Vinyl records are firmly back in rotation, but getting started does not have to mean spending a fortune or building a complicated hi-fi stack from day one. Whether you want a simple, all-in-one setup with built-in speakers or you are piecing together a more traditional system with a separate amplifier, the best record player is the one that fits how you listen at home.
For this guide, we focused on high-quality turntables under $600 that deliver a satisfying listening experience without unnecessary complexity. These picks cover everything from beginner-friendly automatic models to more audiophile-leaning decks that prioritize sound quality and upgrade potential, proving you do not need to jump into the high-end to enjoy vinyl properly.
Best record players for 2026
Billy Steele for Engadget Best record player overall Fluance RT85N Turntable Drive: Belt | Cartridge: Nagaoka MP-110 | Platter: Acrylic | Preamp: No | Bluetooth: No | Connectivity: RCA (analog output) | Automatic vs manual: Manual with automatic stop Fluance’s preference for a glossy finish may not be your first choice, but the RT85N should absolutely be on your radar as a purely analog turntable for anyone building a traditional hi-fi setup around vinyl records. There’s no preamp here, so you’ll need to buy one separately for this model. You’ll get warm, expressive sound that caters to all the fine details of your record collection, making it a strong option for listeners who consider themselves aspiring audiophiles and want a listening experience to match their standards. Like other Fluance models, there’s a solid MDF wood plinth equipped with adjustable resonance damping feet. On the RT85N, the company moved the motor from underneath the acrylic platter to prevent unwanted noise and vibrations. There’s also a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge and elliptical diamond stylus that provide a substantial upgrade over the RT81+. Simplified controls and automatic stop help bridge the gap when beginners are ready to upgrade to a more advanced setup. Pros Warm, expressive sound
Isolated motor
Robust plinth with vibration-isolating, adjustable feet Cons Requires a separate preamp
Glossy finish isn’t for everyone $550 at Amazon
Billy Steele for Engadget Best record player overall - runner up U-Turn Audio Orbit Special (Gen 2) Drive: Belt | Cartridge: Ortofon 2M Red | Platter: Grooved acrylic | Preamp: No (optional) | Bluetooth: No | Connectivity: RCA (analog output) | Automatic vs manual: Fully manual If you’re into minimal turntable designs that still look great, U-Turn’s Orbit line fits the bill and offers a more high-end feel than many similarly priced competitors. The company opts for a thinner plinth than most of the competition, offering a slimmed down look that I think is more sophisticated on the shelf. There’s also a range of colors and wood finishes available, so you can match your setup or cater to your style. The external drive belt will help reduce motor noise and unlike some of U-Turn’s models, you get electronic speed control here on the Orbit Special. The company gives you the option to include a built-in preamp for an additional $80, but the Orbit Special I tested didn’t have one (remember our $600 limit). I enjoyed the expressive, detailed sound here, rich with analog warmth that suits anyone looking to grow into a more serious vinyl listening setup without jumping straight into high-end audiophile gear. U-Turn’s Orbit Arm 3 is also a highlight, combining a one-piece magnesium armtube with an Ortogon 2M Red cartridge (with elliptical diamond stylus) and a cue lever. It has an adjustable counterweight and internal anti-skate as well. Lastly, the adjustable rubber feet are robust, providing ample cushioning from any vibrations that could impact playback. Pros Simple design
External drive belt
Expressive, detailed sound
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