Virtual DJ

Virtual DJ is a DJ mixing application by AtomixMP. You load tracks onto virtual decks, beatmatch them, apply effects, and mix live - the same workflow as hardware DJ setups, but on a laptop. The home edition is free for personal use. The Pro version ($19/month) unlocks controller support and streaming to Twitch or YouTube.

It runs on Windows and macOS and supports over 300 DJ controllers out of the box.

What it does

Load a track onto Deck A, another onto Deck B, and use the crossfader to blend between them. The Sync button automatically matches the BPM of both tracks, which makes beatmatching much easier for beginners. Manual beatmatching by ear is also possible if you prefer the traditional approach.

The AI stem separation lets you isolate vocals, drums, bass, and instruments from any track in real time (right-click a track > separate stems). You can mute the vocals on one track and layer them over the beat of another, which opens up remix possibilities that used to require pre-made acapellas.

Effects (echo, reverb, flanger, filter, loop) are accessible from the effects panel and can be mapped to physical knobs on a controller. The sampler panel lets you trigger sound clips on the fly. Recording your mix to MP3 or WAV is a single button press.

Who it is for

Virtual DJ works well for bedroom DJs learning to mix and for hobbyists who want to play at house parties. The free home edition covers everything you need for personal use. If you plan to DJ professionally with a controller or stream live, the Pro subscription is unavoidable. Mixxx is the open source alternative if you want controller support without paying.