Karaoke machines can make a great addition to an entertainment area, whether for adults or kids. In fact, it’s a very effective way of bridging the gap between the older and younger generations. There are few activities that both children, parents, and grandparents can enjoy together as enthusiastically as a karaoke machine.
We’ve taken a look at a number of models on the market, from all different price points, and put together a list of the best karaoke machines available. Whether you’re looking to buy a new toy for your kids or an entertainment system for your home, you’ll be sure to find one that fits your needs.
Cheapest Karaoke Machine
If you’re looking for a cheap kids karaoke machine, then the BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is an excellent choice. This awesome little unit is available in 11 different colors and costs just $29.
Best Karaoke Machine for Adults
If you’re looking for a nice big karaoke rig, then the Starqueen Bluetooth PA Speaker is certainly one to check out. The system features a decent-sized 12-inch woofer with a 3-inch tweeter producing 50W of power. Certainly capable of filling most living spaces with ease.
Best Karaoke Machine for Kids
The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine is a fun little system complete with lights to make you feel like a rockstar while singing your favorite anthems. The Karaoke Machine is a suitcase-style speaker with a handle and wheels making it easy to move about.
Best Portable Karaoke Machine
If you’re looking to take your karaoke game to the next level, the ION Audio Block Rocker Plus is the ultimate portable karaoke machine. ION Audio is renowned for making some awesome portable Bluetooth speakers and the Block Rocker Plus certainly lives up to that awesomeness.
Best All-In-One Karaoke Machine
If you’re looking for an all-in-one professional karaoke machine with everything you need, including a display for lyrics, then the Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System is just what you’re after. The GF845 features a 7-inch, full-color LCD display so you can follow the lyrics as you sing along. The system even comes with 300 songs pre-programmed into the memory so you’re ready to go! There’s also a DVD player built-in so you can load up your own favorite karaoke discs.
Best Overall (Our Pick)
A fun little system complete with lights to make you feel like a rockstar while singing your favorite anthems. The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine is a suitcase-style speaker with a handle and wheels making it easy to move about.
We all know karaoke systems come in all shapes and sizes, but they also come in their own unique types, which feature certain functionality differences, all with their own list of pros and cons. The type of karaoke machine you buy should cater to the type of functionality you’re looking for. For instance, not all karaoke machines come with a lyrics screen and some even lack speakers, requiring you to connect to them to an existing speaker system. The way that the karaoke systems are categorized varies between individuals, but these are some of the unique variations.
All-in-One
Karaoke machines
Includes screen, microphone, speaker, and mixer.
Mixer + Speaker
Karaoke Machines
Typically includes mixer, speaker, and microphone.
Built-in-Microphone
Karaoke Machines
Comprised of a microphone with a built-in speaker.
Aside from the categorization of karaoke machines listed above, the other way to narrow down your search for the best karaoke machine is to look at your intended use. Not all karaoke systems are created for the same type of user. They range from small affordable devices, through to expensive systems intended for professional use.
Professional Karaoke Systems
These karaoke machines are intended most commonly to be used in a commercial setting. They are most commonly found in bars/clubs, though some well-off karaoke fans prefer opting for a professional karaoke system for their own entertainment areas. Professional karaoke systems tend to feature high quality audio output, but tend to be larger and in turn heavier.
You’ll also find that these professional systems are often packed with features that you may not find in your typical home karaoke machines. These systems are a good choice if the best possible quality is your goal, and if you don’t mind not having much portability to your karaoke system.
Home Karaoke Machines
Home karaoke machines are perhaps the most popular choice in the market for adults and kids. Most of the machines on our list will be considered home karaoke machines, and one great thing about these is that the market has a lot of variety, so you’re spoiled for choice. Home karaoke machines are typically both of good quality (depending on the brand and quality) and for their portability. While not all home karaoke machines are focused on being portable, they tend to find a good balance between quality audio, features and portability.
Kids karaoke machines
There are a number of home karaoke machines that would do just perfect for your kids too, however, price points often become a concern for parents who don’t want to invest a lot of money in a fleeting interesting. Thankfully there are also a wide range of karaoke machines geared towards kids. These tend to be much more portable, making them easy to take to a friends house. They are also typically more affordable.
Just keep in mind that if your child has a deep interest in singing or karaoke, it may be beneficial in the long run to ensure that the machine you buy them is of a high enough quality to last them a few years into the future.
The 10 Best Karaoke Machines
1. KaraoKing Karaoke Machine for Kids & Adults
The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine is a fun little system complete with lights to make you feel like a rockstar while singing your favorite anthems. The Karaoke Machine is a suitcase-style speaker with a handle and wheels making it easy to move about.
