Bigger doesn’t always mean better.
In the DJ gear landscape, a bigger, more advanced controller can generally do a lot more. If you want full-sized jog wheels, countless effects, sliders, and touchscreens, then your device should take up some extra space. However, there are times when more compact controllers will make sense too.
For DJs on the go, a micro DJ controller is a valuable investment. Micro DJ controllers are small enough to throw into the back or the back of your car when you’re headed to a gig.
Many of these devices come with a wide selection of functions (despite their size). Although they may not be as advanced as some of the bigger alternatives out there, they still serve an important purpose.
If you’ve been looking for the best micro DJ controllers for this year, perfect for practicing sets on the move or exploring your mixing capabilities, we’ve got you covered.
Best Micro DJ Controllers
Let’s dive into the list without any more delay, let’s go!
1. Pioneer DJ DDJ-200
Best Pioneer DJ Value pick
Pioneer is one of the most commendable names in DJ technology. The Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 is the company’s solution for DJs on the move. This sensational, lightweight product is perfect for taking with you on any adventure – at about the same size as a standard laptop. Compact, yet following a similar layout to any professional controller, the DDJ-200 micro DJ controller has it all.
With the Pioneer, you get a full version of Rekordbox. It’s rare to get a micro DJ controller with pro software out of the box. The Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 also comes with a three-band EQ plus/gain solution and filters for each channel. This does make it slightly bigger than some compact controllers, but it’s well worth that extra space.
Unfortunately, there’s no audio interface included, which means there’s no support for your speakers and headphones. Instead, you need to use a mono splitter cable to plug your device into the headphone socket or adapter on your tablet, splitting the stereo signal into two mono alternatives.
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- Can Work with DJ Mixing Apps on Your Phone
- Very Affordable Price
- Portable, Lightweight, and Easy to Operate
- Has a USB Port and Bluetooth Connection
- Lacks a Built-In Sound Card
Read this next: DDJ 200 (The Perfect Entry-Level Smart DJ Controller?)
2. Reloop Ready
Best for Serato DJ
Designed especially for 2021, the Reloop Ready is a more recent addition to the micro DJ controller line-up. Like the Pioneer, the Reloop comes with its own software, but you only get Serato DJ Lite. You’ll probably need to upgrade to Serato DJ Pro if you want to unlock the full functionality of this device.
The size of the Reloop Ready is perfect, around the same size as a 13-inch laptop. You can use this device with your laptop on a plane or train easily, and a built-in audio interface means you can plug speakers and headphones in.
Aimed primarily at DJs looking for a preparation controller, the Reloop comes with full-sized RGB performance pads, control over Serato FX units, gain controls, two-band EQ, key sync, slip mode, per-channel filters, and more.
Feature-wise, this micro DJ controller could probably compete quite well with a handful of more professional pro controllers. Though the faders feel a little cheap, and the pads aren’t as bright as we might like, the Reloop definitely stands out as a great microcontroller.
- Excellent set of full performance pads
- Serato FX support
- Gain controls and two-band EQ
- Slip mode and key sync
- Per-channel filters
- Not the most professional faders
- Limited performance pad brightness
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3. Reloop Buddy
Best for smartphone integration
Let’s stick with Reloop for a moment to explore our next recommendation. The Reloop Buddy is another excellent micro DJ controller, new for 2021. This device comes with the same size and shape as the Reloop Ready, but there are a few new features. You can use this device with a phone or tablet, and there’s also a slot where you can place your device when you’re working.
The Buddy mini DJ controller comes with the Algoriddim djay AI software, complete with controls that specifically map to this software functionality. You’ll even be able to access a unique neural mix solution for real-time stem separation.
The Buddy features performance pads, a two-band EQ, per-channel filters, loop controls, paddles to control your effects, and so much more. Scratch DJs can even experiment with this controller to work on their skills. Aside from accessing your controller with your smartphone or tablet, you can also use a laptop, and attach headphones to the built-in audio interface.
- Performance pads
- Per-channel filters
- Two-band EQ
- Paddles for effect controls
- Unique AI software
- Smartphone and tablet connections
- Limited access to built-in software
Read this next: Reloop Buddy: The Complete Beginner DJ Controller?
4. Numark Party Mix Live
Best for house parties
A sensational micro DJ controller, the Numark Party Mix Live is a portable solution designed for use with Serato software.
The Numark Party Mix Live is a compact DJ controller that caters to beginners and casual DJs. It offers a range of features for mixing and controlling music. One of its highlights is the built-in light show, which comes with various lighting modes.
