Best Turntables for DJs in 2025 – Top Picks for Scratching & Mixing
Looking for the best turntables for DJs in 2025? You want reliability, tight control, and gear that’s ready for both scratching and mixing. Your decks need to work hard—just like you do. Here’s a detailed look at the top DJ turntables for this year, what makes each one tick, and how they fit into your setup. Every model here is currently available, so you can grab your favorite without hassle.
Why Your Turntable Choice Matters
As a DJ, your turntable is your main tool. It’s the link between your hands and the music. The right deck gives you smooth pitch control, stable rotation, and a solid feel for scratching and mixing. You want a turntable that’s built to last, with a motor that keeps up with fast moves and a tonearm that tracks your records without skipping.
What Makes a Great DJ Turntable?
- Direct-drive motor: Gives you instant start/stop and steady torque.
- Adjustable pitch: Lets you match tempos and get creative with blends.
- Solid build: Handles club life, mobile gigs, and home practice.
- Replaceable parts: Headshell, stylus, and slipmat should be easy to swap.
- USB output (optional): Handy for digitizing vinyl or hybrid DJ sets.
Top Picks for 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the best turntables for DJs in 2025, with a focus on scratching and mixing. Each one is a proven performer, trusted by DJs worldwide.
1. Technics SL-1200/1210 MK7
Why DJs Love It:
This is the gold standard for DJ turntables. The MK7 brings the classic feel and torque you expect from Technics, with modern updates. The direct-drive motor is fast and reliable. The pitch control is precise. The build is tough enough for any club or festival.
Key Features:
- Coreless direct-drive motor for smooth operation
- Adjustable pitch range (±8%/±16%)
- High-rigidity cabinet to reduce vibration
- Detachable RCA cables
- Classic S-shaped tonearm for tracking accuracy
Best For:
Professional DJs, scratch artists, and anyone who wants the industry standard.
- (2) SL-1200MK7 Direct Drive Professional Turntable (Black)
2. Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 Hybrid Direct
Why DJs Love It:
This hybrid deck blends traditional vinyl feel with digital options. DJs value the seamless switch between analog records and tonearm-free DVS (Serato, Rekordbox). Custom torque and record resistance mean it suits battle style and creative routines. The onboard performance pads, hot cue integration, and robust design make it suited for both clubs and advanced home setups.
Key Features:
- Switches between analog playback and digital (DVS) control
- Adjustable MAGVEL CLAMP for torque/resistance
- Four assignable performance pads (hot cues, samples, loops)
- Compatible with Serato and Rekordbox DVS
- Vibration-damped chassis and built-in pitch control
Best For:
Pro DJs seeking hybrid setups, club systems with both vinyl and DVS, and digital DJs wanting analog feel with advanced features.
- Hybrid Direct Drive Turntable with DVS
- Serato rekdbox Compatibility
- Adjustable Recd Weight
3. Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP
Why DJs Love It:
The AT-LP140XP gives you pro features at a more accessible price. The motor is strong enough for scratching. The pitch control is accurate. The build is sturdy, and it comes with a quality DJ cartridge.
Key Features:
- High-torque direct-drive motor
- Multiple pitch ranges (±8%, ±16%, ±24%)
- Anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter
- Detachable RCA cables
Best For:
Aspiring professionals, home setups, and budget-conscious DJs who want real performance.
- Connectivity technology: Wired
- Variable pitch control with reverse and quartz speed lock
- Plug-type target light for easier cueing in low light
4. Reloop RP-8000 MK2
Why DJs Love It:
This deck is ready for both vinyl and digital DJing. MIDI pads on the deck let DJs trigger samples, loops, and cues right at their fingertips. A high-torque motor and robust base keep scratching sharp and mixing tight. Advanced pitch ranges and full DVS support make it a go-to for hybrid and performance-focused DJs.
Key Features:
- Direct-drive, quartz-lock motor (high torque)
- 8 RGB MIDI performance pads (hot cues, loops, slicer)
- Pitch ranges: ±8%, ±16%, ±50%
- DVS support and Serato integration
- Heavy metal build for vibration control
Best For:
Hybrid DJs, digital performance routines, club or competition use.
- The most advanced DJ turntable ever made, developed In close collaboration with renowned international turntable musicia…
- Designed for Serato dj Pro: control 7 new color-coded performance modes
- Platter play mode: performance pads can be used to control the speed of the platter to enable melodic and musical live p…
5. Reloop RP-2000 MK2
Why DJs Love It:
This is a great entry-level direct-drive turntable. It’s simple, sturdy, and has the torque you need for mixing and basic scratching. The layout is classic, so you can practice beatmatching and get comfortable with vinyl.
Key Features:
- Quartz-driven direct-drive motor
- Robust construction
- Precise pitch control
Best For:
Beginners, practice setups, and DJs who want value without giving up performance.
- Versatile: The Reloop RP-2000 USB MK2 is a versatile turntable for prospective DJs. In addition to the built-in phono pr…
- Precision-Engineered Die-Cast Platter: The RP-2000 USB MK2 transfers its motor force directly to the drive hub – this wa…
- Convenient: The improved touch upon hit offers clear haptic feedback. With the push of a button the aluminum target ligh…
6. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
Why DJs Love It:
The LP120XUSB is a favorite for new DJs. It has a direct-drive motor, adjustable pitch, and a built-in preamp. The USB output lets you record your sets or digitize vinyl. It’s reliable and easy to set up.