This system is featured-packed and even includes a 5-band graphic EQ so you can fine-tune the speaker’s sound to meet your preferences. There is also an echo vocal effect to make you sound like the pros.
The Karaoke Machine comes with two microphones so you can do duets, rap battles, or group numbers. There’s also a ¼-inch microphone input for a third microphone or instrument. Unfortunately, there’s only one volume control for all three microphone inputs so, you’ll have to work on your mic technique to balance the voices. But there’s really no need to get technical, it’s all about having fun!
The other inputs include USB, ⅛-inch AUX, Bluetooth, and an FM radio. Also included with the Karaoke Machine is an iPad holder that attaches to the carrying handle. This can then be connected to the speaker via AUX or Bluetooth.
Verdict
The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine retails for around $229 and for that you get the speaker, two microphones, and an iPad holder. Great value for money. The system is very simple to use for both kids and adults but it’s not very loud and is, therefore, best suited for living areas for a maximum of around 10 people.
2. Singing Machine SML385UW Bluetooth Karaoke System
If you’re looking for an ultra-compact karaoke machine or, something the kids can play with and not make too much noise, the Singing Machine Bluetooth Karaoke System is exactly what you’re after.
The Singing Machine features an array of brightly colored LED lights which can be set to pulse in time with the music. There’s also an echo effect for vocals and ‘auto voice control’. Auto voice control allows you to control the level of the vocals on the multiplex karaoke backing track so your voice takes preference when you sing. There is a CD player so you can play karaoke multiple discs from the Singing Machine with an RCA out to the TV for sing-along vocals.
The Singing Machine features two microphone inputs bit the system comes with just one mic. You’ll need to purchase a second one as an extra. There are two microphone inputs, each with its own volume control making it easy to balance singers for duets.
One of the best features of the Singing Machine is the ability to record your karaoke sessions via USB. You can then play them back on the Singing Machine or insert the USB drive on another system.
Verdict
At just $70, the Singing Machine is an affordable karaoke machine with loads of features and real multiplex playback capability. The system is really small and won’t be loud enough for more than a few people. This system is best for young kids wanting to sing-along with their favorite songs so I wouldn’t recommend it for adults.
3. Memorex MKS-SS2 SingStand 2 Home Karaoke System
If you prefer to sing with a microphone stand, then Memorex SingStand 2 Home Karaoke System is definitely one to check out. The stand even includes a hold for mobile device or tablet so you can easily sign along to the lyrics.
This Memorex karaoke machine features a telescopic stand so you can adjust the height for each person. The highest setting is about 5 foot which might be a little low for some adults but with be a great karaoke machine for kids. The cable microphone can be picked up and removed so you could hold it if the stand is too low.
The SingStand 2 comes with just one microphone but there are three ¼-inch jack inputs for additional mics or instruments. Each of the three inputs has separate volume controls so you can balance them to get the right mix. There’s also an echo voice effect to give you that professional sound.
Verdict
The SingStand 2 is one of the more simple karaoke machines we have reviewed. The system is neatly laid out and easy to use. The only downside to the SingStand 2 is that the speakers are mounted in the base of the stand and they’re only 10W which won’t quite full a room. This karaoke system is best suited for kids and at just $85, it won’t break the bank.
4. Pyle PWMA325BT Portable Karaoke Speaker System
One of the leading names in budget consumer audio equipment is Pyle. The PWMA325BT Portable Karaoke Speaker System kicks out some serious sound with killer lighting effects to go with it. The system is suitcase-styled with wheels and a built-in battery so you can take your karaoke skills on the go.
The PWMA325BT features an 8-inch woofer with dual 3-inch tweeters and more than enough power to fill most living spaces. The system is great for both adults and kids, however, you will want to watch volume levels around the little one’s ears as the PWMA325BT can get quite loud.
You get a single wireless microphone with this awesome Pyle karaoke machine and there are two additional ¼-inch jack inputs for cable microphones. So you can have a total of three mics going at a time. Your performances can be recorded to USB or SD card which can then be played back on the PWMA325BT and other devices like a PC for example.
On top of the PWMA325BT is a full control panel and inputs. Here you can control your connected audio device as well as adjust bass, treble, master volume and reverb for vocal effects. There’s also a pre-programmed EQ with five different modes.
Verdict
The Pyle PWMA325BT Portable Karaoke Speaker System is a fun little unit with loads of extra features to play around with. The built-in battery makes it easy to take the karaoke machine to outdoor events like a tailgate party. There are loads of inputs, including Bluetooth, allowing you to connect just about any device. At $140, you get big sound, a lot of fun features and a wireless handheld microphone.
