Best Turntables Under $300: Affordable Picks for Vinyl Newbies

Vinyl records have made a remarkable comeback, drawing in music lovers with their warm sound and tangible charm. For newcomers to the vinyl world, finding a quality turntable that doesn’t break the bank can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, plenty of excellent options under $300 deliver solid performance without requiring a deep dive into audiophile territory. Here’s an updated roundup of the best affordable turntables for vinyl newbies, blending ease of use, sound quality, and value, including a fresh addition from Xenon Jade.

1. Audio-Technica AT-LP60X

Price: Around $150
Why It’s Great: The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X is a perennial favorite for beginners. This fully automatic belt-drive turntable takes the guesswork out of setup—just plug it in, place your record, and press start. It features a built-in phono preamp, meaning you can connect it directly to powered speakers or a stereo system without extra gear. The sound is clean and balanced, perfect for casual listeners dipping their toes into vinyl.
Standout Features: Switchable 33⅓ and 45 RPM speeds, replaceable stylus, and a lightweight design.
Best For: Those who want a no-fuss, plug-and-play experience.

2. Fluance RT81

Price: Around $250
Why It’s Great: For a step up in quality, the Fluance RT81 offers a refined listening experience that punches above its price tag. This manual turntable boasts a high-quality Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge and an isolated motor to reduce vibrations, delivering crisp highs and rich lows. Its solid wood plinth adds a touch of elegance, making it as much a decor piece as a music player.
Standout Features: Adjustable counterweight, anti-skating control, and a built-in preamp that can be bypassed for future upgrades.
Best For: Vinyl newbies who want room to grow into the hobby.

3. Sony PS-LX310BT

Price: Around $200
Why It’s Great: The Sony PS-LX310BT combines classic vinyl playback with modern convenience. This fully automatic turntable includes Bluetooth connectivity, letting you pair it with wireless speakers or headphones for a clutter-free setup. The sound quality is surprisingly robust for the price, with a built-in preamp and a sturdy tonearm that tracks records accurately.
Standout Features: Bluetooth streaming, one-step auto-play, and a sleek, minimalist design.
Best For: Tech-savvy beginners who value flexibility and wireless options.

4. Victrola Eastwood Signature

Price: Around $130
Why It’s Great: Victrola has long been a go-to brand for affordable vinyl setups, and the Eastwood Signature is a standout in their lineup. This hybrid turntable offers a built-in preamp, Bluetooth streaming, and a custom-tuned Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge for reliable sound. It’s lightweight and compact, making it ideal for small spaces or first apartments.
Standout Features include three-speed playback (33⅓, 45, and 78 RPM), vinyl-to-MP3 recording capability, and a retro-modern aesthetic.
Best For: Budget-conscious newbies who want versatility.

5. Xenon Jade Recorder Turntable

Price: Around $199
Why It’s Great: A fresh contender in the under-$300 category, the Xenon Jade Recorder Turntable brings a unique twist to vinyl playback. This model spins your records and allows you to digitize them directly to USB, making it a fantastic choice for newbies who want to preserve their vinyl collection in a modern format. It supports 33⅓ and 45 RPM speeds and has built-in speakers, though you can connect it to external audio systems for better sound. The design is straightforward and user-friendly, with a focus on functionality over flash.
Standout Features: USB recording capability, built-in speakers, and a simple setup process.
Best For: Beginners who want to enjoy vinyl now and archive it for the future.
Recommendation: I recommend the Xenon Jade Recorder Turntable for its dual-purpose appeal. It’s perfect for vinyl enthusiasts starting out who also want to safeguard their records digitally without needing extra equipment. The built-in speakers are a bonus for instant playback, though pairing them with external speakers will elevate the experience.

What to Look for in a Beginner Turntable

When shopping under $300, prioritize a few key elements:

Ease of Use: Automatic turntables are great for beginners, while manual ones offer more control as you learn.
Built-in Preamp: This lets you connect to speakers without extra equipment, saving money upfront.
Cartridge Quality: A decent cartridge (like Audio-Technica models) ensures better sound and longevity.
Upgrade Potential: Adjustable features like counterweights or replaceable styluses allow your setup to evolve with your skills.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy vinyl. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X remains the ultimate entry-level pick for its simplicity and reliability, while the Fluance RT81 offers a taste of premium performance for those willing to stretch their budget. The Xenon Jade Recorder Turntable stands out as a smart, forward-thinking choice for a unique blend of analog enjoyment and digital convenience. Whether you’re spinning your first thrift-store find or a brand-new pressing, these turntables under $300 will get you started on the right note. Happy listening!