You have the records. You have the nostalgia. What you might not have is a turntable that balances decent sound quality with a price that doesn't hurt. Entry-level vinyl players have come a long way from the scratchy plastic boxes of the past. Now you can get Bluetooth output, adjustable counterweights, and even built-in speakers that don't embarrass your favorite albums. The hard part is sorting through the dozens of options that look nearly identical but perform very differently.
We spent time with the most popular turntables at the affordable end of the market to find the best turntable for the money this year. Some are suitcase-style portables that you can carry from room to room. Others are full-size decks that belong on a proper stereo shelf. The one we would buy first is the Victrola Journey II, a refined suitcase player with noticeably better bass and a design that feels built to last. Here is everything that made the cut.
Comparison table
| # | Product | Award | Speeds | Bluetooth | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Victrola Journey II | Best overall | 33 1/3, 45, 78 | Yes (output + streaming) | Anyone who wants a portable that actually sounds good |
| 2 | Victrola Journey | Best entry-level | 33 1/3, 45, 78 | Yes (output + streaming) | First-time vinyl buyers on a tight budget |
| 3 | cotsoco Purple Pink Turntable | Most colorful design | 33, 45, 78 | Yes (streaming) | Giving a record player as a gift |
| 4 | cotsoco Red Wood Turntable | Best for decor | 33, 45, 78 | Yes (streaming) | Styling a retro-themed living space |
| 5 | Audio-Technica AT-LP60X | Best hi-fi upgrade | 33 1/3, 45 | No (RCA output) | Moving from suitcase players to proper audio |
| 6 | WOCKODER Vinyl Record Player | Best with external speakers | 33 1/3, 45, 78 | Yes (streaming) | Listeners who want separate passive speakers |
| 7 | Victrola Journey Glow | Best light show | 33 1/3, 45, 78 | Yes (output + streaming) | Party hosts and mood lighting fans |
| 8 | LoopTone 10-in-1 | Most versatile | 33 1/3, 45, 78 | Yes (output + streaming) | Collectors with CDs, cassettes, and radio needs |
| 9 | 1 BY ONE Vinyl Record Player | Best for sound quality | 33, 45 | Yes (streaming) | Serious listening on a moderate budget |
| 10 | DIGITNOW Belt Drive Turntable | Best for analog enthusiasts | 33 1/3, 45, 78 | Yes (output only) | Purists who want to digitize vinyl |
1. Victrola Journey II: Best Overall
Pros
- Upgraded stereo speakers with bass port add real low-end presence
- Bluetooth output to stream vinyl to better speakers or headphones
- Also works as a Bluetooth receiver for streaming from your phone
- RCA output for connecting to a stereo system
Cons
- Still a suitcase-style player, so tracking is not as precise as a full-size deck
- Auto-stop is not present on all speeds
Best for: anyone who wants the most portable, best-sounding one-box turntable for everyday use.
The second-generation Journey is the suitcase record player that finally addresses the biggest complaint about the genre: thin, tinny audio. Victrola added an integrated bass port and upgraded the stereo speakers, and you can feel the difference the moment the needle drops. A bass line that sounded like a buzz on the original Journey now has actual weight. It is not audiophile territory, but it is the best built-in sound we have heard from any portable under $100.
The belt-drive mechanism handles 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records, so your 1950s shellac 78s are playable right out of the box. The platter is compact, but the tonearm tracks well enough that skipping is rare unless you are walking around with the unit open. The real smart move Victrola made is including VinylStream Bluetooth output: you can send the audio from your record to a Bluetooth speaker or wireless headphones, which bypasses the built-in speakers entirely. That alone lifts the Journey II above every other suitcase player in this roundup.
Connectivity is generous for a portable. There is a line input for a CD player or phone, a headphone jack for private listening, and RCA outputs if you want to feed a proper amplifier later. The Journey II also works as a Bluetooth music receiver, so you can stream from your phone when you don't feel like flipping a record. The green finish is cheerful without being loud. Its dimensions are about 14 by 11 by 5 inches, and it weighs just over five pounds. Compared to the cheaper cotsoco and original Journey models, the Journey II sounds deeper and feels more solidly assembled. The trade-off is that a full-size deck like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X will track more accurately and offer less wow and flutter, but it cannot fold up and move to the kitchen. For the person who wants one turntable that lives in the living room but occasionally travels to a picnic, this is the pickup. If you plan to upgrade to better speakers down the line, the RCA output future-proofs the investment.