5. Starqueen Karaoke DJ Speaker
If you’re looking for a nice big karaoke rig, then the Starqueen Bluetooth PA Speaker is certainly one to check out. The system features a decent-sized 12-inch woofer with a 3-inch tweeter producing 50W of power. Certainly capable of filling most living spaces with ease.
The Starqueen comes with two wireless microphones which means you can have double the fun. There is a ¼-inch input which can be used for a third mic or an instrument. There is a single volume control for all three microphones as well as separate controls for bass, treble and echo effect. Other inputs include a ⅛-inch AUX, SD card, Bluetooth and an FM radio.
You also get a remote control so you don’t need to touch the speaker to adjust controls. This is especially useful if the Starqueen is on a speaker stand. There is a speaker pole mount but you would need to buy a stand if you don’t already have one.
Verdict
The Starqueen Bluetooth PA Speaker is great for adult karaoke parties with enough power for groups of 20 – 30 people. I wouldn’t recommend this system for kids due to the amount of power the speaker produces. At $170 the Starqueen Bluetooth PA Speaker is very reasonably priced considering you get two wireless microphones and remote control with the system.
6. ION Audio Block Rocker Plus
If you’re looking to take your karaoke game to the next level, the ION Audio Block Rocker Plus is the ultimate portable karaoke machine. ION Audio is renowned for making some awesome portable Bluetooth speakers and the Block Rocker Plus certainly lives up to that awesomeness.
The speaker features an 8-inch woofer with wide-dispersion tweeter delivering an impressive 100W of sound. The Block Rocker Plus delivers excellent sound quality with a nice punchy bass sound making it great for karaoke or just a portable Bluetooth party speaker. There’s also a bass boost mode for when you want to take the party to the next level.
The Block Rocker Plus comes with a single cable microphone and there is just one ¼-inch microphone input. Other inputs include ⅛-inch AUX, Bluetooth and FM radio.
The most impressive feature on the Block Rocker Plus is its 50-hour built-in battery. This is more than enough to keep the party going all night and, you can charge your mobile devices from the USB power bank so you never run out of juice.
Verdict
At just under $160, the ION Audio Block Rocker Plus is one of the best karaoke machines on the market in terms of sound and portability. The only downside is you only have one microphone input so no duets or rap battles! If you’re looking for a portable party speaker and karaoke machine in one, then the Block Rocker Plus is definitely the way to go.
7. Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System
If you’re looking for an all-in-one professional karaoke machine with everything you need, including a display for lyrics, then the Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System is just what you’re after. The GF845 features a 7-inch, full-color LCD display so you can follow the lyrics as you sing along. The system even comes with 300 songs pre-programmed into the memory so you’re ready to go! There’s also a DVD player built-in so you can load up your own favorite karaoke discs.
The GF845 stands just 18 inches high and weighs 10 lbs making it perfect for placing on a table or stand in front of you while you sing. The 35W speaker is loud enough for most living spaces and will make enough noise for a party of around 10 – 20 people. There is also a small LED lighting configuration around the speaker grille to create that party atmosphere.
There are two ¼-inch microphone inputs and the system comes with two microphones. Other inputs include ⅛-inch AUX, SD, USB, and Bluetooth. You can even record your karaoke sessions to USB.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a dedicated karaoke machine, then the Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System is a serious piece of kit. With full-color LCD display, DVD player PLUS 300 pre-loaded tracks, you’re ready to start singing your favorite hits.
8. ION Audio Party Rocker Plus
Another great ION Audio portable speaker is the Party Rocker Plus. The speaker comes complete with a disco ball light with six colors and several modes to match the type of music you’re singing to. There’s also a Lighted Grille model which features LED lighting behind the speaker grille for an even more impressive lighting effect.
The Party Rocker Plus features two microphone inputs but comes with just one microphone. If you need a second, make sure to add this to your purchase. The mic inputs have a single dedicated volume control and there’s also an echo effect for vocals.
The speaker features a single 6.5-inch woofer with wide-dispersion tweeter delivering up to 50W of power. More than enough to fill most living spaces and the Party Rocker Plus is also powerful enough to use outdoors. The built-in battery is rated to last up to 75 hours which is better than we have seen on most portable speakers.
Verdict
The Party Rocker Plus is an easy to use karaoke machine with dazzling lighting effects and some serious sound. Unlike the Block Rocker Plus, the Party Rocker Plus allows for two microphone inputs which is obviously preferrable for duets and group singing. At just under $200 the Party Rocker Plus is one of the more expensive karaoke machines we reviewed, but it is well built and delivers excellent sound quality.
