The Best Turntables in all Categories: From Experienced Record Collectors To Beginners 2025

The McIntosh MT5 Precision Turntable is a stunning piece of audio engineering that blends world-class performance with iconic style. Whether you’re a longtime audiophile or a passionate newcomer to the world of vinyl, the MT5 invites you into an immersive, warm, and rich listening experience—one that only analog can provide. You can clearly see why the MT5 snagged our “Best Audiophile-Grade Turntable” crown.

Crafted with the renowned attention to detail that defines McIntosh, the MT5 is more than just a turntable—it's a statement piece. Its sleek, modern design is instantly recognizable thanks to the illuminated green-glow platter, which floats elegantly over the base like a piece of functional art. The aesthetic is classic McIntosh, designed to complement the rest of your McIntosh system or to stand alone as a beautiful centerpiece.

But the MT5 is as much about performance as it is about looks. It comes with a factory-fitted, high-performance moving coil cartridge, precision tonearm, and a belt-driven platter system made from a special vibration-dampening material. The result is ultra-quiet operation and stable speed accuracy, ensuring your records sound just as the artist intended. Every nuance, every subtle detail, and every powerful moment in your favorite records comes alive with remarkable clarity and depth.

What sets the MT5 apart is its plug-and-play simplicity. While many high-end turntables require careful setup, the MT5 arrives calibrated and ready to perform at its best with minimal adjustment. This makes it ideal for vinyl lovers who want top-tier audio without the hassle.

Of course, the MT5 proudly carries the McIntosh legacy of exceptional build quality. Each component is engineered to last, offering a lifetime of listening pleasure. Whether you're spinning a first-pressing jazz classic or the latest indie release, the MT5 delivers sonic excellence with every play.

In short, the McIntosh MT5 Precision Turntable is a perfect blend of form and function. It brings together luxurious design, audiophile-grade performance, and user-friendly operation in a way that few turntables can match. If you're serious about your vinyl and want an experience that feels as good as it sounds, the MT5 is ready to elevate your listening to the next level.

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality
• Plug-and-play setup
• Classic McIntosh build quality
• Premium materials

Cons:

• On the pricier side of turntables
• No built-in phono preamp
• Limited adjustability

TEAC’s TN-4D-SE turntable is where classic analog charm meets modern precision. With its elegant design, premium components, and direct-drive performance, this turntable is perfect for music lovers who want hi-fi sound and stylish looks without sacrificing convenience or quality. Our “Best Turntable Under $1000” couldn’t have gone to a better table!

Unlike most turntables in its class, the TN-4D-SE features a quartz-locked, brushless DC direct-drive motor—a rare find in this price range. That means rock-solid speed stability, fast start-up, and minimal wow and flutter. Whether you're spinning an old favorite or a brand-new pressing, this motor delivers smooth, accurate playback every time.

The beautifully crafted low-profile plinth, available in stunning real wood veneer finishes like this beautiful walnut or a more traditional black ash, gives the TN-4D-SE a premium look that blends easily with both vintage and modern decor. It's built not just to sound good, but to look good doing it.

At the heart of the performance is a S-shaped static-balanced tonearm, designed in collaboration with SAEC, a renowned Japanese tonearm specialist. This high-precision arm tracks records with outstanding accuracy and minimal distortion. It comes pre-mounted with the highly regarded Sumiko Oyster MM cartridge, which delivers warm, detailed sound right out of the box—and gives you room to upgrade if you’re chasing that next level of fidelity.

The turntable also includes a built-in phono preamp, so you can connect it directly to powered speakers, soundbars, or systems without a dedicated phono input. Prefer a custom signal path? Simply switch it off and use your external preamp of choice.

It plays 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records, supports both casual and critical listening, and offers the build and components to satisfy both newcomers and seasoned audiophiles alike.

