The 15 best DJ Mixers for any budget in 2024 (2024)

📅 Last updated: 4th Jan 2024 | 🕒 Est. reading time: 27 mins

Overview

Covering a broad range of budgets, this post lays out 15 of the best DJ mixers on the market right now, in 2024, along with everything you need to make a buying decision.

To keep things simple, we’ve broken them down into 4 different categories. If you don’t want to scroll through the whole list, you can click the links below to jump straight to the most applicable category:

• Beginner/budget range (top 3)
• Best club mixers (top 4)
• Best scratch mixers (top 5)
• Best 6-channel/high-end mixers (top 3)

Important things to consider

Which DJ mixer you choose will mostly depend on, 1} what type of DJ you are, 2} what setup you plan on using it with (usually either analogue turntables, and/or digital media players, perhaps using a Digital Vinyl System), and 3} just good old personal preference.

For most people reading this, you’re either going to choose a club mixer or a scratch mixer – which is why we’ve structured this post in the way we have.

To dive a little deeper, you’ll also want to consider if you plan on using a specific DJ software program with it and whether you plan on connecting external hardware, etc. For any mobile DJs using it for gigs, you’ll want to pay closer attention to the inputs & output and other relevant features!

Note: If there’s something specific you don’t understand as we go through the list (for example, questions like ‘’what is record out’’, or ‘’what is DVS’’), we explain these in our FAQ section at the end.

So then, here are the 15 best DJ mixers for ALL budgets in 2024!

1. Allen & Heath Xone:23

Overview:

Despite being in our beginner range, don’t be fooled, the Xone:23 from Allen & Heath is a professional piece of kit. It’s got 2+2 stereo channels allowing for 4 different music sources to be connected simultaneously, either for turntables, media players and/or external DVS soundcards.

With Low & high pass filter controls on-board it’s feature-rich for its size, and both the sound and build quality are excellent. Additionally, the mixer can be upgraded with the latest Innofader for scratch/battle DJs.

Approximate price: $450 (US).

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Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

2. Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2

Overview:

This DJM-250MK2 is Pioneer’s 2-channel entry-level offering, inheriting the Magvel Crossfader and Sound Color FX filter from their industry-standard DJM-A9 mixer (covered in the next section). With a premium build quality, it has a nice simple layout that’s great for beginners and those on a budget, also suitable for scratch DJs.

The unit comes with Pioneer’s Rekordbox DJ and Rekordbox DVS software in the box (just plug in your laptop), and it also works with Native Instruments DVS ‘Traktor Scratch’.

Approximate price: $390 (US).

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Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

3. Numark M6 USB

Overview:

Price at around $219 US, this 4-channel beginner offering from Numark is easily the cheapest on this list. As well as having a ton of inputs & outputs (to connect turntables and/or media players simultaneously), the USB connection allows you to mix in audio from music-player software and record DJ sets to your computer; plus the dedicated XLR Mic channel is great for talkover in your mix shows.

Despite being over 10 years old, the Numark M6 USB is still a great beginner option if you want 4-channel capability, although just bear in mind there are no filter controls or other FX on the unit.

Approximate price: $219 (US).

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Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

4. Pioneer DJ DJM-A9

Overview:

Most recent to market, in March 2023, and soon to be found in bars & clubs around the world, our top club mixer pick is Pioneer’s flagship (and industry-standard) 4-channel DJM-A9!

With the same familiar layout as the (now old) DJM-900NXS2, the new 4-channel unit boasts a ton of upgrades compared to its predecessor – offering notably better sound quality (thanks to the 32-bit converters!), modernized connectivity options, new FX, and much more.

More specifically, some standout features include the ‘centre lock’ on the Sound Color FX knobs (when switched on, this prevents the knobs from going past 12 ‘O’clock in the opposite direction), a better display screen with more customization options, 2 x headphone outputs with dedicated cueing (great for back-to-backs and DJ changeovers), much-improved microphone settings, and also Bluetooth pairing.

The layout has also been tweaked for a better user experience, with the DJM-A9 providing more space around the EQ knobs; plus the channel faders and Magvel crossfader have been redesigned using better-quality materials.