9. Altec Lansing Party Star Karaoke Machine
One of the best karaoke machines we found under $100 is the Altec Lansing Party Star Karaoke Machine. This neat little unit features a disco ball, speaker grille lights and CD+G player for multiplex karaoke discs. There are an RCA audio and video out to feed into your TV for the lyrics.
The Party Star Karaoke Machine features two microphone inputs but the system comes with just one mic. There is a single volume control for both mic inputs, echo vocal effects and auto voice control for multiplex karaoke tracks.
On the rear of the speaker are two more inputs including ⅛-inch AUX and ¼-inch instrument input. A USB charge output allows you to charge your mobile devices. The system also features Bluetooth with buttons on the front display for controlling any paired device.
Verdict
The Altec Lansing Party Star Karaoke Machine is easy to use and comes with some awesome features to make your karaoke experience that much more exciting. The system comes in at under $100, is well built, sounds good and includes the ability to play proper karaoke multiplex discs.
10. BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
If you’re looking for a cheap kids karaoke machine, then the BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is an excellent choice. This awesome little unit is available in 11 different colors and costs just $29.
The BONAOK is a simple microphone device with built-in speakers. It’s not going to make too much noise which is great if you’re looking to keep the kids entertained without the headache! There’s even a ⅛-inch headphone output for even less noise.
Although compact, the BONAOK features volume control for the microphone, echo effect, and backing track. The microphone pairs with any Bluetooth-enabled device, which can then be controlled via the four-button control panel on the handle. There’s also an SD card slot to record your little one’s performances.
Verdict
The BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is the perfect karaoke machine for kids. It’s small, lightweight and only costs $29. The device is straightforward to use so your kids can get on and play without needing any help.
Factors to consider when buying a karaoke machine
Buying a karaoke machine is similar to purchasing a pool table, it can be thought of as an investment into your home entertainment area. You can go with the cheapest option, but a few months or a year down the line you may find yourself needing to replace it. There are of course affordable models available that will suffice for most children’s bedrooms, but there are also those that are a bit more costly but ultimately bring more to the table in terms of features, functionality, and audio quality. We’ve created this buyer’s guide to assist you in making the most educated decision that will ensure your money is well spent.
Number of Participants
One of the first and most important factors to consider is the number of participants that you want to have involved in karaoke. Some karaoke machines only allow for one or two microphones to be plugged in, which is fine for solos or duets, but what about if more people want to jump on the mic?
If you’re looking to cater towards larger groups of people on the microphone at the same time (or taking turns across verses) you’ll need to ensure that the karaoke machine is able to cater to that. Thankfully, there are a number of these systems that do cater towards more than two people. We’re big fans of the 4-mic systems, which is enough to cater towards most situations.
Size & Weight
The size and weight of your karaoke system are going to determine how portable it is. For instance, if you’re looking to purchase your karaoke machine for your kid, they may want something that they’re able to easily take with them to slumber parties at friends’ houses.
If you’re simply looking for one that can sit in a single location in your entertainment area, size and weight may not be of much importance, giving you a wider scope to choose from. A number of karaoke machines also come built with wheels, to allow for easier maneuverability around your house. On the other hand, professional karaoke systems can be large, heavy and intended to be kept in a single location for extended periods.
Connectivity
Connectivity is something that can either be a non-issue, or a deal breaker when picking the best karaoke machine for your home. If you’re looking to purchase an all-in-one system that isn’t going to be connected to your home appliances, and don’t have a preference on wired or wireless microphones, you’re probably not going to need to think too much about the connectivity side of things.
On the other hand, you may already have an entertainment system installed and simply want a device that can connect to them in such a way that you can utilize what you already have. If the ability to pair your device to your existing systems are important, you’ll want to thoroughly read through the product description and gauge what it can and can’t do for you and your existing setup.
Similarly, if you are looking to purchase your kid an all-in-one karaoke microphone, you’ll need to ensure that they have access to a Bluetooth capable phone they can connect it to.
Be sure to pay attention to the input support on these devices, which we’ve provided on our listed products. This will make it easier to see which products will work for you.
Available Components
Another important aspect to take into consideration when it comes to choosing the best karaoke machine for you, is looking at what hardware components you may already have in your home. If you’ve already invested in some awesome party speakers and a for your entertainment room, it may not make sense to spend a lot of money on an all-in-one karaoke system where the speaker is the main focus point, it may instead make sense to opt for a machine that focuses more on the mixer, microphone and potentially the screen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the process of buying a karaoke machine may be straightforward, or it may require you to carefully decide what will work best for you in your current space, taking into consideration factors like portability, connectivity, audio quality, maximum mic quantity and more. We’ve written this article to make your decision easier, including information on a number of key factors. Whichever karaoke machine you decide on, you’re sure to love the hours of pleasure and entertainment that it will bring to your home.
