Portable record players are a fantastic, space-saving option for new vinyl enthusiasts and experienced collectors with limited space. These compact devices, which are riding on the vinyl boom, provide a simple way to venture into the vinyl world, great for taking to a friend’s place or arranging a dorm room, indeed. Still, one should be reasonable. To maintain their portability and affordable price, many entry-level models must make compromises in sound quality and construction. Although they are not on a par with a stationary hi-fi system, this is generally a reasonable exchange for the convenience they bring.
In addition, the DJ-ready Numark PT01 Scratch and the chic Audio-Technica Sound Burger are excellent models that are out of style but have a stellar reputation. Our guide will lead you through the options to find the perfect portable turntable that fits your budget and requirements.
Stokyo Record Runner BT
Streaming music to a Bluetooth speaker thanks to the Bluetooth function. Audio Technica's stylus and pickup system (with a replaceable needle) with an ultra-fine pitch adjustment knob (+/- 8%).
Crosley Cruiser Deluxe Vintage
Portable turntable driven by a belt plays records at 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM.
Retrolife Vinyl Record Player
It takes only a few minutes to set up and begin. The perfect place for newcomers and vinyl fans to have a good time. The ideal proportions and high-quality sound make it ideal for any space, be it a bedroom, living room, or office.
Victrola Journey+
The built-in speakers and three record speeds (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) make for a clean and clear listening experience.
6. Numark PT01 Scratch
Feature-Rich and Ultra-Portable: This DJ turntable is capable of playing records at 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM and can be powered by either an AC adapter or batteries (not included). anyplace you go, to itch
How to Choose the Best Portable Turntable for You
On top of it, it is really important to go through the key features of car players carrying the goal of a portable turntable. Knowing these four features and their impact will indeed help you to come up with a good decision and find a player that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
Built-in Speakers vs. External Connections
Having a portable turntable with speakers built inside is definitely the most convenient feature of many portable models. Such systems are the very essence of truly all-in-one. Moreover, you simply turn it on, put a record on, and listen without delay.
On the other hand, the power of these built-in speakers is not the same. They are typically small and designed for casual listening. You can use them to play music in the background or share a song with a friend in your room. The built-in speakers probably won’t give you what you want if you want full, clear, high-fidelity sound.
In turn, outputs play a crucial role here. Almost all good portable turntables offer a way to connect to external audio devices.
- RCA Outputs: These are the red and white ports that enable you to connect a stereo amplifier or powered speakers and thus, receive a huge sound upgrade.
- Headphone Jack (3.5mm): It is very important for listening privately. You can connect your favourite headphones, earphones, or earbuds, and nobody will be disturbed by your records. This is a feature that is needed for late-night listening sessions in a dorm or apartment. The only requirement for the headphones, earphones, or earbuds that you are going to use is that they have a standard jack.
Connectivity: Bluetooth and More
Bluetooth is one of the most popular and practical features. Yet, it is necessary to know the mechanism of its operation.
- Bluetooth Input: There aren’t many players that can double as Bluetooth speakers. That means you can send a music signal from your mobile device or laptop to the record player’s built-in speakers. It is a feature that is useful and turns your player into an audio hub for all your devices.
- Bluetooth Output: This is the most popular feature. It brings the possibility to carry the sound from your vinyl record on the turntable to an external Bluetooth speaker or a pair of wireless headphones. It not only gives you the convenience of wireless listening but also the option of connecting effortlessly to a better sound system without the hassle of wires.
Also, check if there is an aux-in port. It is a feature that enables you to connect a non-Bluetooth device, such as an old MP3 player, by using just one cable.
Portability: Suitcase vs. Unique Designs
Firstly, the “suitcase” is the most common design for a portable turntable. These players are generally incorporated into the briefcase-style case with a handle and latches. The Crosley record player is well known for bringing this look into the limelight. It was so easy to use; just closing the lid and snapping it shut was all you needed.
This design is practical for sure, but a lot of people buy a portable turntable mainly because of its small size, and then they leave it in one place. If that is the case with you, then it is the aesthetics that get more important. Suitcase players are available in thousands of colours and patterns; therefore, you can find the one that fits your decor perfectly.
