Best Beginner DJ Decks

DDJ-400

• Considered a good starting point for beginners
• Has mixer effects, pads for other functions, and headphone mixing controls
• Pros:
  • "The DDJ-400 has an audio interface...it's essential because you want one output for your headphones for cueing and another for your audience to hear."
  • "The DDJ-400 has mixer effects, pads you can use for other things, and headphone mixing controls."
• Cons:
  • "The DDJ-400 is more inconvenient with more hands and eyes on the laptop compared to some other controllers."

FLX4

• Recommended over the Prime Go for beginners
• Offers Bluetooth connectivity and some improvements from the DDJ-400
• Pros:
  • "The FLX4 features all the DDJ-400 advantages plus Bluetooth connectivity and some improvements here and there."
• Cons:
  • "It's like a flat matte feel not really cheap but definitely doesn't feel like some of the more expensive controllers."

DDJ-200

• Considered basic and lacking important features for beginners
• Missing trim controls, level indicators, and looping controls compared to DDJ-400
• Pros:
  • "It's a really quick learn so you can master the fundamentals of DJing."
  • "If you have an Android, there is a YouTube video showing lag when you play a song from the Pioneer DDJ-200."
• Cons:
  • "It's a nifty little controller but it's not a great 'first controller.'"
  • "DJing on the DDJ-200 is more inconvenient with more hands and eyes on the laptop."

Hercules Inpulse 500

• Considered a good alternative to DDJ-400 with superior features
• Reviews suggest it is above the DDJ-400 in terms of performance
• Pros:
  • "The reviews I've read seriously put it above the DDJ-400."
• Cons:
  • "The DDJ-200 lacks the knobs for channel gains, master level as well as headphone mix and volume."
  • "DJing on the DDJ-200 is more inconvenient with more hands and eyes on the laptop."

Numark Mixtrack Pro 1

• Suggested as a budget-friendly option for beginners
• Works well with software like Mixxx
• Pros:
  • "My friend started training with it...should cost around 20-50 €/$/£."
• Cons:
  • Not as advanced as some of the other controllers mentioned for beginners.

Other Mentioned Decks

• Pioneer XZ: Recommended to go big if budget allows
• Reloop Mixtour: A good choice for a small setup, works well with iOS
• Second-hand DDJ SB2 or DDJ RB: Suitable for beginners on a budget

Based on the comments, the DDJ-400 and FLX4 are highly recommended for beginners, while the DDJ-200 is considered basic and lacking essential features. The Hercules Inpulse 500 is seen as a good alternative to the DDJ-400. Ultimately, the choice depends on budget, desired features, and preferred software compatibility for aspiring DJs.