For years I have seen people listening to the music on vinyl records, and honestly, I understand how fascinating it feels. One gets the classical, vintage feel when listening to any genre of music on a turntable. But as time passed, industries developed to fabricate lighter and portable record players. Therefore, instead of worrying, you can get the same traditional musical touch in the best portable turntable.
The fashion of using turntables seemed to dim down until one day, and some genius decided to bring it back to the limelight again. I have seen some professionals and audiophiles are carrying turntables in their hands and enjoy the music as they want to. Record players with built-in speaker aren’t meant to deliver the same audio quality as an audiophile turntable.
So if you want portable system you need to get compromised with the quality. If you want some HiFi turntable, you need to get compromised with the portability. You can also check this list of best hifi turntables under 1000. Since its nature has changed to become portable, you might be thinking that it will not be trendy. But breaking the news to you, it is so fashionable! After hours of research, I would like to present you the ten best portable turntables in this article.
BEST PORTABLE TURNTABLE REVIEW
1. VICTROLA VSC-550BT-BK - BEST PORTABLE TURNTABLES FOR LISTENING
PRODUCT FEATURES
Whoever said record players were meant to be kept only at a corner, did not check out the Victrola 3 speed suitcase turntable series. I have always imagined whether the products are fashionable and trendy from the name itself, and I must tell you, my belief turned out to be true. Over the years, the VSC-550BT-BK is the best portable turntable to be ever made because of a robust system.
This three-speed belt-driven turntable gives you an upgraded premium sound quality and efficiently prevents vibration using its sound-isolating feature. You can listen to the Beatles or Elvis Presley with no unnecessary vibrations. This feature gives you a clear and non-distorted sound quality, and promises to be the ideal choice for you.
When coming to retro, it has all the basic and unique features installed in it. So when you wish to listen to music at the beach or in an RV, take this turntable with you. You need not worry that it will get damaged because it is made in such a way that it can handle a considerable amount of ruggedness on the move. A little bump here and there does not affect this turntable whatsoever.
You could also connect additional devices to it with no equipment required. I would honestly say that it is so simple to use. The instructions are straightforward, and you would not have any issues with using them after the first trial.
So if you have decided to get your hands on this masterpiece, then get ready to experience Victrola's unparalleled sound quality along with excellent craftmanship. Not only that, you get a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles to choose from, which is something amazing—Highly recommended!
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2. BYRON STATICS KCT-601 - BEST BUDGET PORTABLE TURNTABLES
PRODUCT FEATURES
Byron Statics products are popularly known for their low cost, but just because they are cheap doesn't mean that the features or quality are compromised. Byron Statics' most recent turntable is good-looking and has a sleek design that makes you feel confident when you carry it around anywhere.
This turntable works perfectly with three different record sizes like 7",10", and 12". It also provides a varied speed range like 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, allowing the correct pitch to be heard properly. But, you must make sure to get a specific needle to play the 78 rpm.
After several hours of research, I would say that this turntable is perfect if you are someone wanting to get acoustics or something similar to play. Also, this turntable stops playing music once it reaches the end of the record automatically.
You get a metal tonearm, smooth turntable, and replaceable diamond stylus that greatly helps in improved tracking and reduced resonance. You get to experience something different and unique using this turntable.
This briefcase turntable comes with simple controls and allows you to enjoy clear, natural sound in retro-style vinyl records with your family. Byron Statics makes such lightweight models like this one, and you will easily carry them anywhere. So, get moving. Go to pool sides or a morning walk, and carry this vinyl suitcase around. No one could guess what is inside!
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3. WOCKODER KD-2008BL - BEST PORTABLE TURNTABLE WITH SPEAKERS
PRODUCT FEATURES
Giving a classic retro look, the Wockoder record player is the best portable turntable that works perfectly as promised. I have noticed products sacrificing many important features just to get the vintage look, but it is unlike the others when it comes to this 3 speed turntable with speakers. It is unique in design and features which you must get hold of.
An exciting feature of this good sounding portable record player with built in speakers is that it has a wireless connection! You can connect it to your smart devices via Bluetooth connection, and you get to hear a satisfying sound quality. Although the sound is not as booming as you would expect, you will not be dissatisfied. Connecting the vintage record players with your stereo system works perfectly for a private or a small listening session.
Now talking about the speed, it is a three-speed belt-driven turntable that supports 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM and plays all of your 7" 10" and 12" vinyl records and favorite records. You don't have to worry about the vibrations and resonances that usually occur in the vinyl record, as this record player briefcase has inbuilt springs that handle it efficiently.
You will notice that although it is lightweight, it is hardy. It can manage to face a few minor impacts, so it is great to carry it around and you can also call it a travel record player. Do not worry about letting dust collect, as you get a cover to keep it dust-free at all times. This prevents any distortions that occur in most turntables because of dust.
