10 Best Cheap Turntables (Record Players) Under $100

Getting a turntable can seem challenging if you don’t know much about them. They’re surprisingly pricey, but there are lots of affordable options out there if you know where to shop. I love a good record player and there’s no better way to listen to your favorite tunes. With the invention of digital media, many people might not actually use any old-fashioned accessories anymore. The records themselves are equipped with a number of different agendas. As such, they need not be bulky or dusty.

We’ve been looking at a bunch of the newest and best record players and all of them are versatile, modern, and come in a range of designs to suit any type of home. You can find ones that fit your budget and also meet your musical needs.

Thankfully, the best speakers and headphones nowadays come with bluetooth. With these connected to devices like smart assistants, you’ll be able to fully control your devices and experience sound you didn’t know was possible.

There are endless styypes of CD players now. Whether you like the classic, retro look of vinyl plaers form decades ago, or you prefer a more contemporary design that looks clean without any fuss — there’s something for everyone. CES 2022 showcased a lot of new turntables and we can’t wait to try out the best ones!

Many of the turntables in the top below come with modern features like Bluetooth and USB, which many people are looking for.

There are options for different budgets, such as the Marantz TT-15S1 (see below). But keep in mind that some of these decks are pricey. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT is a neat little record player that won’t set you back too much.

If you love listening to music on vinyl or have never bought a record, then buying one of the best record players will be a great investment. If you’d like to know how to set up a turntable, first of all check our our guide! It’s especially useful for folks who are new to the world of record collecting.

Top Turntables Under $100 Review

1. Audio-Technica AT-LP60

The LP60 is a belt-drive turntable that plays at 33.3 and 45 rpm. We will be back to discuss an interesting feature.

Low quality build can be a problem for some cheaper turntables. That is understandable. Companies must make a profit and will cut corners to do so. Sometimes they do cut too many corners.

This turntable is perfect for this purpose. The turntable is well-engineered, built, and features a beautiful design. Audio-Technica, a Japanese audio-electric company, was founded in the 60s. They now have a US affiliate.

This model is affordable and a great way to begin your journey with vinyl.

Although it is portable and lightweight, it is still very sturdy. It also features an integrated dual-magnet microphone cartridge with a diamond stylus. You will receive some of the set-up already done.

You will understand what we mean if you’ve ever attempted to set up a turntable. It can be a nightmare, and if it is your first time, it can take a week to get it right. But some of it was done at the factory.

This is usually the most difficult part of setting the counterweight, but it has been made easy for you. You should be able rest easy once the tonearm is in its normal position. It won’t take any large lumps from your vinyl.

A special feature was mentioned previously. The turntable features RCA connections and can be connected to your Mac or PC using Audacity software. You can also convert vinyl records into digital audio files with the Audacity software. It also has a preamp built in.

  • A good turntable at an excellent price.
  • Well made with good materials.
  • Excellent price for some good features.
  • There could be problems with factory settings if delivery is not done carefully.

2. Numark PT01 Touring | Classically-styled Suitcase Turntable

This little turntable is amazing. It is designed to look like something from 60s or 50s and has so many features that it never ceases amazes.

It is a portable record player that is housed in a small suitcase. This unit contains not only the turntable but also an amp and speakers. Even a battery-driven function is available. This requires a Lithium Ion battery. The battery lasts approximately four hours. It is lightweight at six pounds and has a belt-driven turntable.

It plays not only 33 and 45 RPM, but also 78 RPM. This is an amazing feature. This is amazing! It also comes with a stylus, cartridge, and a stylus. It includes a headphone jack as well as a similar input for audio sources.

The features are still available second time around. If you wish to save your vinyl collection to your computer, it has a USB port.

These are great assets to have on a turntable, but let’s be real. The sound quality will not be the best. The speakers are included in the unit, but they are not considered to be the best. They’re not going to be. This is not what you would call hi-fi.

You should also take care of the turntable, especially if you are changing discs.

It is durable if well maintained. It is a good deal for the price, provided you don’t expect too much.

  • Lots of nice little features.
  • Retro style case.
  • No AC adapter.

3. Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable

Many would argue that music listening has never been more accessible. Streaming sites, as well as a variety of online radio stations, allow you to listen to any music at any time.

