6 Best Alternatives to the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 (2026)

How each alternative compares

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 USB Controller

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 is a lighter, more compact option than the Inpulse 300 MK2. It weighs 1.86 pounds and measures 12.6 inches in length, making it easier to transport or store in small spaces. It retains the two-deck layout, sixteen performance pads, and built-in sound card found in the MK2. You lose the larger jog wheels and the specific Beatmatch Guide light system of the 300 model. This controller is best for beginners who prioritize portability and basic learning tools over advanced hardware features. If you need a smaller footprint for practice or travel, the Inpulse 200 is a suitable, simplified alternative.

LyxJam 2-Deck DJ Controller with LCD Display

The LyxJam controller offers a different physical experience with 5-inch jog wheels, which are larger than those on the Inpulse 300 MK2. It weighs 7.7 pounds, significantly heavier than the 3.97-pound Hercules unit, suggesting a more solid build. This model includes a microphone input and an LCD display, features absent on the Inpulse 300 MK2. It connects via USB and includes performance pads. The inclusion of a microphone makes it better suited for live streaming or hosting events where voice commentary is needed. If you value tactile feedback from larger jog wheels and need audio routing for a mic, the LyxJam provides those capabilities while maintaining standard DJ controller functionality.

Arturia BeatStep Pro Controller and Sequencer

The Arturia BeatStep Pro is not a traditional DJ controller but a MIDI sequencer. It measures 16.3 inches long and weighs 3.1 pounds. It lacks the two-deck interface and built-in sound card of the Inpulse 300 MK2. Instead, it focuses on performance pads for triggering sequences and controlling modular synthesizers. This device is designed for producers and live electronic musicians who need detailed MIDI control rather than track mixing. It does not support DJ software like Serato or DJUCED in the same way. If your goal is music production, sound design, or controlling external gear rather than mixing audio tracks, the BeatStep Pro is a specialized tool that serves a completely different purpose.

Hercules Stream 200 XLR Audio Controller

The Hercules Stream 200 XLR Audio Controller is designed for audio management rather than DJ performance. It features XLR connectivity and a built-in sound card, similar to the Hercules ecosystem, but it lacks deck controls, jog wheels, and performance pads. It measures 9.45 inches in length and weighs 2.1 pounds. This device is intended for streamers who need precise audio routing and XLR microphone input. It cannot be used to mix music tracks or control DJ software. If you already have a DJ setup and need a dedicated tool for managing audio streams or microphone inputs for broadcasting, the Stream 200 fills that niche. It is not a replacement for a DJ controller.

Kellards Reloop Keypad Pro Compact Controller

The Kellards Reloop Keypad Pro Compact Controller is a small MIDI controller focused on DAW control. It is described as compact, though specific dimensions are not provided. It connects via USB and lacks the two-deck interface, jog wheels, and built-in sound card of the Inpulse 300 MK2. It does not include performance pads for triggering samples or loops in a DJ context. This device is best for producers who need essential controls in a small package for music production software. It prioritizes space efficiency over DJ-specific hardware features. If you are looking for a controller to manage tracks, mix audio, or perform live DJ sets, this keypad is not suitable. It is strictly a tool for studio workflow and composition.

Hercules Inpulse 500 with Bluetooth Monitors

The Hercules Inpulse 500 Bundle is a more advanced 2-channel setup that includes Bluetooth monitors and a microphone input. It features touch-sensing jog wheels and a built-in audio interface, similar to the Inpulse 300 MK2 but with enhanced connectivity. This bundle is designed for DJs who want a complete package with monitors and mic capabilities. It supports USB audio interface connections and Bluetooth for wireless monitoring. The Inpulse 300 MK2 lacks Bluetooth and dedicated mic inputs. If you need wireless monitoring options and a more comprehensive audio setup for performances or streaming, the Inpulse 500 Bundle offers these upgrades. It is a higher-tier option for users who require more robust hardware features and integrated monitoring solutions.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 2-Deck Controller

Best for: Beginners using streaming services

Compatible Software

Serato DJ Lite, DJUCED, Serato DJ Pro

Deck Control

2 Decks

Performance Pads

16 Pads

Audio Interface

Built-in Sound Card

Connectivity

USB

Features

Performance Pads, Built-in Sound Card

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 featuring 16 performance pads and a built-in sound card. It includes Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED software. The Beatmatch Guide assists with manual track adjustments, while improved jog wheels enhance scratching. You can mix from computer files or streaming services like TIDAL. This unit suits beginners seeking guided mixing tools.

