How to DJ with Two Phones: Create Amazing Music Mixes at Home

Learn how to DJ using two smartphones with step-by-step instructions for creating seamless music mixes and transitions.

  1. Choose Your DJ Apps. Download a DJ app on both phones. Popular free options include djay, edjing Mix, and Virtual DJ. For best results, use the same app on both devices so the controls match. Most apps offer basic mixing features for free, with premium versions available for advanced tools. Make sure both phones are fully charged and consider using power banks for longer sessions.
  2. Set Up Your Music Library. Load your music onto both phones, either through streaming services within the apps or by downloading songs locally. Create playlists with songs that have similar beats per minute (BPM) for easier mixing. Most DJ apps will show BPM information to help you match compatible tracks. Organize your music by genre or energy level to make song selection smoother during your DJ session.
  3. Connect Your Audio Setup. Use a simple audio mixer or splitter cable to combine output from both phones into one speaker system. Alternatively, connect one phone to your main speakers and use headphones with the other to cue up the next track. If you don't have a mixer, you can practice transitions by manually adjusting volume levels on each phone, though this requires more coordination.
  4. Master Basic Mixing Techniques. Start by playing a song on Phone 1 while preparing your next track on Phone 2. Use the crossfader or volume controls to gradually blend between tracks. Practice beatmatching by adjusting the tempo of the incoming song to match the currently playing track. Most apps have automatic sync features, but learning manual beatmatching develops better DJ skills. Work on smooth transitions by finding natural break points in songs.
  5. Practice Essential DJ Skills. Learn to use effects like filters, loops, and echo to enhance your transitions. Practice cueing tracks by listening to the next song in your headphones while the current song plays through speakers. Work on reading the energy of your playlist and creating smooth flows between different types of music. Record your practice sessions to review and improve your mixing techniques.