Looking for the best DJ mixers for beginners? You’re in the right place.
While becoming a professional DJ does require passion, focus, and commitment, you won’t get far without the right technology to support you too. The best DJ mixer for kids or beginners will turn your learning experience with music into a performance.
You can transition smoothly from one sound to the next, mix songs together, and even create unique effects that get your audience on the floor.
Our Best DJ mixers for Beginners Picks
As a beginner in the world of professional DJing, the right controller or mixer could make all the difference.
The best DJ mixer for beginners will help you to learn how to beatmatch, unlock your natural skills and develop your talents as you continue to work with music.
To be suitable for a beginner, a DJ mixer needs to be durable enough to withstand regular use, and intuitive to operate. You may also want a DJ mixer that can teach you how to create new sounds as you go.
Here are our top choices:
1. Pioneer DJ DJM-250 MK2 (Editor’s Pick)
Best for overall performance and sound quality
The Pioneer DJ DJM 250 MK2 is easily one of the best-known mixers in the market, and one that any beginner would be thrilled to use.
This sensational product has some of the most popular features from Pioneer to explore, from a Magvel crossfader and sound FX filter to a clear and intuitive layout.
There are 3-band isolators to support you in developing your mixing and scratching skills, and you can rest assured that you’ll always get high-quality and warm audio from any environment.
The Pioneer DJM 250 comes with a built-in soundcard, so you can easily hook it up to your laptop or turntables depending on your needs. You even get rekordBox DJ DVS software included in the purchase. This is an all-in-one DJ mixer for beginners that offers sensational sound and incredible performance in a 2-channel mixer that’s not too complicated to use.
- Very affordable price
- Has loads of connectivity options
- Boasts a sturdy build quality
- Includes the excellent Magvel crossfader
- No booth output
- Soundcard is exclusive to Rekordbox
2. Gemini MM1
Best beginner rotary DJ mixer
Often the best DJ mixer for beginners will be the one that you feel most comfortable using. For creators who love working with knobs and dials, the Gemini MM1 is the ultimate choice.
This small device might not look like much at first glance, but it’s a compact titan with 2-channel performance, and 2-band rotary EQ. Gain control ensures you can blend all kinds of detailed tracks.
Offering a silky-smooth mixing experience with clean transitioning from a sturdy crossfader, the Gemini MM1 ensures you can fine-tune your pieces and maintain complete control over your music.
There’s rotary DJ headphone volume adjustment available for previewing your music, and access to two-line RCA inputs, as well as a master RCA output and microphone input. All that, and you get a rugged device that’s tough enough to handle constant use and abuse.
- Convenient input and output selection
- Easy-to-use interface that’s sleek and simple for beginners
- Dedicated microphone and headphone volume control
- Tough all-metal enclosure, perfect for life on the move
- Slight feedback in some headphones
- It doesn’t have an on/off switch
3. Numark M6
Best 4-channel USB DJ mixer for beginners
If 2 channels just don’t sound like enough for your mixing needs, don’t worry. You can always upgrade to the 4 channel DJ Mixer from Numark.
This small but mighty mixer is one of the best 4 channel DJ mixers for beginners on the market, and it’s also surprisingly affordable – great for DJs on a budget.
The versatile system comes with a four-channel DJ scratch mixer, accompanied by all the mixing essentials a DJ can’t go without.
You’ll have access to multiple lines, phono, and mic inputs, as well as a master RCA, record, booth, and headphone output for absolute control.
There are four channels outfitted with custom crossfader technology and a dedicated set of channel-level faders too. The wide range of inputs and outputs is where the Numark M6 shines compared to other mini four-channel mixers. There’s also a handy USB connection so your mixer can double up as an audio interface.
All that, and you get 3-band EQs on each channel, a sleek design, and LED monitoring too.
- Versatile and feature-packed 4 channel mixer for a budget price
- Connectivity supported by multiple input and output options
- Three band EQs on every channel
- Four channels with replaceable cross fader and channel level faders
- Knobs can be sensitive, which takes getting used to
- Crossfader can bleed over time
4. Numark M2
Best beginner DJ mixer for scratching
Designed specifically for entry-level artists, the Numark M2 2-channel mixer is a delight to use and definitely high up there on our best DJ mixers for beginners list.
