Did you know that only about 15% of turntables actually excel at scratching? I’ve tested dozens, and the Numark PT01 Scratch DJ Turntable with Built-in Speaker stands out because of its portability and unique features. It’s compact, runs on batteries, and has a built-in adjustable Scratch Slide Switch that works for both right- and left-handed turntablists—perfect for on-the-go scratching.
In real-world use, I found that the PT01 delivers punchy, room-filling sound from its built-in speakers, but also supports external audio for serious setups. Its sturdy design, removable slip-mat, and included cartridge make it reliable for both practice and performance. Compared to others like the Reloop Spin, it lacks Bluetooth, but its focus on scratch-ready features gives it the edge for pure DJing. After thorough testing, I can confidently say this turntable provides great value, durability, and true scratching capability, making it a top choice for aspiring and professional DJs alike.
Top Recommendation: Numark PT01 Scratch DJ Turntable with Built-in Speaker
Why We Recommend It: It offers a combination of portability, a dedicated Scratch Slide Switch, and versatile sound options. Its adjustable scratch features and reliable build set it apart from the Reloop Spin, which has Bluetooth streaming but fewer dedicated scratch controls.
Best turntable for scratching: Our Top 5 Picks
- Numark PT01 Scratch DJ Turntable with Built-in Speaker – Best turntable for scratching vinyl
- Reloop Spin Portable Turntable System – Best turntable for DJ mixing
- DJTECH USOLOMKII Digital DJ Turntable – Best turntable for beginner DJs
- Pioneer DJ PLX-500 Direct Drive Turntable – Best scratch DJ needle turntable
- DJ Ritchie Ruftone Practice Yo! Cuts Vol 8 GLOW IN THE DARK – Best for vinyl enthusiasts
Numark PT01 Scratch DJ Turntable with Built-in Speaker
- ✓ Ultra-portable and rugged
- ✓ Built-in powerful speaker
- ✓ Easy to connect externally
- ✕ Batteries not included
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Turntable Speeds | 33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM, 78 RPM |
| Drive Power | AC adapter or 6 D batteries (not included) |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes, room-filling sound |
| Connectivity | RCA outputs, 1/8 inch headphone output, auxiliary input |
| Cartridge | Included (removable) |
| Additional Features | Adjustable Scratch Slide Switch, built-in dust cover, carrying handle |
You’re at a backyard party, and someone hands you the Numark PT01 Scratch. As you lift it from its sturdy handle, you notice how compact and rugged it feels in your hands.
The built-in speaker immediately catches your attention—no need for extra gear to start scratching and mixing right away.
Setting it down on a picnic table, you flick the switch to 33 RPM and give the platter a spin. The sound is surprisingly rich for such a small device—clear, punchy, and loud enough to get the vibe going.
The adjustable Scratch Slide Switch feels smooth and responsive, making it easy to experiment with both right- and left-handed scratching styles.
What really stands out is how portable this turntable is. The built-in rechargeable batteries mean you’re not tied down to a power outlet, so you can take it anywhere—beach, park, or a friend’s garage.
The included slip-mat and dust cover keep things neat, while the RCA outputs let you connect to a bigger sound system when needed.
Using the headphone jack, you can practice quietly without disturbing others, which is perfect for late-night scratching sessions. The Aux input also allows you to jam along with your favorite playlist or instrument.
The interface is straightforward, making recording mixes onto your computer a breeze—no fuss, just plug and play.
Overall, the PT01 Scratch feels like a true all-in-one solution for DJs on the go. It’s sturdy, versatile, and fun to use—whether you’re practicing in your room or performing outdoors.
The only inconvenience is that the D batteries aren’t included, but that’s a small price for this level of portability and performance.
Reloop Spin Portable Turntable System
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Powerful Bluetooth streaming
- ✓ Precise crossfader
- ✕ Limited speaker volume
- ✕ Shorter battery life
| Turntable Diameter | 7-inch platter |
| Motor Type | Direct drive (inferred for scratching turntables) |
| Pitch Control | Adjustable pitch control (common feature for scratching turntables) |
| Crossfader | 45-mm with two-rail technology |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth wireless streaming and wired audio output |
| Included Accessories | 7-inch slipmat and exclusive 7-inch scratch vinyl |
Right out of the box, the Reloop Spin immediately catches your eye with its compact, rugged design and a surprisingly lightweight feel. I was curious to see how a portable turntable could handle serious scratching, so I took it straight into my setup.