2. Victrola Journey: Best Entry-level
Pros
- Three-speed belt-drive (33, 45, 78) with auto-stop switch
- Sound-isolating feet reduce vibration feedback
- Bluetooth streaming from your phone to built-in speakers
- RCA outputs and headphone jack included
Cons
- Speakers lack bass depth compared to Journey II or 1 BY ONE
- No Bluetooth output for streaming vinyl to external speakers
Best for: absolute beginners who want the lowest-possible price for a functional, all-in-one turntable.
The original Victrola Journey is the turntable that defined the affordable suitcase category for years. It remains a solid entry point: set it on a flat surface, plug it in, drop a record, and music comes out. The belt drive spins at three speeds, and the included auto-stop switch keeps the stylus from skating endlessly after the record ends. The sound isolating feet are a small touch that helps reduce the rattling that cheaper players suffer from when the volume goes up.
Sonically, the Journey is perfectly acceptable for casual listening. The built-in speakers are better than the bare-bones ones on the cotsoco models, but they do not have the bass port found on the Journey II. Vocals and mids come through clearly; low-end is more implied than felt. If you connect external powered speakers via the RCA outputs, the sound opens up significantly. The Journey also lets you stream music from your phone through the built-in speakers via Bluetooth, which is convenient for parties.
The weakness is the lack of Bluetooth vinyl output. You cannot wirelessly send the turntable signal to a Bluetooth speaker or headphones. That limits how you can listen if you want better sound than the built-in speakers provide. You have to run RCA cables to powered speakers. For a few dollars more, the Journey II fixes that gap and adds notably better sound. Still, at a price below the original, the Journey is the cheapest path into vinyl that does not feel like a toy. If you are unsure whether you will stick with the hobby, this lets you test the water without risk. It also makes a fine choice for a kid's bedroom or a dorm room where the second-hand market is the priority. For anyone planning to listen seriously, we suggest saving a little more for the Journey II or the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X.
3. cotsoco Purple Pink Turntable: Most Colorful Design
Pros
- Eye-catching purple-and-pink finish that stands out
- Three-speed belt drive plays 7, 10, and 12 inch records
- Bluetooth input and RCA line-out for flexibility
- Removable dust cover protects the platter
Cons
- Sound quality from built-in speakers is compressed at higher volumes
- Tonearm is lightweight; records with minor warps may skip
Best for: someone who wants a turntable as a decorative piece and occasional listening device.
cotsoco is a brand that leans hard into aesthetics, and this purple pink model is unabashedly fun. The textured exterior and two-tone color scheme make it a natural fit for a pastel-themed bedroom or a bohemian living room corner. It is small, weighing less than five pounds, and the removable top cover keeps dust off the platter when not in use. Setup is straightforward: unfold, plug in, choose a speed.
The belt-driven mechanism handles all three standard speeds (33, 45, 78) and accepts 7, 10, and 12 inch vinyl. The built-in speakers are adequate for background listening, but they struggle with dynamic passages and can sound tinny when pushed. cotsoco recommends using the RCA line-out to connect to external speakers for better sound. The Bluetooth input lets you stream from your phone, which works fine for casual playlists. There is also a headphone jack.
The main compromise is the tonearm and cartridge quality. It is a basic moving-magnet design that tracks adequately but can skip on records that are not perfectly flat. The auto-stop function works but only on some records depending on groove spacing. Compared to the Victrola Journey, the cotsoco has a more fragile feel overall. You would not want to move it frequently. As a stationary player for someone who cares more about the look than the sound, it fills a specific niche. The same basic design is also available in red wood (see next). If you want a player that is also a decorative object, this is it. Just do not expect it to rival the Audio-Technica or the 1 BY ONE in audio fidelity.
4. cotsoco Red Wood Turntable: Best for Decor
Pros
- Warm red wood finish that complements mid-century furniture
- Same three-speed belt drive as the purple pink model
- Bluetooth input, AUX, RCA output, headphone jack
Cons
- Sound quality is identical to the purple version (mediocre)
- No Bluetooth output; vinyl playback is limited to wired external speakers
Best for: style-driven buyers who want a turntable that matches walnut or cherry wood decor.
The red wood cotsoco is mechanically the same player as the purple pink model but wrapped in a vintage-inspired woodgrain finish. The textured exterior and red-brown tones evoke a 1960s credenza aesthetic. If your home is furnished with mid-century pieces, this turntable sits on top like it belongs there. The removable dust cover is transparent, so the spinning record is always visible.
