Djing is a rare talent that can be mastered with sheer practice and dedication. Learn the art of DJing or improve your skills with these best DJ controllers.
DJ controllers are an important tool for any DJ or music enthusiast. There are controllers not just for DJs with years of experience in the field but also for those just beginning a career or developing an interest. If you want to learn DJing and are looking for a suitable controller for beginners, we have you covered. We have some of the best and most popular DJ controllers for both professionals and novices. They have been picked based on their build, ease of usage, features, and ability to improve your DJ skills.
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Here is a list of the best DJ controllers you can buy.
1. Numark Party Mix II DJ Controller with Built-In Light Show, Black
Topping the list is this DJ controller from Numark. It is loaded with features that ensure you have a great time using it without any hassles. Some of its remarkable features are built-in DJ lights, ergonomically located switches, and 2-band EQ.
Specifications:
Connectivity - USB
Size - 19.89 x 32.56 x 5.18 cm
Compatibility - PC, Mac, and IOS
Software - Serato DJ Lite
Pros
Cons
Dual deck setup
Slightly pricey
Built-in party lights with 5 different modes
Also available with built-in speakers
It comes with a Serato DJ Lite software download card
2. Pioneer DJ Smart DJ Controller (DDJ-200)
Rock the party scene with the Pioneer DJ Controller by your side. This smart device is designed to make you a pro at Djing and have fun while at it. It has all the features you need and is compatible with smartphones too.
Specifications:
Connectivity - USB and Bluetooth
Size - 15 inches x 9 inches x 2 inches
Compatibility - Smartphones and PCs
Software - WeDJ free app
Pros
Cons
Smart design and features make using it a breeze for beginners
The device is very basic and thus not suitable for professionals
Compatible with smartphones
Allows for playing and mixing of songs from stored music or Beatport LINK, SoundCloud Go+, and Spotify
A lightweight and compact body offers easy portability
3. Hercules DJ Starter Kit | Starlight DJ Controller
Get ready to set fire to the dance floor and hear shouts of "Please don't stop the music!" with this DJ starter kit from Hercules. If you are a newbie and like to party, get this starter kit to be the star of the evening. The kit includes a starlight DJ controller along with speakers and headphones.
Specifications:
Connectivity - USB
Size - 54.9 x 28.7 x 27.2 cm
Compatibility - PC, Mac
Software - Serato DJ Lite
Pros
Cons
Comes pre-installed with Serato DJ Lite software
The device is only compatible with UK-style plugs
7 different modes for controlling the lighting
The speakers feature a 7.6 cm woofer with dual bass and a clear stereo effect
Sound-isolating headphones are soft on the ears and deliver precision sound
Super compact design makes it easy to use and carry
4. Numark DJ2GO2 2 Deck USB DJ Controller
Make even the reluctant person hit the dance floor with your effortless mixes on the Numark DJ Controller. Ultra-portable, it is packed with features that will earn you a fan following with each performance.
Specifications:
Connectivity - USB
Size - 31.5 x 8.64 x 1.6 cm
Compatibility - Mac and PC
Software - Serato DJ Lite
Pros
Cons
Equipped with crossfader and 2 channels for professionals, like song mixing
Not compatible with smartphones
On-board audio interface with 1/8-Inch headphone output and 1/8-Inch main output lets you connect to multiple devices
Includes MIDI mapping for use with other DJ apps
5. Hercules DJ P32 Pad MIDI Controller
Are you looking for a unique device that lets you mix and create music seamlessly? Your wait ends with this Hercules DJ MIDI Controller, a music remixer and producer. Use this to show off your DJ skills and get creative with your music productions.
Specifications:
Connectivity - USB
Size - 42.01 x 27 x 8.1 cm
Compatibility - PC, Mac, iPad
Software - DJUCED 40° 3.0
Pros
Cons
4-channel audio interface
The quality of the controller is not too great
Dual digits design offers easy usage to beginners
The quantisation feature locks the actions for perfectly synchronised playing and mixing
6. Hercules DJ Universal DJ Controller
Hey DJ, get ready to give your best performance on stage with this DJ controller from Hercules DJ. Aimed at beginners, this device comes packed with features that exceed your expectations and makes you a favourite among your audience.
Specifications:
Connectivity- USB and Bluetooth
Size - 47.5 x 26.67 x 7.37 cm
Compatibility - Android, PC, iOS, and Mac
Software - DJUCED
Pros
Cons
Comes with 3 versatile connectivity modes
None
Compact, stylish and lightweight design
Its set of features enables beginners to perform like a pro
DJUCED Master app allows you to take song requests from the audience and view them on your connected device
7. KORG KAOSS DJ Controller
If you have been struggling to become good at DJing, rejoice because you have the correct device to move a step ahead in your path of learning. This little controller is a fun tool to mix and play music and get the party going. Your audience will be thrilled.
