Connect with us

Entertainment

15 Best Free DJ Software Apps 2023

Published

on

Best Free DJ Software

What is the best free DJ software?

In our latest guide, we’ve rounded up the best free DJ software platforms that you can download and use right now.

We’ve included everything from 7-day trials to 100% free versions.

So, whether you’re looking to save a few bucks on software or just fancy a change, there’s something on this list for you!

 

The Best Free DJ Software 2022

Here’s our list of the best free DJ software:

 

1. Serato DJ Lite

Serato DJ Lite Free DJ Software

Serato DJ Lite was launched in 2018 to replace Serato DJ Intro, the companies previous offering.

It’s a stripped-back variant of the companies industry-leading professional DJ software, Serato DJ Pro, and features an upgraded interface and an improved user experience from Serato DJ Intro.

The free version of the DJ software is available to use on both macOS and PC and includes several beginner features that make it an excellent DJ app to get started with.

New features include a practice mode, 64-bit support for better performance, high-res support, and improved help and support tools.

Its plug-and-play connectivity is easy to use and allows you to connect your DJ controller and computer quickly.

You’re able to mix two tracks simultaneously using conventional controls like – scratch, nudge, and EQ, and you can easily create cue points for quick access to certain parts of your tracks.

Managing your music files in the software is simple, thanks to Serato Crates.

You can import your favorite digital music files and playlists from your iTunes music library using Serato DJ Intros advanced iTunes integration.

Serato Lite also gives you the ability to play around with up to four samples, basic sound effects, audio loops, and full-length tracks, in addition to the ones you’re already mixing.

Lastly, once you’re happy with your mix, lock your tracks in place using Serato Sync.

Also, once you’ve mastered the basics in the practice mode, upgrading to Serato DJ Pro might be worthwhile, as it offers a lot more features, which you’ll be able to take full advantage of.

Check out this video, which shows you exactly how it works:

 

2. Mixxx

Mixxx Free DJ Software

Mixxx is free, open-source DJ software designed by DJs and 100% community-driven.

Created in 2002, Mixxx is arguably still one of the best free DJ platforms on the market today, especially if you’re new to the world of DJing.

The software includes pitch and key control, beat looping, hot cues, quantization, EQ and crossfader control, and four-deck mixing.

It’s mapped to support a wide range of DJ hardware, so you shouldn’t have a problem connecting to a modern DJ controller.

In terms of file management, Mixxx is pretty good. Its music library helps you organize tracks into playlists, and you can use crates to build your own organization system.

Moreover, you can import tracks from your iTunes or Traktor library straight into your track, thanks to Mixxx’s iTunes and Tracktor integration.

Other useful things include the ability to record your mix, an Auto-DJ element if you need to take a break from DJing, and an excellent selection of customizable skins.

Overall, Mixxx, as a free and open-source DJ platform, has everything you need to mix your music and get started. . It’s fun, simple to learn, and will have you up to speed with DJing in no time.

Here’s a great beginners guide showing you everything you need to know to get started:

 

3. Virtual DJ

Virtual DJ Free DJ Software

Virtual DJ, formerly known as Atomix MP3, has been around the industry for quite some time, subsequently earning itself a reputation as a top DJ software.

Once you download and open the software, you’re presented with a well-designed user interface that’s easy to navigate and organized into manageable sections.

It’s packed full of excellent features and is fully operational without the need for any hardware.

Virtual DJ comes with an advanced mixer, transport controls, jog wheels, track information, effects, loops, performance pads, hot cues, smart sync, and a plethora of other valuable features for DJs.

Although it might seem overwhelming as a beginner, the powerful yet intuitive DJ app is easy to learn, and you’ll be able to master everything you need to know quickly.

Another huge advantage of the software is that it comes with a powerful video mixing engine, which allows you to mix video content if that’s your thing.

Its music library management system is pretty good and lets you create smart filter folders, playlists, and virtual folders for easy organization of all your tracks.

And, if you’re in a hurry, you can employ the toolbar for quickly selecting folders as favorites and make use of ultra-fast search parameters in the toolbar.

It’s worth mentioning that you’ll have to upgrade to the paid version if you want access to more features.

Nonetheless, the free software is still a great tool if you’re new to the game.

It’s easy to use, and you can always upgrade down the line once you’re familiar with the software.