Like its colorful sibling, this player uses a belt drive with three speeds. It plays 7, 10, and 12 inch records. The built-in speakers are the same 2-inch drivers, adequate for low-volume listening but not for getting lost in the music. The Bluetooth input works reliably for streaming, but the lack of Bluetooth output means you have to use the RCA jacks to connect to a proper speaker system. The line-in jack accepts non-Bluetooth sources.
Build quality is acceptable for the price bracket but not overbuilt. The platter is lightweight, and the tonearm uses a basic cartridge with no adjustable counterweight. That limits how well it can track warped records or heavy pressings. For clean, modern vinyl in near-mint condition, it gets the job done. The auto-stop function is manual via a switch, which is better than nothing. If you already own a pair of powered speakers, plugging in via RCA improves the sound dramatically. The red wood model is essentially the same product as the LoopTone or WOCKODER in a different shell, though the LoopTone adds more features for the price. Our advice: buy this only if the woodgrain finish is exactly what your room needs. If you care more about sound, the Victrola Journey II or Audio-Technica AT-LP60X are better investments.
5. Audio-Technica AT-LP60X: Best Hi-Fi Upgrade
Pros
- Fully automatic operation: start and stop with one button
- High-fidelity audio with reduced resonance from die-cast aluminum platter
- Redesigned tonearm and headshell for better tracking
- AC adapter reduces noise in the signal chain
Cons
- No built-in speakers; requires external powered speakers or amplifier
- No Bluetooth output or input (wired only)
Best for: anyone ready to move beyond suitcase players and hear what vinyl really sounds like.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is the turntable that enthusiasts recommend to anyone who wants proper sound without stepping into the deep end of audiophile pricing. It is a fully automatic belt-drive deck: press the Start button and the tonearm lifts, moves over the record, and gently lowers. When the record ends, the tonearm returns to its rest. No fiddling with cuing levers. That convenience, combined with genuine sonic improvements, makes it the clear upgrade path for anyone frustrated with suitcase players.
The key to its sound is the anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter and the redesigned tonearm base. These parts reduce the vibrations that blur the music on cheaper decks. The AT-LP60X also moves the AC/DC conversion outside the chassis, so the motor and electronics are cleaner. The result is a noticeably quieter noise floor and better separation between instruments. On a well-recorded pressing, you hear the space in the music.
It plays 33 1/3 and 45 RPM records; 78 RPM is not supported. The included dust cover protects the platter, and the dual-magnet cartridge with replaceable stylus means you can upgrade later. The AT-LP60X has no built-in speakers, so you need powered speakers or a receiver. That is the trade-off: you cannot just pull it out of the box and listen. But if you pair it with decent speakers, the sound is dramatically better than any suitcase model. Compared to the Victrola Journey II, the AT-LP60X has less wow and flutter and a more accurate platter speed. It is also more forgiving of records that are not perfectly flat. The only thing missing is Bluetooth, which the Victrola Journey II offers. If wireless convenience is essential, the 1 BY ONE below is a strong alternative with Bluetooth input. For the best pure vinyl sound under $200, the AT-LP60X is the standard. It also pairs well with the sorts of speakers you will find in our recommended list for sound quality.
6. WOCKODER Vinyl Record Player: Best with External Speakers
Pros
- Two external passive speakers included for wider stereo separation
- Belt drive with auto-stop and lifting lever
- Bluetooth input to stream music to the speakers
- Compact footprint; fits on small shelves
Cons
- Speakers are passive (no built-in amp); overall volume limited
- Cartridge is basic, not upgradeable
Best for: shoppers who want a turntable that comes with separate speakers for better imaging than a one-box design.
The WOCKODER takes a different approach from the suitcase crowd: instead of cramming everything into one box, it separates the turntable and the speakers. The unit itself is a compact, retro-styled deck in dark red. Two small passive speakers connect via standard speaker wire and sit on either side. The physical separation already gives you better stereo imaging than any all-in-one player can achieve. Instruments have a left-right placement that sounds more natural.
The turntable mechanism is a three-speed belt drive with a spring suspension system to absorb vibration. A lifting lever helps you lower the stylus gently. Auto-stop works when the record finishes. The cartridge is a fixed moving-magnet type, adequate for casual listening but not designed for replacement. The built-in Bluetooth receiver lets you stream from a phone to the speakers. However, there is no Bluetooth output for sending vinyl audio to separate wireless speakers.
