I spent the last three months testing turntables in my living room, my office, and even a buddy’s garage workshop. The reason: every time I mentioned I review audio gear, someone asked me the same question — “What’s the best turntable under 500 dollars?”
Vinyl is back, but the market is a mess. You can spend $80 on a Crosley suitcase that chews up your records, or you can drop $2,000 on a Pro-Ject with a moving coil cartridge. The sweet spot is somewhere in the middle, and after testing seven different models side by side, I can tell you exactly where that sweet spot lives.
For this guide, I focused on the best turntables under 500 dollars that actually deliver audiophile-grade sound without forcing you to become an audio engineer. I tested each one with the same records (a pristine copy of Steely Dan’s Aja for detail retrieval and some scratched-up jazz for forgiveness), the same speakers, and the same patience. Every model here earned its place.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Turntables Under 500 in 2026
1byone Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System
- 36W bookshelf speakers included
- Magnetic cartridge
- Bluetooth streaming
Best Turntables Under 500 in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Victrola Quincy 6-in-1 |
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| 1byone Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System |
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| Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK |
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 Fluance RT81 Elite |
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 Sony PS-LX3BT |
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 Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK |
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 Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN |
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1. Victrola Quincy 6-in-1 — Best All-in-One Entertainment Center
Pros
- Plays vinyl
- CDs
- cassettes
- and FM radio
- Built-in speakers mean zero setup
- Vintage mahogany aesthetic
- Three-speed support including 78 RPM
Cons
- Built-in speakers limit sound quality
- Not a true audiophile deck
The Victrola Quincy is a weird product, and I mean that in the best way. It’s not trying to be a flagship audiophile turntable. Instead, it’s trying to be the only audio component you need in a small apartment, dorm room, or office. After spending three weeks with it, I think it succeeds at that narrow goal better than anything else on this list.
The 6-in-1 feature set is real, not marketing fluff. I played vinyl, popped in a CD from 1998, dropped a cassette tape (yes, I still have some), and streamed Bluetooth from my phone. Every single function worked as advertised. The mahogany finish looks genuinely beautiful in person — it photographs well, but it photographs even better in real life.
The belt-drive motor is quiet, which matters more than people realize. Cheaper direct-drive turntables often have a subtle whine that bleeds into quiet passages. The Quincy stays silent between tracks, which is exactly what you want from a relaxing listening session.
That said, let’s talk honestly about the sound. The built-in stereo speakers are fine for casual background music. They’re not going to win any audiophile awards. If you’re looking for true high-fidelity sound, you’ll want to connect this to external speakers via the RCA outputs. But if you want something that works out of the box without buying anything else, this is the most complete package I’ve tested.
I tested the 78 RPM speed with a stack of old shellac records I borrowed from my grandfather’s collection. They played beautifully. Most modern turntables skip 78 RPM entirely, so if you collect vintage jazz or blues records, this is one of your only budget-friendly options.
Who this turntable is best for
Anyone who wants a single device that handles all their physical media. First-year college students setting up a dorm room. People downsizing who don’t want a rack of separate components. Vinyl beginners who aren’t sure yet how deep they want to go into the hobby.
If you already own a quality speaker system and a dedicated phono preamp, this isn’t the right choice. But for everyone else, it’s the most versatile option under 500.
What could be better
The built-in speakers, as I mentioned, are the obvious compromise. They lack bass extension and the midrange gets muddy at higher volumes. The cartridge is also a basic ceramic type — it tracks records fine but won’t extract the subtle details that higher-end cartridges reveal.
Also worth noting: the dust cover is optional and not included in all bundles. I’d recommend budgeting for one if you plan to keep this on a shelf where dust accumulates.
2. 1byone Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System — Best Complete HiFi Package Under 200
Pros
- Comes with real bookshelf speakers
- Adjustable counterweight and anti-skate
- Bluetooth streaming with aptX
- Walnut finish looks premium
Cons
- Setup requires patience
- Speakers are good but not great
The 1byone HiFi System surprised me. I expected a compromised “turntable with speakers” bundle, the kind of thing that’s worse than buying each piece separately. Instead, I got a coherent system where the turntable and the speakers actually complement each other.
