Best DJ Controllers of 2026

"As someone new to DJing, I found this controller to be incredibly easy to set up and use. The build feels solid, the buttons and knobs have a quality feel, and it's very lightweight for transport. While I wish it had balanced XLR outputs, using RCA cables works just fine for me. Highly recommend it for anyone starting out!"

"I've played several local events using my DDJ-FLX4 and it has performed flawlessly every time. The controller is reliable, intuitive, and ideal for learning. I have no complaints and would recommend it to any beginner or someone seeking a dependable 2-deck controller."

"This is definitely one of the best entry-level controllers out there. It connects easily to my preferred DJ software, and I've traveled with it many times thanks to its compact and sturdy design. If you're a mobile DJ, this deck is highly recommended for its portability and feature set."

"I’ve worked my way up from entry-level controllers and the DDJ-FLX2 completely transformed my DJ learning experience. The controls are intuitive and responsive, and I like how compact yet sturdy the unit is. The jog wheels are super precise and I really appreciate the thoughtful design touches like tactile fader notches and the handy USB-C cable. For me, this board has been reliable, easy to use, and a fantastic value for anyone serious about improving their skills."

"As a parent, I bought the DDJ-FLX2 for my 19-year-old son, and he was up and running in under 30 minutes. He kept pointing out the excellent sound quality and loved how he could easily use his wireless earbuds. The lightweight and portable build means he can just toss it in his carry-on for festivals. Setup was a breeze and he’s having a blast making beats."

"I’m new to DJing and found that this controller made getting started incredibly simple. Setup was fast, and I was mixing right away. The jog wheels felt great, and learning transitions was fun. Even though I ran into a minor hiccup with my Windows audio settings, it was easy to sort out. For the price, it’s a solid entry-level controller that’s easy and reliable for beginners."

"I picked up this DJ controller for my daughter to try out DJing, but I keep coming back to it myself because it's just so much fun and tactile. The Serato software integration makes it a surprisingly powerful tool for beginners, and the built-in light show adds a nice visual touch. Overall, it's a great entry-level device!"

"As someone getting back into mixing after years away, I chose this controller for its simplicity and portability. It works well for teaching my kid and for my own practice. Just be aware that not all DJ software works seamlessly across devices and operating systems—check your system requirements first. Even with that hiccup, I'm happy with this mixer for home use."

"I had no DJ experience before getting this controller, but found it easy to set up and perfect for learning the basics. The compact size and light effects are great for my apartment, though I did notice the jogwheels can be inconsistent at times. Still, it was a great way to start learning, even if I eventually decided to upgrade."

"I'm really impressed by how lightweight and portable this controller is—it's easy to carry around and perfect for getting started as a DJ. Setup with Serato DJ Lite was quick, and I love how everything feels solid and responsive. The extra DMX lighting control gives my sets a fresh vibe and makes performing more fun. For the price, I couldn't ask for a better all-in-one package as a beginner."

"I chose this controller because I wanted something compact that fits right on my laptop for prepping tracks on the go. The touch-sensitive jog wheels and cue points make mixing and scratching really convenient. While it doesn’t have dedicated EQ knobs, I can work around that in software, and for quick mixes or trying out ideas, this unit is super handy and reliable."

"This controller is great for starting out, but I did notice the jog wheels can be a bit too sensitive—they sometimes glitch out the music if my hands brush them. It hasn’t stopped me from learning, though, and the portability and sturdy build are definite highlights for anyone new to DJing."

"I’m really satisfied with the Hercules DJ Impulse MKII. It’s compact, looks sharp, and has all the features I need for mixing at home. The ability to control speaker volume directly is super handy, and the controller feels sturdy despite its lightweight build. For the price, I genuinely think it’s one of the best beginner options out there."

"As a complete novice, I found this controller very approachable and easy to learn. The included tutorial lessons made a big difference as I started practicing for my first set. Just a heads up: make sure your computer’s CPU supports AVX, and you might need an adapter to separate the sound for headphones and speakers. Overall, it’s been a smooth introduction to DJing."

"For someone just starting out, I feel like this controller is a solid bang for your buck. It has all the essentials and intuitive controls, and the beat matching guide lights are especially useful when you’re new to mixing. I love being able to sync my SoundCloud and stream tracks directly. While I wish there was a mid EQ knob and Rekordbox support, these are minor tradeoffs for the price."

"After DJing for over 15 years, I picked up this controller for personal use. It’s a perfect fit for my needs—straightforward features, smooth operation, and impressive sound quality. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone seeking solid value in a DJ controller."

"As someone returning to DJing after a long break, I found this controller to be incredibly simple, lightweight, and fun to use. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or as a backup, and while it’s not a high-end setup, the price and portability make it a fantastic entry point."

"I upgraded from an older Numark model and was immediately impressed. The feel and materials are noticeably better, and the effects switches are intuitive. Although I ran into some intermittent issues with the jog wheel—possibly due to my laptop or software compatibility—I think this controller shines with a high-end setup or upgraded DJ software."

"The build quality is outstanding—this product is a must-have for me! I love the combination of price, features, and stylish design."

"It actually surpassed my expectations. I found it smaller than I thought, but it's so easy to use."

"I think it's a fantastic gift for anyone interested in DJing or passionate about music."

"I've taken this controller everywhere—from airplanes to clubs—and I love how portable and convenient it is. The controls are very sensitive and the crossfader is surprisingly smooth for the price. I also appreciate that it works with a wide range of software, especially open-source options. If you can DJ well on this, transitioning to bigger controllers is a breeze."

"As a professional DJ, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of this controller, especially considering the price. The knobs and pitch faders feel solid, and the included Serato DJ Lite software is actually quite capable. The audio output is decent, and while the LED lights are a bit flashy, they add fun for beginners. Overall, it's a great entry-level option or gift for aspiring DJs."

"I bought this compact controller for a portable, battery-powered sound system. The transition from my full-size controller was seamless, and I found it reliable and easy to use. Its size makes it perfect for travel and quick setups, without sacrificing essential features."

"As someone who's been DJing for over four decades and runs annual camps for kids, I really appreciate the versatility and feature-rich design of the Numark Party Mix Live. It's a fantastic choice for both beginners and professionals, whether you're prepping sets, teaching students, or playing at events like weddings and BBQs. The built-in speakers and vibrant lights make learning and performing much more engaging for my students. Plus, setup with Serato DJ Lite was a breeze."

"I bought this controller for my child, and I have to say the sound quality from the built-in speakers exceeded my expectations. The lighting effects are a fun bonus, and overall, it's a great starter DJ controller that makes learning and playing really enjoyable."

"I'm not a professional DJ, but this controller is perfect for parties and casual use. It's well-constructed, easy to use, and I've had no problems with it after several months. Definitely great for anyone looking to get into DJing as a hobby."