Key takeaways
- Cheapest pick worth buying: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X ($99 – $179).
- A good entry turntable plus decent powered speakers beats an expensive deck with cheap speakers.
- A built-in phono preamp lets you plug straight into powered speakers; otherwise you need a separate preamp.
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On a budget? Here are the best-value turntables in the US, starting with the cheapest model we rate, with typical prices and our verdict on each.
Prices are typical ranges, not live prices. The button on each pick opens the current price.
Budget picks at a glance
| Product | Verdict | Score | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica AT-LP60X | Consider | 7.6/10 | $99 – $179 |
| Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB | Buy | 8.8/10 | $279 – $349 |
Budget picks in detail
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X
First turntable on a budget · Verdict: Consider · Score: 7.6/10 · Typical price: $99 – $179
Why we like it: Fully automatic and very simple.
Pros: Fully automatic · Built-in preamp · Inexpensive
Cons: Limited upgrade options · Light plinth picks up vibration
Buy it if you want the simplest, cheapest real turntable to get started with vinyl.
Skip it if you plan to upgrade the cartridge later; the AT-LP120XUSB has a far better upgrade path.
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
Best all-rounder · Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.8/10 · Typical price: $279 – $349
Why we like it: Direct-drive deck with a built-in preamp and USB.
Pros: Direct drive with stable speed · Switchable built-in preamp · USB output to rip vinyl · Adjustable tonearm for cartridge upgrades
Cons: Manual operation · DJ styling isn't for everyone
Buy it if you want a solid, upgradeable turntable that plugs into powered speakers or a stereo and can digitize records.
Skip it if you want a set-and-forget automatic turntable.
How to save money
A good entry turntable plus decent powered speakers beats an expensive deck with cheap speakers.
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.
Where not to cut corners
A built-in phono preamp lets you plug straight into powered speakers; otherwise you need a separate preamp.
Common mistake: All-in-one suitcase players with heavy tracking can wear records faster.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the best cheap turntables in the US?
The cheapest model we would still buy is Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, typically $99 – $179.
Are cheap turntables worth it?
A good entry turntable plus decent powered speakers beats an expensive deck with cheap speakers. Do not compromise on the basics, though. A built-in phono preamp lets you plug straight into powered speakers; otherwise you need a separate preamp.
When are turntables cheapest in the US?
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.