There are other, more unique designs, such as the Audio-Technica Sound Burger, which can be carried in a completely different mannerโit is so small that it can fit in a bag. What comes to your mind when you think of the usage of your player? Are you going to carry it around frequently, or will it always be in the same spot?
Power Source
Absolute portability would mean that you can listen to music wherever you like without being limited to the location of a power outlet. A few of the portable turntables, such as the Numark PT01 Scratch and the Audio-Technica Sound Burger, come with batteries that can be recharged, or they can run on AA batteries. If you are going to take your turntable with you to the park or your friend’s backyard, then a battery-powered option is the way to go. Most suitcase models, on the other hand, will still need to be connected to a power socket to function.
The 6 Best Portable Turntables of 2025
Here is our comprehensive list of the greatest portable record players available on the market right now. We have tested and reviewed each one to assist you in finding your ideal companion. Most of these models can be found on portable turntables on Amazon and other top retailers.
1. Audio-Technica Sound Burger AT-SB727
Best Overall Portable Turntable
- Speeds: 33/45 rpm
- Connectivity: Aux out, Bluetooth
- Speakers: No
Pros:
- Truly carry-around and unique design
- Small, but excellent quality sound.
- Consistent Bluetooth connection
Cons:
- A little motor noise is still there
The Audio-Technica Sound Burger is a present-day reissue of a cult classic that was very popular with fans in the 1980s. This is a truly portable turntable in every sense of the word. It’s tiny, light, and created to go everywhere with you. The “burger” design is stunningโfun, colourful, and unique, it makes for a great imprint on your music room wall.
On the other hand, the Sound Burger is no joke. It is the serious audio equipment that the fun look can never make you think it is. The product is the result of Audio-Technica’s proven quality engineering. The tonearm and cartridge that are given with the Sound Burger are a level above what you will get from most portable players. They produce a warm, lively, and detailed sound that we found to be bright and engaging, thus our records become like singing.
Because of the unique design and belt drive system, the platter is very small, so there may be a little bit of instability compared to a full-size turntable. However, this is a very small thing. It doesn’t have speakers, which is part of the design. This is to keep the unit small while still being able to deliver good sound quality. In this case, you are free to pair it with any Bluetooth speaker or utilise the 3.5mm aux output to plug in your headphones or even connect to a bigger sound system. The internal battery makes it through hours, which is ideal for a short trip in the park. The Sound Burger is probably the best compact turntable you could buy if you want true portability without a big loss in sound.
2. Stoyko Record Runner BT
Most Fun Portable Turntable
- Speeds: 33 1/3 rpm only
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Speakers: Yes
Pros:
- Just amazingly fun and new to see
- Works with Bluetooth speakers
- Runs on regular AA batteries.
Cons:
- The reproduction of sound is quite bad
- It plays only at one speed
The Stoyko Record Runner BT is not a high-fidelity device but rather a charming novelty. However, it does make records, and it can be said that it is the most portable record-playing device ever. This little VW-camper-van-shaped thing is laid straight on a still record. While the record doesn’t spin, the Record Runner car drives itself along the record’s grooves.
It certainly is a fun thing to use and look at, and listening to vinyl definitely should be fun. The device is powered with two AA batteries and has an Audio-Technica stylus that is basic but still tracks the groove. The speaker that is located inside the device is very small, and, frankly, it is not good at all. However, its Bluetooth connectivity is great. You can connect it to a Bluetooth speaker, which makes the sound not perfect but still quite good for the device.
To be honest, this is not a device meant for serious music lovers. Its playing capability is limited to only 33 1/3 RPM records, and the quality of the sound is not going to impress anybody who is looking for high-end. However, as a peculiar gift, a stocking stuffer, or just a funny way of sharing with friends, it is perfect. Your vinyl-purist uncle might disapprove, but no one can beat Record Runner in portable fun.
3. Crosley Cruiser Deluxe Vintage
Best Portable Turntable for Beginners
- Speeds: 33/45/78 rpm
- Connectivity: Aux in, Headphone out, RCA out, Bluetooth
- Speakers: Yes
Pros:
- Offered in a vast array of hues and designs.
