve assigned in the software (works in Serato DJ Lite) |
| Long 60mm pitch controls for accurate beat matching |
| 1 x 4-inch microphone input / 1 x 4-inch headphone jack |
| Size: Width 526mm x Depth 256mm x Height 59mm |
| Weight: 2.1kg |
| For full tech specs, visit the DDJ-REV1 product page |
DDJ-REV1 conclusion:
The DDJ-REV1 is the follow-up from the DDJ-SB3 (from 2018), and Pioneer has gone all-in with regard to targeting aspiring scratch/battle DJs.
As you can see, all the deck controls (pitch fader, etc.) are located at the top as if you’d turned an actual turntable on its side. Also, the layout of the mixer is designed to closely mimic Pioneer’s DJM-S7 and DJM-S11 pro battle mixers, with the performance pads located on the mixer rather than on each deck (battle style), creating more room to manoeuvre for scratching.
It’s worth noting that the buttons are slightly smaller than you’d typically get in this price bracket, which might cause an issue if you have big hands.
It’s a fairly simple equation this one: Unless you’re an aspiring scratch DJ there are probably better options on this list, simply because of the layout/workflow of the unit. However, if this is you, then the REV1 is a no-brainer in this price bracket.
When you do have more cash, the logical step up from here would either be to get the REV7 in the upper price bracket or a set of turntables with a battle-style DJM-S11 pro mixer (or the S7 mixer).
6.Traktor MX2
Description:
Released in October 2025 as a replacement for the long-running Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3, the Traktor MX2 is Native Instruments’ latest entry-level DJ controller, updated to align with more recent Traktor hardware such as the X1 and Z1.
At $450 USD, the MX2 sits at a slightly higher price point than some beginner alternatives on this list, but in return offers a larger physical layout, a higher-quality sound card, and access to the full version of Traktor Pro 4 straight out of the box.
Native Instruments was acquired by InMusic in May 2026.
Approximate price:
$450 USD | £350 GBP | €400 Euro | $700 AU
Overview video:
Traktor MX2 conclusion:
In terms of layout and feel, the unit is noticeably bigger than most beginner controllers. This extra space translates into larger jog wheels and more room between controls, which makes learning the fundamentals—beatmatching, cueing, looping, and effects—feel less cramped. The design itself is understated, with subtle pad lighting and a clean finish rather than anything flashy or performance-focused.
Where the MX2 really differentiates itself is in software depth and sound quality. Traktor’s creative tools, including stems, effects routing, and pattern-based features, are now fully available without requiring paid upgrades, giving beginners room to grow as their mixing skills improve.
Build quality is typical for this category: mostly plastic with basic faders. It’s powered via mains rather than USB, which helps consistency but reduces portability.
In conclusion, the MX2 is best suited to beginner DJs focused on electronic music who value sound quality and creative options over portability or flashy features. Visit the product page for more.
7. Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500
Lastly, another one of our favourites is the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500.
Priced at $300 US, it has excellent build quality and is very feature-rich for the price – with a dedicated Filter/FX area, large jog wheels, 16 backlit performance pads, and more. It comes with Serato DJ Lite and their own ‘DJUCED’ DJ software in the box (giving beginners a choice), which both offer streaming compatibility.
Head over to the Hercules website for more details.
Best DJ controllers for beginners: our picks at a glance
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 — Best for Rekordbox
- Numark Mixstream Pro / Pro+ / Pro Go — No laptop/standalone option
- Numark Mixstream Platinum FX — Best value for Serato
- Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 — Best for motorized platters
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 — Best for aspiring scratch DJs
- Traktor MX2 — Best for Traktor
- Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 — Best all-round alternative
What to do next
When your controller arrives, our DJ controller setup guide walks you through everything from installing the software to making your first mix.
More DJ controller guides:
- 5 of the Best Mid-Range DJ Controllers
- 7 Best Professional DJ Controllers
- The 7 Best Standalone DJ Systems
FAQ:
What is the best DJ controller for beginners?
Some of the best DJ controllers for beginners include the Pioneer DJ DDJ‑FLX4, Numark Mixstream Pro+, and Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500. These models are popular because they combine beginner-friendly layouts, reliable software compatibility, and enough features to grow with as your DJ skills improve.
What does a beginner DJ need to get started?
In addition to a DJ controller and compatible DJ software, you’ll need a decent laptop, a pair of DJ headphones, and ideally a set of monitor speakers. You’ll also need a music library — usually digital files such as MP3s — unless you plan to mix using streaming services like Beatport Streaming or TIDAL.
What features should I look for in a beginner DJ controller?
A good beginner DJ controller should have a clear two-deck layout, responsive jog wheels, basic EQ controls, and dedicated cue and play buttons. It’s also helpful if the controller includes bundled DJ software, a built-in audio interface for headphones and speakers, and performance pads for simple effects and looping.
How much should a beginner DJ spend on a controller?
Most beginner DJs spend between $200 and $500 USD on their first controller. This price range usually provides reliable build quality, bundled DJ software, and enough features to learn proper mixing techniques without paying for advanced functions you may not use yet.
Do beginner DJ controllers need a laptop?
Most beginner DJ controllers are designed to work with DJ software running on a laptop, which handles music playback, track libraries, and effects. However, some entry-level controllers can also connect to tablets or smartphones using compatible DJ apps, though laptops still tend to offer the most stable and fully featured setup.
What DJ software is best for beginners?
Popular beginner-friendly DJ software includes Rekordbox, Serato DJ Lite, and VirtualDJ. Most beginner controllers come bundled with compatible software so you can start mixing immediately.
Do beginner DJ controllers have built-in sound cards?
Most beginner controllers have a built-in audio interface. This allows you to connect speakers and headphones directly to the controller without needing extra equipment or cables.
Can you use streaming services with beginner DJ controllers?
Yes. Most beginner controllers support streaming services through their DJ software, including Apple Music, Beatport Streaming, SoundCloud Go+, and TIDAL.
Affiliate Disclosure: To help fund the website, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you choose to make a purchase we’ll make a small commission from it. This NEVER costs you any extra as a result.
This post was reviewed by Dale Ashworth.