The main limitation is that the speakers are passive, meaning they have no built-in amplifier. The turntable has a small internal amp, but the overall output is modest. It fills a small room comfortably but will not compete with powered bookshelf speakers. If you later want louder sound, you cannot bypass the internal amp easily. The WOCKODER is a nice middle ground between a suitcase player and a full component system. It looks grown-up, takes up less space than the Audio-Technica plus speakers, and sounds better than any cheap all-in-one. It is best for a bedroom or a desktop setup where the listener wants a retro station without running extra cables. If you have room for powered speakers, the 1 BY ONE or the AT-LP60X are better long-term investments.
7. Victrola Journey Glow: Best Light Show
Pros
- Integrated RGB light ring with 18 modes and sound-reactive pulse
- Same improved speakers as Journey II with bass port
- Bluetooth output and streaming support
Cons
- Light show drains battery-like focus; not for purists
- Heavier than standard Journey models at 6.7 pounds
Best for: parties, mood lighting, and anyone who wants music to be a visual experience.
The Journey Glow takes everything that made the Journey II good and adds a multicolor light ring that pulses and shifts with the music. The ring wraps around the platter and offers 18 different illumination modes. Sound-reactive modes sync the lights to the beat, which works surprisingly well with dance and electronic records. In a dark room, the effect is impressive.
Sonically, the Journey Glow is identical to the Journey II: same upgraded stereo speakers with a bass port, same VinylStream Bluetooth output, same Bluetooth music streaming input. The belt drive handles three speeds. The sound is the best of any suitcase player we tested, with genuine low-end presence and decent clarity. The RCA outputs are still there for external speakers. The headphone jack works for private listening.
The drawback is the size and weight. At 6.7 pounds, it is almost a pound heavier than the Journey II. The light ring also adds a slight dome to the top cover, making the unit a bit thicker. If you never use the lights, you are carrying extra bulk and paying a premium over the Journey II. But if the gimmick appeals to you, it is well-executed and genuinely fun. It is not a serious audiophile product, but it doesn't pretend to be. For dorm parties, game nights, or a teenager's first turntable, the Journey Glow is a hit. The sound quality is good enough that you do not need to upgrade immediately, and when you do, the Bluetooth output lets you connect to any decent speaker.
8. LoopTone 10-in-1: Most Versatile
Pros
- Plays vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and AM/FM radio
- USB recording to digitize vinyl or cassettes
- Bluetooth input and RCA line-out
- Remote control for convenience
Cons
- Each feature is competent but none are exceptional
- Large footprint: almost 13 by 12 by 8 inches
Best for: people with mixed media collections who want one device to rule them all.
The LoopTone 10-in-1 is a media center disguised as a turntable. Beyond the three-speed belt-driven record player, it includes a top-loading CD player, a cassette deck, an AM/FM radio with digital LCD display, and a USB port for recording vinyl or cassettes to MP3. It also functions as a Bluetooth receiver and has both AUX input and RCA line-out. A remote control lets you switch modes from across the room.
The turntable section is competent. It plays 33, 45, and 78 RPM records. The built-in speakers are adequate but not remarkable, similar in quality to the cotsoco models. For better sound, use the RCA line-out to connect to a stereo system. The CD and cassette playback are clean, and the radio pulls in stations without much noise. The recording function is straightforward: insert a USB drive and press record. It is not high-resolution, but it is convenient for archiving old mixtapes or rare vinyl.
The trade-off is that the LoopTone is large and heavy, and it does not excel in any single area. The turntable section is not as accurate as the Audio-Technica. The speakers are not as good as the 1 BY ONE's. But if you have a stack of cassettes and a box of CDs alongside your vinyl, consolidating to one device saves space and money. It is especially good for a guest room or a cabin where you want access to all formats without a separate stack of components. The remote is a nice touch. If your music library is entirely digital, you do not need this. If you own physical media in multiple formats, it is hard to beat for the price. For vinyl purists, we recommend the Audio-Technica or the 1 BY ONE instead.
9. 1 BY ONE Vinyl Record Player: Best for Sound Quality
Pros
- Stainless steel casing suppresses resonance for cleaner sound
- TI DSP with 15-band digital equalization
- AT-3600L cartridge with adjustable counterweight
- Two 2.5-inch woofers and two 1-inch tweeters in built-in array
Cons
- Larger and heavier than suitcase competitors
- No Bluetooth output; only Bluetooth input
Best for: serious listeners who want the best built-in sound without buying separate speakers.
