Top 10 Best DJ Controllers Under $300 2024 – Improve Your DJ’s Skills

There are numerous DJ controllers available on the market today and that’s why we have put together this well-detailed review to make a purchase a breeze. If you are a DJ, selecting the right gear for your work can be such a challenging task as technology has modernized the art and introduced new software to make the operation quite easy and convenient.

In this review, you will find the best ten DJ controller models that would meet your $300 budget. Having noted all that, let us take a look at the best ten models that we have rounded up just to make the search easier for you.

A Complete Guide to Selecting the Best DJ Controllers For the Money

Without wasting further time, come with us and meet them right away;

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1. Numark Mixtrack Platinum DJ

One of the advantages that come with purchasing this remarkable DJ controller is it comes with a Serato DJ intro download and thanks to its 4-deck layering and 2-channel mixer you can now mix and scratch easily.

This is the ideal controller for both professional DJs and aspiring DJ’s and it boasts of an LCD design built into its jog wheels which allow for critical monitoring of any information without taking a look at the computer.

It also comes with an in-built soundcard that allows you to connect easily with speakers, microphones and headphones while its 100mm sensitive sliders deliver superior beat matching.

Pros
  • Quite easy and use and excellent video displays
Cons
  • Distracting pulse noise that comes directly from the speakers
  • Doesn’t come with an instructional manual
  • Poor customer service follow up by the Company

 

2. Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SP1 DJ Sub-Controller

One of the benefits that comes with making use of this Serato DJ sub-controller is it comes with sixteen performance pads which work especially for seven different functions such as the hot cue, manual loop, auto loop, hot loop, sampler, slicer and roll while its FX buttons and knob are well arranged for convenient operation of IZOtope effects found within the Serato DJ software.

You will love the Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SP1 DJ sub controller as it is well designed to be compatible with the Serato DJ software and you can place this controller conveniently on any space as it would perfectly fit into any space thanks to its slim and compact design.

Pros
  • Well designed to boost DJ possibilities and creativity
  • Quick delivery service and works perfectly well
  • Excellent trigger pads for lops and cues
Cons
  • Difficult to change the color of the pads

 

3. Numark Mixtrack Pro 3

Numark Mixtrack Pro 3

 

The NuMark Mixtrack Pro 3 USB DJ controller is another top-rated and best-selling model that you would come across on Amazon when shopping for a good and quality DJ controller today and one of its impressive designs is its built-in sound card which allows you connect directly to speakers, microphones and headphones.

One impressive feature of this DJ controller is its one plug design which means it is powered using a USB connection to any computer for both beginners and for home use while its 100mm pitch sliders ensure that this DJ controller maintains beat in perfect synchronization.

Other notable features include; rubber trigger pads, 16 backlit features, volume levels display, multifunction touch strip and metal jog wheels.

Pros
  • Excellent design and it functions well too
  • This controller is ideal for spinning and mixing especially for beginners
Cons
  • Fewer cues and dedicated buttons
  • No internal sound card and no USB audio interface

 

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4. Pioneer DJ DDJ-WeGO4-K DJ Controller, Black

When talking about a reliable and high-quality DJ controller, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-WEGO4-K DJ controller is also one product that you can work with effectively and you would find it quite easy to use and connect as all it requires is for you to plug this Pioneer DJ Controller to any Smartphone, tablet, MAC or PC using a lightning or USB cable.

It boasts of an advanced control system combined with a simple layout design which makes it quite easy to work with and some of its professional features include; Ampler, hot cues, loops and pad FX. Despite being lightweight, this DJ controller boasts of an array of unique features that contributes to why it is widely used today.

Pros
  • Fast delivery service
  • Works as described
  • Portable
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Not as durable as expected
  • Fewer functions than expected

 

5. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 DJ Controller

One of the best DJ controllers that you would find today is the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 DJ Controller as it boasts of an intuitive layout design comprising of every essential feature and one impressive feature of this highly-rated DJ controller is its scratch effects which can be added to current playing or even cued tracks without making use of a turntable scratchpad.

Unlike other low-quality DJ controllers, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 DJ controller is one that allows seamless mixing thanks to its FX fade feature and durability is also guaranteed when talking about this well-built DJ controller as it is made from high-quality materials which ensure long-lasting use better audio circuitry.

It also comes with low latency, large jog wheels which ensure amazing scratch accuracy and response.

Pros
  • Overall great mixer
  • Recommended for beginners
  • Easy to work with
  • Worth the money
Cons
  • Not as durable as expected

 

6. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 

To enjoy great accuracy and better scratch response, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 controller low latency and large jog wheels which makes control while playing quite easy and convenient and its input volume can be checked frequently and also adjusted using its level meters and trim knob.