With the TEAC TN-4D-SE, you get the tactile joy of vinyl with the benefits of modern innovation: precision engineering, superior sound, and the kind of build quality you can feel. It’s a turntable that respects the past while embracing the present—ideal for anyone ready to elevate their analog experience.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• Direct-drive motor with Quartz lock
• High-quality tonearm
• Built-in phono preamp
• Premium design and materials

Cons:

• Manual operation
• No Bluetooth or USB output

If you’re looking to elevate your vinyl listening experience with a turntable that combines audiophile performance and stunning design, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO 2 is a top contender. This latest iteration of the beloved Debut Carbon line brings refined engineering, luxurious finishes, and smart upgrades—all housed in a rich, satin-finished Rosenut plinth that exudes warmth and sophistication. There was not a single objection in giving this turntable our “Best Mid-Range Turntable” title this year.

The EVO 2 takes everything that made the original a favorite and pushes it further. At its core is a heavy, resonance-resistant MDF plinth, now sitting on newly redesigned, height-adjustable damped aluminum feet, which provide superb isolation from external vibrations. Whether you’re playing jazz on a crowded shelf or rocking out on a solid hi-fi rack, your records will sound grounded, clear, and true.

This model features a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm, a signature of the Debut line, known for its rigidity and light weight. The result is ultra-precise tracking and low distortion, giving you more detail, texture, and depth in your music. The EVO 2 also includes a factory-mounted Sumiko Rainier moving magnet cartridge, an upgrade that adds smoothness and balance across the frequency range—perfect for both seasoned vinyl fans and serious newcomers.

A standout performance feature is the steel and TPE-damped platter, which offers excellent rotational stability and noise reduction. With the electronic speed control switch, switching between 33 1/3 and 45 RPM is fast and seamless—no manual belt changes required.

The Satin Red finish gives this turntable a premium, furniture-grade look with a soft, natural luster that complements both modern and vintage interiors. It’s eye-catching without being flashy—sophisticated, understated, and undeniably classy. There are a TON of other color options to choose from, too: Satin Yellow, Satin Walnut, Satin White, Satin Green, Satin Blue, Satin Black, Gloss White, Gloss Red, and Gloss Black.

While it doesn’t include a built-in preamp, that’s by design: Pro-Ject caters to those who want a clean, uncolored signal path and the freedom to pair it with a phono stage of their choice.

In short, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO 2 is a beautifully crafted, high-performance turntable that brings vinyl to life with style and sonic precision. Whether you're spinning old records or starting a high-quality setup from scratch, this turntable delivers serious analog joy—with looks to match.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• High-performance carbon fiber tonearm
• Factory-mounted Sumiko Rainier cartridge
• Tons of color options

Cons:

• No built-in preamp
• Manual operation
• No Bluetooth or USB output

If you're ready to experience vinyl the way it was meant to be heard—rich, warm, and totally immersive—(and don’t want to spend top-dollar) the U-Turn Orbit 2 Plus is your perfect gateway. Handmade in the USA with minimalist elegance and audiophile-grade precision, the Orbit 2 Plus strikes the ideal balance between high-performance audio and approachable, user-friendly design. And in that bold green finish? It’s not just a turntable—it’s a piece of art. Our “Best Turntable Under $500” title couldn’t have gone to a more deserving piece!

At the heart of the Orbit 2 Plus is a precision-machined acrylic platter, which offers better speed consistency and resonance control compared to MDF platters. That means your records sound clearer and more dynamic, with punchy lows and smooth highs. Paired with U-Turn’s upgraded OA3 Pro tonearm, which now includes a magnesium armtube and adjustable counterweight, the tracking is ultra-accurate—helping you get the most out of every groove.

This model comes equipped with the highly regarded Ortofon OM5E cartridge, a solid performer that delivers crisp, balanced sound across all genres. Whether you're spinning classic rock, modern indie, or vintage jazz, the Orbit Plus brings it to life with warmth and detail that digital just can’t match.

It also features a built-in switchable phono preamp, so you can plug it directly into powered speakers or amps without a dedicated phono input. Simple, seamless, and ready to play right out of the box.