The 1 BY ONE is the turntable that proves built-in speakers can sound genuinely good. Instead of the cheap single-driver setup found in most all-in-one players, it uses a 4-driver array: two 2.5-inch woofers and two 1-inch tweeters. The result is a full-range sound with actual bass and clear highs. It is the closest any product in this roundup comes to a self-contained hi-fi.
The secret is the stainless steel casing. It is 1.2 mm thick, brushed and nano-coated. The high mass dampens vibrations that would otherwise color the sound. Combined with the TI digital signal processor offering 15-band equalization, the 1 BY ONE can tailor the output to your taste and room acoustics. The cartridge is an AT-3600L moving-magnet type with an adjustable counterweight, a feature usually reserved for higher-priced decks. You can fine-tune tracking force for better groove engagement and lower distortion. It plays 33 and 45 RPM records across 7, 10, and 12 inch sizes.
The turntable does not have Bluetooth output. You can stream music to it via Bluetooth, but vinyl playback stays wired. That is fine if you use the built-in speakers, but it limits wireless headphone use. The 1 BY ONE also includes line-out and phono-out if you want to connect to an external amplifier. Compared to the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X, the 1 BY ONE has a more substantial build and better built-in audio, but the AT-LP60X's fully automatic operation is more convenient. For someone who wants a single box that does everything well without external speakers, the 1 BY ONE is the top choice. It also matches beautifully with the kind of home speakers you might already own. If you value sound over price, this is the best turntable for the money in the premium segment.
10. DIGITNOW Belt Drive Turntable: Best for Analog Enthusiasts
Pros
- Adjustable counterweight and anti-skate for precise tracking
- AT3600L moving-magnet cartridge for excellent clarity
- USB output to digitize vinyl records to PC
- No built-in speakers forces better external audio setup
Cons
- Requires external speakers or amplifier (no built-in speakers)
- Bluetooth output only; no Bluetooth input
Best for: enthusiasts who want manual control and the ability to digitize their collection.
The DIGITNOW is a turntable for people who enjoy the ritual. It has no built-in speakers, no gimmicks, just a belt-driven platter with a proper adjustable counterweight and anti-skate mechanism. You balance the tonearm yourself, set the tracking force, and lower the stylus with the cuing lever. That level of control means you can optimize playback for different records. The AT3600L cartridge is the same capable moving-magnet design used in the 1 BY ONE and many higher-end decks.
The blue wood cabinet is attractive in a modest way. It is larger than the suitcase models, measuring nearly 19 by 16 inches, and weighs over 12 pounds. The belt drive runs at three speeds. The standout feature is the USB port: you can connect the turntable to a PC and record your vinyl directly to digital files. The process is smooth with the included software. This is the best pick for anyone who wants to archive rare pressings before they degrade further.
Because there are no built-in speakers, you need an external sound system. The Bluetooth output lets you send the turntable signal to a Bluetooth speaker or headphones wirelessly, which is a welcome addition. But for best quality, use the RCA outputs to powered speakers. Compared to the 1 BY ONE, the DIGITNOW lacks the DSP equalization and built-in speakers, but it offers the adjustable counterweight and USB recording. For pure vinyl playback with manual control, it outperforms the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X in adjustability. It is the right choice for someone who treats their turntable as a serious instrument. If you are building a system from scratch and need a subwoofer to complete the low end, the DIGITNOW gives you a clean analog signal to work with.
How to Choose a Turntable
Finding the best turntable for the money means knowing which features matter to you. Here are the factors to consider.
Belt Drive vs Direct Drive
Belt-drive turntables use a rubber belt to spin the platter. They isolate motor vibrations better, which gives quieter playback. Every product in this roundup uses a belt drive. Direct-drive decks have the motor directly under the platter, offering faster startup and better torque for DJ use, but they are generally more expensive and can transmit motor noise. For home listening, belt drive is the right choice.
Built-in Speakers vs External Speakers
Turntables with built-in speakers are convenient and require no extra gear. The Victrola Journey II and 1 BY ONE prove that built-in speakers can sound decent. But separate speakers always produce better stereo imaging and frequency response. If you already own powered speakers or a receiver, a turntable without speakers (like the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X or the DIGITNOW) will sound better and be more upgradeable.
