Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 vs Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK3

The Inpulse 500 is the better controller for anyone who wants to learn on real gear: bigger 5.5-inch jog wheels, 16 pads, a full onboard audio interface with two headphone outs and 1/4-inch monitor outs, and a mic input. The Inpulse 200 MK3 is a true starter unit: 4 pads, 3.5 mm headphone out only, and a 2 lb body that fits in a backpack. Owners rate the 500 higher (4.8 from 140 ratings vs 4.5 from 20), and its metal-topped build holds up better than the all-plastic 200. Buy the 500 if you plan to play out or grow into Serato; buy the 200 MK3 if you want the smallest, simplest way to learn beatmatching.

• Choose the Inpulse 500 if you want 16 pads, large jog wheels, a mic input and proper monitor and headphone outputs for playing out.
• Choose the Inpulse 200 MK3 if you need a 2 lb controller that fits in a backpack and teaches you beatmatching with guided LEDs.