The world of vinyl is more accessible than ever. You don’t need a massive budget to start spinning your favorite records and enjoying that classic, warm sound. For beginners, casual listeners, or anyone looking for a great value, there are fantastic record players available that deliver both style and function without breaking the bank.
This roundup focuses on the best options under $100, featuring everything from portable suitcase models to versatile entertainment centers. Whether you prioritize Bluetooth connectivity, all-in-one media playback, or simple, straightforward turntable performance, there’s a perfect player here to start your vinyl journey.
Our Top Picks for Affordable Record Players
- Victrola The Quincy 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player & Multimedia Center (Mahogony)
- 1byone Suit-case Style Turntable Wireless Streaming with Speaker
- Jensen JTA-222 3-Speed Turntable
- JORLAI Record Player 3 Speeds Turntable with Bluetooth Built-in Battery
- Musitrend LP 3-Speed Turntable with Built-in Stereo Speakers
- 1byone Wireless Turntable HiFi System with 36 Watt Bookshelf Speakers
- Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable
- JENSEN Vinyl Record Player 3 Speed Turntable with Dual Bluetooth
- Victrola The Quincy 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player (Farmhouse Grey)
- Crosley Cruiser Deluxe Portable 3-Speed Turntable with Bluetooth
Victrola The Quincy 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player & Multimedia Center (Mahogony)
This Victrola model is a true multimedia hub, perfect for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics but want modern versatility. It combines a 3-speed belt-driven turntable with a CD player, cassette deck, and AM/FM radio, offering six ways to enjoy audio. The built-in speakers and simple setup mean you can start using it immediately without any extra equipment.
Beyond its classic looks, it features Bluetooth connectivity and a 3.5mm aux input, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or connect other devices. The upgraded sound quality and minimal vibration make it a solid, all-in-one choice for beginners or anyone wanting a stylish centerpiece for their living room or bedroom.
1byone Suit-case Style Turntable Wireless Streaming with Speaker
Portability and digital conversion are key benefits of this 1byone suitcase-style player. Its compact, latch-closed design makes it easy to carry from room to room or to a friend’s house. It includes a feature for converting your vinyl records into MP3 files, allowing you to preserve and digitize your collection for playback on computers and mobile devices.
The turntable offers selectable 3-speed playback and comes with a 45-RPM adapter. For connectivity, it provides RCA outputs to hook up to a larger sound system, an AUX input, and built-in speakers. The wireless connection capability also lets you stream audio from your devices through the player’s speakers, adding to its flexibility.
Jensen JTA-222 3-Speed Turntable
The Jensen JTA-222 is a straightforward and functional stereo system centered around a 3-speed turntable. It includes an AM/FM stereo receiver with a clear tuning indicator, expanding your listening options beyond vinyl. Two built-in speakers provide immediate sound, while external output terminals allow for an easy upgrade to larger speakers if desired.
This model is designed for simplicity, featuring a protective dust cover to keep your records and turntable safe. A stereo headphone jack offers private listening, making it a practical choice for dorm rooms, offices, or bedrooms where space and ease of use are important.
JORLAI Record Player 3 Speeds Turntable with Bluetooth Built-in Battery
JORLAI’s player stands out with its fresh white design and true portability, thanks to a built-in rechargeable battery. The suitcase-style build means you aren’t tied to an outlet; you can enjoy vinyl in the backyard, at a picnic, or anywhere you choose. Its modern look fits well with contemporary home decor while delivering a classic vinyl experience.
It operates as a Bluetooth receiver, so you can wirelessly stream music from your phone through its speakers. The belt-driven, 3-speed turntable handles all standard record sizes and speeds. For improved sound, RCA outputs on the back let you connect the player to a larger external stereo system or amplifier.
Musitrend LP 3-Speed Turntable with Built-in Stereo Speakers
This Musitrend turntable emphasizes timeless, elegant design with its natural wood finish, making it a stylish addition to any room. It focuses on providing the warm, analog sound that vinyl enthusiasts appreciate, packaged in a classic phonograph style. The built-in stereo speakers are integrated for a clean, all-in-one setup.
Beyond playing records, it includes a vinyl-to-MP3 recording function, helping you preserve your collection in digital format. It also features RCA output connections, giving you the option to bypass the internal speakers and connect to a more powerful audio system for a fuller sound when you’re ready to upgrade your listening experience.
1byone Wireless Turntable HiFi System with 36 Watt Bookshelf Speakers
This 1byone system offers a step up in audio power by including two separate 36-watt bookshelf speakers. The front-facing, built-in stereo speakers in the main unit are complemented by these external speakers, providing a more immersive and room-filling sound than typical all-in-one players. The magnetic cartridge and dynamic tone arm are designed for better tracking and sound quality.
The turntable features selectable speeds for 33, 45, and 78 RPM records, complete with the necessary adapter. This setup is ideal for someone who wants noticeably improved sound without moving into a complex component-based system, offering a great balance of performance and simplicity.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a standout for those seeking a dedicated, no-fuss turntable from a renowned audio brand. Its fully automatic operation is a major convenience—simply press a button, and the tonearm moves to the record and begins playing. It includes a removable hinged dust cover to protect the components.
Engineered for better sound fidelity, it features an anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter that reduces vibrations and a balanced tone arm. This belt-drive turntable plays the two most common speeds (33-1/3 and 45 RPM). Note that it requires external speakers or a sound system, making it perfect for users who already have audio equipment or plan to build a separate setup.
JENSEN Vinyl Record Player 3 Speed Turntable with Dual Bluetooth
This Jensen player offers unique dual Bluetooth functionality, acting as both a receiver and a transmitter. You can receive a signal from your phone to play digital music through the player’s built-in speakers. More impressively, you can transmit the audio from your vinyl or cassette to any Bluetooth speaker or soundbar, freeing you from the built-in speakers.