Check out this video from DJ Mag showcasing stem separation:

 

4. Cross DJ Free

MixVibes Cross DJ Free DJ Software

Cross DJ Free, by MixVibes, is aimed at beginners who are just getting started in the industry.

It’s compatible with all major platforms, including iOS and Android, macOS, and Windows, and integrates with all the software you need to import playlists, collections, loops, and hot cues.

After downloading the software, you’ll be greeted with a nice, clean interface that’s easy to navigate and get your head around.

You’ll find all the main features typically found in free software, such as loops and effects, plus the addition of video DJing, which is a nice touch if you’re interested in developing your video mixing/editing skills.

Cross DJ also comes with a 2-channel mixer with 3-band EQ, a beat sync button for automatic beat detection matching, dynamic key control, and autoplay.

You’re also able to record your mix, upload your digital music to Mixcloud and Soundcloud, and the video files to YouTube and Dailymotion.

Once you’ve got to grips with it, you can purchase Cross DJ 4 if you want an upgraded DJ experience.

If you’re curious what CD4 offers, this video outlines everything you need to know:

 

5. Zulu DJ

Zulu DJ Free DJ Software

Zulu DJ is a professional DJ application for Windows and macOS.

If you’re a beginner who’s looking for straightforward, no-frills software, then you should check it out.

Once you open it up, you’re met with a pretty basic but easy-to-use interface that makes it easy to start mixing your favorite tracks.

You won’t have to worry about manually matching tempos as the software comes with auto beat detection, meaning all you have to do is load your tracks, and it’ll take care of the rest.

Besides real-time pitch and tempo adjustment, you can also apply real-time effects, like distortion and reverb, and record all your mixes as audio files.

Other handy features involve the ability to add samples to the sample bank, set playback markers, exercise an auto-play mode for hands-off DJ mixing, and connect compatible MIDI controllers.

If you’re new to DJing, we highly recommend giving Zulu DJ ago, as it’s one of the most straightforward applications.

 

6. UltraMixer

Ultra Mixer

UltraMixer is professional DJ software that offers a trial version to get you started.

It’s by far one of the best software tools on the market for DJing, one of our personal favorites, and is available to download on both Windows and macOS operating systems.

The platform is ideally suited for someone interested in upgrading to a premium version in the future but wants to check out all it has to offer before committing.

For those looking for more hands-on control, UltraMixer supports up to 80 MIDI controllers, including the Pioneer DDJ-1000, Numark NV2, and the Denon MCX-8000.

In terms of aesthetics, the interface is modern, stylish, and customizable using skins and widgets.

The database archive is great for professional music management and makes navigating tracks and playlists simple and time-efficient.

As you’d expect from a premium tool, it’s packed full of features, ranging from integrated effects and auto-sync to high-quality video mixing/sampling and a smartphone app.

UltraMixer can be a little hard on the eye for beginners, but over time, with regular practice and perseverance, you’ll quickly figure it out.

The one drawback with the free version is that you have to reload it every hour, making it more inconvenient for gigs than other software on the list.

However, if you’re looking for software that you can grow with long-term, UltraMixer is an excellent choice.

Check it out in action:

 

7. Kra Mixer

KraMixer Free DJ Software

Kra Mixer is DJ software that allows you to get your feet wet with the basics of DJing.

Its main selling point is that it uses the FMOD sound engine, one of the fastest engines of its time and used by Playstation 2 and Xbox game authors.

The software uses DirectX 8.1 for lightning-fast sound processing and comes with eight built-in sound effects, including Echo, Flanger, Reverb, and Compression.

On top of that, it also includes Automatic BPM detection matching, real-time recording to MP3 format, and support for various formats and frequency ranges.

Currently, Kra Mixer is only available on Windows, and there’s no word of it coming to macOS anytime soon.

However, before you click the download button, make sure you’ve updated your antivirus software as it comes bundled with some unwanted Spyware and Malware programs.

Once installed, make sure to remove these as soon as possible and clean things up as best you can.

In summary, for the hassle caused by Spyware, we recommend using other software mentioned in the list, but it’s up to you.

 

8. DJ Mix Lite

DJ Mix Lite

DJ Mix Lite is an automatic DJ mixing MP3 player for Windows.

It’s ideal for those looking to “set it and forget it,” as once you’ve chosen your tracks and filled your playlists, the software automatically mixes the music for you.

