For turntablists and scratch DJs, the ability to practice and perform anywhere has become more important than ever. Whether you're warming up backstage, jamming in the park, or just killing time on the move, having a reliable portable turntable can make all the difference. But not all portables are created equal: some prioritize build quality, others mod potential, and a few go all-in on feature sets.

Here are five of the best portable turntables for scratching on the go, each with its own strengths and ideal use cases.

1. Numark PT01 Scratch

Price: Around $130 USD

The Numark PT01 Scratch is the first widely available consumer-grade portable turntable specifically designed for scratching. Its simple, no-frills design helped popularize the portable scratch movement and kicked off a wave of creative customization. While the out-of-the-box features may not fully satisfy advanced turntablists, the PT01 Scratch's open design made it the perfect canvas for modding. From swappable faders to tonearm upgrades and custom start/stop buttons, the modding possibilities are nearly endless.

Pros:

• Very affordable base model
• Arguably the most mod-friendly turntable on the market
• Versatile: includes a speaker and can run on batteries or AC power

Cons:

• The stock switch is not a true crossfader and can limit advanced scratching techniques
• Costs can add up quickly if you go deep into modding
• The platter is not very stable and requires some practice to control

Best for: Scratch beginners or DIY fans looking for a highly customizable and budget-friendly entry point into portablism.

2. Reloop SPiN

Price: Around $280 USD

Released several years after the PT01 Scratch, the Reloop SPiN set out to elevate the portable scratch experience by delivering a more refined, all-in-one solution. While it uses the same tonearm and cartridge as the PT01, the major improvements come from its significantly more stable platter and the inclusion of two built-in crossfaders—one on each side of the deck—to accommodate both right- and left-handed scratchers.

A standout feature is its Bluetooth functionality, allowing DJs to stream beats directly from a phone or tablet without needing extra cables. These thoughtful additions position the SPiN as a more modern and versatile successor to the PT01

Pros:

• A logical evolution from the PT01 Scratch
• Improved platter stability and real crossfader functionality
• Bluetooth streaming for cable-free setups
• Mod-friendly (tonearm and crossfader upgrades available

Cons:

• Noticeably higher price point than the PT01
• The stock crossfader may still fall short for very demanding scratch DJs (but replaceable)

Best for: DJs looking for a more refined, modern portable turntable experience without jumping straight into heavy custom mods.

3. Omni Portable Turntable

Price: Around $380–$450 USD (depending on availability)

Often described as the Rolls Royce of portable turntables, the Omni is designed specifically for the most demanding scratch DJs. Unlike other models that require extensive modding to reach pro-level functionality, the Omni delivers a top-tier experience straight out of the box.

Equipped with a high-quality tonearm and cartridge, a super stable platter, and two ultra-precise built-in crossfaders, the Omni leaves little to be desired. Add to that a clean, minimalist design and premium construction, and you have a portable deck that looks and feels like a professional instrument.

Pros:

• Arguably the best portable scratch turntable on the market
• Requires no mods to perform at a high level
• Sleek, professional design

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to most competitors
• Limited availability—can be hard to find in retail

Best for: Experienced turntablists who want a fully capable, pro-grade portable setup without diving into custom modifications.

4. Stanton STX

Price: Around $250–$300 USD

The Stanton STX is one of the latest additions to the world of portable scratch turntables. Coming in with the benefit of hindsight, the STX addresses several weaknesses found in its direct competitors. The most notable upgrade is the integration of a genuine mini Innofader Nano crossfader straight from the factory, a major step up in feel and response for serious scratchers.

It also comes with a built-in rechargeable battery, removing the need for disposable batteries or constant access to power. That said, some compromises are evident. The tonearm and stylus are the same as the PT01 Scratch, which means lower tracking stability and sound quality compared to high-end options like the Omni. Another point to note is the design choice that prevents the playback of 12-inch records, a limitation none of the other portables on this list have.

Pros:

• Factory-installed mini Innofader crossfader
• Built-in rechargeable battery
• Integrated speaker with surprisingly good sound quality

Cons:

• Tonearm and stylus are basic and not very robust
• Cannot play 12-inch records (7" only)

Best for: DJs who want a ready-to-go, modern portable setup with pro-level fader control—without needing to mod.

5. SC1000 by Rasteri

Price: Around $400 USD (varies)

The outlier of this list—the SC1000—is more of a futuristic scratch device than a turntable. Designed and hand-assembled by the team in Germany, this ultra-compact, homemade device packs an astonishing amount of functionality in a tiny footprint. 
Despite the fact that its platter doesn’t physically spin, the SC1000 delivers an incredibly responsive and satisfying scratch experience—even for seasoned turntablists.

One of its standout features is the built-in mini Innofader Pro, one of the most respected crossfaders on the market. In addition to excellent fader control, the SC1000 offers advanced digital features like pitch control up to ±100%, MIDI compatibility, cue buttons, and more—all in a device you can fit in your backpack.

Pros:

• Incredibly compact size and futuristic design
• Built-in mini Innofader Pro crossfader
• Packed with pro features: pitch control, MIDI support, cue buttons, and more

Cons:

• Doesn’t replicate the exact tactile feel of a spinning platter
• Handmade to order—expect a several-week wait after purchase

Even though it won’t be for everyone, we absolutely love this kind of innovation in the DJ world. Massive respect to Rasteri and the team for pushing boundaries and delivering something truly unique.