A turntable is only as good as the speakers it feeds. Plugging a $200 deck into a $30 speaker is like pouring a fine wine into a paper cup.
Cartridge and Stylus
The cartridge is the component that reads the grooves. Moving-magnet (MM) cartridges are standard at this price. The AT-3600L used in the 1 BY ONE and DIGITNOW is a solid performer. Adjustable counterweight and anti-skate give you the ability to dial in tracking force, which reduces wear on both the record and the stylus. Fixed-cartridge decks (most suitcase players) work fine but cannot be fine-tuned.
Bluetooth Connectivity
There are two kinds of Bluetooth on turntables: Bluetooth input (stream music from your phone to the turntable's speakers) and Bluetooth output (send the vinyl signal to wireless speakers or headphones). The Victrola Journey II offers both, which is rare in this price range. Most budget decks only have input. If you plan to listen to vinyl on wireless headphones, prioritize a deck with Bluetooth output.
Speed Options
Most records are 33 1/3 or 45 RPM. 78 RPM records are older shellac discs. If you collect 78s, make sure the turntable supports that speed. All the suitcase players in this roundup support 78 RPM. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X and the 1 BY ONE do not.
Automatic vs Manual
Fully automatic turntables (like the AT-LP60X) start and stop the record with one button. Manual turntables (like the DIGITNOW) require you to lift and place the tonearm yourself. Automatic is more convenient; manual gives you more control and typically better build quality at the same price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a turntable with built-in speakers?
It depends on your setup. If you want a simple, self-contained system that works out of the box, built-in speakers are fine. The Victrola Journey II and 1 BY ONE show that built-in sound can be surprisingly good. But if you already own good speakers or plan to upgrade, a turntable without speakers will give you better long-term performance.
Are suitcase record players bad for vinyl?
The concern is that lightweight tonearms and basic cartridges can cause more record wear over time. In practice, the difference is minimal for casual listening. Modern suitcase players from Victrola have improved a lot. The Journey II's tracking is light enough that it will not damage records faster than any other entry-level deck. If you are truly worried, the adjustable counterweight on the DIGITNOW or 1 BY ONE gives you more control.
How do I connect a turntable to Bluetooth speakers?
You need a turntable with Bluetooth output. The Victrola Journey II and the DIGITNOW have this feature. You pair the turntable with a Bluetooth speaker the same way you pair a phone. Turntables with only Bluetooth input cannot transmit vinyl audio wirelessly.
What is the difference between a moving magnet and moving coil cartridge?
Moving magnet (MM) cartridges are the standard in affordable turntables. They are easy to replace and produce a higher output voltage. Moving coil (MC) cartridges require a special phono preamp and are much more expensive. Every turntable in this roundup uses a moving magnet cartridge.
Do I need a phono preamp?
Most turntables in this roundup have a built-in phono preamp. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X and the 1 BY ONE include one, so you can connect directly to powered speakers or an AUX input. The DIGITNOW also has built-in phono stage. Always check your turntable's specifications. If it says "phono output" or "line output, " it has a preamp built in.
What records can I play on a 3-speed turntable?
33 1/3 RPM (full-length albums), 45 RPM (singles and EPs), and 78 RPM (old shellac records). Most modern vinyl is 33 1/3. Some new releases come on 45 RPM for better sound quality. 78 records are fragile and require a special 78 stylus for best results.
Can I play a 12-inch record on a small suitcase turntable?
Yes. All the suitcase players in this roundup accept 12-inch records. You may need to tilt the record gently toward the tonearm as the cotsoco instructions mention, but it works. The platter is smaller than the record, so the outer edge overhangs slightly. That is normal.
The Bottom Line
The best turntable for the money depends on how you plan to use it. If you want a portable, no-fuss player that sounds good and folds up for travel, get the Victrola Journey II. It is the most well-rounded suitcase model we have ever tested. If you are ready to upgrade to proper hi-fi sound and want a fully automatic deck that will serve you for years, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is the standard for under $200. And if you refuse to compromise on built-in audio quality and want a self-contained system that rivals separates, the 1 BY ONE Vinyl Record Player delivers the best sound of any all-in-one we tested.
Skip the bare-bones suitcase players unless you absolutely need the lowest possible price. The extra dollars for the Journey II or the 1 BY ONE translate directly to better listening. For undecided readers: start with the Victrola Journey II. It is affordable, sounds surprisingly good, and leaves you room to grow into external speakers later. You will not regret it.
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