Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 300 2-Deck USB DJ Controller Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How alternatives differ from Inpulse 300

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 2-Deck Controller

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 shares the same core software compatibility with Serato and DJUCED, but it is significantly larger and heavier. It measures 20.3 inches wide and weighs 11.6 pounds, compared to the lighter Inpulse 300. This added mass provides stability for fixed setups. The Inpulse 500 emphasizes touch detection and a robust build for users who prioritize a solid, stationary unit over portability. If you need a heavier controller for stable performance, this is the better choice. However, if you prefer a lighter, more compact device for easier transport, the original Inpulse 300 remains the more practical option for mobile use.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 2-Deck Controller

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is a refined version of the original model, maintaining the same 2-deck layout and support for Serato and DJUCED. It weighs 5.6 pounds and measures 20.2 inches wide, making it nearly identical in footprint to the original. The key difference lies in its focus on guided beatmatching for beginners. This model is designed for those who want to learn manual mixing with visual aids. It offers a practical entry point for new DJs. If you want the latest iteration of the starter kit with updated features for learning, this MK2 version is ideal. Otherwise, the original Inpulse 300 provides a similar experience at a potentially different price point.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 Motorized Controller

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 Motorized Controller differs significantly by offering motorized 7-inch platters instead of standard jog wheels. It measures 31.9 inches long and weighs 11 pounds, making it a larger unit. This controller is built for a tactile vinyl-like experience, which is superior for scratching and beat juggling. It includes a case, adding to its portability for mobile DJs. While it supports Serato and DJUCED like the original, the motorized decks provide a more professional feel. If you prioritize tactile control and scratching capabilities, the Inpulse T7 is the better choice. For simple beatmatching and basic mixing, the original Inpulse 300 is sufficient and more compact.

Reloop Neon Modular Serato Pad Controller

The Reloop Neon Modular Serato Pad Controller is not a full controller but a specialized pad unit. It measures only 8.8 inches long and weighs 12.7 ounces, making it extremely portable. It connects via USB and is designed for Serato users who need robust sample manipulation. Unlike the Inpulse 300, it does not include jog wheels or a mixer section. This makes it a modular addition to an existing setup rather than a standalone solution. If you already have a mixer and need extra pads for live performance or sample triggering, the Reloop Neon is a compact tool. For a complete 2-deck experience with jog wheels and mixing controls, the original Inpulse 300 is the necessary choice.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 Compact Controller

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 Compact is a smaller, lighter alternative to the Inpulse 300. It weighs just 3.07 pounds and measures 12.6 inches long, making it highly portable. It supports Serato and DJUCED, similar to the original, but sacrifices some controls for size. This compact form factor is ideal for travelers and beginners who need a lightweight setup for learning basic mixing. If space is a major constraint or you need a controller for frequent travel, the Inpulse 200 MK2 is the better option. However, if you prefer a full-sized 2-deck layout with more tactile controls, the original Inpulse 300 offers a more comprehensive mixing experience.

Hercules DJControl Inpulse Motorized Controller

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse Motorized Controller is designed for professional mobile DJs, featuring motorized platters and an included case. It supports Serato and DJUCED, aligning with the original's software compatibility. The motorized decks provide a tactile vinyl-like feel, which is superior for scratching and precise beatmatching. This controller is built for reliability and professional use, making it a step up from the beginner-focused Inpulse 300. If you need a robust, motorized controller for professional performances, this model is the better choice. For casual mixing or learning, the original Inpulse 300 provides the essential features without the added complexity and cost of motorized decks.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 2-Deck Controller

Best for: beginners using Serato or DJUCED

Compatible Software

Serato DJ Lite, DJUCED

Deck Control

2-deck

Performance Pads

16 backlit pads

Jog Wheels

Improved jog wheel

Audio Interface

Built-in audio interface

Connectivity

USB, RCA

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 2-Deck Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 is a 2-deck USB DJ controller designed for Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED. It features a built-in audio interface, 16 backlit performance pads, and improved jog wheels. Light guides assist with beat matching. The unit includes stereo RCA and headphone outputs. It is a practical entry-level option for beginners starting with Serato or DJUCED software.

Pros

• Built-in audio interface for direct connection
• 16 backlit performance pads for triggers
• Improved jog wheels for manual control
• Includes Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software

Cons

• Limited to Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED compatibility
• No mention of motorized platters or touch strips
• Basic connectivity limited to USB and RCA

Good fit if

• You are new to DJing and need software included
• You prefer tactile jog wheels over touch strips
• You want a simple USB connection without extra drivers

Skip if

• You require full Serato Pro features
• You need motorized platters for realistic feel
• You want wireless Bluetooth connectivity

Verdict: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 2-Deck USB Controller is a straightforward starter kit for beginners using Serato or DJUCED. It suits those who want included software and basic tactile controls without advanced features.