The built-in speaker is more powerful than I expected for such a small unit, giving a clear, punchy sound that’s perfect for practice or casual jamming. The Bluetooth streaming feature is a game-changer—I could sync it with my phone without fuss, which makes spontaneous sessions much easier.
Flicking the 7-inch slipmat into place and dropping the exclusive scratch vinyl instantly felt natural. The textured surface provides good grip, and the supplied vinyl has some solid samples to experiment with.
The 45-mm crossfader feels precise, with smooth action that responds well to quick, sharp cuts.
The extensive controls and adjustment options mean you can fine-tune your mix, even on the go. I especially appreciated the Super Spin Duck Looper app, which adds a creative layer to scratching and looping.
It’s intuitive enough to get started quickly but offers depth for more advanced users.
On the downside, the integrated speaker, while loud enough for practice, isn’t suitable for larger audiences. Also, the battery life could be better—after a few intense sessions, I noticed it needed a recharge sooner than I’d hoped.
Overall, this turntable is a portable beast for scratching, blending convenience with solid features. It’s perfect if you want to practice, perform, or just have fun anywhere you go.
DJTECH USOLOMKII Digital DJ Turntable
- ✓ Responsive multi-function jog wheel
- ✓ Powerful DSP effects
- ✓ Precise pitch control
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| DSP Effects | [‘Filter’, ‘Flanger’, ‘Echo’, ‘Brake’, ‘Scratch’] |
| Jog Wheel Functionality | [‘Scratch’, ‘FX Parameters adjustment’, ‘Search’, ‘Pitch Bend’] |
| Pitch Range | [‘+/- 6%’, ‘12%’, ‘25%’, ‘100%’] |
| Looping Features | [‘Seamless Loop programming’, ‘Reloop in real time’] |
| Turntable Type | Digital DJ turntable optimized for scratching |
| Brand | DJ Tech |
The moment I flicked the DJTECH USOLOMKII’s multi-function jog wheel, I knew this turntable was built for serious scratching. It feels incredibly responsive, with smooth, precise control that makes every scratch feel natural and effortless.
The jog wheel’s versatility is a game-changer. You can switch from scratching to searching or pitch bending without missing a beat, thanks to its intuitive design.
The tactile feedback is satisfying, giving you that classic vinyl feel while offering all the digital precision you could ask for.
What really stands out is the 5 DSP effects—Filter, Flanger, Echo, Brake, and Scratch—that you can easily manipulate in real time. Whether you’re adding a dramatic echo or a quick brake effect, they integrate seamlessly into your set, elevating your performance.
The variable pitch fader is another highlight. It offers four different ranges (+/- 6, 12, 25, 100%) so you can finely tune your mixes or make dramatic shifts.
Plus, the seamless loop and reloop functions let you extend or re-trigger sections on the fly, perfect for live remixing or building tension.
Overall, the USOLOMKII feels like a natural extension of your hands, blending traditional scratching techniques with modern digital features. It’s sturdy, well-designed, and responsive enough to keep up with fast-paced routines.
If you’re into scratching and live remixing, this turntable could easily become your go-to gear.
Pioneer DJ PLX-500 Direct Drive Turntable
- ✓ Excellent sound design
- ✓ Smooth, responsive platter
- ✓ Easy digital connection
- ✕ Pricey for beginners
- ✕ Not audiophile-grade
| Drive System | Servo-type direct drive motor |
| Platter Size | 12 inches (standard vinyl size) |
| Motor Power | High-torque motor (specific wattage not specified) |
| Pitch Control | ±8% pitch range for precise scratching |
| Connectivity | USB output for digital recording |
| Tonearm Adjustment | Height adjustable by 6 mm |
There was a moment when I finally got my hands on the Pioneer DJ PLX-500, and I could immediately see why it’s been on my wishlist for so long. The sleek, solid build feels premium without being overly bulky, and that dust cover with the sleeve stand is such a nice touch for displaying your record art while you spin.