This is one the most affordable record players that is pick of the bunch for beginners and audiophiles who wish to have a unique musical time. Also, this is one of the compact record players that can be gifted to anyone. Overall, if you are looking for a cheap portable record player that looks like an antique portable record player, then this is it.
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4. FEIR VINYL (TP204) - BEST STEREO PORTABLE TURNTABLE
PRODUCT FEATURES
If you have been looking for a briefcase-style portable turntable that is lightweight, then I recommend Feir Vinyl stereo white record player. The turntable cabinet is made of wood and has a PU leather wrapping and a handle that you can carry anywhere.
Like the previous listings, this turntable also supports three speeds like 33 1/3,45 and 78 RPM, and the added part here is you get a +45RPM adaptor.
With the help of the automatic controls, it stops playing after the end. This turntable is great for first-timers and professionals as you will be getting fantastic results anyways.
When it is not in use, do not worry about it catching dust. You can close it and keep it in a place. It is also not necessary that you connect it to external speakers as the dual speakers in the front are enough to make your party going for long.
So you can listen to Harry Styles or Moody Blues on the move now without any worries with this small turntable. Also, using the 3.5mm aux-in jack, you can play music from any Bluetooth device.
Being portable is one of its main catch points. Not only this, it is also acknowledged portable record player with USB. Offering a variety of basic colors and a fashionable design, it looks modern yet still traditional. Suppose you want to gift one of the best portable record players to your loved ones or yourself or carry small record players wherever you go, then this is your pick.
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5. KEDOK RECORD PLAYER - BEST PORTABLE SUITCASE RECORD PLAYER
PRODUCT FEATURES
Coming in a retro-styled suitcase form, Kedok fabricates this turntable filled with wondrous features. Possessing all the necessary qualities, I would be surprised if you do not buy this small vinyl player when you are offered greatness. With a stylish outer covering and sturdy handlebar, you can take it around with minimum effort.
Unlike others, instead of giving you a 33 1/3 speed, this value record player gives you a unique 33-speed range and you also get 2 other speed like 45 RPM and 78 RPM that is included with 45-RPM adaptor. You can easily play all of your 3-sizes vinyl collections and thus, you can have an enjoyable experience listening to music that this amazing vinyl records offer.
This good quality record player with built in speakers gives you the good sound quality. If you want, you can further connect it to speakers for a louder experience. It is impressive and relieving that you can also get your smart electronic devices connected to it to be able to play whatever you want directly.
The stylus is extremely sensitive and helps to give crisp notes and beats. Overall, I would say that your vinyl records will come to life when you use this portable vinyl record player. What are you still waiting for? This is one portable suitcase turntables, grab it now.
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6. LP&NO.1 RECORD PLAYER (LPSC-002) - BEST RATED RECORD PLAYER WITH BUILT IN SPEAKERS
PRODUCT FEATURES
It doesn't matter what season or festivity it is when you get to hear warm and rich music. You can just sit back to enjoy yourself with your family and friends. Made out of MDF wood and leather material, this gives the perfect outlook.
You can play any speed, whether 33 1/3, 45, or 78 rpm and the turntable can read it accurately. Producing no vibrations or extra noise, you can carry this compact turntable around anywhere. The speakers let you play your music directly on your system.
Styled in a briefcase, it is hardy. You can connect it anywhere for private or public listening. Either way, you will be happy with the results.
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7. CROSLEY EXECUTIVE TURNTABLE (CR6019D-BR) - BEST PORTABLE VINYL PLAYER
PRODUCT FEATURES
Vinyl records, as already understood, are making a clear gratifying comeback. And since it has been done, people are expanding their bounds as well. Nowadays, focusing not only on the features, but people also try opting for external appearance as well.
Crosley Executive makes sure that an array of designs are there for you. Based on designs and looks, I would say that they create the best portable turntables.
You do not need to blend in with the crowd when you can connect it directly to your phone via Bluetooth or even with a cable. Once you start playing your music, you will be enraptured by this Crosley portable record player. Unlike other brands and models, this suitcase vinyl player is perfect for playing jazz music. Soft yet uplifting, you will be enjoying life like no one else.
But obviously, it has been 30 years of Crosley getting people one step closer to music, so their experience speaks louder than words. And so you can't go wrong with this compact vinyl player.
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8. UDREAMER VINYL RECORDS TURNTABLE (UD002 BROWN)
PRODUCT FEATURES
Recently, contemporary pop artists have released vinyl versions of their music albums, and honestly, who does not want to get hold of them? I, of course, want to. Similarly, you do. But, you will want something that matches up to the quality of your music choice, and Udreamer produces the best portable turntables.
Looking so fancy, this vintage portable record player has two speakers facing the front that makes it clear on offering a loud, booming sound quality. This type of turntable is a must-have among vintage collectors who not only want classical but also a touch of modernity in their products.
