If you have stumbled on this article you are probably looking for the best DJ controllers for beginners. The first step in mastering a craft such as DJing begins with having access to the right tools. For beginner DJs looking to develop their skills and style on decks, owning a quality DJ controller should be of a high priority.
If you are starting out as a beginner DJ controllers can be expensive and often offputting. Picking out gear from tons of options can mean long hours spent researching and testing each product beforehand. Below are our recommendations for beginner DJs who want efficient mixing ability without breaking their budget.
Delving into DJing needn’t come at a huge price – there are numerous affordable options out there for beginners looking for an entry-level setup. Choosing just any cheap option isn’t sufficient though; ensure that you investigate whether or not its corresponding software will be compatible with your needs too.
Whether you are building a new PC from scratch to start your DJ or music-producing career this list is hand-picked by our experts and has the best beginner DJ Controllers.
let’s take a look:
5 Best DJ Controllers For Beginners
Pioneer DJ DDJ-400
(Best bang for your money)

For those interested in pursuing the art of DJing, there is a beginner DJ controller that stands out from the rest – The Pioneer DJ DDJ-400. It has earned its reputation for being versatile and easy to navigate while still offering professional quality features. One major plus is that leading DJs around the globe use Rekordbox DJ software, which comes included with this amazing device. With two channels and the ability to control up to four decks simultaneously, this compact controller makes life easy for budding DJs everywhere.
If you are looking for one of the top DJ controllers for beginners in mind with loads of features and a great price, this is the one for you.
Price: $249
Tech Specs:
- Number of channels: 2
- Number of decks: 2
- Size: 482.0 x 272.4 x 58.5 mm
- Software supported: Rekordbox
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Compatible with Rekordbox DJ software
- Compact size
- Built-in soundcard
Cons:
- Limited effects
Pioneer DJ DDJ-200
(Best compact budget DJ controller for Beginners)

Aspiring DJs on a tight budget or beginners looking to take their first steps into music mixing, need to look no further than Pioneer DJ DDJ-200. Despite being comparatively compact compared to other available controllers, there is no compromise concerning sound quality or functionality which makes it an ideal pick for novices seeking tremendous value-for-money instruments. Furthermore, this versatile equipment interfaces effortlessly with existing DJ software making compatibility issues non-existent.
Price: $149
Tech Specs:
- Number of channels: 2
- Number of decks: 2
- Size: 378.0 x 208.0 x 48.2 mm
- Software supported: Rekordbox, WeDJ, djay
Pros:
- Affordable
- Compact size
- Compatible with a range of DJ software
- Smartphone connectivity
Cons:
- Limited features
- Not suitable for advanced DJs
- no built-in soundcard
Numark Mixtrack Pro FX
(Best budget Beginner DJ controller)

The Numark Mixtrack Pro FX is a great option for beginner DJs who want a Serato-compatible controller without breaking the bank. It has two channels and comes with Serato DJ Lite software, which is a popular choice among beginner and professional DJs alike. In fact, The Mixtrack Pro FX also features 16 performance pads, dedicated filter knobs, and touch strip FX control. That being said that’s why this is one of our best DJ controllers for beginners.
Price: $219
Tech Specs:
- Number of channels: 2
- Number of decks: 2
- Size: 558.8 x 304.8 x 50.8 mm
- Software supported: Serato DJ Lite
Pros:
- Affordable
- Serato-compatible
- 16 performance pads
- Dedicated filter knobs
- Built-In Soundcard
Cons:
- Limited effects
- No dedicated sampler
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3
(Best budget Traktor Beginner DJ controller)

Aspiring DJs who want to try out the Traktor software can consider investing in the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3. The controller comes equipped with a two-channel mixer and a two-deck control layout, allowing for simultaneous mixing of tracks. This controller boasts several integrated effects and a touch-sensitive jog wheel that allows for precise scratching. Additionally, These features of this controller stand out for its price point and that is why it made our list of the top DJ Controllers For Beginners.
Price: $299
Pros:
- Compatible with Traktor software
- Touch-sensitive jog wheel for precise scratching
- User-friendly layout
- Built-in effects
- Built-In Soundcard
Cons:
- Two-deck control layout may be limiting for some users
- Some users may find the price to be a bit high for a beginner controller
Tech specs:
- Number of Channels: 2
- Number of Decks: 2
- Size: 486 x 265 x 59 mm
- Software Supported: Traktor Pro 3
Roland DJ-202
(Best budget Serato Beginner controller)

If you’re an aspiring DJ, the Roland DJ-202 may be a wise investment. This compact and budget-friendly controller has an intuitive layout that can help beginners navigate the ropes. You can effortlessly adjust each channel’s EQ and gain, plus there are individual filter knobs for added precision. This controller’s jog wheel is incredibly responsive, making it simpler to scratch and beatmatch tracks making this one of the top DJ Controllers For Beginners.
Price: $299
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Large jog wheel for precise scratching
- User-friendly layout
- Built-in effects
Cons:
- Two-deck control layout may be limiting for some users
- Some users may find the build quality to be a bit flimsy
Tech specs:
- Number of Channels: 2
- Number of Decks: 4
- Size: 478 x 297 x 62 mm
- Software Supported: Serato DJ Lite
That’s about all for our DJ controllers for beginners list.
If you’re just starting as a DJ and searching for an affordable yet easy-to-use controller, any of the previously mentioned options will work wonders for you.
Moreover, each controller comes with its own pros and cons, it is essential to identify what features fit your needs best before purchasing. Be it compatibility with specific software solutions or having various in-built FXs or even portability – there exists a controller amongst those listed here that will cater to your requirements perfectly and would fit perfectly into your bedroom studio setup.