The Best Budget Turntables You Can Buy For Under 300$

The Best Budget Turntables You Can Buy For Under 300$
Photo by Konstantinos Hasandras / Unsplash

A lot of people think that you need to spend a lot of money to get a good turntable. That’s simply not true. There are plenty of great options out there if you’re on a budget. In this article, we’re going to show you the best budget turntables you can buy for under $300. We’ve done the research and found the best models out there. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide to help you make the best decision for your needs. So, whether you’re a vinyl enthusiast on a budget or you’re just getting started, this article is for you. Keep reading to find the best budget turntable for your needs!

Saving up to buy a turntable can be tough, but it's worth it once you have your amazing new record player.


Saving up to buy a turntable can be tough, but it's worth it once you have your excellent new record player. The sound quality of vinyl records is unbeatable, and there's nothing like the feeling of holding a record in your hands and watching it spin on the turntable. Plus once you make the one-time purchase of a turntable you'll have it for many years to come! If you're looking to get into vinyl but don't want to spend a fortune on a turntable, don't worry – there are plenty of great options available for under $300. In this article, we'll go over the best budget turntables you can buy, so you can start enjoying your records as soon as possible!

There are a few different types of turntables, so it's important to do your research to find the right one for you.


There are a few different types of turntables to choose from, so it's important to do your research and find the right one for you. Direct Drive turntables are the most common type, and they have a motor connected directly to the platter – which rotates the record. They tend to be more reliable but can also be a bit more expensive. Belt Drive turntables, on the other hand, have a motor connected to the platter via a belt. This dampens vibrations and gives the record player a more consistent listening experience. They usually tend to be a bit cheaper, but they don't last as long. There are also Automatic and Manual turntables, which require different levels of input from the user. The Manual turntables tend to be a bit cheaper, but the Automatic ones are easier to use.


It's important to educate yourself about the different features and costs associated with each type of turntable so you can make the right decision for your budget. There are also more expensive, high-end models available, but you should make sure you know what you're getting before investing in a more expensive model.

And finally, these are the best turntables we could find that won't break the bank

Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK

This model offers a Direct Drive turntable and Bluetooth connectivity. It also has manually adjustable anti-skate control and straightforward controls.

amazon rating for AT-LP60

Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK

Cut the cord, keep the vinyl. The AT-LP60XBT gives you all the great features of the redesigned AT-LP60X fully automatic belt-drive stereo turntable with the added convenience of Bluetooth wireless connectivity. So you can set up your turntable in one room and listen to it in another without having to run a bunch of cables.

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Sony PS-LX310BT

This belt-driven turntable features a built-in phono EQ, as well as a dust cover. It also has a USB output for easy recording and the ability to stream via Bluetooth.

amazon rating for PS-LX310

Sony PS-LX310BT

Rediscover the timeless vinyl experience with simple controls and stable wireless connectivity. With the PS-LX310BT record player, you can enjoy clear, natural sound, whether you’re reliving your favorite LP or sharing a stunning reissue with the family.

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Fluance RT81 - Our Pick

This model offers an S-shaped tonearm and a solid design. It also has an AT95E audio technica cartridge.

amazon rating for fluance RT81

Fluance RT81

Premium components allow this high fidelity belt driven turntable to recreate the performance the way the artist intended

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Audio-Technica AT-LPW30TK

This classic-style turntable offers a built-in phono preamp, adjustable anti-skate control, and a Hydraulic lift system.

amazon rating for At-LPW30Tk

Audio-Technica AT-LPW30TK

The at-lpw30tk is a fully manual, belt-drive turntable designed to give you optimal high-fidelity audio reproduction from vinyl. The two-speed (33-1/3 and 45 RPM) turntable features an aesthetically pleasing anti-resonance MDF (medium density fiberboard) plinth with simulated teak veneer to limit low-frequency acoustical feedback.

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Turntables A Bit Out Of Budget

These turn tables are a bit over 300$ but we think they're still very good options if you're willing to put in that extra bit of money for a better product.

U-Turn Audio - Orbit Plus Turntable

This belt-driven turntable offers a 9” tonearm, an Ortofon OM5E cartridge, and a beautiful acrylic platter that actually shows the belt-driven system.

amazon rating for U-turn audio turn table

U-Turn Audio - Orbit Plus Turntable

Get more out of your records with the Orbit Plus. Our acrylic platter doesn’t just sit there looking pretty — it provides improved speed stability and dissipates unwanted resonances. The result: more lifelike tonality and punchier bass. The Plus also features the Ortofon OM5E cartridge, which is perfect for listeners who enjoy a wide variety of genres.

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Music Hall mmf-1.5 3-Speed Belt Driving Turntable

This Direct Drive turntable has a floating motor to reduce vibration, as well as an aluminum platter for improved sound quality.

amazon rating for music hall mmf-1.5

Music Hall mmf-1.5 3-Speed Belt Driving Turntable

  • Enjoy a stunning design with the gorgeous real cherry wood veneer that will complement any home décor. Fine-tune your sound with the adjustable electronic speed control and ensure maximum sound quality with special vibration damping feet and high-quality gold RCA connectors
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Be sure to check your local thrift store or resale shop!

There are many reasons to shop at thrift stores for turntables. The first reason is that they are usually a lot cheaper than buying new turntables. This can be great for trying to get great sound for cheap! You are guaranteed to find a great turntable for under 300$ if you search hard enough. Sure you may find many tables that have a few problems like old cartridges, or worn-out belts but you can easily spend the money you saved on parts that would sound better than the ones that come with the brand new turntables. Plus if you like the vintage sound and style you will definitely find old tables at the thrift store! And even some old vinyl you can pick up for cheap

You can also look for old speakers while you're at it!

If you're looking for a great deal on speakers, then shopping at the thrift store is a great option. You can often find speakers for a fraction of the price of what you would pay at a retail store. Plus, you can be sure that you're getting a quality product because the thrift store has likely tested the speakers before putting them out for sale. And just like mentioned above if something is broken, you can replace it for pretty cheap! Speakers and sound are also something humans have always been interested in so great-sounding speakers have been around for decades, so you'll have almost no problem finding speakers that sound fantastic!

Photo by Tanya Pro / Unsplash

That's It!

These are the best budget turntables you can buy for under 300$. If you're looking for a great way to get into vinyl, or just want to upgrade your current setup, any of these turntables would be a great choice. Keep in mind that the type of cartridge and tonearm can make a big difference in sound quality as well. Take your time and do your research before making a purchase. To stay up-to-date on our latest blogs and articles, follow our newsletter.