Best DJ Turntables Reviewed

How DJ Turntables Work

To talk about how they function, we first need to understand what they consist of. First, you have the base. This is where you’ll find the motor that operates everything. Next up, we have the platter, which has a direct effect on the consistency of the speed the track is playing at. This is what you'll place your vinyl on (with a slip mat underneath). Denser platters are ideal, as they keep the speed steadier.  

Sprouting from the base, you have the tonearm which is a kind of metal tube-looking device that extends over the record. At the tip of the arm, you'll find the cartridge, often referred to as the "needle" or the "stylus." It may be tiny, but it's quite possibly the most essential component of the entire turntable.

The playback process as a whole begins with how well the stylus performs in playing the record. If it's a poor performer, then no other component can fix it. The stylus uses electromagnetic induction to transmit the grooves of the vinyl into soundwaves that we hear.

So, how does this work for a DJ? Let’s take a look.

First, you're going to have two turntables – one on each side of a mixer. A mixer is a completely separate piece of equipment from the turntables. They usually come in either 2 or 4-channel setups, with each channel belonging to a turntable. This means that we'll only be using 2 channels, as we have 2 turntables.

Each channel comes with little pots that control a certain frequency of the track that’s being played. Most mixers will have 3 pots per channel: one for low frequencies, one for mid frequencies, and one for high frequencies.

Low frequencies include things like the bass and kick drum, highs have elements like cymbals and claps, and mids will usually cover the vocals, main synth line/melody and so on. Occasionally, you’ll find mixers from manufacturers like Allen & Heath that have 4 pots (2 mid pots instead of 1) which allow for even more precision and control.

To start DJing or mixing two tracks, you'll need to place one record on each turntable and find the part of the song you would like to start at with the stylus. Once you hit "play," you'll want to make sure the volume is at an appropriate level.

When you get towards the end of the track, you'll want to begin to bring the next track in. To do this requires a lot of skill and you'll need to use the pitch fader to do it in a way that it sounds fluid.

Every song has a BPM, or "beats per minute." Let's say that your first track is 128 BPM and the second track is 130 BPM. You'll need to adjust the pitch fader of the second track by moving it down 2 BPM so that it is running at the same speed as the first. Once that is done, you’ll need to match the beats together so that the kick hits at exactly the same time.

Depending on how consistent the platter is in keeping the speed, you’ll need to keep adjusting a bit to keep them “beat-matched." You'll then use the mixer to improve the EQs of each track so that you can transition between them smoothly. This is of course, simplified, but you get the idea.

DJ Turntable Comparison Table 

DJ Turntable Drive System Types

You may notice that there are two different types of turntables: direct drive and belt drive. Let’s take a look at each so you can determine which is best for you.

Benefits of DJ Turntables

DJ turntables are necessary if you’re going to DJ with vinyl records. While there are other ways of DJing with other music formats, to audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts, there is no comparison to the authentic and warm sound of a record.

You'll also be able to prove those who say DJs "only have to push a button" wrong! Aside from that, you get the satisfaction of having all of your music right there, physically with you. You don't have to worry about transferring the music files online to your USB to play or use any software at all.

How a DJ should choose a High-Quality Turntable

Usage

If you’re going to be regularly using your turntables (which you should be if you’re just starting out) then you’ll need one that can take a beating. Look for those with solid builds from the plinth to the tonearm to the stylus. With turntables, literally every single component matters and should be taken seriously.

Turntable Type

We’ve already sufficiently covered belt drives and direct drives, but there are also automatic and manual turntables. This refers to having to move the tonearms with manual ones, and automatics will move the tonearm to where it was last placed. Automatic models are easier and much faster to use; however, aren't really the "traditional" way of doing things.

Cartridge Type

You’ll find either a moving coil shape or a magnet cartridge. Moving coil cartridges are notably more expensive, but well worth it due to the better sound quality it provides.

Tonearm

This is quite possibly the most complex component of the turntable. It starts at the base with some space between it and the platter to control vibrations. At the tip is where you'll find the cartridge which makes contact with the platter.

Phono Preamp

I also recommend choosing a turntable that comes with a phono preamp built-in. These boost the sound signal generated by the needle, making sure the music is loud enough.

Sound Quality

Literally every component of a turntable can and will affect the sound quality. This is why it’s crucial to get a high-quality table.

Storage & Portability

When we think of turntables, "portability" isn't really the word that comes to mind. However, some are easier to store and transport than others. If that's something that's really important to you, I recommend looking for the more lightweight models or those that have a smaller footprint to make storage easier.