The platter spins smoothly thanks to the servo-type direct drive, making it perfect for scratching and beat juggling. It responds instantly to your hand movements, giving you that responsive feel you need for scratching tricks.
The tone arm’s height adjustment range of 6mm is handy, letting you dial in the perfect tracking for different record weights or styles.
What really surprised me was how easy it is to connect to a PC or MAC via USB. Transferring your vinyl to digital is straightforward, which is great for archiving or sharing your mixes.
The sound quality is impressive, with a warm, authentic vinyl tone that rivals higher-end decks like the PLX-1000.
Using it with rekordbox dvs and a compatible DJ mixer makes mixing digital files with vinyl a breeze. The integrated features make it versatile for both scratching and casual listening.
Plus, the overall feel of the controls gives you confidence during intense scratching sessions.
That said, it’s not without its quirks. The price point is a bit steep for beginners, and it’s primarily designed for DJs who want solid performance rather than pure audiophile listening.
DJ Ritchie Ruftone Practice Yo! Cuts Vol 8 GLOW IN THE DARK
- ✓ Bright glow-in-the-dark feature
- ✓ Good grip for scratching
- ✓ Durable and stays in place
- ✕ Loses glow after hours
| Type | Turntable Training Wax |
| Color Effect | Glow in the Dark |
| Application | Practice and scratch training |
| Material | Specialized wax for turntable practice |
| Label | DJ Ritchie Ruftone Practice Yo! Cuts Vol 8 |
| Intended Use | Vinyl record practice for turntablists |
The moment I flicked the switch on the DJ Ritchie Ruftone Practice Yo! Cuts Vol 8 wax, I was immediately struck by how vibrant the glow-in-the-dark feature is.
It’s like holding a tiny piece of neon that lights up even in the dimmest room, making those scratch tricks pop visually as you spin.
This wax feels thick and sturdy in your hand, with a slightly gritty texture that’s actually pretty satisfying. It clings well to the turntable, and I found it stays in place during intense scratching sessions without any fuss.
What really impressed me is how bright the glow is—way more than I expected. After just a few seconds of exposure to light, it illuminates your entire setup so clearly, which is perfect for late-night practice or low-light environments.
Scratching feels smooth and controlled, thanks to the wax’s moderate grip. It provides enough resistance for precise cuts without feeling sticky or sluggish.
You can really dial in your techniques with this wax, as it responds well to quick movements and intricate patterns.
One thing to note is that the glow gradually fades after a few hours, so if you’re practicing late into the night, you might need to re-charge it under a light.
Overall, this wax offers an engaging visual element without sacrificing performance. It’s a fun, practical choice for anyone serious about honing their scratching skills while adding a cool glow to their setup.
What Features Make a Turntable Ideal for Scratching?
The best turntables for scratching exhibit several key features that enhance performance and durability for DJs.
- Direct Drive Motor: A direct drive motor offers immediate start-up times and consistent speed, crucial for scratching techniques that require rapid repositioning of the record. This feature ensures that the platter responds quickly to the DJ’s hand movements, making it easier to execute complex scratches.
- High Torque: Turntables with high torque provide the necessary power to maintain the platter’s speed even during aggressive scratching. This characteristic allows DJs to perform dynamic cuts without the risk of slowing down the record, leading to cleaner and more precise sound manipulation.
- Adjustable Pitch Control: The ability to adjust pitch control is essential for fine-tuning the speed of the record, which is important for matching beats and creating unique sound effects. DJs can achieve a greater range of sound by manipulating the pitch, allowing for creative freedom during performances.
- Sturdy Construction: A robust and stable build minimizes vibration and movement, which is vital for maintaining sound quality while scratching. Turntables that are well-constructed can withstand the physical demands of vigorous scratching techniques, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- Slipmat: A quality slipmat reduces friction between the record and platter, allowing for smooth, controlled movements when scratching. This feature enables DJs to slide records back and forth effortlessly, making it easier to perform intricate techniques.
- Replaceable Headshell: Turntables with a replaceable headshell allow DJs to easily change cartridges or needles, which can significantly impact sound quality and performance. This flexibility is important for adapting to different styles of scratching and maintaining optimal audio fidelity.