- Extremely easy to set up and use
- Excellent connectivity options
Cons:
- Built-in speakers could be much better
If you have not been on a vinyl journey yet, the Crosley Cruiser Deluxe Vintage would be a great starting point. This is the suitcase record player that is most commonly associated with the idea of a portable turntable. It looks great, is very easy to use, and doesn’t cost much. The Cruiser is well-known for having a huge range of ‘colours and patterns’, from classic tweed to bright floral prints. This makes it easy to find one that fits your style. It’s not just a music player; it’s also an ‘interior decor item’. The Crosley gramophone is a name that, sometimes, is also used to refer to Crosley, and its retro vibe is one of the major selling points.
The setup is really simple. You just open the lid, plug it in, and play records in seconds. It is compatible with the three most common speeds (33, 45, and 78 RPM), so you can use any record that you have. The speakers that are built-in are good only for casual listening, but the real power of the Cruiser Deluxe is its connectivity.
The RCA outputs of this unit are to be connected to the external speakers, getting the sound considerably improved, and the headphone jack is for listening only to your favourite earbuds or over-ear cans, in case you want. An aux-in port and also Bluetooth input are present as well; thus, you can make it your speaker when talking on your phone. Therefore, even though the Crosley turntable might be pointed out as having some limitations by a devoted audiophile, it is an unbeatable all-rounder for beginners who are interested in a fun, stylish, and easy way to get into vinyl without burning through their savings.
4. Retrolife Vinyl Record Player
Best Budget Portable Turntable
- Speeds: 33/45/78 rpm
- Connectivity: Aux in, Headphone out, RCA out, Bluetooth
- Speakers: Yes
Pros:
- The onboard speakers produced a surprisingly good sound
- Outstanding access to various connectivity features
- Very good price
Cons:
- Build quality is very light
Not all speakers on a portable turntable with speakers are made equal. Frankly speaking, most of the time they are not very good if the audio quality is the most important thing for you. Though the option at a low price from Retrolife will not be a substitute for a stereo system, we were delighted with the sound given out.
The Retrolife vinyl record player utilises the built-in speakers for a more balanced and rounded sound than most other players in its low-price range. They make a less tinny sound, and they add a bit of warmth to it, thus creating a perfectly pleasant listening experience right from the start
To get the best sound, you will have to use the connection options. The same way as the Crosley, it also has RCA outputs for the external speakers, a headphone jack for your earphones, an aux-in, and a Bluetooth input for streaming music from your phone, fully loaded. It offers many features for novices. If you are on a limited budget but still want a player with speakers that can do a decent job, the Retrolife is an excellent and affordable choice.
5. Victrola Journey+
Best Portable Turntable for Easy Set-Up
- Speeds: 33/45/78 rpm
- Connectivity: Aux in, Headphone out, RCA out, Bluetooth
- Speakers: Yes
Pros:
- Very easy to set up and use
- Reliable and seamless Bluetooth connection
- Small and easy to store
Cons:
- The built-in speakers are not good
Another great suitcase-style player is the Victrola Journey+. It is the best when it comes to being user-friendly, especially with the Bluetooth feature. Most portable players these days have Bluetooth, but we found the Journey+ to be very reliable, and it was easy to pair it with other devices every time. You can connect your phone to the player to stream music or the player to a Bluetooth speaker, and the connection will be stable and uninterrupted.
This makes the Victrola Journey+ our top pick for people who want a Bluetooth experience that works perfectly every time. You won’t have any trouble getting started with a record player if you’ve never used one before. Setting it up is very easy.
The speakers on board are good enough for casual listening, but they won’t blow you away. Victrola has made it possible to use all of the outputs you need, which is a good thing. You can greatly improve your audio experience by using the RCA ports or by simply plugging in a good pair of wireless headphones or earbuds (with a transmitter or just a standard wired one). It is a great choice for a dorm room or bedroom because it is small and easy to use.
6. Numark PT01 Scratch
The Numark PT01 Scratch is on a different level. This is a portable turntable DJ deck created specifically for turntablists, who need a device for practice and performing anywhere at any time. If you are a person who is into scratching, then this is the only portable turntable scratch model you need.
