With the holiday shopping season in full swing, it can often be stressful deciding what to get hard-to-buy-for friends and family. Whether your teenager, best friend or father-in-law is a music aficionado, we've got you covered. Record players and turntables make the perfect gifts for everyone on your list, from vinyl rookies to seasoned audiophiles.
Before you shop, it's imperative to know the difference between a record player and a turntable in order to determine which is more suitable for your specific needs. “I think of a turntable as a single piece of equipment that’s part of a larger set up, something that requires additional components such as a receiver, amp, speakers, etc.," explains Dave Siegel, a New York City-based musician and saxophone player who's performed at the Friars Club. "A record player is more of an 'all-in-one' type of thing," he continues.
Along with Siegel, we spoke with two other music experts (including an experienced wedding DJ) to help us curate a list of the best record players and turn tables to shop... and have everyone dancing by Christmas dinner (cue "Celebration" by Kool & The Gang).
Also, as a bonus, we asked our Shop TODAY editors to share which vinyl records they are listening to on repeat right now. From an '80s movie soundtrack to the eighth studio album of a legendary band from Liverpool, our music tastes may surprise you.
Affordable and good for travel$49.97$69.99
Editor favorite$129.00$149.00
Record player vs. turntable
Record player
The cheese stands alone... or in this case, the record player. When it comes to differentiating between a record player and a turntable, a record player includes everything you'll need in one simple device. "A record player has the amp and speaker(s) built right into it, so it's a standalone thing," explains Cam Jones, a New Jersey-based wedding DJ.
When it comes to selecting a record player that is right for you (or as a gift), D. Siegel advises shoppers to pay attention to the revolutions per minute (RPM), which is basically how fast the record actually spins on the turntable.
"Different size records require different speeds," Siegel says. There are three main types: 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM.
Overall, 33 1/3 RPM is standard (think multiple tracks on each side), whereas a 45 RPM record is smaller and usually has just one track on each side. Both 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM are the standard sizes these days, whereas 78 RPM records aren't as common anymore, having been phased out around the mid-1950s.
"Make sure your turntable has the capabilities to do all of those (most do), as most record collectors end up having records in all those sizes," D. Siegel adds.
If you or someone you're shopping for is just getting into vinyl, D. Siegel recommends choosing a user-friendly and affordable record player (like the one below) as opposed to investing in a more expensive turntable.
An affordable pick: Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player
- Easy to use
- Great sound quality
- Mixed reviews on durability
Colorways: 10 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM | Special Features: Foldable | Bluetooth compatible? Yes
This Amazon's Choice record player includes built in speakers and custom-tuned pre-amp. Available in 10 unique colors, this trendy suitcase player is foldable, so you can carry it with you from place to place. With over 23,000+ five-star ratings on Amazon, you can't go wrong with this groovy gift.
Turntable
On the other hand, "a turntable is just a component," says Jones. "Turntables are built for audiophiles who want to select every single component and spec of their sound system."
"One of the fun things about buying a turntable is finding the right one for you," shares D. Siegel. "Everyone’s needs are a little different. Spend time at your local record store and try a few out! Music is the best," he raves.
"You definitely want to look for something that is good quality and decide if automatic versus manual arms is best for you," D. Siegel suggests. On a turntable, the arm refers to the tonearm, or the movable component that holds the phono cartridge and stylus (aka needle).
"A quality needle is also very important. There’s a lot of different mechanical [and] technical specs that some record enthusiasts get into, but personally, I put a little more though into the speakers, so I am getting best sound quality for my listening enjoyment," he explains.
Great for beginners: Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable
- Easy to use
- Nice, sleek design
- Some users say needle sticks
Colorways: 1 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45 RPM | Special Features: Dust cover | Bluetooth compatible? Yes
Connect to wireless speakers with this Amazon's Choice turntable that includes a USB output and a 45 RPM adapter. This sleek turntable features a one-step auto play for easy operation and comes with a dust cover to keep your player clean.