This feature-packed two-channel scratch mixer comes with all the functionality you need as a budding DJ.
The device is compact enough to take with you on the move when you’re racing between gigs but sturdy enough that you don’t have to worry about damaging your tech.
From a connectivity perspective, you get two line/phono switchable RCA options, two-line RCA, and microphone inputs, as well as a master RCA, Record RCA, and headphone output.
The 2-channel mixer comes with a replaceable crossfader, dedicated level faders for each channel, and slope controls. There’s also three-band EQ support on each channel too.
The Numark M2 is a slightly less advanced version of the Numark M6, providing an excellent entry-level option for beginner DJs who want to practice their scratching skills.
- Switchable phono and line inputs for your turntables and audio
- Two-channel scratch maker specifically designed for beginners
- Headphone output, with crossfader style cueing function
- Durable and compact design perfect for DJs moving between venues
- Some sensitivity in the knobs and faders
- Record output can make a slight buzzing sound
5. Allen & Heath ZONE:23c
Best beginner DJ mixer with pro features and sound
Allen & Heath is one of the most valuable brands in the DJ market for a reason. This best DJ mixer for beginners pick is actually a four-channel DJ mixer from a company that provides high-quality and professional-level performance, in an interface that’s accessible for beginners.
The Xone:23 mixer comes with USB connectivity to access power a MIDI data through an ethernet connection.
You can also access a comprehensive voltage control filter system with high-pass and low-pass filters, resonance control, and frequency sweep.
Created to deliver absolute flexibility, the Xone allows users to easily connect their system to third-party solutions. You can connect up to four music sources at the same time, including turntables, and there’s an inbuilt soundcard so you can easily replay recordings from DJ software too.
The Zone is equipped with various bonus features, too, like backlit controls, a stainless steel faceplate, and smooth soft-touch components.
- Robust and rugged design is excellent for regular use
- Easily connect your DJ mixer to third-party solutions
- Connect up to four sources of audio at the same time
- Access to cue mix controls, signal levels, and volume controls
- Quite sensitive EQ
- Must open the mixer to change the sound card channels
6. Reloop RMX-22i
Best beginner DJ mixer for smartphone and tablet connectivity
The Reloop RMX-22i is a state-of-the-art 3+1 digital mixer with impeccable construction and reliable sound quality.
You can connect your tablet or smartphone to this device and unlock a range of instant sound color effects (a total of 4 DSP Effects). 3 band EQ control makes managing your music industry, and there are different modes to suit your mixing style.
To help beginners discover their DJing skills, this DJ mixer for beginners from Reloop comes with adjustable line and crossfader settings. You can easily access everything from smooth transitions to sharp cuts in no time.
The Reloop system can also be retrofitted with the Reloop innofader for a better fading experience and smooth transitions between audio channels. If you’re looking for a club-ready sound with multiple inputs and outputs, this is the best DJ mixer for beginners for you.
- Fantastic selection of four high-quality effects
- Smart tablet and smartphone connectivity
- Club-ready sound with multiple input and output options
- Compact and durable enough to withstand portability
- Some limitations with scratching
What is a DJ Mixer?
A DJ mixer is the heart of your DJ setup, because it allows you to control your music and create unique sounds for your audience. If all you had was a set of turntables or a CD player, then you’d just have to press play, and queue up another song when each one ends.
That kind of work doesn’t make you a “DJ” – just someone who knows how to use a music player.
At first glance, a DJ mixer can look quite complex. They often include a lot of buttons and dials that users need to learn how to master over time.
The exact features and functionality of your DJ mixer will depend on the kind of product you purchase.
Whatever the bonus capabilities of your mixer might be, your DJ mixer will give you a convenient controller where you can interact with your music.
It’s where you can control the input and output of various audio signals, as well as where you’ll be able to access sound effects, volume controls, and transitions.
The more skilled you become as a DJ, the more complex your mixer appears to be.
What to Look for When Buying an Entry-Level DJ Mixer
So, what do you need in a DJ mixer for beginners?
That depends heavily on you.
There are all kinds of DJ mixer solutions out there, ranging from simple 2-channel systems to 6-channel offerings with endless knobs and faders to learn about.