As for software, it fully supports Pioneer’s Rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro (separate license needed for Serato), and is also compatible with their ‘Stagehand’ App – which allows venues to wirelessly connect an iPad via WiFi and monitor the activity on the mixer.

Approximate price: $2,700 (US).

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Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

5. Allen & Heath Xone:PX5

Overview:

As well as bringing that warm, high-quality sound the brand is known for, the Xone:PX5 from Allen & Heath offers a plethora of analogue and digital connectivity (probably the best in this section), with each channel having its own dedicated send control for external FX processing.

The 4+1 channel ‘performance’ mixer (which means it’s super versatile and can incorporate the most elaborate of set-ups) has plenty of customizable built-in FX including reverbs, modulators, flangers and distorters. These are all high-quality and intuitive to use, as is the mixer itself!

Despite the broad connectivity options on the PX5, just be aware there’s only one USB input which isn’t ideal for DJ changeovers. Overall, this is an excellent option if you’re not after a brand-specific setup and/or you want to save a nice chunk of change on the DJM-A9. As well as being a standalone mixer for whatever you wish to hook up, it also supports DVS control of NI’s Traktor Scratch.

Approximate price: $1,800 (US).

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Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

6. Denon DJ X1850 Prime

Overview:

Next up is Denon DJ’s latest professional 4-channel club offering, the X1850 Prime (the predecessor of the X1800 Prime). Like the last two on this list, it offers a ton of connectivity options and fantastic sound regardless of the setup.

With comprehensive EQ and filter controls, it notably also has 16 built-in effects, 2 x dedicated Mic channels, MIDI sync for external instruments, and much more. Most importantly, to take advantage of all the customization options, the unit will be put to best use with the Denon DJ SC6000 or SC6000M media players – assisted by the built-in 5-port LAN hub at the back. It’s also compatible with Serato DJ Pro.

Approximate price: $1,200 (US).

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Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

7. Pioneer DJ DJM-750Mk2

Overview:

The DJM-750MK2 from Pioneer DJ sits in between the DJM-250MK2 that we covered in our beginner section and below the flagship DJM-A9 that’s No.1 in this section. As well as inheriting the build-quality and intuitive club layout from the DJM-A9, it includes many of the same features such as the Sound Color FX (4 instead of 6), Beat FX (11 instead of 14), Magvel Crossfader, and dedicated Mic section.

Whilst it’s literally half the price of the DJM-A9, you can still easily connect external hardware, etc (connections-wise, it’s going to have most DJs covered). As well as having fewer FX, it also doesn’t inherit the X-Pad touch strip in the FX section, and it only has a single USB connection around the back – so no convenient laptop changeovers. As with all three Pioneer mixers in this post, it once again comes with Rekordbox DJ and Rekordbox DVS licenses as standard.

Approximate price: $1,300 (US).

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Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

8. Pioneer DJ DJM-S11

Overview:

The DJM-S11 is Pioneer’s flagship 2-channel scratch mixer… the upgrade from the previous flagship S9. It has the classic battle-style layout with paddle FX controls in the middle of the unit and works out-of-the-box with Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox.

Several things have been improved or added to this latest model, now with a customizable 4.3-inch colour touchscreen at the top (which can control just about everything, both on-board and in-software) and 64-bit mixing & processing for improved sound, which we can confirm is excellent!

It has 3-band EQs + filter controls on each channel, 22 x built-in Beat FX, 16 x RGB back-lit performance pads (to trigger hot cues, loops, rolls, etc.), and also an improved Magvel Pro crossfader. Additionally, you can control 2 more decks in the software.

For scratch DJs who are happy paying top-dollar, the S-11 is fully-featured, to say the least, with far too many features to break down here (see features list and video below), which could be a little overwhelming for some. It’s also worth noting that it doesn’t have Split Cue in case you like to mix completely in the headphones.

Approximate price: $2,100 (US).

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Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

9. Rane Seventy-Two MkII

Overview:

Following on nicely is Rane’s flagship 2-channel scratch mixer – the Seventy-Two MkII. As with all Rane’s gear, this thing is built like a tank, and it’s designed to integrate tightly with Serato DJ Pro.