Unlike other low-quality DJ controllers available on the market, the DJ DDJ-SB2 controller is designed to help improve user DJ skills and it also boasts of quite improved and amazing functions that would make playing with this controller quite enjoyable.

Pros
  • Recommended for beginners
  • The lightweight design makes it easy to travel with
  • Works exactly as described
  • Comes with a good board
Cons
  • Its MEH controller crashes easily
  • Its left fader arrived loosed

 

7. Numark Mixtrack 3 | All-in-one Controller Solution

Numark Mixtrack Pro 3

 

Recommended for both professional and upcoming DJs, the Numark Mixtrack 3 all in one controller is designed to be powered using a USB connection and the beauty of this DJ controller is its 100mm pitch sliders which play a huge role in ensuring that this controller maintains perfect synchronization.

It boasts of a host of exciting features and top-class performance which makes it stand out from the rest of the products available today while its affordability and portability also give it an edge over other products.

The combination of this DJ controller with any external audio device and a laptop means that you have all you need to start mixing and producing and some of its interesting features include; rubber trigger pads, multi-function touch strip, metal jog wheels, volume levels display and many more.

Pros
  • Outstanding design
  • Recommended for beginners
  • Lightweight
  • Great response
  • Smooth design
Cons
  • Poorly designed fader
  • Not as durable as expected

 

8. Pioneer DJ DDJ-RB Portable 2-channel Controller

This DJ controller comes with all you need to get started using the rekordbox DJ software and unlike other poorly designed DJ controllers available today, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-RB 2-channel controller is specially designed for use while on the move.

The combination of several interesting and exciting features as well as being lightweight and compact makes this one of the best DJ controllers available today while one impressive feature of this controller is its dedicated button which is designed towards calling up sample sequences right from the hardware.

Another interesting feature of this DJ controller is responsive jog wheels, intuitive layout and unique performance pads which help the user in triggering pad FX, sampler, slicer and hot cues.

Pros
  • High-quality design
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Works as expected
  • Impressive software
  • Easy to work with
Cons
  • Has its license key already in use

 

9. Pioneer DDJ-WEGO3-K

Weighing just about 2lbs, the Pioneer DDJ-WEGO3 DJ controller is one that is lightweight and compact which ensures it fits perfectly into a backpack for convenient carriage and transportation and this is a controller that most users would find quite easy to access and work with thanks to its dials and buttons found round its backlit jog wheels which makes it quite easy to work with.

One impressive feature of this well-designed DJ controller is its pulse control light which is designed to add a visual element to DJing as it would inform you which filters or effects that is being used or which track is being loaded.

Pros
  • Ideal startup kit
  • Helps to improve DJ skills
  • Works great with iPads
  • Can be used as a gift item
  • Fast delivery service
  • Lightweight
  • Compact and portable
Cons
  • Its mic failed to work
  • Requires extra cords and cables
  • Short warranty period
  • Not as durable as expected

 

10. Reloop Mixon 4 High Performance

This is the first hybrid design DJ controller ever made and its plugin and plays design is one that makes it stand out from the crowd as most DJ’s find it quite easy to work with.

One notable feature of this specially designed DJ controller is its multi-platform support as it is well designed to work with Mac, PC, Android and iOS devices and thanks to its impressive makro FX mode, this is one DJ controller that would help in combining filters and effects irrespective of the channel.

Some notable features of this DJ controller include; aluminum jog wheels, master LEDs, channel strip, multiple outputs and inputs and many more.

Pros
  • Impressive reloop quality
  • Produces amazing sounds
  • Its multi-functional design also makes it suitable for professional use
  • High-quality product
Cons
  • Terrible microphone quality
  • Comes with few shaky buttons

 

Factors To Consider When Shopping For DJ Controllers

  1. Connectivity ports
  2. Types of gigs
  3. Software platform

What Are DJ Controllers and How Do They Work?

Dj controllers are sound equipment that a disc jockey (DJ) uses in mixing songs and he mixes songs combined with other DJ software using jog wheels, encoders, knobs, backlit buttons, touch strips, and many more.

DJ controllers with their ease of use and setup have helped improved a lot of DJ skills and these devices have also helped in boosting the confidence of many aspiring DJs. Gatherings and parties have become livelier and more enjoyable thanks to the creation of DJ controllers and a whole new world of music has come into existence following the development of DJ controllers.

Final Verdict – What You Should Know

After looking at this review, we hope that you would be able to find the best products for you and after considering our best five models, you will also be able to find the right type to meet your $300 budget.