This is a different argument than whether it is beneficial for musicians and writers. They are not often paid for their performances, but that is another matter. Sometimes, we know that we all long for the days when we can put on some vinyl and remember how it was.

This turntable is American Graffiti, Happy Days and a lot more. The color is a nod to the 50’s.

It looks great, but it also has the advantage of modern technology. It is a suitcase-style device that can play 33, 45, and even 78 speed. This looks great, but let’s take a closer look at the bonnet.

It has a 3.5mm aux in for connecting to a non Bluetooth device and a Bluetooth connection to allow you to listen to music from all your devices. It has its own headphone socket. Yes, it can play vinyl.

This package is very small and has a little more technology in the stereo speakers. You shouldn’t expect anything more than a $100 performance. It plays vinyl and delivers a great sound.

Although it is very well-made, it cannot be moved around. It also needs a flat surface to play. However, for the price, this is a great little turntable. We are now in the right place. “I found my joy ….” Oh, that’s even better.

  • Plays 33, 45, and 78.
  • Great piece of functioning nostalgia.
  • Probably going to need a flat surface and some care when using.

4. 1byone Belt Driven 3 Speed Portable Stereo Turntable

It seems that turntables that go back in time are becoming more popular. Another example of 1950s-style styling combined with modern technology to create the style and aura from a bygone era.

It is belt-driven, and it comes in a briefcase-style design made of PU leather with a carry handle. It’s lightweight at just 5 pounds and easy to carry with you everywhere you go.

It can play 33, 45 and 78 records. There is also a soft damping control for the tonearm, front-facing speakers, and the tonearm.

There will be times when it is necessary to go back in time and listen to music again. An RCA/AUX in port can be used to connect to your home stereo system, including iPods, phones and MP3’s. You can also connect it to your headphones. The controls are conveniently located on the side.

You can remove the lid if you so desire.

This machine is fun and it’s as much about the appearance as the sound quality. The sound quality is excellent considering the options available and the price. You won’t be disappointed as long as the audio quality isn’t overwhelming.

We will have a slight problem with you if your intention is to take us back to “the day”, but please use the right terminology. This isn’t a turntable. This is a record player. This is what we called it, and how we know it.

  • Front-facing built-in stereo speakers for great sound.
  • Dynamic, balanced tone arm with soft damping control.
  • Selectable 33 / 45 / 78 RPM speeds settings with included 45-RPM adapter.
  • RCA output and headphone jack line-in and line-out make it easy to operate and listen to your music your way.
  • Briefcase-style turntable for lightweight, easy storage and portable.

5. Musitrend Mini Stereo Turntable 3 Speed Record Player with Built-in Speakers

You need to reduce costs if you want to create a product that is affordable. You shouldn’t compromise on the quality of the product. Instead, keep it simple and clean.

This product is an excellent example. The product is portable and has a wooden cabinet with a handle. It has three speeds: 33, 45, and 78 to accommodate all your collections. Also, it comes with a 45 RPM adapter.

One of its most interesting features is the ability to take vinyl records and convert them to MP3 format. You can also transfer your vinyl records to MP3 format using a USB cable.

It’s belt driven and stops automatically when it reaches the end of the last track. Although the speakers are small, they can be heard clearly in large rooms.

The company will include a spare stylus tip needle with the shipment. This is a nice touch. Just a reminder: Do not remove the protective plastic covering when fitting the first stylus needle. It will slip across your record. The English manual will help you navigate the process.

This fun little record player is not a turntable and it’s a great value.

  • Vinyl to MP3 transfer.
  • Nice price.

6. Vintage Turntable Portable

This player is stylishly designed. It is retro-inspired and has a briefcase feel, as opposed to the typical suitcase. It is made of hard plastic and has a very nice design with convenient controls.

The device plays at 33, 45, and 78 speed and is easy to set up and operate. It has two front-facing stereo speakers, but you can also hook it up to your stereo system via the RCA jacks located on the control panel.

The package includes a stylus needle and a spare.

The controls on the unit have been well designed and thought out. We suspect that they are suitable for someone who may not have experienced a record player in years past. Companies assume that everyone is familiar with how to use a record player. This product will show you exactly what to do.

The controls for the tonearm, its raise lever and the turntable auto speed are located on the top. A headphone jack is also available. A clip secures the tonearm to prevent it from being moved.