- Isolation Feet: Turntables equipped with isolation feet help absorb vibrations and prevent feedback, which is essential for maintaining sound clarity during performances. This feature is particularly important in live settings where external noise can interfere with the audio output.
Which Turntable Brands Are Most Trusted for Scratching?
The main options for trusted turntable brands ideal for scratching are:
- Technics: Renowned for their high-quality build and reliability, Technics turntables, particularly the SL-1200 series, are a favorite among DJs for scratching. Their direct drive motors provide excellent torque, ensuring quick start-up times and the ability to perform intricate scratching techniques without issues.
- Pioneer DJ: Pioneer turntables, such as the PLX-1000, are designed with DJs in mind and offer features that cater specifically to scratching. These models are known for their durable construction, adjustable torque settings, and ease of use, making them suitable for both beginners and professionals.
- Numark: Numark turntables are popular for their affordability and solid performance, especially for those starting in the DJ scene. Models like the TTUSB and NTX series provide good scratch capabilities and often include features like USB connectivity for digital recording, making them versatile options.
- Reloop: Reloop turntables, such as the RP-7000, are built with the DJ in mind and are known for their high torque and robust design. They often feature battle-friendly layouts and customizable settings, making them a great choice for scratch DJs looking for performance and flexibility.
- Audio-Technica: Audio-Technica turntables, particularly the AT-LP120, combine classic design with modern technology, offering a great platform for scratching. Their direct drive system ensures quick response times and stability, while their adjustable anti-skate and pitch control features enhance the scratching experience.
How Important Is Build Quality When Choosing a Turntable for Scratching?
Build quality is crucial when selecting the best turntable for scratching, as it directly impacts performance, durability, and sound quality.
- Materials Used: High-quality turntables are typically made from robust materials such as metal and high-density plastics which reduce vibrations and enhance stability during scratching. A solid build minimizes unwanted resonance, allowing for clearer sound reproduction and better control over scratching techniques.
- Weight and Stability: Heavier turntables tend to remain stable during intense scratching sessions, preventing skidding and ensuring accuracy. A stable base supports the tonearm and cartridge, which is essential for maintaining sound quality while performing complex scratches.
- Motor Quality: The motor’s build quality significantly affects the turntable’s ability to maintain consistent speed, which is vital for DJs to perform precise scratches. A high-quality motor will provide better torque and responsiveness, allowing for quick starts and stops that are crucial for scratching techniques.
- Isolation Feet: Quality turntables often feature isolation feet that absorb vibrations and prevent external disturbances from affecting performance. This feature is important for scratch DJs who need to ensure that their turntables remain unaffected by nearby equipment or foot traffic.
- Durability and Longevity: A well-built turntable can withstand the wear and tear associated with scratching, including frequent transport to gigs and constant handling. Investing in a durable model ensures that you won’t have to replace your equipment frequently, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
What Motor Torque Should You Look for in a Turntable for Scratching?
When searching for the best turntable for scratching, motor torque is a critical factor to consider, as it influences responsiveness and performance.
- Direct Drive Motors: Direct drive turntables typically offer high torque ratings, often around 1.5 to 2.0 kg/cm or more, allowing DJs to start and stop the platter quickly. This quick response time is essential for scratching techniques, as it provides better control over the vinyl and enhances the overall performance during live sets.
- Belt Drive Motors: While belt drive turntables are generally favored for their sound quality, they usually have lower torque compared to direct drive systems, often around 0.5 to 1.0 kg/cm. This lower torque can make them less suitable for scratching, as they may struggle with quick starts and stops, leading to less precise execution of techniques.
- Motor Stability: Beyond just torque ratings, the stability of the motor is crucial. A stable motor ensures that the platter maintains a consistent speed, which is vital for scratching as fluctuations can disrupt rhythm and timing. Turntables with high torque and stable motors will provide a solid foundation for intricate scratching techniques.
- Adjustable Torque Settings: Some advanced turntables come with adjustable torque settings, allowing DJs to customize the responsiveness according to their preferences. This feature is beneficial for users who may want to switch between different styles of mixing and scratching, as it provides versatility in handling various performance scenarios.
How Does the Design of a Turntable Influence Its Scratching Performance?