Design-wise, the Orbit 2 Plus is all about clean lines, minimal branding, and color choices that pop—this vibrant green we are writing about, traditional black, modern blue, fire engine red, and a classic white. It adds an energetic, modern touch to any room while still keeping things classy and refined. The clear dust cover is included, protecting your turntable without hiding its stylish silhouette.

With manual operation and easy setup, it’s perfect for both newcomers and seasoned vinyl lovers who want more control over their playback experience without unnecessary complexity.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, U.S.-crafted turntable with real sonic punch, gorgeous design, and upgradeable components, the U-Turn Orbit 2 Plus delivers big. It’s fun. It’s functional. And it makes every listening session feel a little more special.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• OA3 Pro upgraded tonearm
• Ortofon OM5E cartridge
• Built-in phono preamp (switchable)
• Handmade in the USA

Cons:

• Manual operation
• No built-in Bluetooth or USB output
• Dust cover is not on hinges

If you're ready to step up your vinyl game, the Pro-Ject T1 BT Evo turntable offers a perfect balance of audiophile-grade performance and everyday usability—wrapped in a minimalist, elegant design that looks as good as it sounds. Our “Best Turntable with Bluetooth” award was practically made for the T1 BT Evo.

Hand-assembled in Europe, the T1 Evo is built with meticulous attention to detail. From the moment you unpack it, you can feel the quality. The chassis is crafted from solid CNC-machined wood with no plastic parts or hollow spaces, reducing unwanted vibrations and enhancing audio clarity. The heavy 8mm glass platter further adds mass and stability, helping your records spin true and sound spectacular.

What sets the T1 BT Evo apart from a lot of other turntables is its built-in Bluetooth streaming, which lets you wirelessly send your favorite records to Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Don’t want to see messy wires? No worries. It’s perfect for those who want clean setups or multi-room listening, without compromising too much of that analog warmth. Of course, for traditionalists, the turntable also includes a high-quality built-in phono stage and RCA outputs for connecting to amplifiers and stereo systems. This Pro-Ject adapts to your needs quite quickly.

The tonearm is another standout. At 8.6 inches and made from a single piece of aluminum, it’s ultra-precise and works in perfect harmony with the pre-mounted Ortofon OM 10 cartridge. This combo delivers rich, detailed sound with great dynamic range, making every album—from classic jazz to modern blues—sound better than ever.

Performance is one thing, but looks matter, too. Available in other sleek finishes like walnut and white, the T1 Evo has a clean, modern aesthetic that pairs beautifully with any décor. There are no gimmicks or unnecessary extras—just solid engineering and refined performance.

Whether you’re an audiophile looking for a compact second setup or a music lover upgrading from an entry-level model, the Pro-Ject T1 BT Evo offers everything you need: beautiful sound, modern wireless freedom, and premium build quality.

If you believe music should be heard the way it was meant to be, with warmth, depth, and character—then this is your turntable. The Pro-Ject T1 BT Evo makes it easy to fall in love with vinyl all over again, one record at a time.

Pros:

• Sounds great
• Excellent build quality
• Bluetooth streaming
• Audiophile-grade tonearm and cartridge
• Built-in phono preamp

Cons:

• No digital output
• Manual operation
• Limited upgrade possibilities

Whether you're new to vinyl or a seasoned collector looking for convenience, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT turntable offers the perfect blend of tradition and technology. It brings the rich, warm sound of analog records into the modern age, letting you enjoy your favorite albums with or without wires. This kind of versatility had this turntable grab our “Best Value Turntable with Bluetooth” title rather easily. Plus, the white finish is divine!

The AT-LP60XBT is a fully automatic belt-drive turntable, meaning you don’t have to worry about manually placing or lifting the tonearm—just press a button and let the music play. It's designed to play both 33-1/3 and 45 RPM records, giving you flexibility across your entire collection.

What really sets this model apart is its Bluetooth capability, which allows you to connect wirelessly to speakers, headphones, or home audio systems. No messy cables or complicated setups—just seamless streaming. And if you prefer a wired connection, there’s a built-in switchable phono pre-amp and included RCA output cables, so you can plug it into just about any audio setup.

