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Best DJ Mixers & Controllers for Beginners to Killer Club Pros
- Mervin M
DJ equipment heaven: In this guide, we rank and review the best DJ mixers and systems, from entry-level mixer boards to standalone professional DJ controllers.
Explore the top DJ mixers and all-in-one DJ controllers from leading brands such as Pioneer, Numark, Rane, Allen & Heath, and more. These DJ systems are ideal for beginner DJs and experienced pros who demand nothing but the best DJ equipment for clubs, parties, or bars.
Pioneer DJ DJM-750MK2
Upgrading from a cheap DJ mixer to the DJM-750 MK2 will feel like moving from a plastic toy to the real deal.
Best All-Round Mixer for DJing
Numark Scratch
In the arena of budget-friendly mixers, the Scratch stands out, providing quality and a clear path for growth in your DJing journey.
Best Budget DJ Mixer
Rane One
Whether DJing at a bar or a club battle, the Rane ONE feels like home and is the perfect board for vinyl vet turntablists.
Best Portable DJ Controller
Quick List:
DJ mixers or an all-in-one DJ controller are essential tools for any DJ. Whether you’re scratching, beat juggling, or smoothly mixing between tracks with Serato DJ, a quality mixer for DJing is a must-have.
This article covers everything from high-end DJM mixers to entry-level budget DJ controllers you can use at a friend’s party.
No matter if you’re an experienced or beginner DJ just stepping into the scene, check out our collection of the best DJ mixers and systems from top manufacturers, such as Pioneer DJ, Numark, Rane, Allen and Heath, and more.
👉 P.S. Learn about the difference between a DJ controller and a mixer, discover the top DJ software, find a list of the best DJ equipment for beginners, and more in our DJ Mixers FAQs section.
Best DJ Mixers👇
Imagine the legendary JM-900NXS2 shrunk down, got a caffeine boost, and started hanging out at underground gigs. The result is the Pioneer DJM-750MK2 mixer with 4-channel output, Rekordbox DJ, and Rekordbox DVS licenses included.
The DJM-750MK2 has a solid feel, an intuitive layout and delivers top-notch sound quality. Upgrading from a cheap DJ mixer to the DJM-750 will feel like moving from a plastic toy to the real deal.
The EQ knobs on the DJ DJM-750 are smooth and precise, allowing you to shape your tracks perfectly. Additionally, the Magvel Faders glide effortlessly, making them ideal for scratching or seamless transitions.
When it comes to sounds, this Pioneer mixer has 3-band EQ on each channel and onboard effects to add some spice to your sets. Echo, flanger, even your own custom creations.
If you’re after a professional-level DJ mixer and don’t want to spend north of $2,000, do yourself a solid and check out the Pioneer DJM-750MK2.
Best All-Round Mixer for DJing
👉 Combine the DJM-250Mk2 with the Pioneer DJ XDJ-700 digital DJ media player and PLX-500 turntables to create the perfect DJ set for beginners.
The Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 is a sweet DJ mixer to start with if you’re new to the game. Its pro features like the Magvel Faders (think smooth, scratch-ready gliding) and Sound Color FX will have you mixing like a DJ pro in no time.
What’s great for beginners is the straightforward 3-band EQs on the DJM-250MK2, which allow you to tweak the frequency range of each channel with ease.
Additionally, the built-in sound card lets you plug straight into your laptop for seamless DJ software integration. When it comes to the audio output, the DJM-250MK2 has decent sound quality, considering its budget price. It also has a sturdy build and the reliability that Pioneer is known for.
Naturally, there are a few things to keep in mind at the budget price point. If you’re a devoted Serato DJ Pro software or Traktor user, you’ll need an extra interface. Additionally, the mixer lacks a booth output.
That being said, the DJM-250MK2 is a brilliant budget DJ mixer. It’s affordable, reliable, and surprisingly powerful.
Best Entry-Level DJ Mixer
👉 Pair with: Combine the DJM-250Mk2 with the Pioneer DJ XDJ-700 digital DJ media player and PLX-500 turntables to create the perfect DJ set for beginners.
Calling all DJs who demand nothing but the best – the Allen & Heath Xone:92 mixer is your golden ticket to clear, punchy audio. This DJ mixer is a heavyweight in the pro scene, delivering top-dollar sound and durability that’s hard to beat.
If you’ve got a healthy budget and an ear for quality, the Xone:92 is the upgrade you’ve been dreaming of.