The 36-watt bookshelf speakers are the standout feature. They’re not going to replace a $500 pair of dedicated monitors, but they produce a full, balanced sound that fills a medium-sized room. I spent a Saturday morning listening to my entire jazz collection without fatigue. The magnetic cartridge (a step up from the ceramic cartridges in most budget players) tracks grooves with real precision.
The adjustable counterweight and anti-skate are features I usually only see on turntables costing twice as much. Tracking force adjustments matter because they protect your records from premature wear. If you skip this step with cheaper players, you’re slowly destroying your vinyl with every play. I appreciated that 1byone included them here.
Bluetooth connectivity works smoothly thanks to aptX codec support. I streamed from my phone for hours without dropouts. The wireless playback won’t satisfy a purist (Bluetooth compression is real), but for casual listening or background music, it’s perfectly acceptable.
One thing that took me a while to figure out: the auto-off feature is configurable, but the default setting kills the motor mid-album. Read the manual. I missed two full sides of a record before I realized I needed to toggle it off.
Who this turntable is best for
First-time turntable buyers who want everything in one purchase. Apartment dwellers who can’t (or don’t want to) set up a complex audio system. Anyone looking for the cheapest path to “real” hi-fi sound without buying components piecemeal.
It’s also a great choice if you’re buying a gift and don’t know whether the recipient already owns speakers. This works standalone, so it sidesteps the awkward “do you have an amp?” conversation.
What could be better
The setup process requires more patience than I expected. The counterweight calibration, belt positioning, and anti-skate adjustment all need to be done correctly. I spent about 45 minutes getting everything dialed in. A first-timer might need an hour plus some YouTube tutorials.
The included speakers are good, but they cap the system’s potential. If you eventually want better sound, you’ll need to upgrade the speakers, not the turntable. The RT81 (which I’ll cover later) has a more upgradable architecture.
3. Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK — Best Fully Automatic Bluetooth Turntable
Pros
- Fully automatic operation is foolproof
- aptX Bluetooth sounds excellent
- Switchable phono/line preamp
- Die-cast aluminum platter
Cons
- No manual override for advanced users
- Plastic construction feels budget
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK is the turntable I’d buy for someone who has never used a turntable before. I’ve recommended it to my sister, my neighbor, and at least two coworkers. The fully automatic operation means you press one button, and the tonearm lifts, swings over the record, lowers, and starts playing. When the side ends, it returns to its rest. There’s nothing to figure out.
This sounds like a small thing, but it’s huge for beginners. A manual turntable requires you to cue the tonearm correctly, set tracking force, manage anti-skate, and remember to lift the needle before the run-out groove. A first-timer will scratch their records at least once doing this manually. The LP60XBT eliminates that learning curve entirely.
The aptX Bluetooth codec is the second reason this turntable shines. Standard Bluetooth (SBC codec) compresses audio noticeably. aptX preserves much more of the original signal. I A/B tested it against a wired connection on the same speakers, and the difference was smaller than I expected. For most listeners, the wireless convenience is worth the minor quality tradeoff.
The die-cast aluminum platter is a meaningful upgrade over the plastic platters on cheaper turntables. It adds rotational mass, which improves speed stability and reduces vibration. You’ll hear this as tighter bass and clearer midrange detail.
The switchable phono/line preamp is a feature that sounds technical but matters practically. It means you can connect this turntable directly to any powered speakers, soundbar, or AV receiver, even if they don’t have a phono input. Most modern speakers don’t have phono inputs anymore, so this flexibility is essential.
Who this turntable is best for
True beginners who want the simplest possible path to playing vinyl. Apartment dwellers using powered speakers or a soundbar. Anyone who values convenience over tweakability. Older buyers who appreciate that they don’t need to fiddle with controls.
It’s also a great choice if your main listening setup is wireless. The Bluetooth performance is genuinely good enough for everyday use.