Best record players, according to experts and editors
Inexpensive and easy to use: Cotsoco Vinyl Record Player
- Great volume
- Operates well
- Easy to set up
- Needs cable for connection
Colorways: 2 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM | Features: Bluetooth reception and playback | Bluetooth compatible? Yes
"I have wanted a record player for a while and a lot of the styles out there were either too expensive or the ones that were more affordable came in colors that did not match my aesthetic," says commerce editor Vivien Moon. "This one fits in perfectly into my home and has a retro look that I love. It was super easy to install and put to use immediately," she explains.
"I love that the cover can be put down without damaging the record and how it makes a pleasant sound when the record is done so I’m aware and can turn it over," Moon shares. "For me personally, the volume is great and fills my space more than I need it so I don't really know how it works with a larger space (though it is pretty strong and would work in a larger home I’m certain)," she suggests.
Budget-friendly expert pick: Crosley Cruiser Premier Vinyl Record Player
- Affordable
- Good quality
- Comes in fun colors
- May not be very loud
Colorways: 37 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM | Features: Built-in full-range stereo speakers, adjustable pitch control | Bluetooth compatible? Yes
"A lot of people find these a little silly, but the portable Crosley suitcase record players are a fun and cheap option for someone maybe looking to start getting into vinyl before making the jump to something more advanced," shares D. Siegel. "They also make nice gifts for music fans," he explains.
Boho-chic option: Crosley Floral Voyager Bluetooth Record Player
- Easy to use
- High-quality sound
- Could be louder
Colorways: 1 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM | Special Features: Built-in stereo speakers, adjustable pitch control, three speeds | Bluetooth compatible? Yes
"My first record player was a Crosley like this one (floral print and all)," shares commerce editor Amanda Fama. "The original model isn’t available anymore, and I’ve retired that specific player in recent years, but I can confidently say it lasted a long time and had an impressive sound system," she admits.
"It was simple to navigate and was easy to close up when not in use. I highly recommend this style record player for vinyl beginners!" says Fama.
Best turntables, according to experts and editors
Editor favorite: Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable
- Easy to operate
- Durable and sturdy
- Good sound quality
- Feels plasticy
Colorways: 3 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45 RPM | Special Features: Fully automatic belt-drive turntable operation with two speeds
“This was my first turntable and the one I recommend to everyone looking to dip their toes into vinyl,” says commerce editor Evan Siegel. “It’s extremely plasticky and feels a little cheap but works well and has all the features one could ask for from a starter record player,” he explains.
“It’s foolproof: Simply place the record on the platter and press the button. The tone arm moves itself into place and does the rest!” continues E. Siegel. “Best of all, it has a built-in preamp that you can switch on and off, which makes it easy to use with a number of different stereo setups,” he states.
“Audio-Technica makes great turntables at wide range of price points from really high end to much more affordable units. Good quality and they play great,” adds D. Siegel.
Rocker-approved: Denon DP-29F Belt-Driven Analog Turntable
- Easy to use/set-up
- Nice appearance
- Mixed reviews on sound quality
Colorways: 1 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45 RPM | Special Features: Speed selector
Ira Berman, a New York City musician and member of the Media All Stars rock band, uses a Denon turntable and says he's very happy with it. "It’s really about how much you want to spend on building your system," explains Berman. This affordable turntable features an automated system and phono equalizer for clearer sound quality.
Easy to set up: Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT Fully Automatic Bluetooth Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable
- Amazing sound quality
- Easy to set up
- Simple functions
- Bluetooth can be finnicky
Colorways: 4 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45 RPM | Special Features: Bluetooth connectivity
"This is a turntable in its simplest form — not many functions or features or customizations involved — but the sound quality you’re getting is really hard to beat if you’re an audiophile just beginning to dabble in vinyl," mentions senior editor Jess Bender.
"The process of playing your first record takes less than five minutes between unboxing to connecting to Bluetooth," Bender adds. "If you’re connecting to wired speakers via the included output cable, the process will be even quicker! The plasticy construction does feel a bit cheap, but it’s also quite sturdy and is still in great shape after three years of consistent use," she explains.