It also creates seamless transitions that leave the audience none the wiser and can pretty much be left to its own devices as long as you’ve cued up enough tracks.

This is all possible thanks to its built-in Beatlock Technology that analysis your sound files for beats without altering them in the process, making it fully beat-aware.

So, if you want to take more of a hands-off approach to DJing, then DJ Mix Lite is the perfect tool for the job.

 

9. Party Cloud

Party Cloud

Party Cloud is a cloud-based DJ app that allows you to mix tracks within your browser.

It’s about as simple as it gets when it comes to set-up.

Go to the website, make sure your computer is running the latest Flash Player version, pick the track you want to assign to each player, and away you go.

You don’t need to worry about running out of song choice either, as the database is packed full of millions of songs sourced directly from SoundCloud.

Besides access to a basic built-in-mixer, some loops, and automix, your options are pretty limited in terms of effects and features.

But, if you’re looking for something you can use without any hassle, then you can’t go wrong with Party Cloud.

 

10. Blaze

Blaze Free DJ Software

Although Blaze is technically a free DJing application, the catch is that you have to keep reopening the demo version every 30 minutes or so, which is just as annoying as it sounds.

However, we still included it on the list as it is excellent software and does allow you to get a feel for DJing if you’re a beginner.

When it comes to tracks, Blaze integrates with SoundCloud, so you’ll get access to millions of songs that can be added to your playlists within a blink of the eye.

Read More >> Where Do DJs Get Their Music?

It has a super clean interface, with frequency layered waveforms, and comes with all the basic modern digital software functions, such as Loops, Filters, Band-Equalizers, and Cues.

You’ll also get access to features like tempo and beat tracking, as well as built-in audio file effects, time-code supports, and MIDI presets, and custom mapping, which makes it easy to connect your favorite DJ controller.

All in all, we think Blaze Pro is the best option to go for, but the free version is good enough to test the water until you’re ready to step up to the full version.

This tutorial video shows you how to use MIDI mapping in Blaze:

 

11. DJ PRODECKS

DJPRODECKS Free DJ Software

DJ PRODECKS is professional DJ software that’s designed by DJs.

Although less popular than other platforms on the list, it’s still one of the best free programs, in our opinion.

It supports various audio file formats such as MP3, MP2, WAV, WMA, AAC, and FLA and can be hooked up to almost any professional controller.

Some of the more advanced features include auto-mix and auto-loop, effects like Echo, Flanger, and Wha, advanced tracklists, and the ability to save your mix.

And for those of you that are into aesthetics and design, you’ll be pleased to know that you can personalize the skin with your name. It’s not a significant thing, but a nice touch nonetheless.

So, for being 100% free software, we’d say it’s worth your time playing around with, as, from our experience, it’s pretty good.

Check it out in action:

 

12. You.DJ

You.DJ

Similar to Party Cloud, You.DJ is a cloud-based platform that lets you mix your music for free.

All you have to do is go to the website, choose your favorite tracks, and start mixing.

You can sign up for an account if you want, but it’s not mandatory, as you can start using the app as soon as you land on the site.

It uses a traditional DJ setup, consisting of two turntables and a mixer, and you have access to an array of effects like Loops, EQ, FX Pads, Hot Cues, Scratch, and Backspin.

You’ll find plenty of pre-loaded songs to choose from already included in the database.

However, if you’re after something a little more specific, then the handy search tool on the left-hand side of the song list is great for searching for SoundCloud and YouTube titles.

To make your life easier, the platform automatically syncs your tracks, but you’re also able to change the music’s speed by clicking on the BPM key detection value at the top of the mixer.

Now, of course, it’s nowhere near as comprehensive as a platform like Serato DJ Lite, but if you’re looking for cloud-based DJ software that’s fun to use, and offers a free version, then it’s worth giving it a try.

In this video, Thomas outlines how to mix using You.DJ and what to expect when getting started:

 

13. CuteDJ Pro

CuteDJ Pro Free DJ Software

Describing itself as “the ultimate DJ mixing software,” CuteDJ Pro provides you with everything you need to start mixing.

It’s compatible with both Windows and macOS, and you can download a 30-day free trial with no restrictions, which is a nice amount of time to get acquainted with the software.

The only downside is that you have to use it in 20-minute sessions, after which the software terminates, and you’re forced to restart it if you want to continue.

