A DJ controller is a MIDI-based device that connects to a PC/Mac or laptop. It serves as an all-in-one setup for playing and producing music, and it functions as an alternative to purchasing an entire DJ set-up, which can cost thousands of dollars.
Another benefit of DJ controllers is that they are compact and portable, so you can take them with you to local performances or parties.
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As stated earlier, a DJ controller is a MIDI-based device that you connect to a computer. It’s an alternative to purchasing an actual DJ setup, because a DJ controller offers similar features at a much lower cost.
DJs who are just starting out can purchase a digital DJ controller for $500 or less and immediately start mixing two songs together to create their own music.
In this article, we will review 5 of the best digital DJ controllers available on the market, and we will also discuss some of the benefits of using digital DJ controllers in our buying guide.
We will then review some important features you should look for when purchasing one of these devices, and lastly, we will discuss some things to look out for when shopping for a new DJ controller.
Here’s The List of The Best DJ Controllers For Beginners
Numark Mixtrack Pro II USB DJ Controller
This is one of the best-selling digital DJ controllers on the market today, and it’s highly rated by consumers who have purchased it.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro II is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. The Mixtrack Pro II is a two-channel controller that comes with a built-in sound card, audio interface and mixer. It has a 32-bit audio interface with a 2-deck/4-channel mixer, and it comes with a PC/Mac USB interface.
One of the best things about the Mixtrack Pro II is the fact that it is very compact. It’s lightweight and portable, so you can take it with you to parties or local performances. The Mixtrack Pro II has four performance pads, eight touch-activated knobs, a crossfader and an effects section.
It also has a built-in sampler and a loop recorder that allows you to record your own sounds, loops and phrases.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro II has a built-in touch strip that allows you to control your track’s pitch. The pitch bend buttons allow you to alter the pitch of your track without changing the tempo.
You can use the touch strip to create smooth transitions when transitioning from one track to another. The Mixtrack Pro II comes with a free version of Serato DJ software.
Primary Features
- FX controls and integrated audio interface
- 16 rubber drum pads for triggering samples
- Built-in audio interface for PA system output
- Includes Serato DJ Intro
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3– Best Budget Digital DJ Controller For Beginners Under 500 Dollars (Editors Choice)
This is one of the most popular digital DJ controllers on the market today, and it’s highly rated by consumers who have purchased it.
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3 is a 4 channel DJ controller that comes with Serato DJ software included. It has an intuitive layout that makes it easy for new DJs to learn how to use it in no time at all.
It has an all-new 4 channel mixer with total control over each channel, so you can mix your own tracks together in no time at all without having to read the manual first.
The Traktor Kontrol S3 has a new top panel design that makes it easier to access the most important controls while playing live.
One of the best things about the Traktor Kontrol S3 is the fact that it comes with Serato DJ Intro software included in the box, so you don’t have to purchase a separate software license when you purchase this unit.
The Traktor Kontrol S3 has an updated control layout that makes it easier for new DJs to use this device right out of the box.
It has 8 touch-sensitive performance pads for triggering hot cues, loops and samples as well as remixing tracks. It also has 16 multicolor performance LEDs that provide visual feedback on the status of your tracks.
The Traktor Kontrol S3 comes with two high-resolution color displays that make it easy for you to view your waveforms in real time.
Primary Features
- 4 Channel mixer
- 8 RGB pads
- ¼” TRS booth output
- 3. 5 / 6. 3 mm headphone outputs
Pioneer DDJ-SB – Best Cheap Digital DJ Controller For Beginners Under 300 Dollars
This is one of the best-selling digital DJ controllers on the market today, and it’s highly rated by consumers who have purchased it.
The Pioneer DDJ-SB is similar to the DDJ-SX2, but it doesn’t come with a display screen. It’s an entry-level controller for beginner DJs who are just starting out, but it still comes equipped with all of the features you need to mix your own music right out of the box.
It has a 6.2″ jog wheel and an expanded control layout that makes it easier for new DJs to learn how to mix their own tracks using this device.
One of the best things about the Pioneer DDJ-SB is the fact that it comes with Serato DJ Lite software included in the box, so you don’t have to purchase a separate software license when you purchase this unit.
It has a USB sound card and built-in sound card, so you can save money on buying a separate audio interface.
The Pioneer DDJ-SB comes with a full version of Serato DJ Lite software, so you can start mixing your own tracks right after you connect this unit to your laptop or desktop computer.
The Pioneer DDJ-SB is an entry-level controller for beginner DJs who are just learning how to mix their own tracks.
It comes equipped with a 6.2″ jog wheel and an expanded control layout that makes it easier for new DJs to learn how to mix their own tracks using this device.
Primary Features
- Mixing is Seamless with the FX Fade feature
- 5 inch durable aluminium jog wheel
- Weight-4. 6 pounds
- Large & low-latency jog wheels to give you a great scratch response and accuracy
Numark Mixtrack Pro Premium DJ Controller
This is one of the best-selling digital DJ controllers on the market today, and it’s highly rated by consumers who have purchased it.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro is a two channel controller that comes with a built-in sound card, audio interface and mixer.
