Just like you, many of us were once beginner DJs. The world of DJ gear can seem overwhelming, but when you’re just starting out, all you really need is a simple setup with a few key pieces of equipment.

We’re here to help you find everything you need to practise at home, develop your skills, and – most importantly – have some fun! Let’s get straight into the gear.

AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2

Compact and smooth to use, the AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 is one of the most beginner-friendly DJ controllers on the market.

Its Smart Fader makes transitions easy by automatically matching tempo, volume, and bass as you move the crossfader – so you can confidently blend different tracks, even if you’re just starting out.

It’s compatible with rekordbox, Serato DJ Lite, and djay, and supports streaming through services like Apple Music.

There are also eight performance pads on each deck that give you room to be creative with Hot Cues and effects. And to top it off, the USB-powered design means you can plug in and play wherever you are.

Pioneer DDJ-FLX4

The big name in DJ gear: Pioneer. It’s what many of the pros use and what loads of clubs are kitted out with, but you don’t have to be a DJ master to use the brand.

The Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is a lightweight, two-channel controller that’s ideal for beginners. You can use it with rekordbox or Serato DJ Lite, and it works across a wide range of devices, including smartphones and tablets.

Performance pads, Smart CFX effects, and a built-in soundcard give you room to grow your skills.

Plus, with USB power and built-in streaming access, it’s a flexible and travel-friendly option for any new DJ.

Numark Party Mix II 2-Channel DJ Controller

The Numark Party Mix II 2-Channel DJ Controller is a great little starter controller. It’s compact and has the essentials you need for DJing – volume faders, EQs, and free Serato DJ software.

It’s all in the name – the Party Mix II is fun to use and puts on a show. With integrated LED lights that synchronise to the beat of your music and large jog wheels for incredible accuracy in timing and pitch, this controller goes further than just a portable entry-level piece of gear; it lets you scratch and practise various techniques with precision.

The features are of professional quality. Each channel has a two-band EQ, filter effect knobs, and four performance pads for triggering things like loops, effects, and your custom samples.

The pitch sliders are easy to use and you can sort through your songs effortlessly via the library controls.

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3

Check out this portable, USB-powered, club-ready DJ controller: the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3.

Using the included Traktor Pro 4 software, you’ll get mixing in minutes with NI’s own Getting Started videos and series of ‘TruTorials’.

Features of the latest Traktor Pro version include high-quality stem separation courtesy of AI and iZotope’s RX technology, flexible beatgrids, and the Pattern Player, which provides the sounds of iconic drum machines.

This controller is the perfect gateway to DJing – you’ll be able to practise your skills on the same software used by professionals.

Denon DJ SC Live 4

The Denon DJ SC Live 4 has a seven-inch HD touchscreen and four mixer channels, all with extensive controls, making it a comprehensive piece of kit for mixing on.

It’s powerful yet beginner-friendly, running on Engine DJ and now supporting Apple Music for access to over 100 million tracks directly from the device – no laptop needed.

Built-in Wi-Fi, onboard speakers, and Bluetooth audio output make it ideal for quick setups in any space.

You also get streaming access to Beatport, SoundCloud GO+, and more, so you’re always ready to play.

Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR

If you’re after a lightweight, portable system that bridges that gap between bedroom DJ and professional, the Pioneer DJ XDJ-RR is ideal.

It mirrors the layout of Pioneer’s club-standard gear, with controls and screen features modelled on the CDJ-2000NXS2 and DJM-900NXS2, making it a solid starting point if you’re aiming to play in professional venues.

You can DJ with or without a laptop – either link your rekordbox library or plug in a USB stick.

Dual USB ports support smooth back-to-back sets. Performance features like hot cues, loops, and pro-grade FX let you shape tracks creatively, while its lightweight design means it’s easy to take to gigs.

Denon DJ Prime 4+

The Denon DJ Prime 4+ is a professional-grade standalone controller packed with features that also make it accessible to beginners.

The latest Engine DJ update brings advanced Stems control, letting you isolate vocals, drums, bass, or melody directly from the hardware – ideal for live remixing without extra software. You can also stream music via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth from Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, and more.

With four channels, a 10-inch touchscreen, responsive jog wheels, and FX controls, it’s a super intuitive, complete system.

Numark Mixstream Pro Go

The Numark Mixstream Pro Go is a fully standalone DJ controller built for portability and ease of use. With built-in Wi-Fi and a rechargeable battery, you can mix wirelessly and untethered for hours – ideal if you’re just starting out and want to DJ anywhere.

It supports streaming from Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, and others, so you can access millions of tracks without a laptop.

A seven-inch touchscreen, custom-tuned speakers, and Smart Scratch-enabled jog wheels make it easy to learn and perform. With built-in FX, performance pads, and lighting control, the Mixstream Pro Go gives you everything you need to start mixing right out of the box.

Technics SL-1210 MK7

The Technics SL-1210 MK7 DJ Turntable offers precision, durability, and performance for DJs of all levels.

Its S-shape tonearm is made from lightweight aluminium, which helps reduce wear on your records and keeps your stylus tracking perfectly. The white stylus illuminator is a handy touch, especially in low-light conditions.

A resonance-free platter with two layers of aluminium and deadening rubber ensures consistent, clean playback every time. It’s a solid, reliable foundation for your mixing.

Thanks to digital pitch control, tempo adjustments are super accurate. It’s great for smooth mixing and cuts down on issues like wow and flutter.