Its highlight feature is the built-in “Scratch Switch.” This variable switch serves as if it were a crossfader on a DJ mixer, enabling you to make cuts and scratches at any point. This clever and clever concept transforms the player into a highly adaptable portable turntable DJ. The construction is of solid and rugged quality, made to endure the tough conditions of travel.
The PT01 Scratch is likewise a car full of professional features. Firstly, it has a stereo input; thus, you can connect your phone or any other audio source to scratch over beats. Also, it comes with a USB port; thus, you can connect your computer and record your performances or turn your vinyl into digital. It may be operated either with an AC adapter or batteries for real portability. The sound from both the built-in speaker and the outputs is very good for a portable deviceโclear, punchy, and loud. For any aspiring or travelling DJ, the Numark PT01 Scratch is an essential piece of gear.
Best Portable Turntable for DJs
- Speeds: 33/45/78 rpm
- Connectivity: RCA out, Line-in, Headphone jack, USB
- Speakers: Yes
Pros:
- A solid and durable build, but still lightweight
- The built-in scratch switch is a fantastic feature for DJs
- For a portable device, the sound quality is great
Cons:
- Some may find the design a little too showy for their taste
Are portable record players good?
This is the most important question. The response is that it depends on your definition of “good. โ
If by “good” you mean a convenient, space-saving, affordable, and fun way to get a new hobby, then portable record players are definitely good. They are the simplest and most available way to begin enjoying vinyl records. They are coming in one unit and do not need a complicated setup with separate amplifiers and speakers.
If “good” means that the sound reproduction is of high-fidelity, audiophile-grade, and that it can give the recording of each detail, then no, portable record players are generally not good. In order to reach their small dimensions and low price, they have to make certain compromises. The built-in speakers are not big, the tonearms are simple, and the cartridges are mostly the lowest level of the options. The best you could expect from a $70 suitcase player is not top sound quality.
You should consider them as they are: a fast, easy, and pleasant listening experience for your records. They give the game a hint of a lo-fi aesthetic.. If top-notch sound quality is what you’re after, consider component-based, non-portable turntable systems.
How does a turntable differ from a vinyl player?
People will get your point for sure if you talk about “turntable,” “record player,” and “vinyl player” interchangeably in a casual talk. However, there is a technical distinction.
- Turntable: A turntable, to be exact, is only that part that moves the record and picks up the groove with a stylus. It consists of the tonearm, cartridge, platter (the rotating plate), and base (the plinth). If a turntable is used alone, it must be connected to a separate pre-amp, amplifier, and speakers to hear the sound.</li>
- Record Player: A record player is typically an all-in-one system that combines the turntable mechanism with a built-in preamp, amplifier, and speakers in a single unit. The majority of portable turntables are, in fact, record players.
Not all turntables are record players, but all record players have turntables.
Do cheap turntables ruin vinyl?
This has been the most controversial topic in vinyl folk. The answer in brief: it can happen, but those who risk it are overblown, especially if the users are only casual.
To begin with, let’s see a thorough explanation. Exceptionally high-end turntables feature tonearms that are weight-balanced and allow for precise measurement of “tracking force”โthe downward pressure of the stylus on the recordโaccording to the cartridge that is going to be used (generally, 1.5-2.5 grams). In addition, they use perfectly shaped, diamond-tipped styli that are designed to fit perfectly in the record groove.
On the other hand, very cheap and entry-level portable players that are intended to play records usually have a less complicated tonearm assembly along with a ceramic cartridge. They typically have a higher tracking force that cannot be regulated (sometimes 4-6 grams or more) and a less perfect stylus (usually, the sapphire one is used instead of the diamond). The main rule behind this is that additional pressure and a less accurate stylus will be the main factors in the worn grooves of your records, which will occur over an extended period of playing.
One should not be too concerned if they are a beginner and have used common records that can be easily replaced. The convenience and the low price are a good exchange for the quality. If you have rare or expensive collector’s pressings, you should play them on a higher-quality turntable.
Pro Tip: A dirty or worn-out stylus will damage your records no matter what turntable you are using. Make sure the stylus is clean and change it in time with the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Does a Victrola suitcase ruin records?
