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10 Best Inexpensive Turntables 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable with Built-in Speakers, Vinyl Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, Bluetooth Playback and Aux-in Functionality, Auto Off

The 1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable is a solid option for those new to vinyl or looking for an affordable player with decent sound quality. Its stylish wood and metal design gives it an appealing look, making it a nice addition to any room. The turntable supports both 33 and 45 RPM speeds, which is essential for playing a variety of records. The built-in Bluetooth capability allows users to stream music from their devices, providing additional versatility. Plus, the included Audio-Technica stylus enhances audio clarity, ensuring a rich listening experience.

One of the standout features is the built-in preamp and speakers, which make it convenient for users who prefer an all-in-one solution. The option to connect external speakers is also a plus for those wanting to enhance audio quality further. Additionally, the adjustable counterweight helps balance the tonearm for optimal sound playback, which is a feature often found in more expensive turntables.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The built-in speakers, while functional, may not deliver the depth and richness that dedicated external speakers can provide. For true audiophiles, this might be a limitation. Another point to note is the turntable’s weight; at 6 kilograms, it may not be as portable as some users would prefer. Furthermore, setting up Bluetooth can be slightly cumbersome for those who are not tech-savvy.

#2

Bluetooth Vinyl Record Player,3-Speed Turntable with Stereo Speakers Vintage Phonograph Record Player, with RCA Line Out AUX in Headphone Jack (Brown)

The Vintage Vinyl Record Player Turntable by cotsoco is a budget-friendly option for anyone looking to enjoy vinyl records without breaking the bank. It's a belt-drive model, which generally offers quieter operation. This turntable supports three speeds (33, 45, and 78 RPM), accommodating various record sizes (7", 10", and 12"). Its retro design, with a wood finish and textured exterior, makes it a stylish addition to any home, serving both as a functional device and a decorative piece.

For those who value convenience, the built-in Bluetooth receiver allows easy connection to smartphones, and the two built-in stereo speakers mean you don't need additional equipment to start listening right away. It also includes multiple connectivity options such as AUX input, RCA line-out, and a headphone jack, providing flexibility in how you use it. Another practical feature is the removable cover to protect your records from dust.

The sound quality from built-in speakers might not satisfy audiophiles or those looking for high-fidelity audio. Users might need to connect external speakers via the RCA output for a richer listening experience. Additionally, the build quality, while generally good, may not be as robust as more expensive models. At 4.76 pounds, it is lightweight and portable, but this also means it might not be as durable for heavy usage. This turntable is a great gift for vinyl enthusiasts and serves well as an introductory player for those new to the world of vinyl records. If you’re looking for more advanced features or higher sound quality, you may need to consider a higher-end model.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Tonearm
The turntable itself is solid and well-made, with a smooth platter and a reliable tonearm that works without skips or issues.
#3

Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable: Fully Automatic Wireless Vinyl Record Player with Bluetooth and USB Output Black

The Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable is an inexpensive option that offers a range of useful features for both new and experienced vinyl enthusiasts. Its fully automatic operation makes it user-friendly, with one-step auto start, stop, and return functions. The turntable supports two speeds, 33 1/3 and 45 RPM, catering to most vinyl records, and even includes a 45 RPM adapter stored conveniently beneath the deck. The built-in switchable phono preamp with three gain settings ensures high-quality audio output, and the aluminum die-cast platter and newly designed aluminum tonearm improve stability and tracking, reducing vibrations for clearer sound.

This model also excels in connectivity, with both wireless Bluetooth options and traditional RCA cables. The USB ripping feature allows users to easily convert vinyl records to digital MP3 files, adding versatility to its usage. However, it is worth noting that the turntable is primarily made of plastic, which might affect its long-term durability. Additionally, while the built-in preamp is a handy feature, audiophiles might prefer using their own preamps for potentially better sound quality.

With its blend of modern connectivity, ease of use, and respectable sound quality, the Sony PS-LX310BT offers great value for its price, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable and versatile turntable.

Buying Guide for the Best Inexpensive Turntables

Choosing the right turntable can be a delightful experience, especially if you're a music enthusiast looking to enjoy the warm, rich sound of vinyl records. When shopping for an inexpensive turntable, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best value for your money. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find a turntable that suits your needs and preferences.
Drive TypeThe drive type of a turntable refers to the mechanism that spins the platter. There are two main types: belt-drive and direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which helps reduce motor noise and vibration, making them ideal for home listening. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, providing more consistent speed and torque, which is preferred by DJs for scratching and mixing. If you're looking for a turntable for casual listening, a belt-drive model is usually sufficient. However, if you plan to use it for DJing, a direct-drive turntable might be a better choice.
Cartridge and StylusThe cartridge and stylus are crucial components that affect the sound quality of your turntable. The cartridge holds the stylus (needle) that reads the grooves on the record. There are two main types of cartridges: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common and affordable, making them a good choice for beginners. MC cartridges generally offer better sound quality but are more expensive. The stylus can be either elliptical or conical, with elliptical providing better sound quality and conical being more durable. For an inexpensive turntable, an MM cartridge with an elliptical stylus is a great starting point.
Platter MaterialThe platter is the part of the turntable that the record sits on. Platter material can affect the sound quality and stability of the turntable. Common materials include plastic, aluminum, and acrylic. Plastic platters are lightweight and inexpensive but may not provide the best sound quality. Aluminum platters are more durable and offer better sound quality due to their weight and stability. Acrylic platters are considered high-end and provide excellent sound quality by reducing vibrations. For an inexpensive turntable, an aluminum platter is a good balance between cost and performance.
TonearmThe tonearm is the part of the turntable that holds the cartridge and stylus and allows them to move across the record. There are two main types of tonearms: straight and S-shaped. Straight tonearms are simpler and more affordable, making them a good choice for beginners. S-shaped tonearms are designed to reduce tracking error and provide better sound quality but are usually found on more expensive models. When choosing an inexpensive turntable, a straight tonearm is typically sufficient for casual listening.
Speed SettingsTurntables typically offer different speed settings to accommodate various types of records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) for LPs (long-playing records) and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also offer 78 RPM for older shellac records. It's important to choose a turntable that supports the speeds of the records you plan to play. For most users, a turntable with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will cover the majority of their needs.
Built-in PreampA preamp amplifies the signal from the turntable to a level that can be used by speakers or an amplifier. Some turntables come with a built-in preamp, which can be convenient if you don't have a separate one. If your turntable doesn't have a built-in preamp, you'll need to purchase one separately. For beginners or those looking for simplicity, a turntable with a built-in preamp is a good choice. However, if you already have a high-quality external preamp, you might prefer a turntable without one.
USB ConnectivityUSB connectivity allows you to connect your turntable to a computer to digitize your vinyl records. This feature can be useful if you want to create digital copies of your records for convenience or preservation. If you plan to digitize your vinyl collection, look for a turntable with USB connectivity. However, if you only intend to listen to records, this feature may not be necessary.

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