5 Best Turntables Under $100 – Record Players Review

7 Best Turntables Under $100 You Can Buy

Struggling with finding a quality turntable on a tight budget?

In this blog, we explore the best turntables available for under $100, perfect for those new to the vinyl scene or anyone seeking a budget-friendly option for casual listening. We cover a range of models that offer a balance between affordability, functionality, and sound quality, including options that are ideal for basic setups and occasional use.

With over 17 years of experience in the vinyl and audio equipment industry, we’ve assisted a broad spectrum of clients, from young music fans making their first foray into vinyl to seasoned listeners looking for a secondary turntable. Our focus on turntables under $100 is grounded in extensive testing and real-world use, ensuring our recommendations are both practical and reliable. These turntables aren’t just about low cost; they’re about delivering a satisfying vinyl experience without a hefty investment. We’ve evaluated them based on their audio performance, build quality, and ease of use, finding them suitable for those who want to enjoy the unique charm of vinyl records without breaking the bank.

Good Budget Turntable in $100?

1. ION Audio Vinyl Motion

ION Audio Vinyl Motion Portable 3-Speed Belt-Drive Suitcase Turntable with Built-In Speakers

This belt-drive turntable by ION Audio plays at 3 speeds and comes with built-in speakers. It also has RCA outputs so that you can connect larger stereo systems.

And if you want to listen to your records quietly, the turntable also has a headphone jack. You can also convert your records into digital files via USB with the EZ Vinyl/Tape Converter software provided with the turntable.

The turntable comes with a rechargeable battery, with which you can play records for up to 4 hours. It has a 1/8” auxiliary input, which lets you plug in your iPod, iPhone, or any other external music source.

What We Like

  • Fantastic battery life
  • Battery operated
  • Portable

What We Don’t Like

  • No Power cord

MY REVIEW

It is worth every dollar you pay for it. It is light, has a good battery life, the sound is great, and it can be carried anywhere easily. If you are thinking of going for this one, I am with you.

2. Digitnow! Nostalgic

Vinyl Record Player Wireless Turntable Bluetooth 3-Speed Portable Vintage Suitcase with Built-in Speakers

This turntable will play all your favorite music and albums without any wires or cords. It comes with Bluetooth, with which you can play music from any of your devices.

Moreover, this turntable has an RCA aux-in, a headphone jack, and built-in speakers. The best part I love about this turntable is that it is portable and you can carry it anywhere easily. It weighs only 5.62 pounds.

It costs less than $50 so you can buy this turntable without burning your pockets and enjoy your music records.

What We Like

  • RCA aux-in
  • Good sound quality
  • Lightweight
  • Bluetooth connection

What We Don’t Like

  • Low sound quality of built-in speakers

MY REVIEW

The only problem with this turntable is the sound quality of its built-in speakers. But again, you cannot say it’s very bad because the price of this turntable is very cheap. So you cannot expect the best speakers.

Other than this, the turntable is good in all aspects.​

3. ION Audio Archive LP

ION Audio Archive LP Digital Conversion Turntable with Built-In Stereo Speakers and Diamond-Tipped Stylus

The ION Audio Archive LP is a classy turntable with awesome looks and features. It comes with built-in speakers and can connect to your computer via USB. With this, you can turn your records into digital files.

This turntable has RCA outputs for stereo connections and plays at three speeds. You also get EZ Vinyl/Tape Converter software for both PCs and Macs. But remember that it will convert your records into WAV files. To convert it into MP3 files, you will have to use other software. iTunes will help you.

What We Like

  • Great built-in speakers
  • Auto-stop

What We Don’t Like

  • No dust cover

MY REVIEW

Well, I would recommend you buy the above-mentioned turntables if you want one under $100. This turntable does not have a dust cover, which is very essential. All standard turntables have a dust cover but this one doesn’t. So it is better to get one with a dust cover.

4. ION Audio Air LP

Vinyl Record Player Wireless Turntable Bluetooth 3-Speed Portable Vintage Suitcase with Built-in Speakers

This is the third ION Audio turntable I am mentioning in this list. It means that if you want really cheap and good turntables, ION Audio is a good choice.

This belt-drive turntable can play at three speeds. Like others, this one also allows you to connect your computer via USB. The turntable comes with EZ Vinyl/Tape Converter software, which lets you digitize your records.

You can connect it to your home stereo via RCA outputs. This one comes with a dust cover.

What We Like

  • RCA output
  • USB connection
  • It comes with a dust cover.

What We Don’t Like

  • No Cons

MY REVIEW

I really couldn’t find any cons to this turntable. A turntable with so many features can cost you a lot but this one is really affordable.

5. Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player

Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player with Built-in Speakers

SoulTracks is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable. It comes with good-quality built-in speakers and can play at three speeds without any problems.

It can be carried easily anywhere and you can choose from different color options. The turntable comes with RCA outputs and a headphone jack. For a better sound experience, you can connect your home stereo.

Some of the great features include a stylus and an automatic tonearm.

What We Like

  • Lightweight
  • Automatic tone-arm
  • RCA output
  • Headphone jack

What We Don’t Like

  • No Cons

MY REVIEW

The turntable is really worth its price and you get good sound quality without any compromise.

FAQs on Best Turntables Under $100

Can a cheap turntable sound good?

Yes, a cheap turntable can sound good. Quality relies on other factors too. Careful set-up and good speakers improve sound.

Does an expensive turntable make a difference?

Expensive turntables can make a difference. They often have superior parts. They provide better sound and durability.

Do cheap record players ruin vinyls?

Yes, cheap record players can damage vinyl. They may lack counterweights on the tonearm. This can cause unnecessary wear.

Does a turntable sound better than a CD?

Sound quality is subjective. Some prefer the warm, rich sound of vinyl. Others favor the clarity and consistency of CDs.

Do old turntables sound better?

Old turntables can sound good. But it depends on their condition. Quality varies across different models and brands.

Should I get a turntable with or without speakers?

Without speakers, it is often better. Separate speakers provide more flexibility. They can lead to superior sound quality.

Is there a difference between cheap and expensive turntables?

Yes, there is a difference. Expensive turntables usually offer better sound and build quality. They often have better features, too.

How do you know if a turntable is good?

Check for sturdy construction, a balanced tonearm, and a quality cartridge. Reviews and user feedback are also useful.

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David Grik, a celebrated turntable expert and audio reviewer, brings over 15 years of experience in sound engineering and vinyl technology. An MIT alum, his insights and reviews guide enthusiasts in the world of high-quality audio. You can learn more on the About Us page.

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