What beginners actually need
Stable drivers
Low-latency performance matters more than shiny marketing. Windows users should prefer solid ASIO drivers.
Two inputs
One input is enough for simple vocals. Two inputs add flexibility for instruments, stereo sources and collaboration.
Headphone output
A clear headphone output is essential if you produce quietly at home or record vocals in the same room.
Monitor outputs
Balanced outputs help when you add studio monitors. You do not need lots of outputs at the start.