Specifications:
Connectivity - USB
Size - 36.2 x 18.4 x 8.2 cm
Compatibility - PC
Software - Serato DJ Intro
Pros
Cons
Kaoss FX offers high-quality mixing
It doesn't come pre-installed with the full version of the software
Deck with touchpad effects buttons
Stylish, small, and lightweight design
Top 3 features
Product
Feature 1 (Built in DJ light)
Feature 2
Feature 3
Numark Party Mix II DJ Controller
Yes
Large, touch-sensitive
800 g
Pioneer DJ Smart DJ Controller (DDJ-200)
No
Large and ergonomic
160 g
Hercules DJ Starter Kit | Starlight DJ Controller
No
Small touch-sensitive
400 g
Numark DJ2GO2 DJ Controller
No
Touch capacitive
350 g
Hercules DJ P32 Pad MIDI Controller
No
32 responsive pads
372 g
Hercules DJ-UNIVERSAL Dj Controller
No
Pressure-sensitive and capacitive
499 g
KORG KAOSS DJ Controller
No
Ergonomic
730 g
Best value for money
The Numark DJ2GO2 DJ controller offers the best value for money with its features and efficient design. It has an ergonomically built deck featuring 2 touch-capacitive jog wheels, crossfader, manual and auto-looping, cue points and more. It has an on-board audio interface with a 1/8 inch headphone output and 1/8 inch main output, allowing you to easily connect the controller to a PC, laptop and headphones. With its 2 channels, you can mix songs like a pro. With its light and portable design, you can carry this controller wherever you go.
Best overall product
The Numark Party Mix II DJ Controller shines in the best overall product category. This DJ controller is designed to make beginners become a pro at Djing with features like large touch-sensitive jog wheels, conveniently located switches and buttons, and simple and high on functionality Serato DJ Lite software, among others. This is also one of the only DJ controllers on the list that comes with built-in party lights with 5 different lighting modes. It is easy to connect to devices using the included USB cable.
How to find the perfect DJ controller?
Consider the below points when looking for a DJ controller for yourself or as a gift to someone.
Mixer section- The most crucial section of a DJ controller is the mixer section. Always look at this section first when buying a DJ controller. A good mixer section includes 2 or 3-band EQ, trim control, loose crossfader, level meters, filter knobs, FX controls, etc.
Number of channels- The number of channels indicates how well you can transition from one song to the next and mix multiple songs together. Most DJ controllers have 2 channels, and that is the ideal case. Most professionals also use 2 channel controllers rather than 4, but it depends on your preference.
Software- Check whether the DJ controller comes with a fully upgraded version of the software it offers. If it comes only with an intro version, it means you will have to pay extra for the full version later on, which can be a hassle. Some of the most popular DJ controller software are Serato DJ and Rekordbox DJ.
Jog wheels- These are another vital part of a DJ controller. Look for medium to large-size touch-sensitive jog wheels for perfect scratching.
Skill enhancing- A good DJ controller, whether for beginners or professionals, should make you grow your talent for DJing rather than get you stuck in the same place. For this, look for controllers with an advanced set of features.
Price list
S.No
Product
Price
1.
Numark Party Mix II DJ Controller
Rs. 12,018
2.
Pioneer DJ Smart DJ Controller (DDJ-200)
Rs. 20,600
3.
Hercules DJ Starter Kit
Rs. 21,999
4.
Numark DJ2GO2 DJ Controller
Rs. 8,000
5.
Hercules DJ P32 Pad MIDI Controller
Rs. 16,999
6.
Hercules DJ UNIVERSAL Dj Controller
Rs. 43,958
7.
KORG KAOSS DJ Controller
Rs. 23,658
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FAQs
A DJ controller helps disc jockeys to mix songs with the help of jog wheels, knobs, faders, and other switches present on its deck.
Depending on the event, a DJ needs roughly 100 to 130 songs for 4 hours of performance.
Many professional DJs use mixers that require connection with multiple audio sources such as CDJs, turntables, beat pads, etc. And so, they need a 4-channel DJ controller to connect to various sources. But a DJ controller removes this need and can work perfectly well with 2 channels.
A DJ controller is a mixer and turntable rolled into one. In contrast, a mixer must be connected to various audio sources to work.
Speakers are a must when using DJ controllers. Speakers allow DJs to listen to the quality of their music with high clarity, enabling them to mix songs perfectly.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.