Being a DJ is an exciting endeavor.
Choosing a cheap DJ Controller that fits your needs can be challenging when starting.
Table of Contents
Best Cheap DJ Controllers
We’ve compiled a list of the top 8 cheapest DJ Controllers for beginners below.
Choosing a DJ Controller
- Price: DJ Controllers can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. When you are starting as a DJ, the best advice we can give is to look for cheap DJ Controllers first. Similar to purchasing a gaming system like an Xbox, purchase something affordable to test things out.
The last thing you want to do is invest thousands of dollars only to find out it’s something that doesn’t interest you that much. There are many entry-level DJ controllers with loads of features at very affordable prices.
- Software: Software is a crucial component in the DJing world, but what if you’ve never used DJ software before. How do you know which software is the best? You can go online and download trial versions of different DJing software and test them out before purchasing a DJ controller or software.
This will help you save money and frustration. You’ll be able to figure out what software you like best and what meets your needs.
The most popular DJ software packages on the market today are Virtual DJ, Rekordbox DJ, Serato DJ, and Traktor Pro.
- Interface: The DJ controller interface is an important aspect to consider when making a purchase. What we mean by the interface is the physical layout of the controller. Some things to consider are, does it give you enough room to navigate the controls easily?
The last thing you want is to accidentally push a wrong button, which can kill the vibe of a party or event. Does it have the basics? Jog wheels, fader, etc.… Almost all entry-level DJ controllers have the basic functionality in varying degrees.
Whether mixing speed garage or any other type of genre you’ll want to make sure you’re using reputable tools.
Best Cheap DJ Controllers
Let’s get straight into this list of controllers so you can find the perfect match for you:
Pioneer DJ Smart Controller DDJ-200
Controller Features:
- Compact, lightweight, and Portable
- Smartphone compatible
- Tutorial and easy to use
This neat little DJ Controller is ideal for beginners with no experience. The Pioneer DJ Smart Controller DDJ-200 is so easy to use a 6-year old can learn the basics within an hour. As a beginner, the tutorial is extremely helpful in learning how to navigate the controls. It’s very affordable for people on a budget. This DJ controller is fun and addictive, and the fact that it’s lightweight makes it easy to transport.
Numark Mixtrack 3
Controller Features:
- All-in-one Virtual DJ Controller
- Touch-activated illuminated platters
- Numark on-ear headphones
An easy to use affordable, robust DJ Controller for track mixing, remixing, and sampling. What we like about the Numark Mixtrack 3 is the sleek modern design. All the controls are nicely spaced, and it feels natural to operate. It’s easy to use for beginners. The jog wheels are very responsive, and the long pitch fader helps us create some awesome music mashups. It’s lightweight, durable, and looks more expensive than it really is. It’s very affordable.
Gemini Slate4
Controller Features:
- Large Touch-sensitive Control Wheels
- Full-Color Performance Pads
- Built-in Audio Outputs
Mix, scratch, and drop those musical beats everyone will enjoy with Gemini. We love our Gemini! The large touch-sensitive control wheels and full-color performance pads make it super easy to use, even for teenagers. It came with the software, so we didn’t have to search and purchase it separately. The layout is pretty cool with the 4 channel mixer and allows us to play music from our computer — durable and good quality.
Reloop 236534 Controller
Controller Features:
- Loop Control Section w/ LED Bar
- Unique Macro FX Mode
- RGB Drum Pad w/8 Speed
A Spotify integrated DJ Controller so durable it will last a lifetime. The reloop controller has Spotify integration! It’s one of the main reasons for purchasing this mixer. The buttons are sturdy and sound great, and it’s lightweight. We’ve been using it for months and have nothing bad to say about it. It even works great with deejay 2 and the iPad pro. It feels so natural to use with its layout.
Numark Mixtrack Platinum
Controller Features:
- 16 multifunction backlit pads
- Dedicated browsing controls
- Portable four-deck DJ Controller
Unleash your creative musical potential with platinum gear at half the price. This Numark DJ Controller is very robust for its price. As someone who knows next to nothing about being a DJ, we found it fairly simple to use after some practice. It’s very well built and looks like something professionals use. What we really like about this controller is that it works with VirtualDJ software. The lights even flash when not in use.
Pioneer DJ Controller – DDJ-400
Controller Features:
- Includes Rekordbox Licence Key
- Built-in sound card
- Plug n Play Connectivity
A high-end, top-quality DJ controller for professionals and everyday people. This controller plays like Pioneer’s higher-end models. It over-delivers for the price and has a tremendous amount of features. Starting DJs can easily set it up within a short time, and it’s easy to use. What’s especially helpful is that it comes with a Rekordbox Licence Key, so we didn’t have to pay for it separately. It’s surprisingly compact and lightweight.
Roland Black DJ-202
Controller Features:
- Large Platters with Low Latency
- Two-channel, Four-deck DJ Controller
- Compact, Rugged, and Lightweight
A cheap, versatile DJ controller with superpowers. I’m impressed with this DJ controller, not only can I play music from my laptop, it has a full sequencer and a full bank of TR909 and 808 drum sounds. This controller has everything you need to start mixing it up at parties and other events. At first, I couldn’t get iTunes to play, but after installing Quicktime, the issue resolved itself.
Denon DJ MC4000
Controller Features:
- Premium 2 deck controller
- Touch activated jog wheels
- Top-quality sound effects
A premium fully featured DJ Controller lightyears ahead of its time. I’ve got to say the Denon MC4000 is on par with Pioneer in terms of quality. I believe the MC4000 is well worth the money, and it’s one of the most full-featured devices I’ve owned. The sound quality is absolutely amazing. The 24-bit playback is incredible as almost everything I play is a 24-bit WAV file, and it makes a tremendous difference.
It can be exhilarating, starting as a DJ. With our enthusiasm so high, it’s easy to spend more money than we should.
Best Cheap DJ Controllers
Before purchasing a cheap DJ Controller, please be sure to do your research.
With DJing and everything else in life, it’s always best to learn the basics before moving on to more advanced techniques.
We’re hopeful that the shortlist above has given you some insight into which DJ controllers might suit your needs best.
Did we miss something? Know a better DJ Budget Controller we can test?
💬 Leave a comment or let’s start a conversation below…
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