Pros

• 2-deck control with 16 performance pads
• Built-in sound card for audio output
• Beatmatch Guide light system for manual adjustments
• Compatible with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED
• Supports streaming from TIDAL and SoundCloud GO

Cons

• No wireless Bluetooth connectivity
• No LCD display for track information
• Relies on software for advanced features like IMA

Good fit if

• You want guided assistance for beatmatching
• You need a compact 2-deck setup
• You plan to use streaming services for mixes

Skip if

• You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
• You need a dedicated hardware display
• You prefer a standalone unit without software

Verdict: The Hercules Inpulse 300 MK2 2-Deck Controller is a practical entry point for DJs who value guided beatmatching and streaming integration over standalone hardware features.

2 Best budget

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 USB Controller

Best for: beginners learning to mix

Performance Pads

8 pads

Audio Interface

sound card

Connectivity

USB

Features

Performance Pads, Built-in Sound Card

Intended Use

Beginners

Dimensions

12.6 × 7.66 × 1.77 inches

View on Amazon: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 USB Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 is a 2-deck USB controller designed for beginners. It features 8 performance pads and a built-in sound card. The unit measures 12.6 by 7.66 inches and weighs 1.86 pounds. It includes Tempo and Beat Align guides to help you learn mixing basics. The controller supports Windows and macOS systems.

Pros

• Built-in sound card for direct audio output
• 8 performance pads for triggerable samples or loops
• Tempo and Beat Align visual guides for learning
• Compact dimensions at 12.6 by 7.66 inches

Cons

• No LCD display for track information
• Only 2-deck mixing capability
• No Bluetooth connectivity listed

Good fit if

• You are a beginner learning DJ basics
• You need a compact USB controller
• You want visual mixing guides

Skip if

• You require 4-deck mixing
• You need wireless Bluetooth connection
• You want a built-in display screen

Verdict: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 suits beginners who want visual guidance and a small footprint. It fits those prioritizing learning tools over advanced hardware features.

3 Also great

LyxJam 2-Deck DJ Controller with LCD Display

Best for: DJs wanting built-in displays and mic inputs

Compatible Software

Virtual DJ LE

Deck Control

2-deck

Performance Pads

16 pads

Jog Wheels

5-inch

Connectivity

USB

Form Factor

Portable

View on Amazon: LyxJam 2-Deck DJ Controller with LCD Display Affiliate link

The LyxJam 2-Deck Controller is a portable mixing console designed for two-deck mixing with Virtual DJ LE. It gives you 5-inch jog wheels, 16 performance pads, an integrated LCD display, and dedicated microphone and headphone inputs. Weighing 7.7 pounds with standard USB connectivity, it suits you if you need hardware feedback and booth connections for live events.

Pros

• Built-in LCD display for track and mixing details
• 16 performance pads and 5-inch jog wheels
• Dedicated microphone input with included microphone
• Direct connections for booth, PA systems, and external mixers

Cons

• Heavier build at 7.7 pounds
• Software compatibility is limited to Virtual DJ LE

Good fit if

• You want an onboard LCD display directly on the hardware console.
• You need a dedicated microphone input along with an included mic.
• You run your sets primarily through Virtual DJ LE.

Skip if

• You want a lightweight controller under seven pounds for frequent travel.
• You require native compatibility with Rekordbox or Serato.

Verdict: LyxJam 2-Deck Controller with LCD Display suits mobile performers who need onboard visual feedback and direct microphone hookups. Its 7.7-pound chassis provides extensive PA and booth routing for two-channel setups.

4 Also great

Arturia BeatStep Pro Controller and Sequencer

Best for: hybrid DJ setups and hardware sequencing

Compatible Software

Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro

Performance Pads

16 drum pads

Features

Performance Pads

Dimensions

16.3 × 6.42 × 0.08 inches

Weight

3.1 pounds

View on Amazon: Arturia BeatStep Pro Controller and Sequencer Affiliate link

The Arturia BeatStep Pro Pad Controller provides hardware sequencing and MIDI control instead of standard dual-deck mixing. You get two independent melodic step sequencers, a 16-track drum sequencer, and 16 pressure-sensitive pads. With CV/Gate, MIDI, and USB connections, you can drive external hardware synths or control Ableton Live Lite clips alongside your live performance.

Pros

• Two independent melodic step sequencers and a 16-track drum sequencer
• 16 pressure-sensitive pads and 16 sensitive knobs
• CV/Gate outputs, 8 drum gate outputs, Clock sync, and MIDI In/Out
• Includes Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab Intro

Cons

• Lacks dedicated DJ jog wheels and a crossfader
• Does not include an integrated DJ audio interface

Good fit if

• You want to sequence external hardware synths and drum modules via CV/Gate or MIDI
• You trigger clips and control software instruments in Ableton Live Lite

Skip if

• You need traditional two-deck DJ platter controls for beatmatching
• You want an all-in-one DJ mixing unit with built-in headphone cueing

Verdict: Arturia BeatStep Pro Pad Controller suits electronic performers who want dedicated step sequencing, pad triggering, and modular connectivity rather than standard two-deck DJ mixing.