There’s a guarantee that every DJ controller mentioned in this review will serve any purpose thrown at them and would also last for a long time so you don’t have to be worried about getting a replacement anytime soon.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 2-deck Rekordbox and Serato DJ Controller - Graphite
  • 2-deck DJ Controller with Multi-device Compatibility
  • USB Audio Output - Graphite
  • Streaming Integration
  • Smart Mixing
Bestseller No. 2
Numark Party Mix II - DJ Controller with Party Lights, DJ Set with 2 Decks, DJ Mixer, Audio...
  • Complete Algoriddim djay and Serato DJ System – USB DJ Equipment for beginners with 2 DJ decks of control, built-in audio interface and plug and...
  • Exciting DJ Lighting FX Plus all DJ Equipment Essentials You Demand - Built-in LED DJ light show syncs to your DJ mix; Sync, Play/Pause & Cue buttons;...
  • Get Hands-On with your DJ Set - Performance pads with 4 DJ pad FX: Effect, Cue, Loop, and Sampler; Filter knobs and Pitch Sliders on each DJ deck;...
  • Stream Millions of Tracks – Stream all your DJ music through Serato DJ Lite (Included) or djay Pro AI from leading providers including SoundCloud,...
  • Command Your DJ Mix & Connect To All Your DJ Equipment – DJ Headphones output and 1/8-inch main output to connect to DJ speakers; integrated DJ...
Bestseller No. 3
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 2-deck Serato DJ Controller
  • 2-deck DJ Controller f Serato DJ with Battle-style Setup
  • Built-in Microphone Input
  • Tracking Scratch
Bestseller No. 4
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 — Ideal DJ Controller for Learning to Mix — Software and...
  • Learn the basics of DJing with help from the Beatmatch Guide (built-in Tempo and Beat Align light guides)
  • Be creative and create infinite variations of mixes with the STEMS feature
  • Integrates music streaming services for mixing tracks (Beatport ADVANCED, Beatsource, SoundCloud GO+ or TIDAL)
  • Master the fundamentals of DJing with videos from the pros at the DJ Academy
  • Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software included, and compatible with Serato DJ Pro
Bestseller No. 5
Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX - DJ Controller For Serato DJ with 4 Deck Control, DJ Mixer, Built-in...
  • Complete Serato DJ System – DJ Controller for Serato DJ Lite (Included) with 4 decks of control, built-in 24-bit audio interface and plug and play...
  • Visualize Your DJ Mix - Large 6-inch capacitive-touch jog wheels with high-resolution color displays that show beats per minute (BPM), platter...
  • Personalize your DJ Set - Six Fun, quick-launch FX with dual paddle triggers; dedicated instant loop controls; eight performance pads per deck to...
  • Stream Millions of Tracks – Browse and stream everything from the freshest underground sounds to certified classics directly in Serato DJ Lite from...
  • Ready to Connect To All Your DJ Equipment - Microphone input, headphone output and RCA output to connect to DJ speakers, plus a mixer with 3-band EQ,...

FAQ:

Q: What is the best DJ controller?

A: Pioneer DDJ-1000 DJ controller. Check the price on Amazon.com Pioneer’s DJ equipment is probably the most commonly used gear in the DJ world. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8. Check the price on Amazon.com Native Instruments has been around for years making great quality hardware and software for all musicians. Denon DJ PRIME 4|Serato DJ Controller. …

Q: What controllers are compatible with Virtual DJ?

A: Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000. Of every single DJ controller on the market, the Pioneer Pro DDJ-1000 has the highest ratings of them all. Numark NV II. Next up, the Numark NV II is an incredible DJ controller with four channels. … Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2. The popular and Highly-rated Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 is a fantastic and affordable DJ controller. … Numark Mixtrack 3. …

Q: What is a DJ controller mixer?

A: Lightweight&Portable – Which Is Perfect For The Mobile DJ Great Value For Money As They Are Significantly Cheaper Than A Full Set-Up With An External Mixer All In One Unit Standalone Mixer Capability – Some Controllers Offer This Function Allowing You To Connect To External Devices Perfect For Bedroom DJing Due To The Size.

If these weren’t enough, check out some other picks from Amazon also:

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500: 2-deck USB DJ controller for Serato DJ and DJUCED (included)
  • 2-Deck Usb Dj Controller With Built-In Audio Interface And Hardware Input Mixer For Audio Inputs
  • 16 Backlit Rgb Pads, Vinyl Function, Loop In/Loop Out Buttons
  • Smooth, Original Transitions Between Tracks Thanks To The Filter/Fx Area. Large Jog Wheels With Touch Detection For Scratching
  • Designed With Retractable/Extendable Feet, To Lift Up The Controller: Keep It Safe From Spilled Drinks
  • English (Publication Language)
Sale
Hercules DJ DJControl Starlight | Pocket USB DJ Controller with Serato DJ Lite, Touch-Sensitive Jog...
  • The perfect DJ controller to introduce you to DJing, with Serato DJ Lite included
  • Built-in sound card to pre-listen to the headphones and speaker outputs
  • Control the back, lights on the base: RGB and strobe effects
  • All the essential features: bass/filter, Hot cue modes, loop, FX, Sampler, pressure sensitive jog wheels, etc.
  • Compact and easy to carry wherever you want
Sale
Hercules Universal DJ | Bluetooth + USB DJ controller with wireless tablet and smartphone...
  • Experience the party from the heart of the dance floor at any time Enjoy the freedom to move and groove with your party's crowd In addition to your...
  • Be as creative as a pro DJ the deuced master applications my extender lets you unleash your creativity. With just one finger create loops and fx...
  • Never seen before. Let the people at your party chime in, for a perfect party. Prepare your party by sharing your playlist with your guests through...
  • The DJUCED Master application allows you to view the votes in real time. Hone your playlists to please your guests. During the party, ask your guests...
  • The highest-voted playlist is visible on your second device (tablet or smartphone), allowing you to track it in real time. View the tracks, artists or...
co2CREA Hard Case Replacment for Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 / Platinum FX DJ Controller
  • co2CREA Hard Travel Case Replacement for Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 / Platinum FX DJ Controller. Hard EVA Shell Case is shockproof dustproof and water...
  • This case perfect fit for your Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 or Numark Mixtrac Platinum FX DJ Controller and has more space to accommodate the chargers and...
  • co2CRAE Hard Protective Case is a build-in super quality lining reflects superior taste and ensures a long-lasting performance, the soft anti static...
  • This Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 / Platinum FX DJ Controller case has the Hand Strap, so that the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 or Numark Mixtrac Platinum FX DJ...
  • For sale is CASE ONLY! (device and accessories are not included)
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 DJ Controller
  • Jog mode: Classic spin-to-nudge function, as well as scratch capability
  • Beat grid adjust mode: Use the jog wheel to manually adjust beat grid in TRAKTOR
  • Club-standard layout with identical deck design, 2-channel mixer, and fast control of key TRAKTOR features
  • 16 RGB pads for triggering Hot cues, loops, or samples. Headphone Output - Maximum Output Level - 45 mW at 33 Ohm load . Frequency Response -...
  • 3-band EQs with modeling of industry standard mixer Eqs
Hermitshell Travel case for Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 / DDJ-SB2 / DDJ-400 Portable 2-channel Controller or...
  • Durable EVA Material: Made from ethylene vinyl acetate for protection against bumps, dents, and scratches.
  • Fits Pioneer DJ Controllers: Designed to fit Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 and DDJ-SB2 portable 2-channel controllers.
  • Travel-Friendly Design: Compact 23" x 11.5" x 3.5" size and zipper closure for easy portability.
  • Black Color: Sleek black color matches any DJ setup.
  • For Sale Separately: Case only, device and accessories sold separately.
Numark DJ2GO2 Touch – Compact 2 Deck USB DJ Controller For Serato DJ with a Mixer / Crossfader,...
  • Ultra-Portable, Feature Packed – Compact 2 channel Serato DJ Lite (Included) USB DJ Controller for Mac and PC; MIDI mapping for use with other...
  • Connectivity Covered – On-board audio interface with 1/8-inch headphone output and 1/8-inch main output for complete hookup flexibility with DJ...
  • Total Mix Control – 2 DJ decks with a crossfader, touch capacitive jog-wheels and pitch faders - access to all the must-have tools for seamless...
  • iOS Compatibility: Connect DJ2GO2 Touch to your iOS device using the Apple Camera Connection Kit (Sold Separately) for hands-on control of popular DJ...
  • Stream millions of tracks: Stream everything from the freshest underground sounds to certified classics directly in Serato DJ Lite from leading...
CASEMATIX DJ Controllers Travel Case Compatible with Hercules DJ Controller DJControl Inpulse 500...
  • Hard Shell Protection For DJ Mixers - This premium casematix Travel Case features a dense, hard shell EVA exterior that will protect your precious DJ...
  • Impact Absorbing Internal Foam - This DJ Controller Table Carrying Case features top and bottom layers of convoluted, shock-absorbing foam protection....
  • Convenient Design For Travel - Featuring a built-in carry handle, adjustable shoulder strap and external dimensions of 24" x 15" x 3.5", this case for...
  • Spacious Interior Fits Large Mixers- Our casematix Professional Mixer DJ Bag fits equipment and controllers with maximum internal dimensions of 22.5"...
  • Universal Design - This hard shell travel case will keep your turntable safe from harm and hazard during travel and transport. Your controller will...