Splurge option: Orbit Basic Turntable
- Amazing quality for price
- Easy to set up
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Needs external speakers
Colorways: 7 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45 RPM | Special Features: One-piece armtube
"This beautiful turntable blew my expectations out of the water," states production associate Audrey Ekman. "It’s a major upgrade from the suitcase-style options I was used to and makes every record sound exponentially better," she says.
"I opted for the jade green shade and love how it pops in any space. I was happy to discover that the set up was a breeze, too — just note that you’ll need separate external speakers to pair with the turntable," suggests Ekman.
For the seasoned musician: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB Direct-Drive Professional
- Premium feel/look
- Built-in switchable pre-amp
- Built-in pitch slider
- A bit on the pricier side
Colorways: 1 | Rotation speeds supported: 33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM | Special Features: Switchable preamp, detachable RCAs and USB
“This is my current turntable, and in my opinion a worthwhile upgrade for those who are a bit more serious about collecting vinyl — or even getting into DJing,” suggests E. Siegel.
“It’s a direct-drive turntable, which means that the motor lies right under the platter (as opposed to a belt-drive system like that of the AT-LP60X, in which the motor is located more to the side). With a direct-drive turntable, the record reaches the proper speed more quickly, which makes it easier to cue up songs or adjust speed (either by touching the platter with your fingers or using the built-in pitch slider) on the fly,” he explains.
“It also has features aplenty: a built-in preamp, USB connection, the ability to play 78 RPM records and more. It feels much more substantial and premium than the AT-LP60X, and I think it looks pretty cool, too!” raves E. Siegel.
Affordable record cleaning products
Easy to use: Boundless Audio Record Cleaner Brush
- Easy to use
- Helps prevent static buildup
- Bristles may shed
This Amazon's Choice cleaning brush features a plastic and aluminum handle with soft carbon fiber bristles to help remove dust. Restore your records without spending a fortune with this efficient brush that has over 7,700 perfect ratings.
All-in-one: EVEO Premium Vinyl Record Cleaner Kit
- Brush is easy to use
- Includes box for organization
- Mixed reviews on quality
This 4-in-1 cleaning kit makes a great gift for both kids and adults. This premium vinyl set includes a velvet brush, cleaning fluid, cleaning gel and duster to help keep your records in tip-top condition. With over 10,200 five-star ratings on Amazon, this affordable kit is clearly no one-hit wonder.
Popular and comes with storage pouch:Big Fudge Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit
- Good value
- Improves sound quality
- Comes with storage pouch
- Mixed reviews on brush
This bestselling vinyl kit features a record brush, cleaning liquid, stylus brush and a chic storage pouch for easy storage. With over 10K+ purchased on Amazon in the last month, you'll be in good company if you gift this popular cleaning kit to the music lover in your life. Add to cart ASAP if you want it delivered before Christmas Day.
No more static: Gruv Glide Record Cleaner
- Removes static
- Helps improve tracking
- On the pricier end
Keep your vinyl in pristine condition with this Gruv Glide record cleaner. This easy-to-use treatment helps remove stacking and improve tracking, making your records sound as good as new.
Editor-loved vinyl records
Go easy on me: 30 (Amazon Exclusive White Vinyl)
"This album is so beautiful and hearing it on vinyl just brings it to the next level!" shares associate editor Kamari Stewart. "My mom gifted it to me for Christmas the year it came out and it’s one of my favorite records to date," she says. Who doesn't need some Adele in their life this holiday season?
Never going back (to MP3s) again: Rumours (Amazon Exclusive Purple Vinyl)
"Rumours Fleetwood Mac will always be the best record to listen to on vinyl!" raves commerce writer Emma Stessman.
For the refined jazz club goer: Sun Ra And His Arkestra Featuring Pharoah Sanders
E. Siegel recently purchased this eclectic album which features his favorite saxophonist, Pharoah Sanders, in collaboration with the legend Sun Ra. "It is a great deep cut if you or someone you know has acquired a taste for freeform jazz," he notes.
In conjunction with vinyl, E. Siegel also recommends this record brush to remove dust and static before playing.
Christmas countdown: A Tori Kelly Christmas — Exclusive Limited Edition Santa Red Colored Vinyl LP
“It wouldn’t be me if I didn’t recommend some Tori Kelly,” jokes Stewart. “This Christmas album is a 10/10 and playing it on a record player just feels so nostalgic and cozy during Christmas time!” she says.