5 Best xlr

Hercules Stream 200 XLR Audio Controller

Best for: streaming audio management and XLR mic input

Compatible Software

Hercules Stream Control

Audio Interface

Built-in sound card

Connectivity

XLR

Dimensions

9.45 × 7.01 × 5.12 inches

Weight

2.1 pounds

View on Amazon: Hercules Stream 200 XLR Audio Controller Affiliate link

The Hercules Stream 200 XLR is a compact audio interface designed for live streaming management. It features a built-in sound card and XLR connectivity for high-fidelity vocal input. The unit includes 2x2 stereo VU meters and physical controls for muting, soloing, and switching between creator and audience mixes. Measuring 9.45 by 7.01 inches, it offers hardware-level adjustments without relying solely on software.

Pros

• Built-in sound card with XLR connectivity
• Physical buttons for mute, solo, and mix switching
• 2x2 stereo VU meters for real-time level monitoring
• Preamp for high-fidelity vocal sound

Cons

• No dedicated DJ deck faders or jog wheels
• Requires Hercules Stream Control app for full customization
• Limited to streaming audio tasks rather than music mixing

Good fit if

• You need a dedicated hardware controller for streaming audio
• You require XLR inputs for professional microphones
• You want physical controls for muting and soloing

Skip if

• You are looking for a traditional DJ controller with decks
• You need native integration with DJ software like Serato
• You want a standalone unit without software dependency

Verdict: Hercules Stream 200 XLR Audio Controller is a specialized tool for streamers who need precise audio routing and XLR connectivity, but it lacks the deck controls required for DJ performance.

6 Best compact

Kellards Reloop Keypad Pro Compact Controller

Best for: compact DAW control setups

Performance Pads

16 pads

Connectivity

USB

Form Factor

Compact

View on Amazon: Kellards Reloop Keypad Pro Compact Controller Affiliate link

This compact USB-MIDI controller features 25 keys, 16 performance pads, and 8 channel strips. It includes transport controls and a 3.5mm TRS MIDI Out. Bluetooth LE connectivity allows wireless use. It serves as a 4-in-1 DAW workstation. The small form factor suits tight spaces. It fits users needing hardware control for music software.

Pros

• 25 keys and 16 performance pads
• 8 channel strips for mixing
• Bluetooth LE and USB connectivity
• Compact form factor
• Transport controls included

Cons

• No LCD display for feedback
• Only 25 keys limit range
• No dedicated jog wheels

Good fit if

• You need a small footprint
• You use DAWs extensively
• You want Bluetooth connectivity

Skip if

• You need full-size keys
• You require jog wheels
• You need a display screen

Verdict: Kellards Keypad Pro Compact MIDI Controller offers essential controls in a small package. It fits producers who prioritize space and wireless connectivity over large keybeds.

7 Best premium

Hercules Inpulse 500 with Bluetooth Monitors

Best for: DJ setups requiring monitors and mic input

Channels

2-channel

Compatible Software

DJUCED, Serato DJ Lite

Performance Pads

16 RGB-backlit performance pads

Jog Wheels

High-resolution, touch-sensing rings

Audio Interface

Built-in audio interface

Connectivity

Bluetooth, USB Audio Interface, USB

View on Amazon: Hercules Inpulse 500 with Bluetooth Monitors Affiliate link

The Hercules Inpulse 500 is a 2-channel USB DJ controller with a built-in audio interface. It features dual high-resolution jog wheels with touch-sensing rings and 16 RGB-backlit performance pads. The unit includes a hardware input mixer for microphone and aux inputs. This bundle adds Eris 3.5BT Bluetooth studio monitors. It supports DJUCED and Serato DJ Lite software for beatmatching and track suggestions.

Pros

• Dual high-resolution jog wheels with touch-sensing rings
• Built-in audio interface with hardware input mixer
• 16 RGB-backlit performance pads
• Includes Eris 3.5BT Bluetooth studio monitors

Cons

• No display screen for track info
• Limited to 2-channel mixing
• Requires software for full features

Good fit if

• You want a complete setup with monitors included
• You need microphone input for live streaming
• You prefer jog wheels with touch sensing

Skip if

• You require more than 2 channels
• You need a built-in display
• You want standalone operation without software

Verdict: Hercules Inpulse 500 Bundle suits DJs who want a complete 2-channel setup with monitors and mic input. It is ideal for those who value touch-sensing jog wheels and built-in audio interfaces.

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