Xone:92 is a six-channel analogue mixer that has a rich and warm sound quality. The four-band EQ cuts through the noise like a laser, and those dual VCF filters? Think sonic sculpting that’ll melt minds on the dance floor.
It’s the MIDI integration that sets the Xone:92 apart. Got a sampler loaded with one-shots? Want to trigger your drum machine or a synth with your Xone knobs? Easy. This Allen and Heath mixer lets you control whatever lurks in your DJ arsenal.
Superclubs swear by its reliability, making the Xone:92 a permanent fixture in DJ booths across the globe. Whether you’re a soulful deep house spinner or a techno titan, the Xone:92 is a pro-level DJ mixer that you’re going to love.
Best Podcast Mixer
Best Dance Floor Mixer
👉 Similar option: Allen & Heath XONE:96 mixer – Gear4Music | Guitar Center
Vinyl vets and digital demons, listen up. Whether you’re an intermediate DJ mixer or a seasoned pro—the Reloop ELITE DVS battle-ready mixer is a top-tier choice.
Crafted like a tank, the 2-channel Reloop has a sturdy metal construction with high-quality control elements. The two OLED displays offer real-time information on effects and beat parameters, ensuring you’re always in the groove.
Every pro DJ knows that great crossfaders are non-negotiable for a battle mixers. The Mini Innofader Pro faders provide the smoothness and durability needed for turntablism, with adjustable curves and a hamster switch for extra flair.
The ELITE’s FX section, featuring three assignable effect slots and high-resolution mini-faders, offers unparalleled control over your sound. To boot, the smart link USB ports and MIDI compatibility add versatility to your setup.
Whether you’re spinning digital vinyl or rocking real turntables, the Reloop ELITE mixer has the muscle to take your sets to the next level.
Best Battle Mixer
The Rane Seventy-Two MKII 2-channel DJ Mixer is perfect for DJs with a healthy budget who are looking for a mixer that can deliver the ultimate in performance and quality.
The mixer’s intuitive layout is optimized for any venue, while the three patented MAG FOUR faders provide surgical precision and unparalleled sensitivity and control for cutting, scratching, transforming and any other fader-intensive technique.
Forget menu madness. Rane Seventy-Two’s vibrant 4.3″ touchscreen puts everything at your fingertips. Monitor waveforms in real-time, browse tracks with ease, and tweak effects with precision.
With instant doubles, silent cues, and customizable sync settings, you’ll be able to seamlessly transition between tracks with the Rane MK2 mixer.
If you’re looking for a mixer that isn’t Pinoeer that can deliver the ultimate in performance and quality, the Rane Seventy-Two MKII is your new best friend.
Best Mixer for Serato DJ
👉 Pair with: Denon DJ LC6000 Media Controller Amazon | Guitar Center and PLX-500 turntables.
Looking to kick off your DJ journey with an affordable DJ mixer? The Numark Scratch mixer strikes the perfect balance for beginner and hobby DJs.
The Scratch has got all the essentials you need – two channel mixing, smooth faders, dedicated cueing (so you can pick the next banger seamlessly), and even built-in Serato DVS compatibility for when you’re ready to level up.
But it cuts the fluff – no fancy lights, endless buttons, or confusing menus. Just grab your controller or turntables, plug in, and start mastering the basics.
Forget adapter headaches, too. The Scratch mixer hooks up to any DJ setup, from your bedroom to the dance floor. XLR outputs pump out crisp sound, while a separate booth output keeps your mixing smooth.
In the areana of budget-friendly mixers, the Scratch stands out, providing quality, functionality, and a clear path for growth in your DJing journey. Start simple, start right.
Best Budget DJ Mixer
Thinking of mixing up your parties and trying your hand at DJing? The Allen & Heath Xone:23 mixer is your perfect sidekick.
This compact, easy-to-use mixer packs a punch with features like super smooth knobs and faders that feel great under your fingers, even if you’re new to the spinning game.
The built-in effects loop on the Xone:23 lets you add cool scratches and washes to your tunes, while the crystal-clear sound ensures your mixes bounce through the room.
The analogue system on this budget-friendly Allen & Heath DJ mixer offers low-pass and high-pass filters with a frequency sweep, allowing you to go from mild to wild.
The XLR out ensures a professional sound output, and the illuminated switches add a touch of flair. The Xone:23 is an ideal mixer for entry-level and beginner DJs who want to mix with confidence and style.
Best Beginner DJ Mixer
Best DJ Controllers 👇
DJ controllers are all-in-one DJ systems that remove the need for separate DJ equipment, making them ideal for you if you’re a DJ who wants a portable and hassle-free setup.