It also includes a cassette player and pitch control on the turntable, allowing you to fine-tune the playback speed. This combination of analog playback options with advanced wireless technology provides exceptional flexibility for sharing your music throughout your space.
Victrola The Quincy 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player (Farmhouse Grey)
This is the same versatile 6-in-1 entertainment center as the first Victrola on our list, but presented in a stylish Farmhouse Shiplap Grey finish. It provides multiple playback options: a 3-speed belt-driven turntable for your vinyl, a CD player, a cassette deck, and an FM radio with a rotary tuner for that authentic vintage feel.
Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless music streaming from compatible devices up to 33 feet away. With its built-in speakers and classic design, this model offers the same great functionality in a different color scheme to match a wider variety of home décors and personal styles.
Crosley Cruiser Deluxe Portable 3-Speed Turntable with Bluetooth
The Crosley Cruiser Deluxe is an iconic portable record player known for its suitcase design and variety of colors. It’s a highly portable option with a carrying handle and latch closure, making it easy to transport. The built-in speakers and simple controls provide an immediate plug-and-play experience for vinyl listening.
This deluxe version includes Bluetooth capability, so you can also use it as a wireless speaker for your smartphone or tablet. The 3-speed turntable handles all standard record sizes, offering a fun and accessible entry point into the world of vinyl, especially for those who value mobility and classic style.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Record Player Under $100
Finding a solid record player for under $100 is totally possible, but you need to know what to look for to avoid a disappointing purchase. I’ve spent a lot of time with budget turntables, and the key is balancing features with what actually protects your records. Let’s break down the essentials for your search.
First, the most critical feature: the tonearm and cartridge. You absolutely want a player with an adjustable counterweight and an anti-skate setting. This lets you properly balance the tonearm so the stylus (needle) sits in your record’s groove with the right amount of pressure. Too much weight wears out your records fast. Many cheap all-in-one players have a non-adjustable tonearm with excessive tracking force, which can damage vinyl over time. A replaceable standard cartridge (like a Ceramic or Magnetic one) is a huge plus, as it means you can upgrade the stylus when it wears out.
Next, consider the drive type. You’ll typically find belt-drive and direct-drive models in this range. Belt-drive players use a rubber belt to spin the platter, which helps isolate motor vibrations and is usually quieter. They’re common and often a good choice for casual listening. Direct-drive players have the motor directly connected to the platter; they’re robust and have better speed consistency, which is great. For a 10 Best Record Players under $100 – Complete Buyer’s Guide, I often recommend starting with a reliable belt-drive model from a known audio brand.
Built-in features are a big part of the budget appeal. Many players in this price point come with Bluetooth, allowing you to stream vinyl sound to wireless speakers or headphones. Others function as full stereo systems with CD players, cassette decks, and AM/FM radios. Think about what you need. If you just want to play records, a simpler turntable might offer better core performance. If you want an all-in-one entertainment center, those combo units are very convenient. Just check that the turntable component has the basic features to care for your records.
Finally, look at the platter and build. A heavier, non-plastic platter helps with stability and reduces resonance. The base should feel sturdy, not hollow and flimsy, to minimize feedback from speakers. Check if it has a built-in preamp (often labeled “phono/line switch”). If it does, you can connect it directly to powered speakers or a soundbar. If it doesn’t, you’ll need a separate phono preamp or a receiver with a “phono” input. By focusing on these elements—a proper tonearm, a decent drive system, and thoughtful features—you can find a player that’s a joy to use without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a record player under $100 actually sound good?
Yes, it can sound perfectly enjoyable, especially if you’re just getting into vinyl. The key is setting realistic expectations. A $100 player won’t match the detail and depth of a $500 setup, but a well-chosen model from a reputable brand can provide warm, satisfying sound. The bigger concern is often record wear. Focus on finding a player with an adjustable counterweight to ensure it doesn’t damage your vinyl collection, which will make your listening experience better in the long run.
Are those suitcase-style players a bad buy?
They are incredibly popular for their portability and look, but they have significant drawbacks. Most use a non-adjustable tonearm with a high tracking force and a ceramic cartridge with a stiff stylus. This combination can cause faster wear on your records. The built-in speakers are also usually small and can create vibration feedback. If you play valuable or vintage records often, I’d suggest avoiding them. However, if you just have a few modern records and prioritize portability above all, they work. It’s about knowing the trade-off.
Do I need special speakers for a budget turntable?
It depends on the turntable’s output. Many modern budget players have a built-in phono preamp. This means you can connect them directly to any powered speakers (like computer or bookshelf speakers) or even a soundbar using a standard RCA or 3.5mm cable. If your turntable does not have a built-in preamp, you will need either a separate phono preamp box or a stereo receiver with a dedicated “phono” input. Always check the product specifications to see what type of output it has.
Is Bluetooth on a turntable a good feature?
Bluetooth is a fantastic feature for convenience and flexibility, especially in a budget setup. It lets you use wireless speakers or headphones without running cables across the room. This is great for small spaces or modern setups. The important thing to remember is that you are converting the analog vinyl signal to digital to transmit it, which some purists avoid. But for casual, accessible listening, it’s a very useful tool. When using this guide for the 10 Best Record Players under $100, I consider Bluetooth a major plus for users who want an easy, clutter-free experience.
How often do I need to replace the stylus on an affordable player?
You should replace the stylus (needle) roughly every 500 to 1000 hours of playing time. On a very inexpensive player, this might be more frequent. A worn stylus doesn’t just sound bad (it might cause distortion or skipping), it can also permanently groove your records. If your player uses a standard, replaceable cartridge, you can usually find affordable replacement styluses online. This is a small but crucial maintenance cost for protecting your vinyl investment.