Blog · DJ basics · 26 October 2026

How to beatmatch two tracks

Beatmatching means playing two songs at the same speed so their beats line up. It is the skill behind smooth transitions, and you can practise it today in your browser.

1. Know the tempo of both songs

Tempo is measured in beats per minute, or BPM. Load a track on each deck of the DJ Console and read the BPM shown. Detection is an estimate, so treat the number as a starting point.

2. Match the speed

Play the first track so the audience hears it. Cue the second track in your headphones or on a quiet channel. Move the tempo slider on the second deck until its BPM is close to the first. If one track is 124 BPM and the other is 128 BPM, you need about 3 percent change.

3. Line up the beats

Matching the speed is not enough, because the kicks also have to land together. Start the second track on a beat, then listen. If the new track drifts ahead, slow it down a little. If it falls behind, speed it up. A gentle push on the Bend buttons nudges the pitch while you hold them and returns to normal when you let go.

4. Use sync to check yourself

Press Sync on a deck and listen to how the computer lines the tracks up. Then turn it off and try again by ear. The goal is to hear the difference.

5. Bring it in with the EQ

Once the beats hold steady, bring the second track in on the crossfader and cut the bass of one track while the other plays, so the two kick drums do not fight each other.

Practise

The Learn page has a beatmatching trainer that gives you a score for how close your tempo match is. Ten minutes a day is enough to improve quickly.

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