This is an example of the question mentioned above. Victrola is a well-known brand for the players in the form of suitcases that are similar to Crosley. The identical reasoning is valid here. A player of Victrola suitcase is not made for saving records that are as valuable as treasures for the future. For the average person who just got into the hobby with the records that are either new or used and cheap, the risk is minimal and far less than the joy of listening.
What is the best portable scratch turntable?
For sure, the Numark PT01 Scratch is the most amazing portable turntable scratch model that can be found on the market. It was specifically built for this alone. The Scratch Switch that is integrated, the strong construction, and the good connectivity make it a number one option for those who are traveling and are in need of a portable unit for their practice or performance.</p>
Is it worth buying a cheap turntable?
Certainly! In case you are interested in vinyl, but at the same time, a cheap portable turntable is the ideal choice if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a complete hi-fi setup. It gives you a chance to start the collection and enjoy the physical media world with minimal investment. If the format is that attractive to you, later on, you can always switch to a better system. I would say that a cheap turntable is still better than no turntable at all.
Do portable record players need to be plugged in?
It can be yes, and it can be no, depending on the type of the model. Most of the popular suitcase-style players rely on the AC adapter and thus have to be connected to a wall socket. This includes examples such as those of Crosley and Victrola. That is not the case if we are talking about the models that are built for carrying around a lot; one such example is the Audio-Technica Sound Burger and the Numark PT01 Scratch. They have batteries that are rechargeable built in, or you can even use disposable ones; thus, playing anywhere is not an issue at all.
Can I connect a portable turntable to speakers or headphones?
Yeah, almost always. This is a very important feature. Try to find outputs on the back or side of the player.
- RCA Outputs (Red and White): Connect these to powered speakers or a stereo amplifier.
- Headphone Jack (3.5mm): This is to connect a pair of wired headphones, earphones, or earbuds of any standard that you have. Ideal for private listening.
What about a Portable Turntable, Sony?
Sony is a well-known name in audio; however, they are not a significant player in the “suitcase” portable market at the moment. A portable turntable from Sony, similar in style to a Crosley or Victrola, is something you will not find. But Sony is the maker of the high-quality non-portable Bluetooth turntable for beginners, the Sony PS-LX310BT. This turntable is fully automatic and of good quality, and it allows you to connect wirelessly to Bluetooth speakers or headphones. Although still not portable in the suitcase sense, it is simple, elegant, and provides excellent sound quality for its price. If you want to upgrade from a portable player, then this is ideal.
Does any stylus fit any turntable?
No, not. Styli (the needle) are designed specifically for the cartridge they are mounted on. The biggest number of entry-level portable and suitcase record players use the same or very similar red-tipped ceramic styli that are easily replaceable. These are easily changed and accessible everywhere. However, the variety of different cartridges is utilised by higher-end turntables within the ยฝโ mounting standard, and each cartridge corresponds only to one specific replacement stylus. You must always purchase the correct replacement stylus that is compatible with your cartridge model.
What is a rumble turntable?
Rumble is a low-frequency term that defines an inaudible or haptic noise that occurs during listening. This is the result of vibrations caused by the turntable’s motor that are transferred to the platter and then picked up by the stylus. It is more frequently found in cheaper, direct-drive, or older idler-wheel turntables. The majority of modern portable turntables are belt-driven, and this way, they help to isolate the platter from motor vibrations and thus lessen rumble.
How do we test record players?
Our team consists of enthusiastic music fans. We have been listening to music nonstop throughout the whole day. When we do a test of a record player, we are listening to all sorts of music, ranging from the intricate layers of modern metal to the deep bass of classical music and the hardly noticeable elements of hip-hop. In addition to the built-in speakers of the record player, we also try them with a pair of headphones, and we also connect them to a good set of external speakers to get a more complete picture of their performance.
Besides that, we put great emphasis on the user experience. How simple is the installation process? Is the Bluetooth connection stable? Can the tonearm be operated easily? If there is something that prevents one from enjoying the music, it will be the reason for downgrading. In the end, we verify all the issues of additional functions, such as USB recording or a scratch switch, by testing the practical performance of these parts.
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