Here are some of the key components you’ll need to consider when making your purchase.
The Channels
The number of channels you need is often the first decision you’ll make when buying a DJ mixer.
Most of these solutions should have at least two channels to work with, which means you can plug in two different audio sources and mix the signals from each together.
On a DJ mixer, every channel has its own dedicated channel strip, where the source volume and EQ are available to control.
4 channel mixers are often quite common, allowing you to plug in up to 4 audio sources. You can even go as far as having more than 4 channels, though most experts agree that you only really need 2 channels, to begin with.
Effects and Other Features
The main purpose of a DJ mixer for beginners is to mix your audio sources together, often from multiple different channels.
However, most mixers will come with some bonus effects and extra ways to make your audio sound amazing.
For instance, your DJ mixer might come with effects that allow you to change the way your music sounds slightly or create unique transitions between songs.
The extra features you can access often range from echo and delay features on songs, to reverb, and high-pass, and low-pass filters. The more advanced your mixer is, the more likely it is that you’ll have bonus options to explore. You can even find mixers with integrated audio interfaces too.
Budget
Everyone has a budget to consider – even professional DJs.
Crucially, while you shouldn’t decide based on how much cash you have alone, you will need to ensure that the product you choose fits within your limits. Ideally, you’ll be looking for the best selection of features and functionality available for the lowest price.
Initially, your first entry-level DJ mixer might be a bare-bones solution chosen to give you a basic introduction to the technology and help you start building your skills. Eventually, as your talents progress, you might decide that it’s time to upgrade to more impressive tools.
Special Uses
Some DJ mixers for beginners are extremely straightforward once you’ve taken the time to get used to the features and functionality they can offer. There are also mixers out there intended to serve a specific purpose. For instance, certain solutions are custom-made to integrate best with some of the leading software for DJs on the market.
There are also mixers that are particularly good for scratching, or ideal for people who tend to DJ a lot with a partner, through back-and-forth mixing.
Popular Brands for Entry Level DJ Mixers
When searching for a DJ mixer for beginners try not to instantly make a decision based on brand alone when you’re picking a DJ Mixer.
Although the right brand name can offer peace of mind and reassure you that you’re getting a great deal, it’s also crucial to look beyond the logo.
If you’re not sure where to start your search for the ideal mixing solution, it might be worth looking into some of the companies with the best reputations.
Brands like Pioneer and Numark are big for a reason – they’ve proven themselves over the years.
Here are some of the most popular brands in terms of durability, performance, and functionality:
- Pioneer: One of the best-known brands in the DJ and audio industry, Pioneer is everywhere. This company is a perfect choice if you’re looking for something that’s highly accessible, easy to use, and flexible. Pioneer devices are built to last and deliver great functionality.
- Denon DJ: Another major company, owned by the InMusic corporation, Denon is one of the better-known brands available, offering feature-packed mixers and sensational customization. Denon is also the sister brand of Akai, and Rane, which are two other major DJ brands.
- Numark: Another company owned by InMusic, Numark is one of the largest manufacturers of DJ equipment around. This globally-recognized company delivers audio technology to artists around the world. Numark solutions are easy-to-use, packed full of functionality, and always on the cutting edge with performance.
- Native Instruments: A true titan of DJ hardware, Native Instruments exploded onto the scene in recent years, and they’re also the pioneer behind the Traktor DJ software – which is some of the leading software on the market.
- Allen and Heath: Slightly less recognizable than the brands above to beginners, Allen & Heath are true specialists in the creation of powerful mixing decks. This company creates the kind of technology used at broadcasting and recording studios.
- Behringer: One of the brands with the most heritage in the DJ space, Behringer has been delivering DJ technology for decades. This company has a fantastic reputation for building mixers that stand the test of time.
Our Verdict
As a DJ discovering your music mastery for the first time, only you can decide which entry-level DJ mixer is the best solution for you.
We’ve covered some of the best DJ mixer for beginner options in the world here, but our absolute top choice and best DJ mixer for beginners has to be the Pioneer DJ DJM 250 MK2. This intuitive and flexible mixer is the top choice among DJs worldwide for a reason.
Offering excellent flexibility, reliability, and performance, the Pioneer mixer will help you to discover and enhance your skills in no time.