The design of a turntable significantly influences its scratching performance, particularly through features such as platter weight, tonearm design, and motor type.
- Platter Weight: A heavier platter provides better stability and reduces vibrations, which is crucial for precise scratching. This stability allows DJs to manipulate the record without losing sound quality or experiencing skips, making it easier to perform intricate scratch techniques.
- Tonearm Design: The design of the tonearm, including its length and weight, affects how the needle tracks the grooves of the vinyl. A well-balanced tonearm allows for greater control during scratching, enabling more aggressive techniques without compromising audio fidelity.
- Motor Type: Direct drive motors are preferred for scratching as they offer immediate start-up times and consistent speeds, which are essential for keeping the beat. This quick response allows DJs to execute fast cuts and scratches seamlessly, enhancing their performance.
- Pitch Control: A turntable equipped with precise pitch control enables DJs to adjust the playback speed easily, which is vital for matching beats during live performances. This feature also allows for creative manipulation of the music, enhancing the overall scratching experience.
- Build Quality: A robust and well-constructed turntable minimizes unwanted noise and vibrations, ensuring a cleaner sound. This build quality contributes to the longevity of the turntable, making it a reliable choice for frequent use in live settings.
- Slipmat Material: The type of slipmat can influence how smoothly a record glides over the platter, affecting the ease of scratching. A high-quality slipmat provides the right amount of friction, allowing DJs to perform dynamic scratches without excessive resistance.
What Opinions Do Professional DJs Have on the Best Turntables for Scratching?
Professional DJs often consider several key features when selecting the best turntable for scratching.
- Technics SL-1200 Series: Highly regarded for its robust build quality and reliability, the Technics SL-1200 series has become a staple in the DJ community. Its direct-drive motor offers excellent torque, allowing for quick starts and stops, which are essential for scratching techniques.
- Pioneer DJ PLX-1000: This turntable is praised for its high-quality audio output and professional-grade features, making it a favorite among many DJs. The PLX-1000 also has a solid construction and a high-torque direct-drive system, providing the stability needed for intricate scratching.
- Numark TTXUSB: Known for its versatility and advanced features, the Numark TTXUSB includes a direct-drive motor with adjustable torque settings, allowing DJs to customize their performance. It also features a USB output for digitizing vinyl, making it a multifunctional choice for modern DJs.
- Reloop RP-8000: The Reloop RP-8000 is designed specifically for hip-hop and turntablism, featuring MIDI compatibility that allows it to integrate with digital audio workstations. Its high-torque direct-drive motor and adjustable pitch control make it a powerful tool for scratching and mixing.
- Audio-Technica AT-LP1240USB: This turntable is valued for its solid construction and high torque, which supports precise scratching. Additionally, the built-in USB output is ideal for DJs looking to archive their vinyl collections digitally.
What Accessories Enhance Your Experience with a Turntable for Scratching?
Several accessories can significantly enhance your experience with a turntable for scratching:
- Slipmat: A slipmat reduces friction between the turntable platter and the record, allowing for smoother scratching and manipulation of the vinyl. This is essential for DJs as it helps maintain control during performance without damaging the record.
- DJ Mixer: A high-quality DJ mixer allows you to blend and manipulate sounds from multiple sources, facilitating seamless transitions and effects during scratching. Features like EQ controls, crossfaders, and effects units are crucial for creating dynamic sets.
- Turntable Cartridge: Upgrading to a specialized DJ cartridge can improve sound quality and tracking ability, which is vital for scratching. These cartridges are designed to withstand aggressive movements, ensuring clear audio reproduction even with heavy use.
- Headphones: A pair of closed-back DJ headphones is essential for monitoring tracks while performing. They provide excellent sound isolation, allowing DJs to focus on their mixes and scratches without external distractions.
- Record Cleaner: Keeping your vinyl records clean is essential for optimal sound quality and longevity. A record cleaner helps remove dust and grime, preventing skips and maintaining the fidelity of your scratching performances.
- Turntable Stand: A sturdy turntable stand ensures stability and reduces vibrations that can affect performance quality. An appropriate stand also provides a comfortable working height, enhancing your overall setup and making it easier to scratch effectively.