Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 vs Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500

The DDJ-FLX4 is the safer pick for most beginners: it works with rekordbox, djay, Serato DJ Lite and Traktor, runs on phones and tablets as well as laptops, and adds Smart Fader and Smart CFX to smooth out transitions. The Inpulse 500 counters with a sturdier metal build, larger 5.5-inch jog wheels, 16 pads, two headphone outputs, a microphone input and balanced monitor outs, which suits scratching and small live setups. Owners of both rate them highly; the FLX4 wins on software flexibility and portability, the Inpulse 500 on hardware and I/O.

• Choose the DDJ-FLX4 if you want one compact controller that works with rekordbox, djay, Serato and Traktor across laptop, phone and tablet, with Smart Fader and Smart CFX doing the heavy lifting while you learn.
• Choose the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 if you want bigger jog wheels, a metal top plate, 16 pads and real mic and monitor connections for scratching and small live sets.