Overview
I’ve rounded up 7 of the best DJ turntables available in 2026, focusing specifically on models built for professional use.
That means powerful direct-drive motors and the weight and durability needed for regular mixing and performance, with options from market leaders like Technics, Pioneer DJ, Reloop and more.
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Who still uses turntables?
Contrary to what some people might think, there are still plenty of DJs using turntables in 2026.
First, you’ve got scratch and battle DJs, also known as turntablists. Events such as the DMC World DJ Championships are still going strong, with DJs using turntables as instruments for scratching, beat juggling and other performance techniques.
Beyond turntablism, there are also special event DJs and DVS users who still use turntables, along with plenty of hobbyist DJs who simply enjoy mixing vinyl at home.
Important things to consider
When you’re shopping for a set of turntables, the two main things to consider are the torque (power of the motor) and the actual weight of the turntable itself.
Higher torque essentially dictates how quickly the platter resumes its set speed when you let go of it with your hand (AKA its start-up speed), which is integral for beat-matching and scratching.
As for the weight — the heavier the better. This is especially important if you plan to play out with them. Whilst design features and build materials are factors, if a turntable is too light it can cause several problems in loud, bass-heavy environments, such as needle jumping and feedback issues, etc.
It’s not just about playing out with them, either. Even in the home or studio, the more committed hobbyist would still demand a nice sturdy turntable for optimal performance.
The good news is that these factors are generally more of a concern with cheaper turntables. So, by creating this post (i.e only selecting high-end turntables), you can focus more on things like feature set, what its purpose is, value for money – and, dare I say it, which turntable you most like the look of.
1. Pioneer DJ PLX-1000
Overview:
First up, we have Pioneer DJ’s flagship DJ turntable, the PLX-1000. It was released in late 2014, only 4 years after the discontinuation of Technics’ SL1200 and SL1210 range. Obviously Pioneer were striving to make the PLX-1000 the market-leading turntable, and they did a pretty good job.
Best suited to:
Any vinyl DJ or audiophile looking for a reliable turntable that does all the basics really well without any ‘bells & whistles’ – one that doesn’t necessarily have their heart set on getting Technics. Also venue owners and club installers.
Approximate price per unit:
US$900 | €850 | £700 | AU$1,300
Key features/specs:
| Analogue DJ turntable | Club-grade build & sound quality |
| High-torque, direct-drive motor | Aluminium die-cast platter: 332 mm |
| Total weight: 14.6 kg | Starting torque: 4.5 kg/cm (33⅓ rpm in 0.3 seconds) |
| 3 pitch range/speed control options + reset | S-shaped, rubber-insulated tonearm |
| Detachable power & audio cables | Gold-plated RCA jacks for low impedance |
More details:
The layout of the PLX-1000 inherits the simplicity of that iconic Technic SL 1200. That is to say: there are no bells & whistles on the unit, and it sells itself on build quality and overall reliability.
With a weight of 14.6kg (it’s very heavy, which is good), the PLX-1000 also utilizes lots of dampening design features and build materials, so it’s excellent at sound isolation; thus preventing unwanted vibrations and maximising sound quality.
The torque specs are also one of the best in the industry, with the platter speed reaching 33⅓ rpm in approximately 0.3 seconds. Around the back of the unit, all the power & audio cables are detachable, which is very handy if something needs replacing – something you wouldn’t always get with older turntables in years gone by.
In addition to its solid construction, everything feels high quality, and it really looks the part as well, with its nice brushed metal finish. As I’m sure you’re curious about, it’s obviously in direct competition with the Technics SL-1210 MK7 that we’re about to cover. And with no real feature differences worth mentioning, all we’ll say is this:
Having had numerous first-hand accounts from the owners of both of these units, the overall quality, feel, and usability of the PLX-1000 is no doubt on par with the Technics in our opinion. Also, the PLX-1000 are about US$300 per turntable cheaper than the Technics… so take that as you will.
You can also visit the manufacturer’s product page.
2. Technics SL-1200 / SL1210 Mk7
Overview:
Released in 2019, the SL-1210 MK7s were the first DJ-focussed turntable Technics released since their relaunch back in 2016.
Best suited to:
Any DJ or audiophile who wants a reliable turntable that does all the basics really well. The MK7s would also make the perfect gift for a DJ who’s considering mixing again and ideally already has records.