Key Features:
- Direct-drive motor
- Adjustable pitch control
- USB output
- Built-in phono preamp
Best For:
Beginners, home DJs, and anyone who wants to mix and record without extra gear.
- Experience the high-fidelity audio of vinyl
- Direct-drive, DC servo motor with selectable 33/45/78 RPM speeds. Damped base construction for reduced low-frequency fee…
- Fully manual operation featuring adjustable dynamic anti-skate control, variable pitch control with quartz speed lock, a…
7. Numark PT01 Scratch
Why DJs Love It:
This portable turntable is made for scratching on the go. It’s battery-powered, has a built-in speaker, and comes with an adjustable scratch switch. You can practice anywhere, and it’s a favorite for turntablists who want to keep their skills sharp.
Key Features:
- Portable and battery-powered
- Adjustable scratch switch
- USB connectivity for recording
- Built-in speaker
Best For:
Turntablists, portable scratch sessions, and DJs who want to practice anywhere.
- Ultra-Portable, Feature Packed – Portable 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM DJ turntable powered by AC adapter or batteries (6 D, no…
- Robust, Reliable – Built-in adjustable user-replaceable Scratch Slide Switch exclusive to Numark that accommodates both …
- Rich, Dynamic Sound – Scratch Everywhere with PT01 Scratch’s room-filling built-in speaker, or for more powerful sound, …
8. Stanton STX
Why DJs Love It:
The STX is a newer portable scratch turntable with a pro-grade mini Innofader crossfader. It’s rechargeable, compact, and ready for serious scratch routines. The design is modern and built for real use.
Key Features:
- Mini Innofader Nano crossfader
- Rechargeable battery
- Compact and portable
Best For:
Scratch DJs, portable setups, and anyone who wants a ready-to-go scratch solution.
- Portable Turntable Dream Machine – Enjoy super-sharp scratching right out of the box featuring a mini Innofader Nano cro…
- Grab-and-Go Portability – Take your skills anywhere with the included 2 rechargeable batteries, built-in speaker, and a …
- Just Add Beats – Connect to your favorite looper app for iOS and Android via the built-in Bluetooth, stream music from y…
How to Pick the Right Turntable for You
When you pick a DJ turntable, think about your main use. Are you focused on scratching, mixing, or both? Do you need portability, or will your decks stay in one place? Here’s what matters most:
- Torque: High-torque motors give you faster starts and stops, which helps with scratching.
- Pitch Range: Wider pitch ranges let you get more creative with blends.
- Build: If you play out, you want a turntable that can take a few knocks.
- Features: USB output and DVS compatibility are handy for hybrid setups.
- Price: You can get pro features at different price points—don’t overspend if you’re just starting.
Table: Best Turntables for DJs in 2025
| Model | Drive Type | Pitch Range | USB Output | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technics SL-1200/1210 MK7 | Direct | ±8%/±16% | No | Pro DJs, scratching |
| Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 | Hybrid/All-in-One | ±8%/±16%/±50% | Yes | Clubs, mixing |
| Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP | Direct | ±8%, ±16%, ±24% | No | Aspiring pros |
| Reloop RP-8000 MK2 | DVS/Hybrid | ±8%/±16%/±50% | No | Versatility, DVS |
| Reloop RP-2000 MK2 | Direct | ±8% | No | Beginners, practice |
| Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB | Direct | ±8%, ±16% | Yes | Beginners, recording |
| Numark PT01 Scratch | Belt | N/A | Yes | Portable scratching |
| Stanton STX | Belt | N/A | No | Portable scratching |
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Turntable
- Keep your stylus clean for the best sound and tracking.
- Use slipmats designed for DJ use—they help with scratching and cueing.
- Replace your cartridge and stylus regularly if you play a lot.
- Transport your decks in padded cases if you gig outside your home.
- Practice regularly—skills matter more than gear.
Upgrades and Accessories
You can tweak your setup with these extras:
- Slipmats: For smoother scratching and cueing.
- Cartridges: Upgrade to a DJ-specific cartridge for better tracking.
- Cases: Protect your gear when traveling.
- Replacement faders (for portables): Keep your scratch switch fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Direct-drive or belt-drive for DJing?
Direct-drive is better for DJing. It gives you instant response and steady speed. Belt-drive is fine for listening, but not for scratching or mixing.
Q: Do I need a USB output?
If you want to record your sets or digitize vinyl, yes. Otherwise, it’s optional.
Q: Can I use these turntables with DVS (digital vinyl systems)?
Most direct-drive models here work with DVS, but check your mixer and software for compatibility.
Q: Are these turntables good for beginners?
Yes. Models like the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB and Reloop RP-2000 MK2 are great for learning.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best turntables for DJs in 2025 comes down to how you play and what you need from your setup. If you’re scratching, go for high torque and solid build—Technics SL-1210 MK7 or Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP won’t let you down. For digital sets, the Reloop RP-8000 MK2 gives you tight DVS integration. If you’re just starting, Reloop RP-2000 MK2 offers a simple path into vinyl and digital. Portability? Numark PT01 Scratch still leads. You don’t need to chase hype—just pick the gear that fits your workflow. Stick with direct-drive, keep your records clean, and spend more time behind the decks. That’s where the real progress happens.