You can play any records sizing 7", 10", or 12", which is the standard size for most records. I would say that this is the finest turntable especially for beginners.
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9. DIGITNOW TURNTABLE RECORD PLAYER
PRODUCT FEATURES
DIGITNOW goes a step further to make your musical dreams into reality. If you step out of home for a vacation, the only thing you need is this best portable turntable. This can be done if you buy DIGITNOW's turntable.
It is interesting to know how versatile it is. You could connect it to any device with the help of a USB or even play it as a normal USB portable turntable. Want to connect it to your home stereo? There you go. You can do it now. It's impressive how also, now you can transfer and convert your favorite music records into any format on this portable USB record player.
The varied speed range is capable enough to support any record, so you can without hesitation play your collection. Take it on the go, and it will still work for a long time. With impressive sound quality, your small record player turntable will be praised at your next get-together.
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10. NUMARK PT01 USB TURNTABLE
PRODUCT FEATURES
Numark PT01 turntable is the best portable turntable that is made to play music on. Suiting perfectly to play your vinyl records has never been easier. Although Numark manufactures several versions matching up to various needs of different users, the PT01USB has been the ideal one for many. I am saying this because I have seen my colleagues praising it.
Talking firstly about the look, it is different from what I have seen before. It might look like it is styled like a briefcase, but it is not. Fashionably designed, it is not complicated in use. It has all the basic and necessary equipment already installed. You can easily operate the record player with the control buttons and switches.
You can easily convert the form of your music and also connect it to different smart devices. Your vinyl record collection will be having a blast when used by this Numark portable record player.
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BUYER'S GUIDE FOR PORTABLE TURNTABLE
Apart from picking the portable turntable based on brand, quality, and price, it is vital to check upon other features that the best record player should have.
Which turntable would you prefer?
The ones with built-in speakers or the ones you need to connect to an external home audio system. There are all-in-one turntables that has built-in speakers, USB, Bluetooth, CD cassette players at affordable price but still if you prefer some high sound quality , you can choose the one that can be connected to the external speakers.
Belt drive Vs. Direct drive?
A belt drive is a bit more noiseless than a direct drive, but still, it is not as durable when compared to the other. This is because the belt drive tends to wear out after long use. Talking about the direct drive turntables, they don't use belts but instead, they use a motor that directly drives a platter on which a vinyl record is rested.
Record Player Vs. Turntable?
Records players come with small speakers in-built, and the sound quality is thus limited. But if the record player has Bluetooth or USB features, you can connect them to external loudspeakers. Moreover, they are portable and affordable. Turntable, on the other hand, have offers better and higher sound quality than record players. But you need to get a separate preamp, amp, and speakers to build a complete setup.
However, this choice is up to you. If you are looking for some portable and compact option, getting a record player is recommended. Record player with integrated speakers would be a great option for anyone on a budget.
If you are an audiophile, then you might appreciate hi-fi and value audio equipment. This means you are looking for some high-end turntable.
Design:
This is actually subjective. You can choose either a retro or vintage design turntable.
Bluetooth Connectivity & USB Connectivity:
Check whether your turntable has Bluetooth and USB connectivity. USB record spinners allows you to convert your vinyl into digital audio files by connecting it to your computer or laptop. Most of the modern turntables are equipped with this feature.
CONCLUSION
Over the years, turntables have changed, but one thing that remains the same is the promise to give you the desired experience. Creative, innovative, and convenient, using the best portable turntable lets you directly be engaged in a wholesome music journey. Built-in a suitcase-style, your music records are not catching dust anymore.
The recommendations will be a perfect fit to use indoors or outdoors and in any environment. Modern but vintage, a portable turntable will be the unique addition to your music collection. Using a portable mini record player is not limited to any age group. Whether you are young or old, go on, fulfill melodic wishes.
FAQ
The RPM records speed represents the speed at which a record player runs. There are three different speeds a record player runs; they are 33 1/2, 45, and 78. The slower the speed, the smaller the record player size would be. If you run a small record player at high speed, they are likely to get damaged.
The stylus or needle is a small cone-shaped component present on the record player that touches the surface of the vinyl record. This needle is mainly made of a polished diamond or a tiny gemstone. The good turntable stylus would last for about 500 to 1000 playing hours.
Yes, it is possible to connect the record player to an external speaker with the help of an RCA output speaker. Some portable record players come with RCA adapter cables, and thus you don't need to buy them separately.
It is important to clean your turntable and maintain it so that it works perfectly. Vinyl tends to attract a lot of dust due to its static nature. So regularly dust your turntable with a soft duster or lint-free cloth.
Gibson is a blogger and reviewer, whose passion is helping people with all the aspects of music through the blog he provides. Also, he is an artist and loves to create his own tunes by purchasing good quality musical tools. With his own experience, he has provided a great list of tools for you in this blog. Seeking the best quality musical tools? Read this blog and end your music thirst!