The music industry has experienced an incredible transformation over the past decade, thanks to pioneering DJs who sought new ways to craft seamless performances. Now, there’s no stopping anyone from doing just that as there is an abundance of quality free DJ software up for grabs.
We’ve conducted thorough testing and shortlisted our top picks for the best DJ software you should keep tabs on in 2023 – Both free and paid.
In this article, we look at the best free DJ software:
- Beatport DJ
- Serato DJ Lite
- Mixvibes CrossDJ Free
- Atomix VirtualDJ
- Mixxx
- You DJ
- Traktor DJ 2
- Rekordbox
Is free DJ software good?
To answer this question simply, Yes! Free Dj software is very good. Free DJ software allows you to perform professional-level mixes and performances. Furthermore. If you are a bedroom DJ or aspiring DJ then in almost every case we would recommend using free DJ software. Once you are ready to up your DJ game to the next level and start live performances, then you should think about having the premium version of the software of your choosing.
Does DJ software have limitations?
Yes, free DJ software does have limitations, However, unless you are a professional DJ these are mostly not needed. The limitations don’t generally harm your performance and specific limitations vary from software to software.
Can I use a DJ controller with free software?
Yes absolutely. Almost every free software allows the use of compatible DJ controllers to be used. Think about it, If you bought a new controller and then had to pay a monthly fee, that could be offputting to new DJs.
So with all that in mind, let’s take a look at our picks of the best free DJ software…
Best DJ Software of 2023
Beatport DJ
For budding musicians looking for an intuitive way to blend their unique tastes into engaging soundtracks, look no further than Beatport DJ—a cutting-edge DJ software designed for all genres of dance music enthusiasts! With an intuitive graphical interface, you’ll find yourself quickly adapting and harnessing all its features effortlessly.
Thanks to the advanced search engines powered by AI algorithms technology that scans your entire library at lightning speed; you have access to limitless number mixes created exclusively by genre or beat-matching records manually with just four taps on your mobile device screen! Imagine mixing all this power within minutes without downloading anything because it serves as a modern online tool delivering top-notch results always.
Standout features: Beatport Integration and Web-based
Features:
- Streaming services: Beatport
- Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS X
- Mobile Devices: Not Available
You can get Beatport DJ here
Serato DJ Lite
Serato DJ Lite is the ultimate tool for aspiring DJs seeking high-quality software to elevate their skills. The intuitive interface of this software enables users to manipulate tracks in a variety of ways including cue points, beatmatching, and looping creating smooth transitions that would impress even seasoned professionals. It is no surprise why Serato DJ Lite is trusted by thousands of performers worldwide making it stand out as a clear leader in the field.
Serato does lack some features in the free version but if you are looking for somewhere to start then Serato DJ Lite is a great choice. Furthermore, choosing Serato as your free DJ software comes with the added benefit of the fact that you won’t need to learn a new software interface should you choose to upgrade or progress as a DJ.
Standout Features: Smart Sync and industry standard
Serato DJ Lite features Smart Sync, which automatically beat matches tracks for users. This feature makes it easier for beginners to create seamless mixes and allows for more creativity during live sets.
Features:
- Streaming services: SoundCloud, Tidal
- Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS X
- Mobile Devices: iOS, Android
Mixvibes CrossDJ Free
Mixvibes CrossDJ Free is an outstanding and robust DJ software that boasts a wide variety of advanced features. Amongst these are four decks, a sampler, and an effects rack that allows users to mix and manipulate multiple tracks with grand precision and creativity. Furthermore, Cross DJ is one of the best mobile DJing apps that I have personally tried and tested.
Standout Features: MIDI Mapping and available on mobile devices
Mixvibes CrossDJ Free features MIDI mapping, which allows users to map the software’s controls to external hardware. This feature is useful for DJs who prefer to use physical controllers, as it allows for a more tactile experience.
Features:
- Streaming services: Not Available
- Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux
- Mobile Devices: Android & IOS
You can get Mixvibes Cross DJ here.
