Turntables and record players are quite similar. Both devices spin a vinyl record at a specific speed, allowing a needle to read the grooves and produce sound. The main difference between turntables and record players is that turntables are designed for more serious audiophiles. They offer superior sound quality and features that make them ideal for use in a home stereo system. Record players, on the other hand, are designed for casual listening. They're usually portable and less expensive than turntables, making them a good choice for people who want to listen to vinyl records without investing in a high-end stereo system.