A decent mixer is a vital piece of equipment if you're a DJ. Although not exclusive to the genre, DJ mixers are used essentially with electronic music. If you love techno, hip-hop, house, or EDM, harmonious mixing is key to the DJ's set.

In simple terms, mixers help DJs prepare tracks and blend them together. They also allow you to use equalizers, filters, loops, or other effects to make that perfect mix.

So, let's look at some of the best mixers on the market right now.

The Top DJ Mixers in 2023

If you are just beginning your musical journey, a 2-channel mixer is the best choice. Understandably, you may feel it’s better to purchase a budget-friendly mixer to start with. However, if you are certain DJing will not be a fad, investing in a more quality model is wise.

Allen & Heath is synonymous with quality and has mixers for all levels. The XONE:23 is a great entry-level choice thanks to its superior build and audio quality despite its relatively low price. However, it's also a fantastic option for experienced DJs who want to cut out the extras and focus on the fundamentals while still having access to features that go beyond the basics when you feel the need.

It’s a sturdy, rugged, heavy 2-channel mixer that can take some abuse. It also has a very useful 3-band total-kill EQ for removing unwanted frequencies from your mixes. Additionally, there are two more channels for connecting external effects processors, allowing you to get more creative.

However, it may not be the best choice for battle DJs, especially beginners. The line faders are a little apart, making it challenging to operate them single-handedly. They also have no curves or reverses. However, you can improve this by customizing it with a Mini Innofader crossfader. And, of course, it’s a fantastic choice for mixing techno, house, drum and bass, and other genres.

With so many scratch mixers available these days, it can take some time to find the right one for you. If you want to cut to the chase and get the best one, and you don’t mind the hefty price tag, then the Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 is an absolute must-have. Unless you are a true beginner, this is the mixer all aspiring to advanced battle mixers should look to.

It’s a fine-looking two-channel mixer that uniquely allows you to control up to four decks, thanks to the Deck 3/4 control feature. It also has superior build quality and will last for a while. Additionally, the Magvel Pro crossfader can withstand the rigors thrown at it by vigorous scratch DJs, and there are numerous ways to tweak its settings.

On top of that, the audio quality is incredible and leaves its predecessors, the DJM-S9 and DJM-909, behind. You can use the 16 performance pads found on each deck for triggering samples, loops, and hot cues. They are velocity-sensitive, too, so you can control the volume or intensity by the strength of your taps, giving you more ways to get creative and express yourself.

The mixer’s screen is intuitive and straightforward, even for beginners, while there is also a touch FX screen and a Touch Midi for more access and control than the mixer’s predecessors provided. It works best with Serato DJ Pro, but you can also use Rekordbox, although options are a bit more limited with that software.

The Gemini Sound MM1 is another perfect and affordable start for newbies. Its 2-channel interface and crossfader allow you to master the necessary basics without the distractions of advanced settings and features.

The audio quality is good, and each channel has a 2-band equalizer to experiment with high and low sound adjustments during your mixes. Its dedicated cue function lets you preview your mixes, so you can ensure beats and basslines aren't clashing.

The MM1 also features a crossfader reverse switch and adjustable curves, giving you a platform to venture into scratching if you have any turntablist aspirations. It’s exceptionally lightweight and transportable, weighing in at just over a pound. So, taking it to a friend's house for a mix or to a house party is hassle-free.

On top of that, the mixer is highly affordable and a great choice for those considering the pleasures of DJing for the first time.

Numark is one of the pioneers of DJ mixers. With over fifty years of experience, you can be sure that purchasing their equipment is a sound choice. If you seek a reliable, robust, and simple mixer that isn't going to cost a small fortune, the Numark M2 is a safe bet.

Numark markets it as a 2-channel scratch mixer, but you can use this simple mixer for any style and genre. It’s the perfect mixer for newbies as it pretty much does what it says; there is no steep learning curve, and you can basically plug and play. Alternatively, if you are an old-school, two-turntables-and-a-microphone type, you can’t go wrong with this mixer, and 3- and 4-channel models are also available for the more experienced DJ.

You can mix from turntables or CDJs. However, it isn’t designed for DJ software as it isn’t a MIDI device, so you will have to control it with your keyboard and mouse or a separate MIDI controller.