Build Quality, Design & Style

No matter where or how often you’ll be using your turntables, build quality, design, and style are all important. You want the build to be nice and sturdy. Some are made of plastic while others are made of wood. Which do you think is going to last longer?

You also don’t want cheap-feeling buttons, as you’re going to be using these repeatedly, even if you’re only playing at home. The design should be intuitive, so you’re not feeling clumsy or unnatural, and the style should work with your personal tastes and music genre(s).

Extra Features

These extra features may push you to choose one turntable over another. Look for digital outputs like a USB port to connect to your PC if you plan on DJing with digital vinyl. You should also take a look at those with the option to play in reverse, how fine the pitch adjustment is, and more.

Price & Warranty

How much are you looking to spend on your new DJ turntable? It’s a wise idea to figure this out before you start, to eliminate any chance of having buyer’s remorse by spending more than you’d wanted. No matter your budget, we’re sure we have an excellent option for you on our guide.

I’ll mention, though, that going up in price will get you better build quality, more user-friendliness, and will almost always help you develop your skills more efficiently. I highly recommend, if you can, opting for a model that has at least a 1-year warranty, just in case something happens to your turntable(s).

1. Audio-Technica ATLP120USB

Audio-Technica is one of the most well-reputed brands in the audio world, with their headphones found on the ears of countless professional producers and DJs around the globe. It's no wonder, then, that their ATLP120USB is ranked as "Amazon's Choice," as well as one of the best DJ vinyl turntables on the market today. 

Playing 33, 45 and 78 RPM records, you aren’t limited at all in what you can play. In fact, it even has a reverse playback feature and pitch adjustment, which is pretty much a necessity when using it for DJing. Fully manual operation allows for quick start-ups while the balanced S-shaped tonearm is easy to use thanks to the hydraulically dampened lift control and lockable rest. To ensure accuracy even in low lighting, you’ll love the popup stylus target light to allow you to see where and what you’re cueing up.

On top of that, I found it to produce some of the most precise LP to digital conversions, so if you're looking to convert them into digital files to take with you to play on CDs or keep conveniently on an external hard drive, this is a great option.

Though it does come with the audio editing software, Audacity, the software itself is already free even if you don’t purchase the turntable. While it’s not as user-friendly as other software out there, once you watch a tutorial or two, it’s easy to record vinyl for conversion. Not only that, but you can also clean up audio with it.

Whether you're DJing for a crowd of hundreds or just for yourself at home, playback quality matters. To help ensure you have the best playback possible, you have a tonearm with a counterweight to keep the pressure just right. In addition, you'll find the anti-skating feature to prevent the needle from skipping and a pitch adjustment/lock to change the pitch and disable it.

The LP120 doesn’t come with built-in speakers nor a headphone jack, but you’re not going to need either of those for DJing, anyway. Built-in speakers do not typically produce quality sound, so it’s nice that these have RCA outputs to plug into external speakers. The USB output connects right into your laptop, so if you’re looking for digital vinyl DJing, it’s super easy to do so with this model.

The anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter helps keep audio sounding good while maintaining a consistent speed. Overall, it's a durable model that's great for regular use. While it offers reliable sound quality, I'll be honest when I say it's not the best of the best in that regard, but it is high up there.  

2. Numark NTX1000

Next up, we have yet again another huge brand in the world of DJing. Numark is an innovative brand that really takes its customers' feedback and applies it to their products to ensure they're user-friendly and reliable. The NTX1000 is exemplary of that standard, coming with everything you could ever need to matter if you're an absolute newbie or seasoned pro.

It’s also a solid option if you’re on the search for a cheap DJ turntable made with a high level of quality. The all-black design is sure to stand out, with its sleek and original looks.

Featuring a full-size die-cast aluminum platter and high-torque direct-drive motor, you'll be able to choose between either 33 1/3 or 45 RPMs to play a wide variety of vinyl. The S-shaped tonearm tracks very accurately, and even comes with height adjustment, damped cueing, anti-skate control and a fully adjustable counterweight. This makes it particularly convenient for beginners and DJs in a busy club environment. I love how the tonearm is also a matte black, too.

If you’re DJing, then you need to know how to sync up your tracks. This is almost always going to require you to adjust the pitch of a track, which is why you’ll love the pitch faders that can be adjustable to 8, 16, or 50%. The long-throw fader makes it easier than ever to adjust, with a reset button as well.