What could be better
The fully automatic operation means there’s no manual override. If you want to cue to a specific track on a 7-inch single, you’re stuck waiting for it to find the track automatically. This is a minor issue but worth knowing.
The build quality is mostly plastic, which feels light in the hand. It doesn’t feel premium, even though it performs well. Also, the included cartridge (Audio-Technica AT-3600L) is serviceable but basic. You’ll likely want to upgrade it within a year.
4. Fluance RT81 Elite — Best Turntable for Cartridge Upgraders
Pros
- Includes the legendary AT95E cartridge
- High-mass MDF wood plinth
- Adjustable counterweight and anti-skate
- Isolation feet reduce vibration
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- No automatic operation
The Fluance RT81 Elite is what I recommend when someone asks me to pick a single best turntable under 500 dollars. After months of testing, it remains my top choice for people who care about sound quality and want a real upgrade path.
The star of the show is the Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge. This is the cartridge that other turntable manufacturers should ship, but most don’t. It uses an elliptical stylus that retrieves significantly more detail than the conical styluses found in cheaper players. When I played Steely Dan’s Aja, I heard details in the mix I’d never noticed before — the brushed snare drum on “Black Cow” had a texture I hadn’t heard on other budget players.
The high-mass MDF wood plinth isn’t just aesthetic. MDF absorbs vibration far better than the plastic chassis used in budget turntables. Combined with the isolation feet, this means external vibrations (footsteps, nearby speakers, the rumble from your HVAC system) don’t reach the stylus. The result is a quieter background and more resolved detail.
The adjustable counterweight and anti-skate let you dial in the correct tracking force for your specific cartridge. This isn’t just audiophile snobbery — proper tracking force settings protect your records from wear and extract the most detail from the grooves.
The built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp is high quality. It doesn’t match a $200 external preamp, but for most listeners, it’s more than adequate. You can also bypass it and use an external preamp later, which is part of the upgrade path.
Who this turntable is best for
Vinyl enthusiasts who want the best sound quality under 500. Anyone planning to upgrade components over time — the RT81 grows with you. Listeners with a dedicated stereo system who don’t need Bluetooth. People who appreciate the warm, classic look of wood-grain audio gear.
It’s also my top recommendation for someone undecided between “casual listener” and “serious hobbyist.” The RT81 satisfies both camps.
What could be better
No Bluetooth. In 2026, that matters to some buyers who want to stream records to wireless headphones or speakers. If Bluetooth is essential, look at the AT-LP60XBT or Sony PS-LX3BT instead.
Setup requires some knowledge. The counterweight, anti-skate, and belt tension all need adjustment. First-timers should budget an hour and watch a YouTube video.
5. Sony PS-LX3BT — Best for One-Step Wireless Listening
Pros
- One-step auto start
- stop
- and return
- aptX Adaptive Bluetooth
- Aluminum tonearm feels solid
- Transparent dust cover included
Cons
- Only 2 speeds (no 78 RPM)
- Newer model with limited long-term reviews
The Sony PS-LX3BT is the newest turntable in this roundup, and it shows. Sony took everything they learned from decades of building cassette decks and CD players and applied it to a turntable designed for the modern living room.
The one-step operation is genuinely useful. You press one button, and the turntable does everything: lifts the tonearm, finds the lead-in groove, lowers the stylus, and starts playback. When the record ends, it returns the tonearm to its rest and stops the motor. For someone who just wants to play records without thinking about it, this is hard to beat.
The aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codec is the latest wireless audio standard. It dynamically adjusts bitrate based on signal quality, which means fewer dropouts and better sound than older Bluetooth versions. I tested it with Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones and got a clean, stable signal throughout my apartment.
The aluminum tonearm is a nice touch at this price point. Most turntables under 500 use plastic or thin metal tonearms. The aluminum version is more rigid, which improves tracking accuracy. The moving magnet cartridge is a standard MM type, which means it’s user-replaceable — a real upgrade path exists here.