Similar to Pioneer’s S-11 we’ve just covered, it has a Customizable 4.3-inch full-colour touchscreen that shows waveforms, enables navigation and track selection, controls FX, and unlocks countless other performance tools.

The unit has a ton of FX, with the ability to stack up to 6 Serato FX with the on-board FLEX FX (on-board are things like echo, reverb and flanger). It also has 16 Akai performance pads with independent mode controls (8 on each deck) for scratch bank access and more.

Whilst the unit is designed to work best with Rane’s Digital Turntables, it’s still a standalone mixer, so you can still connect whatever setup you wish – whether analogue or digital. And as you’d expect in this price bracket, the sound is excellent. Just be aware that there’s no send & return, so you can’t connect third-party FX units. It comes with a fully adjustable Mag Four crossfader.

Approximate price: $1,900 (US).

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Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

10. Reloop Elite

Overview:

The Reloop Elite is a fully-featured, 2-channel performance mixer optimized for Serato DJ Pro and DVS control (software + DVS expansion pack included).

Whilst there’s a ton of things going on, key features include the 16 large RGB performance pads (which control up to 12 modes per deck), the Dual OLED displays (for visual feedback on effects, bpm and beat divisions), fully customizable Innofader Pro faders, Tweak FX, a dedicated Loop section on-board, and much more. Additionally, the 2 x USB audio interfaces provide 24-bit audio quality, and you can have two different laptops hooked up at the same time.

At around $1,300 US, it has a solid all-metal construction with a stylish metallic finish, and it’s about $700 cheaper than the market leaders we’ve just covered. It would be best utilized with Reloop’s 8000MKII hybrid turntables (as covered in our best turntables post).

Whilst there are no ‘paddle’ FX controls on the Reloop Elite, the entire design was developed in collaboration with famous scratch DJs and turntablists – meaning the layout and workflow of the unit, whilst it’s subjective, is arguably the best on the market.

Approximate price: $1,300 (US).

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Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

11. Pioneer DJ DJM-S5

Overview:

Targeted at beginners and hobbyists, the DJM-S5 is a 2-channel scratch mixer from Pioneer DJ. It’s designed to integrate with Serato DJ Pro and has many of the basic professional functions of more expensive mixers.

As well as looking the part with its distinctive red face plate, some key features include 4 x performance pads on each channel (with 13 different modes), the two large paddle FX controls that allow you to layer up to 3 Serato FX per deck, and the Magvel Fader Pro with a ‘Feeling Adjust’ knob to adjust the tension (the same fader found on the DJM-S11).

With a lot less going on than more expensive units, there’s plenty of room to manoeuvre with a lot less overwhelm, perfect for hobbyists and beginners. Other more gimmicky features include Scratch Cutter and Crossfader Hot Cue.

Unique to any pioneer mixer on the market, the 2 x USB Type-C connections mean you can power the S-5 through a connected laptop in addition to the mains. Additionally, it has an external battery bank, so you have a ton of power options. In case there was any doubt, the unit operates as a standalone mixer – so you can connect whatever setup you want. Also note it doesn’t have Split Cue.

Approximate price: $850 (US).

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Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

12. Traktor Kontrol Z2

Overview:

The Z2 is Native Instrument’s 2+2 channel scratch/battle mixer that integrates tightly with their Traktor Pro software. Whilst you can still purchase the Z2 from certain online retailers, it’s officially been discontinued by NI.

Since its release over 10 years ago, the Z2 has been much-loved by Traktor users and battle DJs around the world. It has 2 additional ‘remix channels’ accessible in the software and a 24-bit sound card that provides high-quality audio. Whilst there’s no doubt it’s a cracking mixer, based on its lack of availability, consider this more of a shout-out rather than a recommendation to buy it.

13. Allen & Heath Xone:96

Overview:

The Xone:96 from Allen & Heath is a high-end 6+2 channel hybrid DJ mixer – the predecessor of the popular Xone:92. With a built-in 32-bit 24-channel soundcard, it’s a complete solution for DJs, musicians, and club installers alike, with the ability to connect laptops, turntables, synthesizers, drum machines, effects pedals – you name it.