Easy Start and Stop Time knobs are also available to you, along with feedback and external vibration resistance. This makes them perfect when you’re using them with large sound systems, as the bass can easily shake the platform or table they’re sitting on. If you are going to be playing out, then you’ll appreciate how easy these are to transport!

3. Reloop RP-2000-M

Coming with a heavy mass chassis and robust, clean design, the Reloop RP-2000-M is one of the highest-performers when it comes to the best DJ turntables under 300 dollars. The design is quite simple, but the quartz-driven turntable with direct drive is perfect for beginners.

No matter what skill level you’re at, you’ll enjoy the fact that this table can take a beating. Whether you’re using it every day to improve your skills or are taking it to perform in public, you want it to be able to hold up against potential abuse.

From an aesthetic point of view, it's neither a stand-out model nor an eyesore. The black metal chassis is heavy-duty and looks okay, but the controls are quite plain and even a bit dated.

However, the most important part of a turntable isn’t its looks, but its performance. The well-isolated feet work well to eliminate a good amount of vibrations (but not all) which is acceptable for club environments.

The turntable features a decent S-shaped tonearm which is acceptably precise, but not the best I’ve used. The motor performs at a similar level – not the absolute best but still pretty good. For the price, it is hard to find a model that can compare with it.

The pitch fader is average, with a +-10 pretty standard range, though it may not be quite as easy for beginners to match. There are also multiple reports of the pitch control losing its precision over time, along with motor dropping in torque just enough to notice. Of course, this is relatively common with turntables of this price range, but it's good to take into consideration. 

4. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000

Pioneer is easily the most recognized and reputable brand in the DJ world, present-day. They are the industry standard in clubs worldwide due to their resilience, cutting-edge technology, and history of being reliable. I will say that I don’t consider the Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 to be an entry-level turntable due to how premium it is in every sense of the word. You can also expect more premium pricing, so if you’re not sure if you’re going to like DJing, you may not want to spend that much money on them just yet.

With a higher price, you can expect only the best features, from the build to performance. Coming with a quartz lock pitch control, you’ll easily be able to beat-match with precision; +-8% or 16 is possible, and you have a reset button to change it back to +-0 immediately.

The heavy mass diecast chassis is ideal in loud club environments due to how well it eliminates vibrations. The 8mm-thick resin bottom and 9mm-thick vibration-damping material on the base ensures that you'll have no problem with rumbly bass. The insulated S-shaped tonearm also helps to reduce any howling kind of sounds.

High torque is essential for most advanced DJs, and this direct drive table has that. You’ll have supreme control over your tracks, even if you’re into scratching. Thanks to interchangeable power and audio cables, it's easy to hook up and replace which is excellent if you're in a club where you have to connect your own turntables. The professional-level, gold-plated RCA jacks also provide low impedance and excellent sound quality.

The only downside? You’ll have to add your own cartridge and stylus as they’re not included.

5. Numark PT01 Scratch

Falling under a rating of both one of the best cheap DJ turntables and best DJ turntables for beginners, the Numark PT01 Scratch is a fascinating piece of equipment. The turntable is absolutely not made for club use or for professionals. This model is ideal, however, if portability and fun at casual hangouts is your priority when it comes to equipment, then keep on reading.

The lightweight belt-drive turntable is completely comprised of plastic. This means that it's easy to carry in a bag, but not so great for serious gigs. They're also not going to be able to eliminate or even reduce vibration the way more expensive models would. It does have a removable dust cover which will keep it nice and protected while you're transporting it, though. The 7" platter can use full 12" records, or you can choose to use the 45 adapters if you prefer.

At first glance, you’ll notice something much different from other models: the Numark Scratch Switch. This is essentially an on/off crossfader to make for quick cuts. This makes for fun and simple scratching, albeit maybe a bit gimmicky, but if you're looking to seriously improve your skills, you may want to set out for using a mixer. However, as it does come with a built-in speaker, you don't need to hook anything up to get going. The tonearm is straight and also made of plastic, so don't expect features like anti-skate control, a counterweight or height adjustment. It does include volume knobs, pitch control, and EQ tone control. 

6. Stanton T.62 MKII

7. Denon DJ VL12

The Denon DJ VL12 PRIME is a great selection if you're looking for a turntable that will provide you with a high level of quality while still being relatively easy on the budget for what you're receiving. They're simple enough to wrap your head around if you're just starting out, but great for pros, too.