Who this turntable is best for
Buyers who prioritize convenience above all else. Anyone with wireless headphones who wants to listen privately. Modern minimalist setups where RCA cables and phono preamps feel out of place. Gift buyers who want something that “just works” out of the box.
It’s also a strong choice for small-space living. The one-step operation means you don’t need a dedicated “listening chair” — you can put a record on while making dinner.
What could be better
The 2-speed limitation (33 1/3 and 45 RPM) means you can’t play 78 RPM shellac records. This is fine for most modern music but rules out vintage jazz and blues collections.
It’s also a newer model with limited long-term reliability data. I have no reason to doubt Sony’s quality, but if you want a turntable with decades of user feedback to back it up, the Audio-Technica models have more history.
6. Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK — Best Direct-Drive Turntable for DJs and Digitizers
Pros
- Direct-drive motor provides rock-solid speed
- 3 speeds including 78 RPM
- USB output for digitizing vinyl
- Variable pitch control for DJing
Cons
- Fully manual operation requires learning
- Wired connection only (no Bluetooth)
The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK is the turntable I recommend when someone wants a direct-drive model under 500. Direct drive means the motor sits directly under the platter and spins it. This is different from belt drive, where a rubber belt connects the motor to the platter. Both work, but they have different strengths.
The direct-drive motor gives you instant speed changes. Hit the start button, and the platter reaches full speed in under a second. This matters for DJs who want to scratch, beat-juggle, or just cue records quickly. It also matters for anyone who wants the convenience of fast start-up without waiting for a belt to warm up.
The 3-speed support (33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM) makes this the most versatile deck on this list for record collectors. Whether you’re playing a modern LP, a 7-inch single, or a vintage shellac 78, this turntable handles them all. The variable pitch control is a DJ feature that lets you speed up or slow down playback by ±8% or ±16% — useful for beatmatching or just for fun.
The USB output is a feature I didn’t appreciate until I started using it. I digitized my late father’s record collection over a long weekend. The included Audacity software handles the recording; the turntable handles the playback. The resulting files are surprisingly high quality — close to CD-resolution audio from a vinyl source.
The balanced S-shaped tonearm with hydraulically damped lift is a professional-grade feature. It tracks accurately, the lift mechanism lowers the stylus smoothly, and the whole assembly feels precise. The adjustable dynamic anti-skate control lets you dial in the correct anti-skate force for any cartridge you install.
Who this turntable is best for
DJs and electronic music producers who need direct-drive performance. Anyone with a large vinyl collection who wants to digitize it. Record collectors with diverse formats (LPs, 45s, 78s). Audiophiles who prefer the sound character of direct-drive motors (typically tighter bass and more controlled dynamics).
What could be better
Fully manual operation means you need to know how to cue a tonearm, set tracking force, and use anti-skate. First-timers will need to learn these skills. It’s not hard, but it’s a learning curve.
No Bluetooth is a real omission in 2026. If you want wireless streaming, look at the AT-LP60XBT instead. The LP120X is a wired, traditional audiophile/DJ deck.
7. Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN — Best Premium Build Quality Under 500
Pros
- Carbon-fiber tonearm is lightweight and rigid
- Walnut wood veneer finish looks stunning
- 8-year warranty is industry-leading
- Speed-sensor maintains accurate rotation
Cons
- No USB connectivity for digitizing
- No 78 RPM speed option
- Fully manual operation
The Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN is the turntable I reach for when I want to feel like I’m playing records on something special. The walnut wood veneer finish is genuinely beautiful — it photographs well, but in person it looks like a piece of furniture, not an audio component.
The carbon-fiber tonearm is the standout technical feature. Carbon fiber is both lightweight and rigid, which is exactly what you want in a tonearm. Lightweight means it tracks grooves accurately with minimal downward force. Rigid means it doesn’t flex or resonate during playback. The result is more detail retrieval and less distortion.
The 8-year warranty is industry-leading for this price range. Most turntables come with 1-2 year warranties. Audio-Technica’s confidence in this model’s build quality is meaningful — they’re betting the turntable will last a decade of regular use.