Performance-wise, the AT-LP60XBT doesn’t disappoint. It features a redesigned tonearm base and headshell for improved tracking and reduced resonance. The pre-mounted Audio-Technica Dual Magnet™ cartridge with a replaceable stylus ensures clean, precise audio that captures every groove and nuance of your favorite records.

Design-wise, it’s sleek and compact, with a matte finish available in several colors to match your space and style (see it in black and red, too). Whether it's sitting on a media console or a bookshelf, it adds a touch of retro charm with modern flair.

Setting up the AT-LP60XBT is a breeze, making it ideal for beginners, but its solid construction and reliable performance also appeal to vinyl enthusiasts who want a hassle-free listening experience. It’s a turntable that respects the roots of analog music while embracing the future of wireless convenience.

If you're looking for a great entry point into the vinyl world—or simply want a stylish, easy-to-use turntable that sounds as good as it looks—the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT is a fantastic choice. Just press play and let the music flow.

Pros:

• Good sound quality
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Fully automatic operation
• Built-in phono preamp
• Several finishes available

Cons:

• Cannot use manually
• Cannot upgrade cartridge
• Fair amount of plastic used in construction

For vinyl lovers who want the best of both worlds—classic analog sound and modern digital convenience—the Denon DP-450USB is a game-changer. With its sleek European styling, intuitive design, and unique recording features, this turntable is perfect for both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers. Read on to see why this turntable took our “Best Turntable with USB” title!

At first glance, the DP-450USB impresses with its premium look. The curved, S-shaped tonearm isn't just for style—it’s engineered for optimal tracking, reducing distortion and preserving the fine details of your favorite records. The belt-driven motor offers stable rotation at 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, so you can play everything from new releases to vintage shellac records with ease. If you like a little more of a modern look, the DP-450USB is available in white, too.

One of its standout features is the built-in USB recording port. With just the press of a button, you can convert your vinyl records into high-quality MP3 or WAV files directly to a USB drive—no computer or special software required. It’s an incredibly convenient way to take your analog collection on the go, back up rare tracks, or simply preserve your music digitally.

The Denon DP-450USB also comes equipped with a built-in phono equalizer, making it compatible with any amplifier or speaker system, whether it has a phono input or not. That means plug-and-play functionality, right out of the box.

The removable dual-purpose dust cover is another thoughtful touch. It protects your turntable while in use and doubles as an elegant display stand for your album sleeve—perfect for showcasing the artwork while you listen. It certainly caused admiration of the turntable when we first auditioned it.

The included MM cartridge is factory-installed and aligned, so setup is simple and quick. Of course, if you're looking to customize, you can upgrade the cartridge later to suit your audio preferences.

Whether you're spinning a new LP or a rare 78 RPM shellac, the Denon DP-450USB delivers clean, warm, and dynamic sound—with the bonus of easy digital archiving.

If you love vinyl but want the flexibility of modern tech, the Denon DP-450USB is a smart and stylish solution. It respects the heritage of analog music while making it easier than ever to share, store, and enjoy your records—anywhere, anytime.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• USB recording to a USB thumb drive
• Built-in phono preamp
• Supports 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM speeds
• Multi-purpose dust cover

Cons:

• Limited cartridge upgrade options
• No Bluetooth output
• Plastic plinth
• Cannot connect to PC for audio transfer

Victrola’s VPT-3000 is a thoughtfully designed, belt-driven turntable that strikes a perfect balance between classic analog charm and modern convenience. Whether you're brand-new to vinyl or an experienced listener, the VPT-3000 offers solid performance, attractive styling, and accessible features—all without breaking the bank. Best of all, it can integrate to your existing Sonos home audio system. This turntable was a shoo-in for “Best Turntable for Sonos”.

From the moment you unbox it, the VPT-3000 makes a strong first impression. Its sleek wood veneer base and clear dust cover give it a vintage-inspired aesthetic, while clean lines and minimalist controls add a touch of modern simplicity. It looks great in any room, from cozy listening corners to contemporary living spaces.

