Buying vinyl online gives you access to a global catalog of records that no local store can match. Whether you're hunting a specific pressing, building a collection on a budget, or looking for the best deal on new releases, these are the online stores that deliver.
We've evaluated each store on selection, pricing, shipping reliability, record packaging (critical — poor shipping damages records), and overall trustworthiness. Here's where to shop.
Discogs Marketplace
The world's largest music marketplace. Millions of vinyl records and CDs listed by thousands of sellers worldwide. The pressing-specific catalog means you know exactly which version you're buying. Built-in grading standards, seller ratings, and price history make it the most trustworthy platform for used and rare records.
Why We Recommend It
- Largest selection of vinyl records available online — period
- Pressing-specific listings — you know exactly what you're buying
- Goldmine grading standard enforced across sellers
- Complete price history for any pressing — know if you're getting a fair deal
- Buyer protection and dispute resolution for problematic orders
Amazon
The most convenient option for new vinyl releases. Prime shipping, easy returns, and competitive pricing on major-label releases. Not great for used records or specific pressings (listings don't always specify which pressing you'll receive), but unbeatable for convenience on new releases.
Why We Recommend It
- Prime two-day shipping on most new vinyl
- Competitive pricing — often the cheapest for new releases
- Easy returns if records arrive damaged
- Pre-order upcoming releases at guaranteed lowest price
- Subscribe & Save occasionally works for vinyl pre-orders
Acoustic Sounds
The home of audiophile vinyl. Acoustic Sounds is the parent company of Analogue Productions and Quality Record Pressings. Their online store stocks the best-mastered, best-pressed vinyl available — from their own catalog and from other quality labels. If you're serious about sound quality, this is your store.
Why We Recommend It
- Curated selection of the best-sounding pressings available
- Home of Analogue Productions and Quality Record Pressings catalog
- Expert staff who understand audiophile pressing quality
- Excellent packaging — records arrive in perfect condition
- New releases and classic reissues across all genres
Bandcamp
The best platform for supporting independent artists directly. Many indie artists sell vinyl through Bandcamp, and the majority of the purchase price goes directly to the artist. Bandcamp Fridays (when the platform waives its revenue share) are the best time to buy.
Why We Recommend It
- Artists receive the largest share of revenue (80–85%)
- Direct connection between buyers and artists/labels
- Discover indie and underground music unavailable elsewhere
- Digital download often included with vinyl purchase
- Bandcamp Fridays = 100% of revenue goes to artists
Tips for Buying Vinyl Online
Always check Discogs for the fair market value of any record before buying — even from other stores. Specify which pressing you want when possible (catalog number, matrix info). Read seller reviews and avoid sellers with grading complaints. For new records, compare prices across Amazon, Acoustic Sounds, and your local store's website.
Shipping is critical — records are fragile. Good sellers ship in record mailers with stiffeners. Avoid sellers who ship in padded envelopes or plain boxes without proper protection. In winter, consider the temperature during transit — extreme cold can cause vinyl to become brittle.
Our Verdict
Use Discogs as your primary marketplace for used records, specific pressings, and price research. Use Amazon for convenient new release purchases. Use Acoustic Sounds for audiophile pressings. Use Bandcamp to support independent artists.
And use GoOffline to figure out what to buy — paste your Spotify playlist and get a shopping list with prices and buy links across stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to buy vinyl records online?
From reputable sellers, yes. Discogs has buyer protection and enforced grading standards. Amazon has easy returns. The main risk is shipping damage — buy from sellers who specify they use proper record mailers, and avoid buying during extreme weather.
Where are the cheapest vinyl records online?
For new releases: Amazon (especially pre-orders). For used records: Discogs (filter by price, check seller ratings). For bulk deals: eBay lots and estate sale listings. For the absolute cheapest physical music: used CDs on Discogs and ThriftBooks ($1–$5 each).