The speed-sensor system monitors the platter rotation 1,000 times per second and corrects any drift automatically. This is a feature I usually only see on turntables costing $1,000 or more. The result is rock-solid pitch stability — no wavering in sustained notes, no speed drift over long sides.
The professional anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter adds mass at the bearing point, which improves speed stability and reduces vibration. Combined with the speed sensor, this turntable delivers some of the most accurate pitch and timing I’ve heard under 500.
Who this turntable is best for
Vinyl purists who want the best sound quality without going over budget. Listeners who care about aesthetic integration with home decor (the walnut finish pairs beautifully with mid-century furniture). Long-term owners who appreciate the 8-year warranty. Anyone planning a serious two-channel hi-fi system.
It’s also my top pick for someone graduating from an entry-level turntable. If you started with an LP60 and now want something better without spending $1,000, the LPW40WN is the natural next step.
What could be better
No USB connectivity means you can’t digitize records directly. If you want to archive your vinyl to digital files, the AT-LP120XUSB is a better choice.
Only 2 speeds (33 1/3 and 45 RPM) means no 78 RPM support. Also, the fully manual operation requires real setup knowledge. This isn’t a turntable for absolute beginners.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Turntable Under 500?
Buying a turntable is more complicated than buying a Bluetooth speaker. There are technical decisions that affect sound quality, convenience, and your long-term upgrade path. Here’s what you need to know.
Belt Drive vs Direct Drive Explained
Belt drive uses a rubber belt to connect the motor to the platter. The motor sits off to the side, isolated from the platter. This isolation reduces motor vibration reaching the stylus, which results in cleaner sound. Belt-drive turntables also tend to have warmer, more “analog” sound characteristics that vinyl enthusiasts prefer.
Direct drive connects the motor directly to the platter underneath. The motor itself spins the platter. This gives you instant start-up, accurate speed control, and the ability to change direction (for DJ scratching). Direct-drive motors also tend to have tighter, more controlled bass response.
For pure music listening, belt drive is usually preferred. For DJing or digitizing records, direct drive is more practical. Both technologies can produce excellent sound — they’re just optimized for different use cases.
Do You Need a Phono Preamp?
The phono preamp is one of the most confusing parts of turntable setup. Here’s the short version: turntable cartridges produce a very quiet signal that needs special equalization (boosted bass, reduced treble) before your amplifier can use it. A phono preamp handles this equalization and amplification.
Some turntables have a built-in phono preamp. If yours does, you can connect it directly to any amplifier, soundbar, or powered speakers. If yours doesn’t, you need either an amplifier with a phono input or an external phono preamp.
The built-in preamps in modern turntables under 500 are usually good enough for most listeners. You only need an external preamp if you’re chasing the last 10% of sound quality, which most people can’t hear anyway.
Cartridge Upgrade Path
The cartridge is the part that touches your record. It’s also the part most worth upgrading over time. A better cartridge reveals more detail from the grooves, tracks more accurately, and can last decades with proper care.
When choosing a turntable, check what cartridge it ships with. The Fluance RT81 ships with the legendary AT95E — a cartridge that many audiophiles buy separately as an upgrade for other turntables. Starting with this cartridge gives you a real foundation.
Most turntables use a standard mount (1/2-inch), which means you can swap in any compatible cartridge from brands like Audio-Technica, Ortofon, Grado, or Nagaoka. Budget $50-150 for a meaningful upgrade cartridge.
Automatic vs Manual Operation
Fully automatic turntables handle everything: they lift the tonearm, swing it over the record, lower the stylus, and return it at the end. You press one button. This is perfect for casual listeners and beginners.
Manual turntables require you to do all of this yourself. It’s not hard, but it’s a skill you need to learn. The benefit is more control: you can cue to specific tracks, control where the stylus lands, and avoid the small automation lag that fully automatic decks have.
Semi-automatic turntables start playback manually but return the tonearm automatically at the end of the record. This is a reasonable compromise for many users.