The controller also includes jog wheels for scratching and track navigation, as well as performance pads for triggering samples and effects.
Compatibility-wise, it works with popular DJ software like Serato DJ Lite, Virtual DJ, and Algoriddim djay. Additionally, it has its own audio interface, allowing users to directly connect speakers or headphones to the controller.
While the Numark Party Mix Live is primarily marketed as an entry-level controller, it does have certain limitations compared to more professional-grade DJ equipment. For instance, the jog wheels are smaller and may not offer the same level of precision as higher-end controllers.
Furthermore, the overall build quality and durability might not be as robust as pricier alternatives.
Nevertheless, if you’re a beginner or a casual DJ seeking an affordable option to practice your skills or enjoy small gatherings, the Numark Party Mix Live could be a suitable choice. However, if you have more advanced DJing needs or desire a controller with higher-quality components, it might be worth considering other options in a higher price range.
- Built in Speakers
- Performance Pad Modes
- Touch Capacitive Jog wheels
- Integrated Lights
- Limited Functions
- Only Has A 2 Band EQ
Read this next: Numark Party Mix Controller Review: Should You Get It?
5. Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
Best for beginners or hobbyists
Another phenomenal micro DJ controller offering, the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is the most recent edition of the pocket portable controller for Serato fans. The second version comes with a new set of touch-sensitive jog wheels, perfect for maximizing your skills and controls.
It’s hard to imagine a Serato user that wouldn’t be thrilled by any opportunity to use this mini controller. This fantastic product comes with a host of features for a meager price. It’s great for taking your skills with you on the move, and it works with Serato DJ Pro, though this functionality doesn’t come built-in with the hardware.
The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch controller stands out as one of the best controller choices for DJs in search of a secondary or backup controller. If you’re just starting out in your industry and you want to play around with some essential features as you learn, this could be a wonderful investment too. Just don’t expect to be able to accomplish the most amazing sets with this product.
- Touch-sensitive jog wheels
- Excellent range of effects and features
- Great for learning new skills
- Access to Serato Pro available
- Easy to use layout
- No Pro DJ software included
Read this next: Best DJ Controller for Beginners (Our Top 5)
6. Hercules DJControl Starlight
Best for portability
Widely regarded as the ultimate micro DJ controller for many professionals, the Hercules DJControl Starlight is an amazing product. Focused on Serato software, this micro DJ controller is truly as tiny as they come. You could potentially fit this product into the front pocket of your backpack.
Similar to the Numark DJGO2 Touch, the Hercules comes with all of the functionality you need to play around as a beginner with new tracks. You can access tiny jog wheels that work similarly to bigger controllers, as well as a set of touch pads. The Hercules Starlight has a tone control knob for bass and filter management too.
A built-in audio interface means you can easily plug your headphones and speakers into your micro DJ controller to start mixing up tracks. For software, the system comes with access to Serato DJ Lite as standard, which is more than enough to introduce you to the features.
- Extremely small and portable size
- Fantastic set of mini jog wheels
- Touchpads with effects access
- Convenient audio interface included
- Brilliant tone control function
- Can feel a little cluttered for some
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Defining the Best Micro DJ Controllers
Before you can choose the best micro or mini DJ controller, you first need to understand what a “compact controller”, “micro DJ controller” or “mini controller” actually is.
It’s common to see lists of micro DJ controllers referred to as the top cheap or beginner controllers. That’s because the smaller your hardware is, the more you’re likely to compromise on functionality.
Plus, smaller controllers and fewer features also mean lower prices. However, microcontrollers aren’t necessarily built to be cheap, cheerful, and simplistic.
Professional DJs use compact DJ controllers for a range of reasons. One of the most common options is to simply plug your controller into a tablet, smartphone, and a set of headphones, and experiment with DJ software on the move.
If you’ve ever wished you could work on your mixing when you were sitting on a train or plane, a micro DJ controller might be just what you need.
Micro DJ controllers are limited in what they can do. Most will control only two “decks” of software, while bigger controllers can accomplish a lot more. Many of these miniature controllers also come with slightly smaller versions of the features you’re used to, like jog wheels and sliders.
Micro DJ controllers usually don’t need plugging into an outlet to work. Most will draw power from your laptop, smartphone, or tablet, which means you have even less to carry around.
Not all beginner controllers are micro-controllers, and vice versa. Micro DJ controllers focus exclusively on giving you the best functionality in the smallest possible package. Finding the best micro DJ controller often means finding the right balance between functionality, portability, and performance.
