Karaoke machines can be a great addition to an entertainment area for adults or kids. It’s a very effective way of bridging the gap between the older and younger generations. There are few activities that children, parents, and grandparents can enjoy together as enthusiastically as a karaoke machine.
We’ve looked at several models on the market from all different price points and compiled 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.
Our Category Winners
Best Karaoke Machine for Adults
If you’re looking for a nice big karaoke rig, the Starqueen Bluetooth PA Speaker is one to check out. The system features a 12-inch woofer with a 3-inch tweeter producing 50W power. Certainly capable of filling most living spaces with ease.
Best Karaoke Machine for Kids
The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine is a fun little system 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
The ION Audio Block Rocker Plus is the ultimate portable karaoke machine to take your karaoke game to the next level. 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
Suppose you’re looking for an all-in-one professional karaoke machine with everything you need, including a display for lyrics. In that case, the Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System is what you’re after. The GF845 features a 7-inch, full-color LCD to 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! A built-in DVD player also loads up your favorite karaoke discs.
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 colors and costs just $29.
We all know karaoke systems come in all shapes and sizes, but they also come in their unique types, which feature certain functionality differences, all with their list of pros and cons. The type of karaoke machine you buy should cater to the functionality you’re looking for. For instance, not all karaoke machines have a lyrics screen, and some even lack speakers, requiring you to connect them to an existing speaker system. The way the karaoke systems are categorized varies between individuals, but these are some unique variations.
The 10 Best Karaoke Machines
1. KaraoKing Karaoke Machine for Kids & Adults
The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine is a fun little system 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 to fine-tune the speaker’s sound to meet your preferences. An echo vocal effect also makes you sound like the pros.
The Karaoke Machine has two microphones so that 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 must work on your mic technique to balance the voices. But there’s 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.
Our Thoughts
The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine retails for around $229; you get the speaker, two microphones, and an iPad holder—great value. The system is very simple for kids and adults but is not very loud and is, therefore, best suited for living areas for a maximum of around ten people.
2. Memorex MKS-SS2 SingStand 2 Home Karaoke System
Memorex SingStand 2 Home Karaoke System is one to check out if you prefer to sing with a microphone stand. The stand even includes a hold for mobile devices or tablets to 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 feet, which might be a little low for some adults, but it is a great karaoke machine for kids. The cable microphone can be picked up and removed so you can 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 to balance them to get the right mix. There’s also an echo voice effect to give you that professional sound.
Our Thoughts
The SingStand 2 is one of the 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 fill a room. This karaoke system is best suited for kids, and at just $85, it won’t break the bank.
3. 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 enough power to fill most living spaces. The system is great for adults and kids. However, you will want to watch volume levels around the little one’s ears as the PWMA325BT can get 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, then played on the PWMA325BT and other devices like a PC.
On top of the PWMA325BT are a full control panel and inputs. Here, you can control your connected audio device and adjust bass, treble, master volume, and reverb for vocal effects. There’s also a pre-programmed EQ with five different modes.
Our Thoughts
The Pyle PWMA325BT Portable Karaoke Speaker System is a fun little unit with many 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 to almost any device. At $140, you get a big sound, many fun features, and a wireless handheld microphone.
4. Starqueen Karaoke DJ Speaker
If you’re looking for a nice big karaoke rig, the Starqueen Bluetooth PA Speaker is one to check out. The system features a 12-inch woofer with a 3-inch tweeter producing 50W power. Certainly capable of filling most living spaces with ease.
The Starqueen has two wireless microphones so that you can double the fun. There is a ¼-inch input that can be used for a third mic or an instrument. There is a single volume control for all three microphones and separate controls for bass, treble, and echo effects. 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 must buy a stand if you don’t already have one.
Our Thoughts
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 a remote control with the system.
5. ION Audio Block Rocker Plus
The ION Audio Block Rocker Plus is the ultimate portable karaoke machine to take your karaoke game to the next level. 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 a wide-dispersion tweeter, delivering an impressive 100W 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. A bass boost mode also takes the party to the next level.
The Block Rocker Plus has a single cable microphone with just one ¼-inch microphone input. Other inputs include ⅛-inch AUX, Bluetooth, and FM radio.
ION Audio specializes in tailgate party speakers and some of that DNA shows in their karaoke machines. The most impressive feature of the Block Rocker Plus is its 50-hour built-in battery. This is 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.
Our Thoughts
At just under $160, the ION Audio Block Rocker Plus is one of the best karaoke machines 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, the Block Rocker Plus is the way to go.
6. Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System
Suppose you’re looking for an all-in-one professional karaoke machine with everything you need, including a display for lyrics. In that case, the Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System is what you’re after. The GF845 features a 7-inch, full-color LCD to 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 built-in DVD player to load up your favorite karaoke discs.
The GF845 stands 18 inches high and weighs 10 lbs, making it perfect for placing on a table or standing 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 has two microphones. Other inputs include ⅛-inch AUX, SD, USB, and Bluetooth. You can even record your karaoke sessions on USB.
