10 affordable decks perfect for beginner DJs

Want to learn to DJ, but not sure where to start? These controllers, CDJs and traditional turntables offer you a variety of ways to get stuck in.

Up until the early 1990s, a DJ’s only option for mixing records was with a pair of turntables. In the 25 years or so since, the advent of digital DJ technology has greatly expanded upon the notion of both what a DJ is, and how they do it.

For someone looking to take up DJing today, there are numerous entry points. Your route in will depend on the music you want to play, the way you wish to play it, and your budget. Regardless, choose carefully, and whichever option you take will serve you well for years to come.

We’ve chosen some options that we think offer a solid mix of quality, features and value for money. Naturally, the more you pay, the more you get, but you only need look back at the history of DJing to know it’s possible to do a lot with even the simplest of tools.

Check out 10 recommended models below, plus the approximate price you’ll expect to pay, and then read on to learn more about the best controllers, CDJs and turntables on the market.

1. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 (£230/ €255/ $290)
2. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 (£700/ €780/ $880)
3. Pioneer DDJ-1000 (£1050/ €1170/ $1325)
4. Roland DJ-202 (£260/ €290/ $328)
5. Pioneer XDJ-700 (£600/ €670/ $755)
6. Pioneer XDJ-1000MK2 (£1100/ €1125/ $1385)
7. Technics SL-1210 MK2 (£450/ €500/ $570)
8. Audio Technica AT-LP120-USBHC (£230/ €290/ $290)
9. Stanton ST.150 M2 (£410/ €255/ $517)
10. Pioneer PLX-500-K (£283/ €315/ $356)