10 Best Cheap Record Players 2025 in the United States

The 1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable with Built-in Speakers offers a stylish and functional option for those looking for an affordable record player. Its belt drive system ensures smooth operation, and the magnetic cartridge paired with an Audio-Technica stylus provides good sound quality, reducing noise and distortion.

It supports both 33 and 45 RPM speed settings, catering to most vinyl records. The turntable is built from wood and metal materials, giving it a premium feel despite its budget-friendly price. With Bluetooth and Aux-in functionality, it can stream music from various devices, making it versatile beyond just playing records.

Additionally, the built-in preamp allows connection to external speakers for enhanced audio output. Its weight might be a drawback for some users, as it is relatively heavy at 6 kilograms (13.2 pounds). The detachable dust cover is a practical feature, but some might find it less convenient compared to a hinged cover. Despite these minor drawbacks, this turntable is a solid choice for casual listeners and those new to vinyl, offering a blend of classic design and modern convenience.

The 1 by ONE Belt Drive Turntable is a solid choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly record player that covers the basics well. It uses a belt drive, which is common in affordable models and helps reduce motor noise for clearer sound. The magnetic cartridge with a diamond-tipped stylus is designed to track your records accurately, offering good sound clarity for this price range. The tonearm comes with an adjustable counterweight and anti-skating features, which is impressive in an entry-level player and helps protect your records from damage while reducing skipping and distortion.

It supports the two standard speeds, 33 and 45 RPM, so it can play most vinyl records you’ll have. The platter is made of plastic, which is typical for cheaper players; while it won’t be as heavy or stable as metal platters, it works fine for casual listening. One big plus is the built-in phono preamp, meaning you can connect it directly to speakers or amplifiers without needing extra equipment. Plus, it offers USB output for converting your vinyl into digital files on your computer, which is a nice bonus if you want to preserve your records digitally.

Bluetooth connectivity lets you play wirelessly through compatible speakers or headphones, although some Bluetooth devices might not connect properly due to protocol compatibility. Keep in mind this turntable does not have built-in speakers, so you’ll need external ones. This turntable balances essential features and user-friendly options at a low price, making it a great starter player for vinyl newcomers or anyone on a budget who wants decent sound with modern connectivity.

The Sony PS-LX310BT is a budget-friendly, fully automatic turntable that offers impressive features for its price. It uses a belt drive system, which tends to be quieter and provides better sound isolation. The built-in preamp is a great addition, allowing you to connect it directly to various audio systems without needing additional equipment. The turntable supports two speed settings - 33 1/3 rpm and 45 rpm, making it versatile for different vinyl records.

The aluminum die-cast platter is a strong point, reducing vibrations to ensure clearer sound quality, while the newly designed straight tonearm enhances tracking accuracy, which is crucial for good playback. Additionally, the turntable offers both wireless (Bluetooth) and wired (RCA cables) connectivity, adding flexibility in how you can use it. The USB ripping feature is particularly useful for those who want to digitize their vinyl collection.

However, the device is mostly made of plastic, which might not be as durable or aesthetically pleasing as higher-end models with more premium materials. Another potential drawback is the cartridge type, which isn't specified in the provided details and could be a point of concern for audiophiles looking for upgradability. Despite these minor shortcomings, the Sony PS-LX310BT stands out for its ease of use with one-step auto start, stop, and return features, making it an excellent choice for beginners or casual listeners seeking convenience without compromising on essential functionalities.