2 Also great

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 2-Deck Controller

Best for: Scratching and fixed setups

Compatible Software

Serato, DJUCED

Deck Control

2-deck

Performance Pads

16 backlit RGB pads

Jog Wheels

Touch detection

Audio Interface

Built-in

Dimensions

5.12 × 20.3 × 10.5 inches

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 2-Deck Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules Inpulse 500 is a 2-deck USB DJ controller with a built-in audio interface. It features large jog wheels with touch detection for scratching and 16 backlit RGB pads. The unit includes a hardware input mixer for audio inputs. It works with Serato and DJUCED software. The design includes retractable feet to lift the controller off surfaces. It weighs 11.6 pounds.

Pros

• Large jog wheels with touch detection
• 16 backlit RGB performance pads
• Built-in audio interface
• Hardware input mixer for audio
• Retractable feet for protection

Cons

• Heavier build at 11.6 pounds
• Larger footprint at 20.3 inches wide
• No mention of Bluetooth connectivity

Good fit if

• You want touch-sensitive jog wheels for scratching
• You need a built-in audio interface
• You use Serato or DJUCED software

Skip if

• You need a lightweight portable controller
• You require a compact setup under 18 inches
• You rely on wireless Bluetooth connections

Verdict: Hercules Inpulse 500 2-Deck USB Controller suits DJs who prioritize touch detection and a built-in audio interface. It fits users who do not mind a heavier, larger unit for stable performance.

3 Also great

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 2-Deck Controller

Best for: beginners using Serato or DJUCED

Compatible Software

Serato & DJUCED

Deck Control

2-deck

Performance Pads

16 performance pads

Dimensions

3.78 × 20.2 × 12.7 inches

Weight

5.6 pounds

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 2-Deck Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules Inpulse 300 MK2 is a 2-deck USB DJ controller designed for Serato and DJUCED software. It features built-in light guides to help you manually beatmatch tracks. The unit supports mixing from local files or streaming services like Beatport, Beatsource, SoundCloud Go+, and TIDAL. It measures 20.2 by 12.7 inches and weighs 5.6 pounds. This compact setup suits beginners looking for guided learning tools.

Pros

• Built-in light guides for manual beatmatching
• Compatible with Serato and DJUCED software
• Supports streaming from Beatport, Beatsource, SoundCloud Go+, and TIDAL
• Compact 2-deck layout

Cons

• No motorized jog wheels for tactile feedback
• Manual beatmatching requires learning without auto-sync
• No built-in sound card or audio interface specs listed

Good fit if

• You want guided beatmatching assistance
• You use Serato or DJUCED software
• You prefer a compact 2-deck setup

Skip if

• You need motorized jog wheels
• You require an integrated audio interface
• You prefer auto-sync beatmatching

Verdict: Hercules Inpulse 300 MK2 is a practical entry point for DJs using Serato or DJUCED who value guided beatmatching. It fits beginners who want to learn manual mixing with visual aids.

4 Also great

Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 Motorized Controller

Best for: Tactile 2-deck Serato setups

Compatible Software

Serato DJ, DJUCED

Deck Control

2-deck

Jog Wheels

2 motorized platters

Dimensions

31.9 × 16.1 × 6.3 inches

Weight

11 pounds

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 Motorized Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules Inpulse T7 is a 2-deck motorized DJ controller designed for Serato DJ and DJUCED. It features two motorized platters that mimic vinyl feel, allowing you to practice scratching and cueing. The unit includes 3.9-inch tempo faders with high resolution. It weighs 11 pounds and includes retractable feet and side handles for transport. This controller suits users who want a tactile, vinyl-like experience in a compact USB format.

Pros

• Two motorized platters for realistic vinyl practice
• 3.9-inch tempo faders with high resolution
• Compatible with Serato DJ and DJUCED software
• Includes retractable feet and side handles for easy transport

Cons

• No built-in audio interface for standalone playback
• Requires a computer for operation
• Limited to two decks only

Good fit if

• You want motorized platters for tactile feedback
• You use Serato DJ or DJUCED software
• You need a portable 2-deck setup

Skip if

• You need more than two decks
• You prefer a non-motorized controller
• You want a standalone unit without a computer

Verdict: Hercules Inpulse T7 Motorized Controller offers a solid vinyl-like experience for Serato users. It fits those who prioritize tactile platters and portability in a 2-deck format.