Do you need a DJ controller? Controllers are perfect for the following types of DJs:
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Beginner DJs: If you’re new to DJing and want an affordable and easy-to-use system, a DJ controller is a great choice. Most entry-level models offer fantastic value for money and come with two deck sections and a mixer built into a single unit, making them perfect for newbies.
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Passionate Bedroom DJs: You’re a bedroom hobby DJ who likes the idea of DJing without a laptop. A DJ controller is the way to go. They’re easy to use and come with a range of features that make them bang on for practicing your skills and experimenting.
- Mobile DJs: You’re the gigging DJ who wants to bring the beats wherever you go without a laptop and trunk full of gear. DJ controllers are your perfect match. They’re portable, easy to set up and come with a range of features designed for live performances.
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Experienced DJs: You’re a seasoned DJ looking for a portable, high-end system for your club setup. Professional controllers are designed for road use and come with more functionality than most DJs would use in a typical set.
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10 is a powerful 4-channel DJ controller that works with both Rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro. Based on the DDJ-1000 and DDJ-1000SRT, the FLX10 has some extra features that make it more advanced and a blast to use.
This bad boy Pioneer DJ controller lets you crack tracks open like a musical treasure chest to isolate drums, bass, melodies, and vocals like a pro.
Want to drop the beat from your favourite banger onto a smooth house track? Done. Feeling like a vocal swap between two pop anthems? Bam, you’re a remix maestro.
You have tons of creative possibilities with the DDJ-FLX10 that make this mixer suitable for experienced DJs who aren’t afraid of getting their hands dirty.
The DDJ-FLX10 also has high-resolution in-jog displays, 6 sound colour FX, 14 beat FX, and dual sound cards for easy switching.
In summary, the Pioneer DDJ-FLX10 is a great controller for DJs who demand quality gear and want to take their skills up a notch or 10.
Best Podcast Mixer
Best 4-Channel DJ Controller
Level up your home studio DJ game with the Numark Mixstream Pro Go. This DJ controller is perfect for beginner hobbyists and a great gift for aspiring DJs, thanks to its range of intuitive features.
The standout feature of this combined Numark mixer and controller is its killer portability – it’s wireless, has a rechargeable battery, and comes with built-in speakers.
This means you can ditch the laptop and take your mixes to a friend’s house or a backyard BBQ, or become the life of the party at birthday bashes.
The Mixstream’s touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, and while the controls are made of plastic, they’re surprisingly decent. Some users have noted the FX options are a bit limited, but fear not; an Engine OS upgrade is on the horizon.
If you’re planning on doing pro-level club DJing, you may want to stick to high-end models from brands such as Pioneer or Rane. However, for everyone else, the Numark Mixstream Pro Go is a fantastic DJ equipment upgrade that delivers.
Best DJ Controller for Beginners
If you’re wondering if it’s worth upgrading from the S4 MK1 or MK2 to the Traktor S4 Mk3; it’s a hard yes. Compact, feature-packed, and easy to navigate, NI’s Kontrol S4 DJ controller brings the fun back into mixing.
The highlight of the S4 Mk3 is its jog wheels that provide haptic feedback. This feature lets you feel cue points and loops and switch modes to match your style. Choose turntable mode for a more natural feel, jog mode for a smoother feel, or beatgrid mode for a more precise feel.
If you’re a gigging DJ, the S4’s compact design and easy navigation make it a reliable companion for on-the-go mixing. Users rave about the seamless integration of vinyl setups, making the Traktor S4 a versatile piece of kit for both digital and traditional DJs.
The S4 MK3 controller is a must-have for Traktor enthusiasts and passionate DJs alike. It’s the key to saying goodbye to laptop dependence and hello to mint sound and performance. So, if you want a simple yet stellar DJ setup, the Traktor S4 controller is your go-to choice.
Best Podcast Mixer
Best DJ Controller for EDM
If you’re a vinyl vet longing for a compact rig, the Rane ONE’s motorized platters might just have you saying “sayonara” to your old DJ rig.
This DJ controller from Rane has two 7-inch motorized platters that mimic the feel and response of vinyl records, giving you the authentic scratching and mixing experience.
The Rane One also has a high-quality MAG FOUR crossfader that is smooth and durable, as well as 16 performance pads that let you trigger cues, loops, samples, and more.
The Rane DJ system is fully compatible with Serato DJ Pro and features a built-in sound card, as well as multiple inputs and outputs.
