We take a look at the best DJ mixers money can buy, for DJs working in all kinds of venues and genres.

 
Mixers may be one of the least sexy pieces of DJ gear, but that doesn’t make them any less essential. And in fact, if you know where to look, you can find a mixer that does get the pulse racing. Here, we’ve gathered the best DJ mixers around together into one list, to help you decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re putting together your first ever DJ rig, or the latest of many, you should find exactly what you need right here.

How do I choose the best DJ mixer?

 
As is the case with many pieces of kit, the ‘best’ mixer is just the one that works best for you. There are several factors you should keep in mind when choosing one, including…

– Budget. Though they are rarely flashy, mixers can be very expensive. If you don’t have the money to splash out, there are plenty of top quality budget models to suit your needs. But if you can, spending a little more money will go a long way to getting you a mixer than will last.
– Number of channels. The standard number of mixer channels is two — usually one for each turntable deck — but if you need to work in a mic, a laptop or live instruments, it might be worth investing in a mixer with more.
– Functionality. As well as simple mixing and crossfading, DJ mixers can include filters, interfaces, MIDI connectivity, and a range of other special functions. Make sure you decide if you need any of these before you make a purchase.

Best budget DJ mixers

Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2

 
Price: around £300

Pros: Pioneer’s DJM mixers are some of the most popular on the planet. Last time you were at a club, the DJ was probably using one. This entry-level model has the seal of quality you’d expect from the popular brand, as well as a built-in USB soundcard and a filter effect taken directly from Pioneer’s high-end models.

Cons: That filter effect is the only effect that comes with the mixer. Not a problem if you just want to plug and play, but a drawback if you’re interested in performing effects-heavy sets. £300 might be relatively cheap for a mixer, but it’s still a lot of money for those with a very tight budget.

Numark M6 USB

 
Price: around £150

Pros: Coming in at a true budget price point, the Numark M6 USB four channels and a built in soundcard. Numark is another trusted brand, staking their reputation on this low-priced, high-quality piece of equipment.

Cons: This one has no effects at all, but it’s a small price to pay for such a value-for-money investment.

Best premium DJ mixers

Pioneer DJM-2000nexus

 
Price: around £2,000

Pros: An expensive product that lives up to its price. Pioneer’s premium model is so powerful it almost qualifies as a standalone computer. The almost literally countless features include a 5.8” multi-touch colour screen, a live sampler, beat slicing and syncing capabilities, multiple effects, and a built-in USB interface.

Cons: While this mixer truly does everything you need it to and more, the high price point puts it out of reach for all but the most successful DJs.

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2

 
Price: around £500

Pros: Integrates perfectly with Native Instruments’ popular Traktor DJ software, this mixer is different to the others in that it allows you to control a simulation of a full DJ setup through this one device. There are over 30 effects on offer here, including digital scratching. Perfect if you’re taking the digital-only DJ route.

Cons: By its nature, this mixer is less useful for vinyl heads. And if you have no interest in using Traktor DJ software, you’re better off with a different mixer.