Finding the best entry-level controller

There has never been a better time to purchase an entry-level DJ controller. With recent releases by Numark and Hercules joining an already crowded marketplace, the choices vast. We’ve rounded up five of the best controllers on sale, covering all of the big three software platforms to help find the best. Focusing on the topics that matter most to beginner DJ’s, the test should allow each unit to stand out amongst its rivals.

The Categories

Build Quality – Entry-level controllers have to stand up to quite a bit of abuse. From travelling in backpacks to be used at house parties to enduring long practice sessions. We’re looking for strong chassis, reliable buttons and premium feeling controls to ensure the controller lasts.

Performance Features – Advanced features such as Quantize, Rolls, Loops and Samplers are all software-based features. However, the better controllers will allow easy access to these features, making performances easier and more creative!

Software Features – Essentially all controllers are just MIDI devices that “control” the software running on your computer / iPad. The more features the software has, the longer it will last the DJ without feeling the need to upgrade.

Future-Proofing – As a DJ progresses, it’s important to have a controller that can grow with the DJ.  Advanced performance features, high quality connections and the ability to mix external sources are a great example of this.

Price – In such a crowded market place, price is everything. The included software and the controllers own performance in the above categories will all contribute to this score.

The Controllers

Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX

Launched May 2020, Price £250
Build Quality – 4
Performance Features – 4
Software Features – 3
Future Proofing – 4
Price – 3

The Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX features the best jog wheels we’ve ever used on an entry-level controller. The full size pitch faders add to the superb build quality which also featured both sizes of headphone port. The effects, controlled by paddles, make this controller the ultimate choice for aspiring turntablists. Serato DJ Lite boasts the simplest set ups, however the lack of recording holds it back. Upgrading to Serato DJ Pro allows for more performance features and the controller is mapped to take advantage of Pitch Play.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1

Launched January 2022, Price £259

Build Quality – 4
Performance Features – 4
Software Features – 4
Future-Proofing – 3
Price – 2

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1. This controller replaces the immensely popular SB3 and is one of the best choices for DJs wanting to scratch. With a battle style layout and larger jog wheels, this controller can even access the scratch bank feature in Serato DJ Lite. It’s not the cheapest model here, but it’s easily one of the favourites thanks to its superb build quality and features.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500

Launched June 2020, Price £279

Build Quality – 5
Performance Features – 5
Software Features – 4
Future Proofing – 5
Price – 5

The newest controller in the review, the Hercules Inpulse 500 impressed with its large chassis and premium build quality. Built with the intention of taking a DJ from Beginner to Intermediate, the 500 features advanced performance controls. Serato DJ Lite does hold the controller back, however the included DJucied and Serato DJ Pro (Paid upgrade) allow the controller to shine. At £279, this is a LOT of controller for the money, making the other models look expensive by comparison.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4

Launched late 2022, Price £279

Build Quality – 3
Performance Features – 4
Software Features – 5
Future Proofing – 4
Price – 3

The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is a fantastic beginner controller and successor to one of the most popular controllers on the market, the DDJ-400! The Rekordbox software allows the user to perform advanced routines without needing a paid upgrade.  The unit is smaller than some of the rivals and sadly only features one smaller headphone jack but its automatic mixing modes, combination effects and dual compatibility with Serato DJ make it a very strong contender. The DDJ-FLX4 is a fantastic entry to the Rekordbox eco-system, one that includes the infamous CDJ family of players. If playing in clubs is the end goal, the DDJ-FLX4 is a fantastic place to start.

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3

Launched October 2018, Price £249

Build Quality – 5
Performance Features – 2
Software Features – 3
Future Proofing – 2
Price – 3

The Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 is a controller that sadly is held back by its software. The controller comes bundled with two software to chose from. Traktor DJ 2 is available on iOS and Windows/Mac and although it features streaming, the library management leaves a lot to be desired. Traktor Pro 3 lacks the streaming and isn’t as simple as it’s rivals. The build quality is superb and it’s only the lack of 1/4th inch headphone jack that we can find fault with.

The Results

1st – Hercules DJControl Impulse 500

2nd – Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4

3rd – Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1

4rd – Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX

5th – Native Instruments Traktor S2 MK3

Thankfully in today’s market, there aren’t many bad entry-level DJ controllers. All five of these controllers are brilliant in their own way and for certain use cases each controller has its own perks. The Hercules DJControl Impusle 500 is a controller that outperforms its price tag. Built with taking beginners through to an intermediate level, the controller is a clear winner.

The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is through into second place with its brilliant Smart FX and club-standard layout. It’s Pioneer again next with the REV1, another superb controller with fantastic jog wheels. It’s hard to separate this from Numark’s Platinum FX, as they both serve open-format DJs so well. They come in at third and fourth places, respectively.

Native Instruments created a wonderful controller in the Kontrol S2 Mk3. However, the software feels dated and really requires an update. That said, the loyal Traktor user base will ensure that even without modern streaming and library management, the S2 MK3 still sells well.

Do you agree with our assessments? Let us know in the comments below!

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