The aux-in jack can be found on the rear to connect other devices such as headphones or headphones. RCA out jack for additional speakers. They are all well-organized and easy to understand.

It’s easy to use and the turntable spins when the tonearm moves towards the record. The dust cover is included.

It is a small unit that is very affordable.

  • Good functions and easy to use.
  • Good price.

7. Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable

Audio-Technica is a well-known brand that has been building high-quality music systems for over 50 years. The company was originally founded in Japan in the 1960s, but they now have a US affiliate.

This model is an upgrade to their popular LP60. The newest LP60X has a few new features and designs. The fully-automatic belt-driven turntable operates at 33 and 45 rpm.

It means the turntable will automatically queue the record and begin playing it by pressing the start button. The tonearm will then be returned once the record is finished.

It is well-made with high quality materials. It is made of diecast aluminum and has been designed to reduce resonance. To improve tracking and reduce resonance, the tonearm and head have a slightly different design. It also features a dual magnet cartridge and a replaceable diamond stylus.

It features a built-in phono amplifier that can be connected to your stereo speakers at home using RCA cables. The dust cover is removable and hinged.

It is a great turntable, though it is slightly more expensive than the other models we reviewed. It’s clean and neat with some great features.

It is an entry-level turntable, so it does not have the same design features as the more expensive models. It is still a great piece of equipment, and it deserves to be considered as one of the top turntables under $100.

  • Nice design and easy to use.
  • Good quality build.

8. Jensen JTA-230 3 Speed Stereo Turntable

This record player is versatile. This is one of the most versatile record players and turntables available under $100. This Jensen product is an excellent entry-level product, even though it’s at the lower end.

Although it is compact and not visually striking, it does have some nice features. You don’t need external equipment because the unit has built-in speakers. It is also very lightweight, making it portable.

It also has a USB port that allows you to connect to your MP3 or MP4 player. You can also download vinyl records to a smartphone or iPod. Included is the connecting cable. An auxiliary jack socket allows you to play your music directly from your device. If you prefer a more powerful sound, an RCA output is also available.

This machine is belt driven and can run at 33, 45, and 78 rpm. It also has stereo speakers. These features make it a very attractive unit.

This product is very affordable and will not be of high quality in terms of audio reproduction and performance. Although it is well-constructed, the materials used are of poor quality and can lead to problems.

You would expect the built-in speakers to be of the same quality as a product this expensive. However, the software that manages the transfer of files between formats may not be for you.

It is what it’s. It’s a budget-friendly player that will allow you to get into vinyl. As long as you accept the fact that it is, you won’t be disappointed.

  • Good price.
  • Has some useful features.

9. Jensen JTA-222 3-Speed Turntable

Jensen also makes a budget entry-level turntable/record player. The product is a record player/turntable and also features an AM/FM stereo radio. The ‘radiogram has returned. Although the thought was not there, it is possible.

The wooden casing gives the unit a vintage look. The control panel at the front is reminiscent of what you would find on a 40s-era steam-powered radio. We find it kind of charming, we think.

There are some great features. There are two front-facing speakers as well as RCA speaker output jacks. A socket for stereo headphones, a power indicator and a dust cover are included.

It can run at three speeds: 33, 45, and 78. As we have mentioned, it also has an AM/FM radio with an indicator. At just six pounds, it is very portable.

A USB cable is included to convert vinyl into digital format. Software is provided to convert and record the audio.

This is a great entry-level product in the world of vinyl. It isn’t going to win any awards for sound, as it is a budget item.

You will need to set it up correctly. It is not enough to just take it out of the box and expect it to work perfectly. You might have to tweak a few elements several times. This machine is very capable and good value for money.

It is quite loud, performs well for the price and we love the old dial on the front.

  • Very attractive retro machine.
  • Good value for money with AM/FM radio.

10. Crosley CR6019A-BR Executive Portable USB Turntable

This card can be carried by anyone walking through a city with it.

It is designed to look like a vintage briefcase. The two-tone brown and black vinyl mock leather-looks make it look great. The brass-looking clips and fittings complete the look. Gordon Gekko would be proud. Maybe not. You know what we mean.

The belt-driven turntable has three speeds: 33, 45, and 78 rpm. It has an aux-in, RCA audio output and a USB port for connecting to your Mac or computer. It also has stereo speakers. It has a ceramic cartridge.