The coreless direct drive motor then keeps playback stable and is perfect for scratching or tight transitions.

Pioneer DJ PLX-500

The Pioneer DJ PLX-500 is a direct drive turntable that offers high-quality sound and a straightforward setup, ideal for newcomers to vinyl or DJing.

Its design minimises audio routing, reducing distortion and delivering a clear, warm analogue sound. A phono/line switch makes it easy to connect straight to speakers without needing extra gear.

What sets the PLX-500 apart, though, is its built-in USB output, allowing you to digitise your vinyl collection quickly and easily.

It’s also compatible with rekordbox DVS, so you can control digital files with timecode vinyl – perfect if you’re exploring vinyl mixing or digital DJing.

There’s a huge array of mixers you can use with your turntable. As a beginner, you won’t want to be overwhelmed by extensive controls, but you will want enough scope to be able to pick up new skills and learn to DJ effectively. 

Here are some of our top picks!

Adam Audio D3V Desktop Studio Monitor System

The Adam Audio D3Vs are perfect if you need a pair of compact desktop monitors with a bass response that belies their size.

With 3.5-inch aluminium woofers and dual-sided passive radiators, they can produce frequencies as low as 45 Hz, while hand-folded 1.5-inch D-ART tweeters ensure crystal-clear high frequencies.

What’s more, the monitors boast DSP room acoustics switches, meaning they deliver a consistent sound regardless of their environment or placement.

In essence, they fix any audio issues that might arise from poor speaker placement or room acoustics, so you can have a studio-quality mix even with a less-than-ideal setup.

Plus, practically, they’re a dream to use. As well as a USB-C input for convenient connectivity to computers and mobile phones, the D3V monitors come with a headphone output and detachable stands.

Presonus Eris 3.5 (2nd Gen) Studio Monitors

Ideal for multimedia and DJ purposes, the Presonus Eris Monitors ensures an even response across the full frequency range.

A wealth of connectivity options ensures that no matter how you’re setting up your DJ system, you will always be able to fit in these speakers. The rear panel features RCA and balanced TRS inputs for easy connections to your gear, while the front-panel 1/8-inch Aux In lets you quickly plug in mobile devices. A built-in headphone output on the front panel is ideal for private listening sessions.

With 25 watts of power per side, they offer a strong low-end response with exceptional clarity. Their improved speaker voicing ensures smoother transitions and precise audio reproduction, perfect for music production, video editing, or even gaming.

You can also customise the sound to suit your space with the high- and low-frequency controls. Whether you prefer deeper bass or a brighter treble, these monitors adjust easily. Compact and stylish, the Eris 3.5 fits perfectly into small spaces, making it a versatile addition to your studio.

For wireless use, opt for the Eris 3.5BT, which come with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

KRK Rokit RP7 G5

Hugely popular, the KRK Rokit RP7 G5 Monitors are a fan favourite amongst DJs for their thumping sound with plenty of headroom to crank the volume.

A clear and focused sound ensures accurate recreation of your mix, giving you a proper idea of how your mix will translate to live venue speakers.

With a two-way system, they deliver exceptional clarity, thanks to an acoustic axis point positioned between the tweeter and woofer. For the best results, place the monitors so the acoustic axis aligns with your ear level. Adjustable angling ensures the sound is perfectly directed for your setup.

Equipped with bi-amplified Class D power, these monitors provide excellent transient response and dynamic range while maintaining consistent performance during long sessions. This makes them ideal for achieving professional-quality mixes.

Their robust design, featuring a 7-inch Kevlar woofer and a front-facing bass port, ensures precise low-end performance. The RP7 is a versatile choice for any studio. And thanks to a distinctive black enclosure with yellow trimmings, you’ll not only sound great but look great too!

SubZero DJH-100

There are two things you need from a good pair of DJ headphones: comfort and great sound quality. The SubZero DJH-100 headphones come with soft ear pads and an adjustable headband; they’re comfortable enough for long DJ sessions without feeling too tight.

You get clear sound across the full frequency range thanks to the 40mm drivers, helping you hear the details when cueing or beatmatching.

Plus, they’re easy to pack away thanks to the folding design, and the two-metre cable gives you plenty of freedom to move. A 6.35mm adapter is also included, so they’ll plug straight into most DJ gear.

Sennheiser HD 25 Headphones

An industry classic. Featuring an aluminium voice coil to ensure excellent transient response and signature Sennheiser sound, the HD 25 headphones are ideal for listening back to punchy electronic music.

Designed for noisy environments, their high attenuation of background noise ensures you hear every detail of your mix.

A compact design with an iconic headband and flip-away earcup lets you listen for prolonged periods, even with single-sided listening. The headphones are lightweight, adjustable, and perfect for long sets.

Plus, they’re built to last, with a robust construction and a tough, detachable cable that stands up to the demands of travel and performance.

Rode NTH-50

The Rode NTH-50 headphones deliver clear, natural sound. With custom 40mm drivers and low distortion, they reveal subtle details across a wide frequency range – ideal for mixing, cueing, or critical listening.

Comfort is key, and the NTH-50’s contoured headband and ergonomic earcups reduce pressure during long sessions.

Their rugged build and locking cable connectors make them dependable for everyday use, whether you’re at home or on the move. With a 32-ohm impedance, they work just as well with portable gear as they do with studio equipment.