For professionals and advanced hobbyists looking to take things to the next level, the Allen & Heath XONE:96 is the one to get. This beast is a six-plus-two-channel mixer with two four-band return channels for connecting external effects processors and two return channels with gain and cue for monitoring them. You can also manipulate the audio output with the dual VCFs with crunch distortion for extra grit and texture.

The mixer’s built-in audio interface is cutting-edge. It is Traktor Scratch-certified, and you can use it with most computers or laptops without the need for additional drivers. It also has dual USB ports that allow you to connect two computers simultaneously. Additionally, the high-gain phono preamps and soft-switching analog circuitry boosts the signal and reduces noise and distortion from analog sources.

It’s a superb choice for DJs seeking a high-quality audio interface for a home studio or mobile setup or DJ duos using multiple audio sources, digital or analog.

Battle mixers must endure punishment, and thanks to their tank-like construction, Rane mixers are a great choice. The Rane 72-MKII is the company's flagship mixer that will take your scratching to the next level.

Although there are a plethora of professional features on this mixer, you shouldn't feel overwhelmed. As long as you have some knowledge of battle mixers, you will enhance your skills step by step and eventually push them to the limit on this prime piece of equipment.

One excellent feature is the 4.3-inch touchscreen that diverts your attention away from the laptop. With the convenient track navigation feature and access to the core menu settings, you can keep an uninterrupted rhythm going. You can also monitor the moving waveforms and control the FX.

However, the most crucial feature for any battle mixer is the crossfaders. Rane's ultra-light contactless Mag Four technology is present in the line faders and the crossfader. There are also virtually unlimited fader customization options, one of which is the hardware tension knob that allows you to set your personal resistance level.

Additionally, the colorful performance pads and sturdy aluminum paddles control various features when connected to DJ software. Serato DJ is the most commonly used with Rane equipment, but Virtual DJ and Traktor users can also get in on the action.

The Behringer DDM4000 has fantastic features for such a reasonably-priced machine. At first glance, the layout may be overwhelming for novices, and absolute beginners will feel comfortable with something more basic. However, given time, everything becomes apparent and easy to use.

The mixer has four channels, each supporting two devices, with a fifth channel designated for the mic output. That means a whopping possibility of eight inputs simultaneously connected. On top of that, the Behringer DDM4000 boasts many features, including beat-synchronized samplers, four multi-FX sections, two BPM counters, a digital crossfader, and a MIDI.

You can eliminate elements of your tracks with the kill switches. This feature is a great way to ensure seamless mixing and prevent basslines and melodies from clashing. Using this feature with the beat-synchronized samplers is a creative way to perform live remixes and thrill your audience or listeners. Additionally, scratch DJs will be happy with the curve controls on the faders and excellent crossfader features.

This mixer can also store all these features for up to eight different users, excellent news for DJs who share the mixer.

What to Consider Before Buying a DJ Mixer

Your primary consideration is if you even need one. You may just need a controller if you only use digital files to DJ. If you’re a novice DJ just looking for fun or a new hobby, a DJ controller, your laptop, and a bunch of MP3s of all your favorite tunes may be all you need.

A mixer is the way to go if you use turntables or CDJs or want better sound quality and control. Mixers range in price from surprisingly affordable to top-of-the-range premium models. If you’re just starting out and have already bought a pair of turntables to mix your newly purchased vinyl records, you might not want to pay top dollar for the absolute best-quality mixer. Affordable two-channel options like the Numark M2 or the Gemini Sound MM1 give you an excellent starting base to learn the tricks of the trade.

If you are a professional, you probably already know the best mixer for you. However, you might be an aspiring DJ with money to spare, and you might be serious about your new hobby and want a mixer built to last that you can learn and grow with. DJs who fit this bill should just buy the Pioneer DJ DJM-S11, no question. It’s designed with battle mixers in mind, but it suits any music genre and DJ style.

While it may not be perfect for battle mixers, the Allen & Heath XONE:23 is still a fantastic all-around mixer. In particular, it showcases a nice blend of value and quality, isn’t overly complicated, and is an excellent base for beginners. It also has two extra channels for connecting external effects processors and is portable, well-built, and can withstand the rigors of heavy use.