Approximate price per unit:
US$1,300 | €1,000 | £800 | AU$1,600
Key features/specs:
| Analogue DJ turntable | Super-accurate digital pitch control & reverse play function |
| Coreless, computer-controlled, direct-drive motor | High-sensitive S-shaped tonearm |
| High-rigidity cabinet and high-damping insulator | Brake and torque adjustments (accessible in additional settings located under the platter) |
| Platter weight: 1.8 kg | Detachable/replaceable phono and power cables |
| Total weight: 9.6 kg | LED strobe in red and blue (accessible in additional settings located under the platter) |
| Starting torque of 1.8kg/cm (reaches 33⅓ rpm in 0.7 seconds) |
More details:
If you’re familiar with or have owned a set of Technics in the past, you’ll feel right at home with these MK7s. As well as having that classic minimalist layout, everything looks & feels just like the MK2s that were originally released in 1978.
What’s new on the MK7s? Well, if we compare it to the original MK2s: In addition to the new-and-improved build materials, there’s also a new coreless direct-drive motor, Reverse Play functionality, and a reset button next to the pitch control. More significantly, they also have detachable phono and power cables around the back, which is much better if something needs replacing. Apart from that, the unit is very similar – in all the right ways.
So, you may be wondering why the MK7s are not first on our list?! Well, firstly, the one spec that we can’t ignore is the weight. The MK7s are the lightest turntable on this list (varying between 15 – 30% lighter), and are also 20% lighter than the original MK2s – so they’re probably not the best option when it comes to isolating in loud, bass-heavy environments such as clubs & festivals, etc. In the same breath, it’s not a concern if you only plan to use them at home or for house parties – which, let’s be honest, will probably be most people reading this.
The MK7s are also the most expensive on this list (by at least 30% depending on which turntable) and are a little light on features in comparison (as are Pioneer’s PLX-1000). Despite these considerations, owning a set of Technics was never about having the most features or being competitively priced – rather, it was about the solid build quality, reliability and status that they represented. And, by all accounts, all of those boxes have been ticked with the MK7s.
With that said, if you’re looking for the ultimate iconic piece of DJ kit in your bedroom or studio, we’d recommend these in a heartbeat. You can also visit the manufacturer’s product page.
Model versions explained: The SL-1210 MK7 is sold in Europe and comes in matte black or silver. If you’re buying it from the US or Asia, it’s called the SL-1200 MK7 or SL-1200 MK7-S for the silver version. Specs-wise, they’re all the same turntable.
3. Reloop 7000 MK2
Overview:
Next up, we have the Reloop 7000 MK2. It was originally released to market in late 2017. This is another premium DJ turntable that models itself on the simplicity of a Technics SL-1200, again focusing on build quality and reliability. Visually, it also looks great – with a nice, metallic finish and back-lit buttons.
Best suited to:
Any vinyl DJ that isn’t necessarily loyal to Technics or Pioneer; one that’s perhaps more interested in value for money over brand. Also venue owners and club installers.
Approximate price per unit:
US$650 | €530 | £500 | AU$800
Key features/specs:
| Professional analogue DJ turntable | Lightweight, low-resonance, S-shaped tonearm with hydraulic lift and anti-skating mechanism |
| Drive: Quartz-driven upper-torque direct drive | 3 speeds, manual adjust (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) and reset button |
| Rigid chassis construction with reinforced metal; uses rubber and moulding compound for damping and sound isolation | Adjustable brake speed (0.2 – 6 sec.) |
| Motor: 16-pole, 3-phase, brushless motor (super OEM) | Additional start/stop button for vertical positioning |
| Die-cast Aluminium rubber-lined platter (1.5 kg) | Reverse function: switch for forward and reverse playback |
| Total weight: 11.7 kg | Phono and line out (no grounding required) |
| Starting torque: 2.8 – 4.5 kg/cm (adjustable stop time between 0.2 – 6 sec) | Detachable/replaceable mains and RCA cables |
More details:
With its reinforced metal construction, the 7000 MK2 is extremely well built (it’s nice & heavy), with plenty of sound-isolating properties and features, such as the new, low-resonance S-shaped tonearm and rubber-lined platter, for example. With regards to start-up speed, the 7000 MK2 also has a slightly improved motor compared to the previous model, so definitely no complaints there.