However, you can start CuteDJ as many times as you like while using the trial version, but bear that in mind if you’re wanting to spend a few hours mixing.

In terms of looks, it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing software on the list, though it does the job all the same.

When you open the software, you’re greeted with two sections split horizontally through the middle of your screen.

The top section is a designated control and DJ mixing area, while the bottom section provides access to your digital music files.

Some of its main specialties include Automix, Auto-Beat Matching, Loops & Cue Points, Sampling, Automatic Key Detection, an iTunes Integration, and support for more than 90 MIDI controllers.

It also supports various formats like MP3 and WAV, M4A, AAC, WMA, OGG, FLAC, and several more.

CuteDJ allows you to easily mix audio and video files and save all your mixes to the supported formats mentioned above.

So, if you’re not too bothered about looks and having to reload it every 20 minutes, CuteDJ could be a great choice to help start your DJing career.

 

14. DJUCED

DJUCED Free DJ Software

Following a recent update, DJUCED 5.0 is packed full of awesome new features and is still completely free.

Right off the bat, the free DJ software offers you a modular interface, a full suite of effects, and the option to record, save, and share your sets.

It also comes with an integrated video Academy, interactive help, an intelligent music assistant, and a BeatMatch Guide System, making it an ideal software for beginners.

Aside from all the usual features associated with professional DJing software, DJUCED also lets you synchronize up to four decks at a time and use SLIP and QUANTIZE modes to push the limits of traditional mixing.

And, you don’t need to worry about sourcing music, as DJUCED offers seamless integration with Beatport, providing you with instant access to over nine million tracks.

Read More >> The 10 Best DJ Record Pools.

Integrating with Beatport additionally allows you to see what other artists and labels have curated, as well as the option to create custom playlists.

DJUCED is available in 14 languages, for both Windows and macOS, and can be used as often as you like.

Check out all the latest updates in this video:

 

15. djay Pro AI

Djay Pro AI - Free DJ Software

Even though djay Pro AI is a paid DJ software, you can still make use of its free seven-day trial, which gives you access to a complete preview of all of its premium features.

The platform comes with everything you’d expect from a premium DJing tool, like audio effects, video mixing, intelligent Automix AI, and an impressive media library management system that integrates with your favorite streaming services.

It also supports up to 100 different controllers and includes an advanced MIDI Learn system so you can easily map knobs, buttons, and faders according to your preferences.

The free version also introduces Algoriddim’s revolutionary new technology, Neural Mix, which allows you to play and remix singular elements from multiple tracks in real-time.

Furthermore, if you decide to upgrade to the full version after your trial, you’ll be able to access the software across all your Mac and iOS devices, making it even easier to mix and prep your tracks on the go.

Overall, djay Pro AI offers a lot of bang for your buck, but it comes at a cost.

The trial is great and lets you see exactly what the DJ software has to offer, but it eventually comes to an end, meaning you’ll either have to switch to another software on the list or bite the bullet and go premium.

Here’s a video that might help you understand all the software has to offer:

 

So, what is the best free DJ software?

Each piece of software we’ve mentioned in this article gets the job done, so it really just comes down to a matter of opinion and personal preference.

Some people favor simple software with minimal features, while others want all the bells and whistles under the sun.

We started out using Serato DJ Intro (now Lite), Mixxx, and Virtual DJ until we eventually settled on Serato DJ Intro. We felt it offered all the features we needed and the room to grow into a premium version.

So, if you’re looking for free software that supports a wide range of hardware, then in our opinion, you can’t go wrong with Serato DJ Lite.

 

Here’s a quick recap of the best free DJ software:

  1. Serato DJ Lite
  2. Mixxx
  3. Virtual DJ
  4. MixVibes Cross DJ
  5. Zulu DJ
  6. UltraMixer
  7. Kra Mixer
  8. DJ Mix Lite
  9. Party Cloud
  10. Blaze
  11. DJ Prodecks
  12. You.DJ
  13. Cute DJ Pro
  14. DJUCED
  15. djay Pro AI

What’s your favorite free DJ software? Leave a comment below.

Mike's the guy behind Audio Captain. He's a qualified sound engineer and self-confessed music nut who's passionate about electronic dance music. When he's not writing about music, you'll find him in the gym or working on his next EDM track in Logic Pro.