You can push the boundaries of your DJing skills with Rane ONE’s Serato Flip integration, which enables exciting live edits and mashups.
Whether you’re performing at a bar gig or a club beat battle, the Rane ONE will feel like home without the backache of carrying all your DJ equipment.
Best Podcast Mixer
Trad Turntable DJ Pick
If you’re a DJ who needs a new controller to replace your old worn out mixer, you need to check out the Denon DJ SC Live 4. This standalone DJ system is your complete mixing and performance solution; no laptop needed!
The SC Live 4 has a 7-inch touchscreen for accessing your music library and streaming services like Amazon Music and Beatsource. You can also import music from other DJ software using Engine DJ.
The Denon Live 4 has a solid and durable build, with two jog wheels with a deck switch, speed, looping and hot cue controls, and a mixer section with 13 BPM FX and four sweep FX.
The SC Live 4 can connect to any sound system via RCA, XLR, or jack outputs. Being an all-in-one DJ controller, it also has built-in speakers for an easy setup and works with Serato DJ and Virtual DJ software.
The SC Live 4 is a capable DJ controller that gives you the best of both worlds: standalone and software. Whether you play house, hip-hop, techno, or any other genre, the SC Live 4 can handle it.
Best Podcast Mixer
Best Mobile DJ Controller
8 FAQs. DJ Mixers
DJ Controller vs Mixer: What's the Difference Between a DJ Mixer and a DJ Controller?
DJ controllers and DJ mixers are both essential tools for DJs, but they serve different purposes. Here are the differences between a DJ controller and DJ mixer:
DJ controller:
- A DJ controller is an all-in-one device that typically combines a mixer, transport controls (play, pause, cue), and jog wheels or platters into a single unit.
- Controllers include a built-in audio interface and are designed to work with DJ software on a computer.
- DJ controllers are versatile and user-friendly, making them suitable for both experienced and beginner DJs.
- Controllers for DJing often come with an array of features such as performance pads, effects controls, and some even have built-in touchscreens.
DJ mixer:
- A DJ mixer is a standalone device with no built-in music playback capabilities. It’s usually part of a larger DJ setup.
- DJ Mixers blend audio inputs from various sources, including turntables, CDJs, samplers, and microphones.
- The primary function of a DJ mixer is to allow the DJ to transition smoothly between songs, adjust volume levels, apply equalization (EQ), and sometimes add effects.
- DJ mixers often lack the transport controls found on DJ controllers since they assume the presence of external devices for playing and cueing tracks.
What is a DJ mixer?
A DJ mixer is a device that DJs use to blend and control the sound from different music sources. A DJ mixer is the heart of any DJ setup and is used to create seamless transitions between tracks, add effects, and mix multiple sources of music.
DJ mixer boards come in varying shapes and sizes, with different numbers of channels, effects, and other features available. Two-channel and four-channel mixers are the most common types.
👉 2-channel DJ mixer Vs. 4-channel DJ mixer: See below which type of mixer is right for you!
Do I need a 2-channel or a 4-channel DJ mixer?
Should you get a 2-channel DJ mixer or a 4-channel? It’s a classic DJ dilemma. A 2-channel DJ mixer allows you to mix two tracks from two jog wheels, while a 4-channel DJ mixer gives you more options to control four tracks from different sources, such as turntables, CDJs, or microphones.
A 2-channel DJ mixer is often simpler, cheaper, and ideal for beginners who want to cut their teeth and learn the basics of DJing smoothly. They’re also the standard choice for turntablists and scratch artists.
The benefits of a 4-channel DJ mixer are that you can create more complex and creative mixes, add more effects and features, and have more flexibility in your performance. Many pro DJ booths feature 4-channel mixers.
What equipment do you need to be a DJ?
To be a DJ, you need a few essential pieces of equipment, including:
- A DJ mixer or standalone DJ controller
- A pair of studio headphones
- A laptop for music or a computer
- DJ software, such as Serato DJ Pro or a DAW, such as Ableton Live
- A pair of studio monitors
- A music library of digital or vinyl tracks
Depending on your intentions, preferences and budget, you can add other equipment to your DJ setup, like turntables, external effects units and CDJs.
Best DJ mixer software?
Some popular DJ mixer software options include Serato DJ, Traktor Pro, and Virtual DJ.