It’s got 4-band EQs on channels 1 – 4, (includes low-mid and high-mid), 3-band EQ for each stereo return, and Dual Xone VCF filters with ‘Crunch’ harmonic distortion. Additionally, it has 2 x FX send channels/4 x FX return, dual USB ports for back-to-backs, an InnoFader crossfader, and supports DVS control over NI’s Traktor Scratch out-of-the-box.

In short, it’s fit for ANY performance and can easily power the most elaborate of sound systems. For those looking to use it strictly for vinyl, the internal signal is 100% analogue and will sound fantastic in the right room. For more resources, also check out the feature overview video from Sweetwater or visit the manufacturer’s product page.

Approximate price: $2,500 (US).

Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

14. Pioneer DJ DJM-V10

Overview:

Next, we have the Pioneer DJ DJM-V10 – a 6+2 channel digital DJ mixer for club and studio use. In addition to a marketing-leading sound, with its 32-bit/96kHz analogue/digital converters and 64-bit internal processing, it works with Pioneer’s Rekordbox and also supports Traktor Pro 3 and Serato DJ Pro.

Some key features include 4-band EQ and dedicated filters on each channel with resonance controls, Pioneer’s built-in Beat FX (Short Delay, Long Delay, Dub Echo, Helix, and Reverb, etc.), compressor controls on each channel, dual headphone outputs (allowing two DJs to monitor simultaneously), a 4-inch touch screen, dedicated booth output with 2-band EQ, a Magvel Crossfader, and too much to talk about here. You also have 4 x FX sends and 2 x external sends per channel for use with your own effects processors.

As with Xone:96 we’ve just covered, you’ll find this in certain clubs with more complex connection requirements – with the ability to connect anything and everything: drum machines, synthesizers, you name it. For more resources, check out Pioneer’s intro video or visit the product page.

Approximate price: $3,500 (US).

Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

15. PLAYdifferently: MODEL 1

Overview:

Last, but certainly not least, is the PLAYdifferently: MODEL 1 – a high-end 6-channel analogue mixer designed for DJs and electronic music musicians. The manufacturer calls it a ‘performance instrument’, and it was co-designed by the legendary Richie Hawtin.

With its superb build quality and analogue circuitry, the MODEL 1 really stands out from a sound-quality perspective, particularly with a vinyl setup.

Just scratching the surface, some key features include EQ and Contouring Filters for fine-tuning individual channels, a sophisticated dual cue system so two DJs can cue at the same time, rugged ‘studio-like’ 60mm faders, and so much more.

Based on the layout and unique feature set of the unit, it’s perhaps not the best choice for your average out-and-out DJ (noting there’s no crossfader), although it could be perfect for the right enthusiast. Visit the product page here.

Approximate price: $3,000 (US).

Best places to buy:

Note: Commissions may be earned from the above links. See our affiliate declaration.

Summary: The 15 best DJ mixers in 2024

Just to recap, here are the 15 best mixers for DJs on the market right now (all budgets):

1. Allen & Heath Xone:23
2. Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2
3. Numark M6 USB
4. Pioneer DJ DJM-A9
5. Allen & Heath Xone:PX5
6. Denon DJ X1850 Prime
7. Pioneer DJ DJM-750Mk2
8. Pioneer DJ DJM-S11
9. Rane Seventy-Two MkII
10. Reloop Elite
11. Pioneer DJ DJM-S5
12. Traktor Kontrol Z2
13. Allen & Heath Xone:96
14. Pioneer DJ DJM-V10
15. PLAYdifferently: MODEL 1

More buyer’s guides:

• Best DJ Controllers for Beginners (mostly under $500)
• Best Mid-Tier DJ Controllers (under $1000 range)
• Best Top-Tier DJ Controllers (pro range with a laptop)
• Best Standalone DJ Controllers (no laptop required)
• Best Headphones for DJs (all budgets)
• Best Monitor Speakers (for DJs & producers on a budget)
• Best Turntables for DJs (for professional use)

FAQs