Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X
Best Budget PickFluance RT85N
Best OverallPrice
$100-$150
$250-$350
Summary
The most-recommended entry-level turntable across every vinyl community. Reliable build, warm sound, and easy maintenance make it the default answer for anyone starting out.
Wirecutter's top pick and a strong performer in CNET's lab tests — the RT85N delivers accurate, neutral sound that lets your records shine without coloring the audio.
Pros
- Universally recommended across Reddit vinyl communities as the go-to budget pick
- Easy maintenance with replaceable parts and simple operation
- Bluetooth version (AT-LP60XBT) available for wireless speaker setups
- Significantly better build quality than Crosley and similar cheap alternatives
- Best-sounding turntable in CNET's $300 comparison, beating Music Hall MMF-1.3 and Orbit Plus
- Wirecutter's top pick — easy to set up and adds very little of its own sound coloration
- User-replaceable cartridge allows future upgrades (e.g., Ortofon 2M Red)
- Belt-drive design with solid build quality that looks and feels premium
Cons
- Non-upgradeable cartridge limits long-term sound improvement
- Belt-drive mechanism means slightly less speed accuracy than direct-drive
- Built-in phono preamp is functional but not audiophile-grade
- Costs significantly more than entry-level options like the AT-LP60X
- Requires separate speakers and possibly a phono preamp depending on setup
- Overkill for casual listeners who just want background music
Our take
If someone asks 'what record player should I buy?', the AT-LP60X is the correct answer 90% of the time. It's the community consensus pick for a reason — it just works.
If you're serious about vinyl and want a turntable that will grow with you, the Fluance RT85N is the sweet spot between price and performance. It punches well above its weight class.
Buy