Right when you take this beauty out of the box, you'll see that Denon is serious about delivering quality. The heavy design looks expensive, with black, brushed metal and the Denon DJ logo on each side. Each foot provides suspension that you can adjust the firmness on, helping to reduce vibrations significantly.

The direct drive motor is great, yet surprisingly quiet thanks to the interior rubber. Working with both 33s and 45s, you can use the vast majority of vinyl out there, and it also includes a jukebox 7” vinyl adapter. As far as start-up speed goes, you can expect it to be one of the quickest.

Moving on to the tonearm, this one is S-shaped and perfect for precision tracking. You can also adjust the pitch range +-8%, 16% or 50% to give you more versatility and make it easier and quicker to beat-match. The all-metal composition ensures durability, as well.

You may have noticed the RGB lighting which surrounds the edge of the platter. This not only looks cool and futuristic, admittedly but lets you control the color and brightness so you can see better. The easy grip/brake chamfered platter offers excellent feedback and control, no matter where you're playing and no matter which genre of music. 

8. RANE DJ

9. Pioneer CDJ-2000-NXS

DJ Turntables vs. DJ Controllers

DJ turntables and controllers are both very common among DJs, but what are the differences? Let’s take a look.

Controllers are either standalone units or are made to be used with a laptop. Independent units come with a built-in screen that displays waveforms and comes with two jog wheels that will let you adjust the tracks, select, create loops, use effects, and more.

You'll also get a built-in "mixer" to EQ adjust and mix. Standalone units are similar to CDJs in that you will use USBs with your music files stored on them and analyzed in a software that's compatible with the controller.

Turntables use vinyl records only to play music, and have a cartridge, needle, and tonearm to transmit the signal to the monitors to reproduce sound. They do not include a mixer section, so you’ll need to get one separately.

DJ Turntables vs. CDJs

CDJs are often confused with controllers, though there are many differences between them. CDJs are much larger and expensive than controllers (typically) and come with a platter that's very similar to traditional vinyl turntables. They do not come with mixers, so these will need to be purchased separately, just like with turntables. CDJs play music files stored on a USB drive, SD card, or CD. 

Essential DJ Equipment

How to Set Up a DJ Turntable

Operating a DJ Turntable

Connecting a turntable setup isn't very useful if you don't know how to operate it! Let's take a step-by-step look at just how to pull it off.

DJ Turntable Maintenance & Care Tips

A turntable is an investment, and if you want to have it for as long as possible, it's essential to maintain it properly.

If you’re a more visual person, then take a look at this helpful video:

DJ Turntables: Common Issues & Fixes

Tracking errors are quite common and can be fixed by adequately leveling your turntables. For example, if one side is higher than the other, then the stylus and tonearm are going to have a tough time tracking the grooves of the vinyl. Use a bubble level for best results.

Sometimes, you may find your turntable platter doesn't spin. First, make sure that it's connected to the wall outlet, and move the lever on the motor drive gear inward so the platter can spin. Put the belt drive over the notched guide on the pulley, making sure it's not twisted. Also, remove the ribbon used to loop the belt drive! Finally, re-sync the tonearm with the platter.

Understanding DJ Turntable Terminologies

People Also Ask (FAQs)

How much does a DJ turntable cost?

It varies, depending on the model you’re looking at. You can easily find one for under $300 and over $1000.

Does DJ scratching damage records? Can you scratch with a belt drive turntable?

Unfortunately, yes, it does. Even playing your records continuously will damage them to some extent. While scratching is definitely easier on direct drives (in my opinion), it's more than possible on belt drives.

How should I handle my vinyl records?

First off, don’t touch the surface of them. Instead, touch only the edges or the inner label. Keep your hand steady when you’re cueing your records to avoid scratching them. Be just as careful when removing the needle from your records.

Do I need a license to DJ?

If you’re playing in clubs, you will almost never need one. However, if you’re going to be playing at public events like weddings, having a DJ license is probably necessary or at least a good idea.

What are the best DJ turntable brands on the market?

Pioneer are the absolute best of the best, but Technics is also well-reputed.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read all about the best DJ turntables, which ones will you be using to further your DJ career or hobby? While each of the tables I’ve reviewed are the best on the market today, I still highly recommend the Audio-Technica ATLP120USB Direct Drive Professional USB Turntable.

It's super convenient with USB inputs, is extremely affordable, can digitize LPs with included Audacity software, and play any record. What more could you want? More importantly, I hope that this guide has helped you select the perfect player for you. Thanks for tuning in, and I'll see you again soon! Happy spinning!