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10 Best Affordable Record Players 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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Connectivity Options

Most important from
3504 reviews

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

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.

This turntable supports both 33 and 45 RPM speeds, accommodating a variety of vinyl records. One of its standout features is Bluetooth connectivity, which lets you stream music from devices like smartphones or tablets, making it versatile for those who enjoy both vinyl and digital music.

The inclusion of a magnet-type cartridge and an adjustable counterweight works well for producing clear and rich audio, minimizing noise and distortion. The diamond-tipped Audio-Technica stylus adds to the sound quality, providing good clarity and accurate tracking of your records. However, the built-in speakers may not deliver the depth and richness of sound that dedicated audio enthusiasts might seek, so upgrading to external speakers could be necessary for a fully immersive experience. Additionally, while it is user-friendly, setting up and switching between Bluetooth and vinyl might take a bit of getting used to for some users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Connectivity Options

Most important from
3504 reviews

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

Fluance RT85 Reference High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Record Player with Ortofon 2M Blue Cartridge, Acrylic Platter, Speed Control Motor High Mass MDF Wood Plinth Vibration Isolation Feet - Piano White

Rating
8.8
Cartridge and Stylus
Build Quality

Most important from
2005 reviews

Cartridge and Stylus
The RT85 delivers clear separation and punchy low end without muddiness, capturing the rich and warm sound enthusiasts seek.
Build Quality
The combination of a heavy MDF wood plinth and acrylic platter effectively minimizes vibrations, resulting in tighter bass and enhanced clarity.

The Fluance RT85 is a well-crafted vinyl turntable that offers great value for those seeking high-quality sound without spending a fortune. It uses a belt drive system paired with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, known for delivering clear, detailed audio with reduced distortion—perfect if you want rich, warm music from your records. While it doesn't include a built-in preamp, it is compatible with external phono preamps, giving flexibility if your audio setup already has one.

The speed control is precise, maintaining steady playback at standard 33 1/3 and 45 RPM settings, which is essential for consistent sound quality. The build quality stands out with a heavy MDF wood plinth and an acrylic platter that helps minimize vibrations, resulting in tighter bass and better clarity. This turntable also comes with vibration-isolating feet to reduce unwanted noise. However, due to its solid construction and weight (about 17 pounds), it isn’t very portable or suited for frequent moving. The modern piano white finish looks elegant but might require careful handling to keep it clean.

The RT85 is suited for vinyl enthusiasts who want a durable, audiophile-grade player with excellent sound accuracy, provided they have or plan to get a separate preamp. It is less suited for users looking for a lightweight or all-in-one portable solution.

Rating
8.8
Cartridge and Stylus
Build Quality

Most important from
2005 reviews

Cartridge and Stylus
The RT85 delivers clear separation and punchy low end without muddiness, capturing the rich and warm sound enthusiasts seek.
Build Quality
The combination of a heavy MDF wood plinth and acrylic platter effectively minimizes vibrations, resulting in tighter bass and enhanced clarity.
#3

ANGELS HORN Vinyl Record Player, Hi-Fi System Bluetooth Turntable Players with Stereo Bookshelf Speakers, Built-in Phono Preamp, Belt Drive 2-Speed, Adjustable Counterweight, AT-3600L

Rating
8.5
Built-in Preamp
Build Quality and Materials
Connectivity Options

Most important from
1943 reviews

Built-in Preamp
The included phono preamp simplifies connectivity, allowing direct hook-ups to non-powered speakers.
Build Quality and Materials
The classic look and beautiful wood finish are standout features.
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth functionality is impressive, offering loud and clear sound.

The ANGELS HORN Vinyl Record Player is a noteworthy option in the affordable record player category, particularly for those who value sound quality and aesthetic appeal. Its belt-drive system ensures quieter operation and less vibration, contributing to a better listening experience. The inclusion of the AT-3600L phono cartridge is a significant plus, as it offers high fidelity sound that is rare in budget-friendly models. The adjustable counterweight also helps in reducing skipping and distortion, ensuring smooth playback of your vinyl records.

The built-in phono preamp means you won't need an external one, simplifying setup and reducing additional costs. The record player supports two-speed settings (33 1/3 and 45 RPM), which covers most vinyl records, but it lacks a 78 RPM setting for those with older or specialized collections. The build quality is impressive, featuring natural wood materials that blend well with home decor, making it both a functional and stylish addition to any room.

Connectivity options are also solid, with Bluetooth 4.2 allowing you to play music from mobile devices, and RCA line outputs for connecting to external speakers. However, it might be a bit bulky and heavy at 27 pounds, which could be a concern for those with limited space. Additionally, while the built-in speakers are convenient, they may not offer the same sound quality as higher-end external speakers. This record player is ideal for music enthusiasts looking for a blend of vintage style and modern functionality without breaking the bank.

Rating
8.5
Built-in Preamp
Build Quality and Materials
Connectivity Options

Most important from
1943 reviews

Built-in Preamp
The included phono preamp simplifies connectivity, allowing direct hook-ups to non-powered speakers.
Build Quality and Materials
The classic look and beautiful wood finish are standout features.
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth functionality is impressive, offering loud and clear sound.

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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