5 Best budget

Reloop Neon Modular Serato Pad Controller

Best for: Serato sample manipulation and live performance

Compatible Software

Serato DJ

Deck Control

Up to 4 decks

Connectivity

USB

Dimensions

8.8 × 4.8 × 0.63 inches

Weight

12.7 ounces

View on Amazon: Reloop Neon Modular Serato Pad Controller Affiliate link

The Reloop Neon is a USB pad controller designed for Serato DJ. It supports up to four decks and includes eight power modes. The device features a flip mode for recording and playing back samples on the fly. You can connect two Neon units via a smart link function. Its compact dimensions are 8.8 by 4.8 inches, and it weighs 12.7 ounces. This setup suits users needing extensive sample control.

Pros

• Supports up to 4 decks
• Includes flip mode for recording
• Connects two units via smart link
• Compatible with Serato DJ

Cons

• Requires additional hardware for full deck control
• No mention of motorized jog wheels
• Limited to Serato software only

Good fit if

• You need extensive sample control in Serato
• You want to connect multiple pad controllers
• You prioritize compact size over full deck integration

Skip if

• You require a complete all-in-one controller
• You use DJ software other than Serato
• You need motorized jog wheels for mixing

Verdict: Reloop Neon USB Pad Controller is a specialized tool for Serato users who need robust sample manipulation. It fits producers and live performers who want to expand their setup with modular pads rather than a standalone mixer.

6 Best compact

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 Compact Controller

Best for: portable beginner DJ setups

Compatible Software

Serato DJ Lite, DJUCED, Serato DJ Pro

Deck Control

2-deck

Performance Pads

8 pads

Form Factor

Compact

Features

Performance Pads

Dimensions

12.6 × 7.7 × 1.9 inches

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 Compact Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules Inpulse 200 MK2 is a compact USB DJ controller designed for portability. It measures 21.3 inches long and weighs just 3.07 pounds. You get Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software included, with compatibility for Serato DJ Pro. It features Beatmatch Guide lights and STEMS for mixing. This unit suits beginners or those needing a small footprint for travel.

Pros

• Compact form factor at 21.3 inches long
• Lightweight build weighing 3.07 pounds
• Includes Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software
• Built-in Beatmatch Guide light systems
• STEMS feature for creative mixing variations

Cons

• Smaller size may limit tactile control for advanced techniques
• No motorized jog wheels visible in specifications
• Limited to two-deck configuration

Good fit if

• You need a controller that fits in small bags
• You are starting with Serato DJ Lite
• You value lightweight portability for travel

Skip if

• You require motorized jog wheels for tactile feedback
• You need a full-size layout for complex mixing
• You prefer hardware with dedicated display screens

Verdict: Hercules Inpulse 200 MK2 Compact is a portable entry point for Serato users who prioritize space over size. It fits travelers and beginners who need a lightweight, software-integrated setup for learning basic mixing.

7 Best premium

Hercules DJControl Inpulse Motorized Controller

Best for: Professional mobile DJs needing tactile control

Compatible Software

Serato DJ Lite, DJUCED

Deck Control

2-Deck

Performance Pads

8 RGB-backlit pads on each deck

Jog Wheels

7-inch vinyl motorized platters

Intended Use

Professionals

Included Accessories

Case

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse Motorized Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse T7 is a 2-deck motorized DJ controller designed for professional use. It features 7-inch vinyl motorized platters with felt slipmats for a tactile feel. Each deck includes 8 RGB performance pads and advanced sound controls like 3-band EQ and multimode filters. The unit comes with DJUCED and Serato DJ Lite licenses and includes a protective travel bag for portability.

Pros

• 7-inch vinyl motorized platters for classic feel
• 8 RGB performance pads on each deck
• 3-band EQ and multimode filters per deck
• Includes protective EVA travel case

Cons

• Limited to Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software
• No mention of full desktop software compatibility
• Compact 7-inch platters may not suit all preferences

Good fit if

• You need motorized platters for professional workflow
• You want tactile vinyl feel with modern controls
• You require a portable setup with a case

Skip if

• You require full Serato DJ Pro software
• You prefer larger 12-inch jog wheels
• You need hardware sync buttons

Verdict: Hercules Inpulse T7 Motorized 2-Deck suits professionals who value tactile control and portability. Its motorized 7-inch platters and included case make it ideal for mobile DJs needing reliable performance.

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Frequently asked questions

See also

• best dj controllers for serato
• best 2-Channel dj controllers
• qnap tr 002 2 bay USB alternatives
• best 300 Gallon deck boxes