6 Best Record Players Under $100 of 2020

If you enjoy listening to old school records and have more than a few in your collection, then there are plenty of modern record players that will help you get the best sound possible. Not only do modern players have better audio capabilities but they’ll also reduce the risk of damaging your records and even give you the option to save them to your PC as an MP3.

In our guide below, we’ll help you find the best record player under $100 and provide you with detailed reviews of our three favorite players.

What to Look For

When you’re considering a new record player for your collection there are a few things that you’ll need to keep in mind. Modern players can come with a host of features that you may find beneficial for your experience, or they might just distract you from that authentic sound you’re looking for – so read on.

  • Speed Settings. You’ll want to have at least two-speed settings so that you can play all your records at the correct speed. Some players come with two settings, whilst others have 3 and then some have just one. The speeds you’ll want depend on the type of record you’ll be playing 33, 45 or 78.
  • USB Connectivity. Enables you to plug your player directly into your computer and record your favorite tracks or albums onto your hard drive as an MP3. Some players come with the software to record whilst others function as an audio input device.

Top 6 Record Players Under $100 Chart

PictureNameFeaturesRating (1-5)
Picture
Name
Features
Rating (1-5)
1. Audio Technica AT-LP60 Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable SystemClassic style, 2 speeds, fully automatic4.3
2. Jensen JTA-222 3-Speed TurntableClassic style, AM/FM radio, antique wood design4.2
3. Jensen JTA-230 3 Speed Stereo Turntable with Built in Speakers3 speeds, USB and AUX, multiple adjustments4.0
4. Crosley CR8005A-TU Cruiser Portable 3-Speed TurntableTravel briefcase, manual return arm, 3 speeds, RCA and headphone jack3.8
5. Victrola VTA-200B Nostalgic Classic 6-In-1 TurntableVintage style, 3 speeds, Bluetooth and AUX3.6
6. Victrola Nostalgic 3-Speed Vintage Bluetooth Suitcase TurntableTravel briefcase, 3 speeds, AUX and Bluetooth3.5

Buying Information

Buying the best record player under $100 is a challenge, most high-quality players cost $200+, however, there are still plenty of viable options for budget conscious buyers. Here are the main features you’ll want to consider before making your purchase:

  • FM Radio. Some players come with an FM radio, which although useful, can be pretty pointless with today’s availability of radio enabled devices. Our recommendation is to ignore radio capabilities and focus on the core functionality of the player instead.
  • Travel Case vs Classic Style. You’ll want to decide how you’re going to use the player before you make a purchase. Some players are made for easy transportation and are an easy choice for those looking for movability, whilst others will be cumbersome to transport.
  • Speaker Quality. Unless you’re planning on just using the player to transfer your records to your computer, you’ll want to make sure the speakers are of high quality. Check the audio wattage to ensure your speakers will be loud enough to enjoy.

Three Best Record Player Under $100 Reviews

1. Audio Technica AT-LP60 Fully Automatic

For portability, this little player comes out on top. It’s about a third of the size of all the other players on our list, yet its core functionality is impeccable. Out of the box, this player works like a charm, but over time you may need to make some minor adjustments to keep it playing well.

We found that all of our records played very clearly on the device and the sound that it produced was more than enough to fill an entire room with joy.

2. Jensen JTA-222 3-Speed

Works as expected, and really for a record player you don’t need a hundred and one bells and whistles to enjoy old school sound. Heck, the original players were very simple in their design and functions and the makers of this player have emulated their success.

The Aux input allows you to play your MP3 music on the device as well via an AUX cable from your phone or iPod. Not only is the sound produced audible and clear, but the recording quality is top notch too.

3. Jensen JTA-230 3 Speed

You’d think for a cheap price that this player would be only marginally good at playing records but prepared to be surprised. We found that the playability, sound quality and recording capabilities to be top level.

There is nothing that we haven’t enjoyed with this player. The overall design reminds us of the classic player we used back when records were the only form of recorded music. A truly classic player with a classic sound, making this the best record player for under $100.