An instant classic: Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Cole Porter Songbook
"As a hater of any musical made post-1980 (excluding "Mamma Mia" and "Moulin Rouge"), I really love the music of Cole Porter and this Ella Fitzgerald album is played in my apartment like once a week in its entirety," shares Moon.
For some nostalgia: Various Artists - The Breakfast Club Vinyl
"I’m all about the thrill of the hunt when it comes to shopping for vinyl records, a trait I get from my parents," says associate editor Sierra Hoeger. "I almost rarely buy them brand new, but make the exception when it’s one I know will be hard to find. (I’m looking at you, "Wicked" soundtrack!)" she exclaims.
"I just thrifted this vinyl this past weekend, and knew I had to buy it, since it’s one of my favorite movies. I couldn’t wait to text my parents about my find!" raves Hoeger.
Easy breezy: Kacey Musgraves — Golden Hour — Music & Performance — Vinyl
“’Golden Hour’ has been one of my favorite albums for years,” says Fama. “When it was released, I raced to Rough Trade in Brooklyn to buy a copy, and it sounds incredible on vinyl,” she notes.
For the alternative rocker: White Stripes - Elephant Vinyl
"This is the album that made me a believer in the difference between listening to a record and a CD," shares deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler. "And before you guess, yes, of course it’s Jack White," she continues.
This album was recently rereleased and features the classic (and crowd favorite) hit "Seven Nation Army."
Transport back to the '60s: Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons - Greatest '60s Hits (Blue Vinyl) [LP]
![Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons - Greatest '60s Hits (Blue Vinyl) [LP]](f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2/rockcms/2024-12/WALMART-564229.jpg)
"This was the soundtrack to my early high school years," says Hoeger. "Any time my dad needed help around the house, doing yard work, etc., he would put this record on. Any time I listen to Frankie Valli now it reminds me of weekends spent together!" she explains.
This classic pop album will have you singing "Sherry" and "Big Girls Don't Cry" on repeat.
"An absolute classic": Easter by Patti Smith
Bender recently went through her vinyl collection, which half she inherited from my dad and acquired the rest over the last few years. Bender refers to this third studio album from renowned musician Patti Smith "an absolute classic." This popular album was released in March 1978 by Arista Records.
A historic album: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band [LP] [2017 Stereo Mix]
![Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band[LP] [2017 Stereo Mix]](f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2/rockcms/2024-12/AMAZON-f77a81.jpg)
I [Wise] grew up listening to all of The Beatles' albums, but I must admit that "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band" is my all-time favorite. Before we even get into the great tunes on this album, can we take a moment to appreciate the iconic cover with dozens of notable figures?
Whether you find yourself singing "Penny Lane" in the shower or belting out "With a Little Help from My Friends" at karaoke, you will surely appreciate this historic album.
Bring the funk: Stop Making Sense (Deluxe Edition)
Bender refers to this punk rock album from Talking Heads as “the greatest concert film in history.” This 1984 concert film featured a live performance of the band and was directed by Jonathan Demme. If your husband is a big fan of David Byrne, he will totally appreciate this head-banging album as a gift this holiday season. Rock on!
Frequently asked questions
If you're looking to restore old vinyl, editor E. Siegel recommends purchasing this cleaning kit. This affordable set from Vinyl Buddy includes everything you'll need to help restore your precious records in a matter of minutes. It includes a velvet brush, a microfiber brush, a stylus brush, a bottle of cleaning solution and a handy storage pouch.
If you don't want to opt for the entire kit, a simple affordable vinyl brush can help do the trick.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best record players and turntables by enlisting the recommendations of two local musicians as well as a wedding DJ. We also included a few tried-and-true editor favorite record players, turntables and vinyl records as well.
Meet the experts
- Dave Siegel is a New York City-based musician and saxophone player who's performed at the Friars Club.
- Ira Berman is a New York City-based musician and member of the Media All Stars.
- Cam Jones is a New Jersey-based wedding DJ.