Setting themselves aside from the market leaders, Reloop has included some additional features, such as the torque and brake adjust controls, and also a second start/stop button for vertical positioning (as preferred by many scratch/battle DJs). Notably, they also have detachable mains and RCA cables around the back.
Once again, if you’re looking for a reliable DJ turntable that gets all the basics right – same as the offerings from Pioneer DJ and Technics – except this time with the bonus of additional features, and at a slightly cheaper price point when compared to the PLX-1000, then these babies will do you just fine.
You can also visit the manufacturer’s product page.
4. Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12
Overview:
Released in August 2023, the PLX-CRSS12 from Pioneer DJ moves into prime position as the best ‘digital-analogue’ / hybrid turntable on the market, with its closest competition being the Reloop RP-8000 MK2, which is next on this list.
The unit brings improved sound and build-quality modelled from their flagship PLX-1000, but more importantly, ‘tonearm-free’ DVS control for Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox, and so much more. Whilst it’s not cheap, it’s an absolute cracker.
Best suited to:
Primarily DVS users and/or scratch DJs that use either Serato DJ Pro or Rekordbox. Also, any DJ with deep pockets who’s looking for the most innovative hybrid turntable on the market.
Approximate price per unit:
US$1,600 | €1,300 | £1,200 | AU$2,400
Key features/specs:
| Professional digital-analogue hybrid turntable | High-contract OLED display shows deck number, tempo range, BPM and key |
| Compatible with Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox (DVS mode) | Step pitch button (when switched on, the key will adjust in tandem with the pitch slider) |
| Tonearm-free DVS control (note: you can still use it if you prefer) | Adjustable turntable torque |
| MAGVEL clamp provides skipless playback (adjustable tension) | The battle-style layout leaves plenty of room for scratching |
| Tonearm has a rubber inner tube for maximum sound isolation | Dedicated ‘Motor Off’ button |
| Improved high-quality sound from the PLX-1000 turntable | Tempo range button (selecting 8, 16 or 50%) |
| 4 x MIDI-mappable Performance Pads for hot cues, stems and samples, etc (switch control for up to 8 modes. Pad modes will vary for Rekordbox/Serato) | Gold-plated RCS terminals |
More details:
In addition to the option for tonearm-free DVS control for Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox, the PLX-CRSS12 brings 4 MIDI-mappable performance pads, easily switchable to use 8 modes, an OLED display showing essential data such as key & BPM etc., and other cool features.
One of the highlights is the first-ever “Magvel Clamp”, which controls the tension on the slipmat and communicates with the unit to help facilitate tonearm-free DJing in DVS mode. The clamp uses an analogue signal through the RCAs for the highest-quality playback.
If you do decide to use the tonearm, whether in DVS mode or for a regular analogue setup, the adjustable clamp will hold the vinyl in place to prevent the needle jumping whilst also keeping any warped records flat.
Additionally, when set to digital mode, the output generates a timecode signal for DVS control directly from the turntable itself. This means you’re no longer required to use a timecode record or the tonearm/needle, and you can use any record as the control surface.
The battle-style layout leaves plenty of room for scratching, with the closest market comparisons being the RP-8000 MK2 from Reloop released in 2019 (see No.5).
The PLX-CRSS12 will set you back US$2,700 for the pair, or $1,300 individually. Also visit the manufacturer’s product page.
5. Reloop RP-8000 MK2
Overview:
Next, we have the RP-8000 MK2 from Reloop. As far as the build is concerned, it’s exactly the same turntable as the 7000 MK2 (No.3).
As another ‘hybrid’ DJ turntable, it has built-in features that communicate with DJ software (mainly the performance pads), allowing for much more creative capability than a regular analogue turntable when integrated with a Digital Vinyl System, and with DJ software.
Best suited to:
Primarily DVS users and/or scratch DJs that use Serato DJ Pro. Also any DJ looking to move to a DVS setup; one that wants the authentic feel of vinyl mixing with the enhanced capability and conveniences that you’d typically only get when using DJ software on a DJ controller.