Atomix VirtualDJ
Atomix VirtualDJ, a widely used DJ software, boasts features such as karaoke support, video mixing, and a vast effects library. Both professionals and newcomers can take advantage of these features to create impressive audiovisual performances.
Virtual DJ has been around for a very long time and has gained the trust of the DJ community worldwide. furthermore, Virtual DJ comes with amazing features in the free version such as track separation technology otherwise known as stems.
Standout Features: Amazing user Interface and industry standard
Features:
- Streaming services: Soundcloud
- Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS X
- Mobile Devices: iOS, Android
You can get Virtual DJ here.
Mixxx
Mixxx is a free and open-source DJ software that offers loads of great features. It features four decks, a built-in effects rack, and support for multiple controllers. With Mixxx, users can create impressive mixes and perform live sets. Mixxx is a great DJ app for those looking for some fun with some great features everything is 100% open source and therefore, free!
Standout Features: Open-Source and 100% free
Features:
- Streaming services: SoundCloud, Icecast
- Operating Systems: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux
- Mobile Devices: Not Available
You can visit and use Mixxx here.
You DJ
When it comes to finding a no-frills DJ software that provides quick thrills, You DJ ticks all the boxes. As an increasingly popular choice in the world of web-based free online DJ software, it offers a comprehensive set of tools that cater to everyone from novice music mixers to veteran DJs. For those in search of a minimal-stress option to experiment with some music creations, give You DJ a try.
Standout Features: Intuitive User Interface and Web-based
Features:
- Streaming services: Soundcloud
- Operating systems: Web-based
- Mobile device availability: Web-based, compatible with all major web browsers.
You can find You DJ here.
Traktor DJ 2
This DJ software is the free version of the popular Traktor Pro 3 DJ software and is one of the most feature-packed free DJ software options available. Those looking for the best DJ software from Traktor can upgrade to one of the best pieces of DJ software available, Traktor DJ 3.
Traktor DJ 2 is a great place to start your DJing adventure if you are looking to maybe expand your skills in the future. If you are serious about becoming a DJ then learning the free version will ultimately transition well if you choose to upgrade to a premium version. Moreover, Traktor is seen as one of the industry standard software for DJs worldwide.
Standout Features: Integration with Spotify /Apple Music and Industry standard
Features:
- Streaming services: Spotify, Apple Music
- Operating systems: Windows, macOS
- Mobile device availability: iOS
You can find Traktor DJ 2 here.
Rekordbox
Rekordbox from Pioneer is among the best DJ software available and presents itself as an exceptional DJing solution owing to its multitude of features afforded at various proficiency levels within the field. I personally favor this software for its impressive assortment of functionalities that allow even beginners to produce outstanding mixes effortlessly.
Rekordbox possesses great potential for seasoned professional DJs along with newbies opting into the industry thus rapidly earning a solid reputation as one of the top-tier DJing platforms around today. It also offers excellent compatibility with most models from Pioneer’s range of DJ controllers which only bolsters its ever-increasing usage among professionals.
Should you wish to upgrade, there is a monthly fee, but the features you get vs the price is fantastic value for money. Rekordbox is constantly pushing new updates and content out such as new FX and now their new track separation technology(stems).
Standout Features: Advanced Track Analysis, Access to track separation technology (stems)
Features:
- Streaming services: Soundcloud Go+ and Beatport LINK
- Operating systems: Windows, macOS
- Mobile device availability: iOS and Android
You can get Rekordbox here.
Final Thoughts
So that wraps things up, of course, there is more free DJ software but we feel these are the main ones worth mentioning. If you are looking to become a DJ then we would recommend Serato, Rekordbox, or Traktor. If you are looking to just have a bit of fun after work or decide that you are hosting a house party then you can’t go far wrong with any of these suggestions.
So, if you are thinking of building a new bedroom studio or even looking for new DJ controllers to go with your new free DJ software then be sure to check out our other articles.
