Updated February 04, 2020
The 10 Best DJ Mixers For Beginners
This wiki has been updated 6 times since it was first published in January of 2020. The mixer has always been one of the most important parts of a DJ's rig. Luckily for those interested in learning how to use one, their basic layout has remained relatively unchanged through the years, so there are many introductory models that teach the essentials. We've assembled a varied list of options, which can help beginners start mixing with software, turntables, or anything in between. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. If you'd like to contribute your own research to the Wiki, please get started by reviewing this introductory video.
1. Pioneer DJ DJM250
2. Pioneer DDJ-400
3. Numark M2
Editor's Notes
January 30, 2020:
A mixer is crucial for learning how to DJ, but beginners might be daunted by their average cost. For many, several hundred dollars seems like too much money to invest in something they might only enjoy as a hobby, or may even end up disliking altogether. People just starting out will also have to determine which style is right for their goals. Some models are geared towards casual DJs who will mostly perform at house parties, others are built for those interested in scratching or beat juggling, and others still seek to replicate the experience of using the professional units that are often already installed in nightclubs. This list contains options that range widely in price and purpose. People who wish to buy a machine that they can use for many years after learning how to DJ, as well as those who only want to dip their toe into the world of mixing, will both find great choices here.
While there is still an important place for true standalone DJ mixers, new and experienced DJs alike are moving to software based solutions more and more. For this reason it seemed important to include a few DJ controllers along with standalone mixers, since many will find that a controller offers them a cheaper way to fully learn the craft without having to buy things like turntables or special CD players.
The Pioneer DJ DJM250 is on the more expensive side of this list, but the major benefit of this mixer is that it will take a long time for beginners to outgrow. While it's straightforward enough for any beginner to learn on, it's also a high enough quality that it could take someone all the way from practicing in their room to playing paid gigs. The Pioneer DDJ-400 is essentially the controller equivalent.
Cheaper options like the Numark M2 or the Pioneer DJ DDJ-200 represent cheaper choices that lack the robust build quality and feature richness of the aforementioned units, but they would definitely be adequate for learning. Our most basic options like the Gemini MM1 and Hercules DJControl Starlight certainly have drawbacks, but those looking for the most budget friendly options will find that these teach DJ concepts that can fluidly transfer to more expensive models later on. We also have a few more niche oriented mixers on the list like the DJ Tech DIF1, which has a third-party crossfader purpose built for scratching already installed.
4. Allen & Heath XONE:23
5. Numark M6 USB
6. Pioneer DJ DDJ-200
7. DJ Tech DIF1
8. Rockville RDJ3BT
9. Gemini MM1
10. Hercules DJControl Starlight
