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10 Best Affordable Record Players 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

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 1byone High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable is a stylish and functional option for those looking to enjoy vinyl records without breaking the bank. It features a sturdy build with wood and metal materials, giving it an attractive appearance that fits well in any room. The built-in speakers are a plus, allowing for easy listening without needing external speakers immediately, although you do have the option to connect your own for enhanced sound.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,370
Connectivity Options

Most important from
3425 reviews

Connectivity Options
Bluetooth functions well within a reasonable range, although it might not stay connected if you walk too far away.
#2
8.8 score

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

The Sony PS-LX310BT is an appealing choice for those stepping into the world of vinyl. Its standout feature is the ease of use, with a one-step auto start, stop, and return, making it perfect for beginners who want to enjoy their records without fussing over complicated settings. This turntable supports two speeds—33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm—allowing you to play a variety of records with ease.

Rating
8.8
Turntable Drive Type
Cartridge and Stylus
Build Quality and Materials

Most important from
3817 reviews

Turntable Drive Type
This turntable eliminates issues like wobbling and skipping, which are common with cheaper models.
Cartridge and Stylus
Upgrading the platter mat and stylus can enhance the listening experience even further.
Build Quality and Materials
The turntable's build quality, despite being mostly plastic, is well-concealed and doesn't feel cheap.
Connectivity Options
The minimalist design and easy Bluetooth pairing make this turntable a great choice for modern vinyl enthusiasts.
#3
8.5 score

Fluance RT85N Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Record Player with Nagaoka MP-110 Cartridge, Acrylic Platter, Speed Control Motor, High Mass MDF Wood Plinth, Vibration Isolation Feet - Walnut

The Fluance RT85N is a well-crafted turntable that stands out in the affordable record player category, especially for users who value sound quality and solid build. It uses a belt-drive system with a high-density acrylic platter that helps reduce vibration, resulting in clearer, richer, and more dynamic sound. The included Nagaoka MP-110 elliptical diamond cartridge is a real plus, delivering warm and balanced audio with good bass and detail, making it suitable for a wide range of music styles.

Rating
8.5
Drive Type
Cartridge and Stylus
Built-in Preamp

Most important from
273 reviews

Drive Type
This turntable produces a stunningly quiet performance with minimal motor noise and no audible speed fluctuations, perfect for focused listening.
Cartridge and Stylus
The included Nagaoka cartridge elevates the listening experience, providing clarity and a sense of presence reminiscent of high-end audiophile gear.
Built-in Preamp
It requires an external preamp or phono input on a receiver, which may be a consideration for those seeking a simple plug-and-play solution.
Speed Settings
Handling a wide range of records with ease, it reveals intricate details and separates individual instruments and voices in the soundstage.
Build Quality
Its solid build and vibration isolation contribute to stable playback and reduced unwanted noise, impressive for its price range.
Portability
Hefty and well-constructed, this player is designed for a dedicated home listening setup rather than portability.

Top 10 Best Affordable Record Players 2025 in the United States

Audio Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BZ Direct Drive USB Turntable

Drive Type: direct drive motor
Cartridge and Stylus: cartridge with removable stylus
Built-in Preamp: built-in phono preamp
Speed Settings: 33, 45, 78 RPM
Build Quality: mostly sturdy plastic, weighs 20 pounds
Portability: less portable
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Buying Guide for the Best Affordable Record Players

Choosing the right record player can be a delightful experience, especially if you're a music enthusiast looking to enjoy the warm, rich sounds of vinyl. When selecting an affordable record player, 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 that matches your needs and preferences.
Drive TypeThe drive type refers to how the turntable's platter is powered. There are two main types: belt-drive and direct-drive. Belt-drive turntables use an elastic belt to spin the platter, which helps reduce vibrations and can result in better sound quality. Direct-drive turntables have the motor directly connected to the platter, offering more consistent speed and durability, making them popular with DJs. If you're looking for high-fidelity sound for home listening, a belt-drive might be preferable. For more robust use or DJing, a direct-drive could be the better choice.
Cartridge and StylusThe cartridge and stylus are crucial components that affect sound quality. The cartridge holds the stylus (needle) that reads the grooves on the vinyl. There are two main types of cartridges: moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC). MM cartridges are more common and affordable, offering good sound quality and easy replacement. MC cartridges are typically more expensive and provide higher fidelity sound. For most casual listeners, an MM cartridge will suffice. If you're an audiophile seeking the best sound, you might consider an MC cartridge.
Built-in PreampA preamp amplifies the signal from the turntable to a level that can be played through speakers. Some record players come with a built-in preamp, which simplifies setup and allows you to connect directly to powered speakers or a stereo system. If your amplifier or receiver doesn't have a phono input, a built-in preamp can be very convenient. However, if you already have a high-quality external preamp, you might prefer a turntable without a built-in preamp to avoid redundancy and potentially better sound quality.
Speed SettingsRecord players typically support different speed settings to play various types of vinyl records. The most common speeds are 33 1/3 RPM (revolutions per minute) for LPs and 45 RPM for singles. Some turntables also support 78 RPM for older records. It's important to choose a record player that supports the speeds of the records you own or plan to buy. For most users, a player with 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings will be sufficient. If you have a collection of older 78 RPM records, ensure the turntable can accommodate that speed.
Build QualityThe build quality of a record player affects its durability and sound performance. Look for a turntable with a solid, heavy base (plinth) to minimize vibrations and improve sound quality. Materials like wood or high-quality plastic can provide better stability. Additionally, consider the quality of the tonearm and platter, as these components play a significant role in the overall performance. A well-built record player will not only last longer but also provide a better listening experience.
PortabilityPortability might be a consideration if you plan to move your record player frequently or take it to different locations. Some record players are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport. However, portable models might sacrifice some sound quality and durability. If you need a record player that you can easily move around, look for one that balances portability with decent build quality. For home use, a more robust and less portable model might be preferable.

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