Approximate price per unit:
US$800 | €620 | £650 | AU$1,000
Key features/specs:
| Hybrid / digital turntable – works as a regular analogue turntable or with DVS | High-res pitch section with digital fader (digital display) |
| Designed for Serato DJ Pro; with 7 RGB colour-coded performance modes | 3 speeds, manual adjust (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) and reset button |
| Rigid chassis construction with reinforced metal; uses rubber and moulding compound for damping and sound isolation | Platter Play allows the performance pads to control the speed of the platter |
| Motor: 16-pole, 3-phase, brushless motor (super OEM) | Pitch bending function via speed select buttons in Platter Play mode |
| Drive: Quartz-driven upper-torque direct drive | Static-balanced S-shaped tonearm |
| Die-cast Aluminium rubber-lined platter (1.5 kg) | Smart USB Connection to connect up to 4 turntables via USB |
| Total weight: 11.8 kg | Additional output to connect two mixers at the same time; allows easy switching from DVS to vinyl |
| Starting torque: 2.8 – 4.5 kg/cm (adjustable stop time between 0.2 – 6 sec) | Detachable/replaceable mains and RCA cables |
| Lightweight yet rigid S-shaped tone arm with hydraulic lift and anti-skating mechanism |
More details:
Targeted mostly at DVS users and scratch DJs that use Serato, the RP-8000 MK2 has a ton of cool features.
If we focus on what the Reloop 7000 MK2 DOESN’T have (No.3), you’ll straight away notice the 8 large RGB performance pads on the left side of the unit (unless you had it in ‘battle mode’, in which case they’d be at the bottom). These control 7 different modes: Cue, Sampler, Saved Loops, Pitch Play, Loop, Loop Roll and Slicer – and can also be custom-assigned.
Another notable difference between its analogue counterpart is the high-quality LCD display located above the pitch fader. This can conveniently show the Pitch, BPM, time remaining, deck assignment, etc., thus reducing the time spent looking at your laptop; whilst also making beat-matching easier compared to an analogue setup without one.
Furthermore, you can use the multi-encoder to browse tracks directly from the turntable itself, loading them straight onto the respective deck, as you typically would on a digital setup.
Whilst there are too many features to list here, there’s also a Pitch bending function in Platter Play mode; not to mention a Smart USB Connection at the back of the unit – allowing 4 turntables to be linked up via a single USB port.
To quickly summarize: because of its enhanced digital application, it smashes the competition when it comes to feature set, offering unrivalled creative possibilities for performance DJs that use turntables. It’s touted as more of a ‘’musical instrument’’ by Reloop.
One thing is for sure, the RP-8000 MK2 leads the way from an innovation standpoint in the market for the best ‘hybrid’ DJ turntable. And for $800 USD each, you’re getting a lot for your money, as well.
Note: whilst it’s mostly designed to work with Serato DJ Pro, the unit also works with ‘’most major DJ software’’ according to Reloop, although we don’t have any reference points on how well. Visit the manufacturer’s product page for more.
6. Audio-Technica AT-LP1240-USB-XP
Overview:
Next up we have the AT-LP1240-USB-XP from Audio-Technica (updated in 2018 from the original 2012 model). As well as being a professional DJ turntable, it’s also targeted at audiophiles for general listening.
Availability is becoming limited in some regions, with a number of major retailers no longer stocking it, although it can still be found new from selected sellers. Its most relevant competition from a buyer’s perspective is probably the Reloop 7000 MK2 (No.3 on this list).
Best suited to:
Any DJ or music lover wanting a high-quality, capable DJ turntable; one that might also be used for casual listening. Also any DJ looking to convert their vinyl collection to digital.
Approximate price per unit:
US$600 | €600 | £500 | AU$850
Key features/specs:
| Professional analogue DJ turntable | Selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds |
| Direct-drive, high-torque, multipole motor (super OEM) | Start and brake control adjustments |
| Professional anti-resonance, die-cast aluminium platter | USB connection: Audacity and other compatible third-party software packages can be used to create digital files from vinyl records |
| Total weight: 12.5 kg | Forward/reverse operation and variable pitch control with quartz speed lock |
| Starting torque: 4.5 kg/cm | Removable stylus target light for easier cueing in low light |
| Balanced S-shaped tone arm with hydraulically damped lift control, anti-skate and height adjustment | Built-in switchable phono pre-amplifier with detachable RCA output cables |
More details:
Firstly, we should say that everything on the AT-LP1240-USB-XP has a nice premium feel to it. It’s well-built and has plenty of anti-resonance/dampening design features. Furthermore, it’s nice & heavy and has plenty of torque – all necessary for producing a quality sound output, and for professional use.