The Features of a Micro / Mini DJ Controller
A DJ micro-controller is a smaller version of a traditional controller, designed for portable use. Micro DJ controllers generally include many of the same features as your standard controller, but they may be pared down slightly for size purposes. You can find the following components on DJ microcontrollers:
- Jog wheels: The circular platters that appear on most DJ controllers. These replace the function of vinyl turntables, allowing for scratching, nudging, and record scrolling. Some DJ micro-controllers might have downsized jog wheels.
- FX controls: FX controls power the effects DJs can add to their music. Many FX controls will be linked to the specific software components your controller can use.
- Looping: looping controls are a common feature with many DJs. Looping allows you to play specific sections of songs or tracks on repeat, sometimes with effects added.
- Performance pads: Performance pads allow users to instantly trigger things like hot cues, slicer, sampler, and roll features. You can also hit shift to access different functions. You may have fewer performance pads on a micro-DJ controller.
- Faders: Crossfaders and faders are the main control unit for a mixer, allowing you to adjust the volume of individual tracks and blend between channels.
- Audio interface: Usually, compact controllers won’t have their own audio interface built-in, but they might connect to your smartphone, tablet, or laptop so you can access software and other features.
Micro DJ Controller Buying Advice
Ultimately, a micro DJ controller is almost exactly the same as any controller, just smaller, and more portable. This means that buying the right controller will often follow the same process as you’d use when purchasing any DJ equipment.
Since you’re choosing a compact controller, the first thing you’re going to look at is size. Your micro-controller needs to be small enough to take with you wherever you go, while still being large enough to include the features you need. Other points to consider include:
- Ease of use: A small controller should feel intuitive and simple to use, with a similar layout to a full-sized system. If the buttons and components are cluttered or too close together, you’ll struggle to achieve the right results. Look for an experience that feels straightforward.
- Software: Your micro DJ controller needs to work perfectly with the software you prefer to use. There are tons of great options out there, including Serato, Traktor, Virtual DJ, and many others. The one you choose is likely to be a matter of personal preference.
- Features: What kind of features can you not afford to compromise on? You won’t be able to unlock the full functionality of a comprehensive controller with a compact version, but you can still look for a certain number of performance pads, or high-quality faders.
- Functionality: How does the controller work? Does it plug into your smartphone or laptop? Do you need to bring any charging cables and power systems with you on your trips? The best micro- controllers are often conveniently easy to transport.
- Bonus capabilities: Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest difference. Light-up performance pads that you can easily see in the dark are a great investment. You can also look into things like premium jog wheels and faders.
FAQs
u003cstrongu003eWhat is a micro DJ controller?u003c/strongu003e
Firstly, a DJ controller is a device that plugs into your laptop or computer and allows you to control some software to play music. A u003cstrongu003emicro DJ controlleru003c/strongu003e is just a smaller version that may have connections to a smartphone or tablet.
u003cstrongu003eIs a micro DJ controller necessary?u003c/strongu003e
If you wish to control a piece of DJ software, then you will need a controller of some sort. As for u003cemu003eneedingu003c/emu003e a micro DJ controller then no, a normal DJ controller will work too.
u003cstrongu003eCan I DJ without a controller?u003c/strongu003e
Absolutely. There is a tonne of options out there from CD Media Players, Vinyl Turntables, and Standalone Systems which you can use to DJ.
u003cstrongu003eWhat is the smallest micro DJ controller?u003c/strongu003e
That would have to be the Numark DJ2GO2. Standing at 31.5cm long and 8.6cm wide, it’s pretty small.
u003cstrongu003eWhat is the best micro DJ controller to start with?u003c/strongu003e
Any of the above that we mentioned in this article will do. It depends on what your needs are. We have highlighted the reason why we picked them.
Best Micro DJ Controller: The Verdict
The best micro DJ controller units above are evidence that big things really can come in small packages. If you’re looking for something that’s portable but practical, then you’re sure to find an excellent controller on our list.
For the absolute smallest controller you can buy, we’d definitely recommend looking at the Hercules DJControl Starlight.
For something a little more advanced, you might want to look into the Reloop Ready or the Pioneer DJ DDJ200.
Remember, a compact DJ controller does mean you need to be willing to compromise on some features. The smaller your device is, the less you can do with it. However, a little bit of searching is all it takes to find a fantastic set of mini DJ controllers equipped to handle all kinds of DJ challenges.
Good luck finding the miniature controller that works for you.
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