Are you a DJ that is just starting out with vinyl DJing, leveling up to play gigs, or looking for club-standard decks that will last a lifetime? Choosing the right turntable is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
The good news? You don’t need to compare every model out there. In this guide, we’ll cut through the noise and look at the best DJ turntables for every level of vinyl DJing: beginner, intermediate, and professional.
Beginner DJs – Audio-Technica AT-LP120USB (~$350 / €350)
Starting your vinyl DJ journey doesn’t mean you have to spend thousands. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120USB is a trusted companion for countless beginners around the world. It’s a deck that balances affordability with functionality, giving you everything you need to start learning the fundamentals of mixing, cueing, and beatmatching. For many DJs, this is where the love affair with vinyl begins.
Pros:
- Direct-drive motor: More stable than belt-driven entry models.
- Pitch control (±10%): Essential for learning beatmatching.
- USB output: Lets you digitize records or record mixes directly to a computer.
- Comes ready to play: Includes cartridge, stylus, and built-in preamp.
Cons:
- Lower torque: Not as responsive for fast cueing or scratching.
- Plastic-heavy build: Less durable compared to pro decks.
- Upgrade potential: Good for learning, but most DJs outgrow it.
Best for: Beginners practicing at home, learning beatmatching, and building confidence before moving on to gigs.
Intermediate DJs – Reloop RP-7000 MK2 (~$700 / €650)
Once you’ve mastered the basics and you are sure that you want to continue vinyl DJ’ing, you’ll crave a turntable that feels tougher, responds faster, and can handle the pressure of gigs. Enter the Reloop RP-7000 MK2. Known as the “workhorse” of mid-tier decks, it bridges the gap between learning at home and playing in the booth. With its tank-like build and club-standard feel, the RP-7000 MK2 is designed for DJs who are serious about stepping up their craft.
Pros:
- High-torque motor: Fast start/stop times and stable playback.
- Club-standard layout: Feels very similar to Technics, skills transfer easily.
- Pitch flexibility: ±8%, ±16%, and even ±50% ranges for creative mixing.
- Reinforced chassis: Heavy build with anti-vibration design for loud venues.
- Detachable cables: Easy to replace RCA, ground, or power cables.
Cons:
- Heavy (11 kg): Not the most portable option.
- Resale value: Doesn’t hold secondhand value as well as Technics.
- Torque feel: Slightly different response compared to Technics.
Best for: DJs who are playing out regularly, need rugged reliability, and want near-club-standard performance without paying top-tier prices.
Professional DJs – Technics SL-1210 MK7 (~$1,000 / €950)
Ask any professional DJ what the gold standard is, and they’ll almost certainly say: Technics. Since the 1970s, the SL-1200/1210 series has been the turntable of choice in clubs, radio stations, and studios worldwide. The latest model, the Technics SL-1210 MK7, continues that legacy with modern refinements while keeping the same legendary feel DJs have trusted for decades. If you’re ready to invest in the very best, this is the deck that will stay with you for life.
Pros:
- Iconic direct-drive motor: Ultra-stable torque and near-flawless precision.
- Durability: Built to withstand decades of heavy use.
- Adjustable settings: Customize start/stop speed and torque.
- Silent coreless motor: Reduces cogging for smoother playback.
- High resale value: if this model performs like the MK2, it will keep value forever.
Cons:
- Price: A serious investment compared to beginner decks.
- Minimal extras: No USB or modern “gimmicks”, this is pure DJ performance.
Best for: Professional DJs, club performers, and serious vinyl heads who want the best performance and longest-lasting turntables in the industry.
Conclusion
The best vinyl turntable for DJs depends on where you are in your journey:
- Beginners: The AT-LP120USB gives you all the basics to learn at home.
- Intermediates: The Reloop RP-7000 MK2 delivers pro-level performance at a mid-range price.
- Professionals: The Technics SL-1210 MK7 remains the ultimate choice for serious DJs and clubs.
No matter your level, the right turntable will inspire you to practice, improve, and connect with the music. Choose wisely, and your decks will be the foundation of your DJ journey for years to come.
Is this too expensive for you? There are a lot of great beginner recordplayers that can get you started.