As well as the option for three speeds (33/45/78 RPM), some key features include a quartz pitch lock, pitch range buttons, a reverse button, and individual start/stop speed adjustment knobs. In addition, there’s also a second start/stop button at the top of the unit for vertical positioning (for battle mode).
Unlike the first 3 contenders on this list, which are analogue units, the Audio-Technica has a USB port in case you want to convert your records to digital format, which might be a big selling point for some. Not only that, it comes with everything you need out of the box, including the cartridge & stylus – which you’d have to buy separately with the Reloop 7000 MK2.
Make no mistake, this is another cracking turntable. It’s got tons of great reviews from both DJs and audiophiles alike. Visit the manufacturer’s product page for more, and if you buy it, also check out Audio-Technica’s handy setup tutorial.
7. Stanton STR8.150 MKII
Overview:
Lastly, released in 2017 to replace the original STR8.150, we have the STR8.150 MKII from Stanton. It’s targeted at scratch DJs, hence the straight tonearm, which many turntablists prefer.
Literally all of the online retailers either didn’t carry it or had discontinued it when we checked, so we’re not recommending it to the general DJ market, as such.
To touch on it quickly: the STR8.150 MKII is built like a tank, with plenty of isolation features that promote low resonance and great sound. With three different speeds (33, 45 & 78; + Reverse), additional scratch-DJ-orientated features include adjustable brake speed and selectable pitch controls (up to 50%).
To eliminate any possible confusion, the ‘’ST.150 M2’’ is the same turntable, just with an S-shaped tonearm instead of a straight one. As is pretty standard, you’ll need to get your cartridges separately. And there’s no USB port. Expect to pay around $600 each per turntable.
Key features/specs:
| Direct drive turntable featuring motor torque up to 4.5kg | Selectable pitch control [8, 25 & 50% range] with Quartz Lock |
| Heavy-duty aluminium construction, with low resonance base | Speed 33, 45 and 78 including Reverse |
| Weight: 10.2 kg | Removable target light and adjustable shock-absorption feet |
| Straight tone arm with height fine adjust | Selectable Phono or Line RCA Outputs |
| Ultra-stable, damped platter | Slipmat, 45 adapter, and right-angled cable included |
| Adjustable brake speed | Full version of Deckadance DVS Software included |
Best DJ turntables: our picks at a glance
- Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 — Best overall for professional use
- Technics SL-1200 / SL-1210 Mk7 — Best for Technics loyalists
- Reloop 7000 MK2 — Best value professional turntable
- Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 — Best hybrid turntable
- Reloop 8000 MK2 — Best for DVS and performance features
- Audio-Technica LP1240-USB XP — Best multi-purpose option
- Stanton STR8.150 MKII — Cool option for scratch DJs
FAQ:
Can I use any turntable for DJing?
No. DJ turntables are heavier and more robust than consumer models. They’re purpose-built and are designed to be physically manipulated – used more like a musical instrument. The start-up speed, also known as the torque, is also much more powerful than on consumer players, necessary for beat-matching and mixing.
How much does a good DJ turntable cost?
Depending on brand, features, and build quality, a good DJ turntable typically costs between $500 and $1,500 US dollars. Entry-level, ‘belt-driven’ models may be more affordable, although you’ll want to stick with direct-drive for professional use.
What brand of turntable is best?
Nowadays, in addition to Technics, the leading brands include Pioneer DJ, Reloop and Audio-Technica. Notably, the Technics SL-1200 MK2 model released in 1978, and its successors, dominated as the ‘’industry standard’’ DJ turntable for the best part of three decades before eventually getting discontinued in 2010.
What's the difference between analogue and digital DJ turntables?
Analogue turntables play vinyl records with a traditional, analogue signal path, whereas digital turntables can play digital audio files and often have built-in MIDI controls, allowing for digital mixing and effects. Analogue offers a classic sound, while digital provides more versatility and integration with modern technology.
What is DVS in DJing?
DVS (Digital Vinyl System) allows DJs to control digital music files using traditional turntables. It typically uses special timecode vinyl alongside compatible DJ software, giving you the feel and control of mixing records while accessing a digital music library.
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