Serato DJ is one of the most popular DJ mixer software. It is a powerful and versatile DJ mixer program that professional DJs widely use. 👇
Get off the fence, take your DJing to the next level and grab yourself a copy of Serato DJ Pro, “the world’s best DJ software” below:
Get Serato DJ at Guitar Center
Get Serato DJ at Gear4Music
Get Serato DJ at Thomann
DJ mixer vs audio mixer: What's the difference?
While both mixers blend audio, the difference between a DJ mixer and an audio Mixer is that a DJ mixer specialises in DJing, offering features like crossfaders and EQs for smooth transitions.
On the other hand, an audio mixer (aka sound mixer or soundboard) is more versatile and is used mainly for live sound mixing and studio recording.
What is the best DJ mixer in the market?
Some of the most popular DJ mixers on the market for beginner DJs to professional DJs include:
Best High-End DJ Mixers:
Pioneer DJ DJM-S7: This scratch-focused 4-channel monster is a dream for turntablists and scratch DJs, but its hefty price tag and lack of standalone playback might not suit everyone.
👉 Get DJM-S7 at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Gear4Music
Rane Seventy-Two MKII: This Rane mixer is a powerhouse perfect for scratch DJs and tech-savvy performers, but its complexity might overwhelm beginners.
👉 Get Rane Seventy-Two at: Amazon | Thomann | Gear4Music
Allen & Heath Xone:92: The club-ready Allen & Heath mixer is renowned for its solid build, responsive EQs, and FX section. It’s a favourite among techno and house DJs.
👉 Get Xone:92 at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Gear4Music
Best Mid-Range DJ Mixers:
Reloop ELITE: This Serato-focused mixer offers excellent value. Reloop is a great DJ mixer for scratch DJs and those looking for a feature-packed option without breaking the bank.
👉 Get Reloop Elite at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Thomann
Denon DJ SC Live 4: This DJ mixer has a 7-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi streaming, and built-in speakers, making it a portable powerhouse for DJs who value visual feedback and flexibility.
👉 Get Denon DJ Live 4 at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Thomann
👉 Combine the DJM-250Mk2 with the Pioneer DJ XDJ-700 digital DJ media player and PLX-500 turntables to create the perfect DJ set for beginners.
Best Beginner DJ Mixers:
Numark Scratch: This dedicated scratch mixer offers a simple layout with touch-capacitive platters, built-in scratch effects, and Serato DJ Lite compatibility, perfect for beginner DJs.
👉 Get Numark Scratch at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Thomann
Pioneer DJ DJM-FLX4: The DDJ-FLX4 DJ mixer is ideal for beginners who want to learn how to DJ or for hobbyists who want to have fun with their music.
👉 Get DDJ-FLX4 at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Gear4Music
Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2: This compact 2-channel Pioneer mixer is a solid contender for beginners. The DJM 250 MK2 has a club-inspired layout and compatibility with Rekordbox/Serato DJ Lite.
👉 Get DJM 250 MK2 at: Amazon | Guitar Center | Gear4Music
What is a CDJ?
A CDJ, short for Compact Disc Jockey, is like a Swiss Army knife for DJs; they’re specialized digital music players DJs use to mix and play music during performances.
CDJs, such as the Pioneer XDJ-700 are designed to resemble traditional turntables and provide a familiar interface for DJs who started with vinyl records.
CDJ features:
- Track playback: Originally designed for CDs, most modern CDJs now play music from USB drives, SD cards or laptops.
- Mixing magic: CDJs come equipped with jog wheels that mimic the feel of vinyl turntables, allowing you to scratch, cue, and remix your music.
- Creative control: CDJ hot cues, loops, beat analysis, and effects modules help you craft seamless transitions and pump up the crowd.
How much does a basic DJ set cost?
A basic DJ set can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,000, depending on the type and quality of the equipment you need and, of course, your budget.
The equipment a DJ set typically consists of includes a DJ mixer or DJ controller with turntables, monitor speakers, DJ software, headphones, and a music laptop.
In Conclusion
You’ve just discovered the best DJ mixers and DJ controllers on the market today, from entry-level beginner mixer boards to pro controllers ideal for the touring DJ.
- If you want the best Pioneer DJ mixer to use at clubs and bars, go with the Pioneer DJ DJM-750MK2, or Rane Seventy-Two MKII.
- If you want the best budget DJ mixer for beginners to learn the ropes, it’s either the Numark Scratch or sturdy Allen and Heath Xone:23.
- If you fancy reducing your DJ equipment and want a pro-level DJ controller, choose the Rane One. If you want to spend less, check out the Traktor Kontrol S4 controller.
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