But the VPT-3000 is more than just good looks. Under the hood, it features a belt-drive motor system that provides steady, low-noise playback across two speeds: 33 1/3 and 45 RPM. That means you can enjoy everything from full-length LPs to your favorite 7-inch singles with reliable performance and minimal wow or flutter. Built-in Sonos connectivity allows you to seamlessly connect this turntable to your existing Sonos system so you can enjoy your vinyl anywhere in your home!

Equipped with a removable headshell and an Audio-Technica AT-3600LA cartridge, the VPT-3000 delivers surprisingly rich and dynamic sound for its price point. The tonearm features an adjustable counterweight, allowing you to fine-tune tracking force for optimal groove contact—something you’d typically only find in more expensive models.

For those who already have an audio system, the VPT-3000 gives you flexibility: it includes a built-in switchable phono preamp, so you can connect directly to powered speakers or integrate it into a more traditional hi-fi setup with a dedicated phono input. Either way, you're up and spinning in minutes.

Another thoughtful feature is its anti-skate control, which helps maintain balanced tracking across your records and prevents channel distortion. Add in its solid aluminum platter and vibration-dampening feet, and you’ve got a fantastic turntable.

In summary, the Victrola VPT-3000 is a fantastic mid-range turntable for vinyl lovers who want a taste of hi-fi without the high price. It’s easy to set up, enjoyable to use, and delivers sound that’s full of warmth and character. If you're ready to take your records seriously—or just want a dependable, great-sounding player with modern flair (and Sonos connectivity)—we believe the VPT-3000 is a smart choice.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• Built-in phono preamp
• Connects to Sonos
• Classic looks

Cons:

• Not compatible with 78 RPM records
• Not automatic
• Some parts are cheap-feeling

Please allow us to introduce you to the Audio-Technica AT-SB727 Sound Burger—a delightfully retro-styled portable turntable that brings vinyl to life wherever you go. With its compact design, rechargeable battery, and wireless Bluetooth capability, this modern remake of an '80s classic is perfect for casual listeners, collectors on the move, or anyone who loves their music with a splash of nostalgia. It was a slam dunk to crown the AT-SB727 with our “Best Portable Turntable” award this year!

Don’t let its quirky name or fun exterior fool you—the Sound Burger is a serious little music machine. It supports both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records, and it’s designed to handle full-size LPs despite its small footprint. Just open the clamp-style top, place your record on the spindle, close it up, and press play. It even comes with a tonearm lock and a damping mechanism to reduce skipping during play—especially handy for outdoor or mobile use.

One of its biggest perks? Built-in Bluetooth. You can wirelessly stream your records to Bluetooth headphones or speakers, making it super versatile for everything from backyard hangouts to dorm room sessions. Prefer a wired setup? No problem—the Sound Burger also includes a 3.5mm output and RCA adapter cable, so it plays nice with just about any sound system.

It’s powered by a USB-C rechargeable battery, which offers up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge. That’s plenty of juice for road trips, picnics, crate-digging sessions, or just relaxing with your favorite records wherever the mood strikes.

In terms of sound quality, it uses a high-quality Audio-Technica cartridge (ATN3600L stylus) that delivers warm, punchy, and detailed playback—impressive for a turntable of its size and price. It’s a great way to enjoy vinyl without needing a full home audio setup.

With its throwback look, fresh color options (see it in yellow!), and super-portable design, the AT-SB727 is a conversation starter and a vibe-setter. Whether you're rediscovering old favorites or showing off a new record to friends, the Sound Burger makes the vinyl experience more fun and accessible than ever.

If you love music, love vinyl, and love sharing both with the world—this is your perfect on-the-go player. Compact, cool, and charming, the Audio-Technica AT-SB727 is proof that great things really do come in small, burger-sized packages.

Pros:

• Portable design
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Good sound quality
• Built-in rechargeable battery

Cons:

• Manual operation
• Not built for audiophiles
• Stability is dependant on surface area