It has a 24-bit audio interface with a 2-deck/4-channel mixer, and it comes with a PC/Mac USB interface. One of the best things about the Mixtrack Pro is the fact that it’s compact, so you can take it with you on the go and use it at parties or local performances.
The Numark Mixtrack Pro premium has four performance pads, eight touch-activated knobs, a crossfader and an effects section. It also has a built-in sampler and a loop recorder that allows you to record your own sounds, loops and phrases.
The Mixtrack Pro premium has a built-in touch strip that allows you to control your track’s pitch. The pitch bend buttons allow you to alter the pitch of your track without changing the tempo. You can use the touch strip to create smooth transitions when transitioning from one track to another.
Primary Features
- 4 decks of control
- Built-in 24-bit audio interface
- Plug and play USB connectivity for Mac and PC
- Stream millions of tracks
Reloop 2 Channel DJ Controller
The Reloop 2 Channel DJ Controller is a high quality digital DJ controller that is available for less than $200, and it’s a perfect choice for beginners.
It has rubberized jog wheels, pitch faders, and selector switches, so you can easily adjust the speed and pitch of your music.
This controller also has two channels, a crossfader, and multiple effects controls. You can connect this device to your computer using the USB cable that is included, or you can use the MIDI connection to connect it to other MIDI devices
Primary Features
- Form-factor meets functionality
- Fully feature-packed
- Versatile connectivity
- Sturdy companion
- Includes extensive neural mix control
Best DJ Controllers For Beginners Under 500-Buying Guide
Factors that you have to consider before buying a DJ Controller are:
1. Price
If you are a beginner and want to buy a DJ controller but don’t have enough money, then you have to choose a DJ controller that is affordable. There are so many DJ controllers in the market that are under $500. You can start with a cheap or affordable DJ controller and then you can upgrade it later.
2. Durability
A DJ controller should have durability. You don’t want to buy a DJ controller that will not last long. It should have quality metal jog wheels and knobs that will not easily break. It should be made of high-quality, sturdy materials and should have quality buttons and quality faders.
3. Easy to use
A DJ controller should be easy to use for both beginners and seasoned DJs. It should have everything that you need to learn how to become a DJ and the manual should be simple and easy to understand.
4. Ports
A DJ controller should have 2, 4 or even 6 ports so you can connect your external devices to it such as your MP3 player, your iPod, your iPad or other USB devices. This will allow you to practice mixing songs from these devices and learn how to mix songs from different music files.
5. Software
The DJ controller should come with free software. It is nice if the software is compatible with other software that is on the market so you can add another software to your existing software collection and this will give you more options when it comes to creating nice music mixes and remixes.
Benefits of DJ Controllers
- A DJ controller is a device that can mix two or more sound sources together. The picture below illustrates how a DJ controller works.
- The DJ controller on the right controls the track on the left. The DJ controller can be as simple as a switch box connected to a turntable and a CD player (or a cassette player) or as complex as a large mixing console with motorized faders, crossfaders, and effects units.
- DJ Controllers are used to mix music from a turntable, computer, electronic musical instruments (e.g., synthesizer or drum machine), or a microphone (e.g., a vocal microphone). DJ controllers are also used to control light shows and sound effects, or even to manipulate video playback from a computer.
- A DJ controller does not normally contain audio amplifiers or loudspeakers; these must be connected to another sound source or an audio amplifier. The role of the DJ controller is to enable the DJ to control various aspects of the sound reproduction such as the volume, tone, pitch and effects. Some DJ controllers may also be used by the DJ as a musical keyboard to perform (or “play”) sounds (e.g., synthesizer sounds).
Best DJ Controllers For Beginner-FAQ
Q1. What is the best DJ controller for beginners?
A1. For beginners, the best DJ Controller is the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3. It has a decent price, great design, and it is easy to use.
Q2. Why is the DDJ-SB the best DJ controller for beginners?
A2. The DDJ-SB is the best DJ controller for beginners because it is the cheapest, and it has all the basic features you need to learn how to DJ.
Q3. What are the main features of the DDJ-SB?
A3. The DDJ-SB has a jog wheel, pitch sliders, crossfader, play/pause buttons, and load buttons.
Q4. Is it easy to use the DDJ-SB?
A4. Yes, the DDJ-SB is very easy to use. It is simple, and it is designed for users with little experience.
Q5. Is it suitable for beginner DJs?
A5. Yes, the Pioneer DDJ-SB is ideal for beginner DJs. It has all the basic features you need to learn how to DJ.
Conclusion
Gear up for your next gig with one of these best DJ controllers for beginners under 500 dollars in 2021.
Get your desired model from this list, and you can be sure that you will have a great time mixing music both at home and at parties. Be sure to consider our buying guide before making your purchase to avoid regrets after purchase.