This is not an automatic turntable. This means that the turntable will stop playing after the last track is played, but the tonearm won’t return to its original position. It must be manually returned.

Do you recall those record players with the tonearm pulled back in order to turn the turntable? Yes? It is. This is amazing! Another vintage piece to add to your collection. It’s not convenient, but it doesn’t matter.

This unit is extremely cost-effective and you can’t expect much from it. However, it sounds great, has some useful features, and looks fantastic.

Although it may not be the best, you will still love having it.

  • Great looking.
  • Some nice features.

Buying Advice

How do I choose the best record player?

It can be difficult to find the right record player for your needs. There are some important details to keep in mind when selecting the best turntables for you and your budget.

When shopping for a new vinyl player for your home, one of the most important things you should look at is how well it’s damped.

Damping is the way manufacturers counter vibrations, internal and external. This is done by using different motor configurations and various components.

Belt-driven turntables will be quieter and more accurate than direct drive ones, because they have a motor directly connected to the platter. There are many great direct drive turntables, so don’t let them go.

You don’t have to spend a lot of time setting up complex turntables with anti-skate, azimuth, vertical tracking angle and azimuth. A turntable that connects wirelessly to your speaker via Bluetooth is possible.

It is also worth asking yourself if you plan to burn your vinyl to your digital library. Look for a turntable that has a USB output and reliable software if you are interested in doing this.

Style and budget are also important factors. Turntables can range in price from $50/PS50 to well over $2,000/PS2,000. It’s important to know the cost of your turntable before you begin your search. Also, think about where your new record player will go in your home. Are you able to accommodate an external amplifier? Look for a turntable that has a built-in preamp if you don’t have the space.

Do I need to buy speakers for my turntable?

Other than your turntable, there are other pieces of kit that you may want to consider.

You’ll first want to look into the best stereo speakers. After all, a turntable can only be as good as the speakers it is connected to. You might also want to consider wireless and over-ear headphones for your record player.

You might consider a Bluetooth speaker if you are looking for a more expensive wireless record player.

You will need to purchase an amplifier if your record player doesn’t come with one.

What Are the Best Turntables Under $100

It was a hard decision. These machines produce high quality audio, but they are much more than sound. They are for some a way to return to vinyl days, while others can be an entry point to the world of vinyl.

The Crosley was our favorite with its briefcase design, although some other turntables were also good. We chose the Best Turntables under $100 because it was the best.

The color is amazing. This machine is small and very affordable.

FAQ for The 10 Best Turntables Under $100

What is the best turntable under $100?

The turntable is a great tool for DJs, musicians, and audiophiles who want to get the most out of their music. It allows them to play vinyl records, CDs, or MP3s.

The best turntable under $100 is the Audio Technica AT-LP60-USB. It has a USB output that allows you to connect it to your computer and transfer your music directly onto your digital library. You can also use this turntable with Bluetooth headphones so that you can enjoy high quality sound without having to plug in a cable.

It has a built-in phono preamp that optimizes the sound quality of any record, CD or MP3 played on it. The Audio Technica AT-LP60-USB also has an adjustable speed control knob.

What are the criteria for a good turntable under $100?

The criteria for a good turntable under $100 are that it has a high-quality sound, is easy to set up, and can be taken with you on the go.

How do choose the best turntable under $100?

When it comes to turntables, you will have many options to choose from. The best turntable under $100 is one that has a good sound quality and is durable.

There are many factors that you should consider when choosing a turntable. You should always look at the sound quality, durability and price. Also, consider the ease of use and the weight of the product because these factors will affect how portable it is.

What is the history of the turntable?

The history of the turntable is a long and interesting one. It all started in 1711, when an Italian instrument maker named Bartolomeo Cristofori built the first ever turntable.

The turntable remained a novelty for over 100 years before it was used commercially in 1877.

Can I use these turntables under $100 for DJing?

The answer is yes, you can use these turntables under $100 if you’re don’t want to spend too much money on your first set of turntables. They’re also perfect for beginners as they come with a manual to help you learn how to DJ.

What is the difference between a DJ and a turntablist?

A DJ is someone who plays music for a live audience, while a turntablist is someone who manipulates the sound of the music by scratching, cutting, and mixing it.

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