Our Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dedicated karaoke machine, then the Karaoke USA GF845 Complete Karaoke System is a serious kit. You can start singing your favorite hits with a full-color LCD and DVD player PLUS 300 pre-loaded tracks.
7. 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. There’s also a Lighted Grille model with 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, add this to your purchase. The mic inputs have a single dedicated volume control and an echo effect for vocals.
The speaker features a 6.5-inch woofer with a wide-dispersion tweeter, delivering up to 50W of power. It is more than enough to fill most living spaces, and the Party Rocker Plus is also powerful enough to be used outdoors. The built-in battery is rated to last up to 75 hours, which is better than we have seen on most portable speakers.
Our Thoughts
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 are preferable 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.
8. 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 a CD+G player for multiplex karaoke discs. An RCA audio and video are out to feed into your TV for the lyrics.
The Party Star Karaoke Machine has two microphone inputs, but the system has just one mic. There is a single volume control for mic inputs, echo vocal effects, and auto voice control for multiplex karaoke tracks.
On the speaker’s rear 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.
Our Thoughts
The Altec Lansing Party Star Karaoke Machine is easy to use and has some awesome features to make your karaoke experience much more exciting. The system comes under $100, is well built, sounds good, and can play proper karaoke multiplex discs.
9. 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 colors and costs just $29.
The BONAOK is a simple microphone device with built-in speakers. It won’t make too much noise, which is great if you want 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.
Our Thoughts
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.
Different Karaoke Machine Systems
Aside from categorizing the karaoke machines listed above, the other way to narrow 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 to expensive systems 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 entertainment areas. Professional karaoke systems tend to feature high-quality audio output but are larger and 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 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 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
Several home karaoke machines would do perfectly for your kids, too. However, price points often concern parents who don’t want to invest much money in a fleeting interest. Thankfully, a wide range of karaoke machines are also geared towards kids. These tend to be much more portable, making them easy to take to a friend’s 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.
Factors to consider when buying a karaoke machine
Buying a karaoke machine is similar to purchasing a pool table. It can be considered an investment in your home entertainment area. You can go with the cheapest option, but you may need to replace it a few months or a year down the line. There are, of course, affordable models available that will suffice for most children’s bedrooms. Still, some are more costly but ultimately bring more regarding features, functionality, and audio quality. We’ve created this buyer’s guide to assist you in making the most educated decision to ensure your money is well spent.
Number of Participants
One of the first and most important factors to consider is the number of participants 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?
Suppose you’re looking to cater to larger groups of people on the microphone simultaneously (or taking turns across verses). In that case, you’ll need to ensure the karaoke machine can cater to that. Thankfully, there are a number of these systems that cater to more than two people. We’re big fans of the 4-mic systems, which is enough to cater to most situations.
Size & Weight
The size and weight of your karaoke system will determine how portable it is. For instance, if you want to purchase your karaoke machine for your kid, they may want something they can easily take to slumber parties at friends’ houses.
If you’re looking for one that can sit in a single location in your entertainment area, size and weight may not be important, giving you a wider scope. Several karaoke machines also come with wheels 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 can be a non-issue or a deal breaker when picking the best karaoke machine for your home. Suppose you’re looking to purchase an all-in-one system that isn’t connected to your home appliances and doesn’t have a preference for wired or wireless microphones. In that case, you’ll probably not need to think too much about connectivity.
On the other hand, you may already have an entertainment system installed and want a device that can connect to it to utilize what you already have. If pairing your device to your existing systems is 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 want to purchase your kid an all-in-one karaoke microphone, you’ll need to ensure they can access a Bluetooth-capable phone they can connect to.
Pay attention to the input support on these devices 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 consider when choosing the best karaoke machine is looking at what hardware components you already have in your home. If you’ve already invested in some awesome party speakers for your entertainment room, spending a lot of money on an all-in-one karaoke system where the speaker is the main focus point may not make sense. Instead, Opting for a machine that focuses more on the mixer, microphone, and screen may make sense.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying a karaoke machine may be straightforward or require carefully deciding what will work best for you in your current space, considering factors like portability, connectivity, audio quality, maximum mic quantity, and more. We’ve written this article to make your decision easier, including information on several key factors. Whichever karaoke machine you decide on, you’ll love the hours of pleasure and entertainment it will bring to your home.
Frequently Askled Questions
Do all karaoke machines come with built-in songs?
No, not all karaoke machines come with built-in songs. Some machines require users to supply their own music via CDs, USB drives, or Bluetooth streaming, while others might come pre-loaded with a song library.
Can I connect my smartphone or tablet to my karaoke machine?
Most modern home karaoke machines support connectivity options like Bluetooth or auxiliary input, allowing users to connect smartphones or tablets to stream music or display lyrics.
Is it possible to record my singing with a home karaoke machine?
Some karaoke machines come with recording features, allowing users to record and playback their performances. This can be useful for practice or to share with friends and family.
What should I consider when buying a karaoke machine?
When purchasing a karaoke machine, consider its connectivity options, sound quality, whether it has a built-in screen, portability, available song library, and any additional features like recording or voice effects. Your intended use and budget will also play a role in your decision.