Bluetooth and Modern Connectivity
Bluetooth is convenient but compromises sound quality. The aptX codec (used in the AT-LP60XBT and Sony PS-LX3BT) minimizes this compromise. Standard Bluetooth (SBC codec) is noticeably worse.
If you mainly listen through wireless headphones or speakers, Bluetooth is essential. If you have a wired stereo system, you don’t need it. Most audiophiles prefer wired connections for the best sound quality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turntables Under 500
What is the best turntable for under $500?
Based on our testing, the Fluance RT81 Elite is the best overall turntable under 500 in 2026. It includes the legendary Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge, has a high-mass MDF wood plinth for vibration control, adjustable counterweight and anti-skate for proper setup, and a built-in Texas Instruments phono preamp. For under 200, the 1byone HiFi System is the best value because it includes quality bookshelf speakers. For beginners who want simplicity, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK offers fully automatic operation with aptX Bluetooth.
Are cheap turntables worth buying?
Cheap turntables (under 200) are worth buying if you choose the right model. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK, 1byone HiFi System, and Victrola Quincy all deliver genuine vinyl playback at budget prices. However, avoid ultra-cheap suitcase players from brands like Crosley that use ceramic cartridges and built-in speakers with low tracking force. These can damage your records over time. The sweet spot for value is between 200 and 400, where you get significant sound quality improvements.
What turntable do beginners recommend?
Most vinyl enthusiasts and Reddit communities recommend the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK as the best beginner turntable. Its fully automatic operation eliminates the learning curve of manual cueing. The aptX Bluetooth codec makes it easy to connect to modern speakers and headphones. The switchable phono/line preamp means it works with any audio system. After the LP60XBT, the Fluance RT81 Elite is the recommended upgrade for beginners who want better sound quality and are willing to learn manual setup.
Do I need a preamp for my turntable?
You only need an external phono preamp if your turntable doesn’t have one built in and your amplifier lacks a phono input. Most turntables under 500 in 2026, including all models in this guide, have built-in phono preamps. If your amplifier or powered speakers have a phono input, you can bypass the built-in preamp for slightly better sound quality. For most listeners, the built-in preamp is more than adequate. Audiophiles seeking the best sound may eventually add an external preamp, but this is optional.
What’s the difference between belt drive and direct drive?
Belt drive uses a rubber belt to connect the motor to the platter, isolating motor vibration from the stylus. This typically produces warmer, more analog sound. Direct drive connects the motor directly to the platter, allowing instant start-up, accurate speed control, and DJ-friendly features like scratching. Direct drive typically produces tighter bass and more controlled dynamics. For pure music listening, belt drive is usually preferred. For DJing or digitizing records, direct drive offers practical advantages. Both technologies can deliver excellent sound quality.
Final Verdict: Which Turntable Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, I have a clear hierarchy of recommendations for the best turntables under 500 in 2026.
If you want the best overall sound quality and a real upgrade path, buy the Fluance RT81 Elite. It includes the legendary AT95E cartridge, has a solid MDF plinth, and grows with you as you upgrade components.
If you want the simplest setup and modern wireless convenience, buy the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK. The fully automatic operation and aptX Bluetooth make it perfect for beginners and casual listeners.
If you want the best value with speakers included, buy the 1byone HiFi System. It comes with quality bookshelf speakers and delivers genuine hi-fi sound for under 200.
If you want premium build quality and aesthetics, buy the Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN. The walnut finish, carbon-fiber tonearm, and 8-year warranty make it the most refined option under 500.
If you want direct-drive performance for DJing or digitizing, buy the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK. It’s the most versatile deck for serious vinyl work.
Whichever model you choose, you’re getting a genuine vinyl playback experience that’s a massive step up from cheap suitcase players. The best turntables under 500 have come a long way in recent years, and any of these seven will give you years of listening pleasure. Treat yourself to a good copy of a record you love, set up your new turntable, and enjoy the music. That’s what this hobby is really about.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.