Choosing the right turntable cartridge for scratching can improve tracking, reduce record wear, and give your setup the consistent response needed for cuts, transforms, and back-cueing.
We compare 10 DJ-focused cartridges and cartridge-and-headshell options, covering practical differences in mounting style, tracking performance, output, durability, and value.
Best 10 Turntable Cartridge for Scratching Picks for 2026
Best Scratch Performance
Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch Twin
- Purpose-built for scratching
- High output with improved tracking
- Two cartridges with aluminum flight case
Best For: DJs seeking a complete scratch cartridge set
Best Complete Installation Kit
Audio-Technica AT-XP3 DJ Cartridge
- Includes screws, washers, nuts, and screwdriver
- Single-cartridge package
- Backed by a one-year U.S. warranty
Best For: Users installing a cartridge with included hardware
Best Single Scratch Cartridge
- Spherical stylus for scratching
- 4.0 g recommended tracking force
- High output in a single-cartridge format
Best For: DJs replacing one headshell-mounted scratch cartridge
Best Value Two-Pack
Reloop Concorde Black Cartridge
- Two cartridges included
- Spherical stylus with high tracking ability
- Direct SME mounting and 6 mV output
Best For: Scratch DJs wanting a matched two-cartridge setup
Precise Elliptical Tracking
- 3 x 0.7 mil elliptical bonded stylus
- 5.5 mV high-level output
- Reinforced cantilever supports precise tracking
Best For: DJs seeking a durable, high-output elliptical cartridge
Scratch-Focused Performance
- Designed specifically for scratch DJs
- Pre-mounted stylus for quick setup
- Improved tracking and high output
Best For: Scratch DJs using compatible removable-headshell turntables
Ready-to-Use Budget Setup
Gemini HDCN-15 Headshell Cartridge
- Pre-mounted and factory-aligned
- Standard SME-style headshell connection
- Useful as an affordable backup
Best For: DJs needing a quick replacement or spare cartridge setup
Best Scratch Twin Pack
- Built for scratching and backcueing
- Two pre-mounted cartridges included
- Aluminum flight case for storage
Best For: DJs wanting a matched twin-cartridge setup
Best Tracking Value
- Special spherical stylus for scratching
- Very high tracking ability
- Direct SME mounting
Best For: Scratch DJs prioritizing tracking and easy installation
Best All-Rounder Twin Pack
- Versatile DJ all-rounder
- Designed for scratching and backcueing
- Two pre-mounted styli in a case
Best For: DJs wanting versatility and value in a twin pack
Best Scratch Performance – Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch Twin
The Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch Twin is a purpose-built turntable cartridge for scratching, with a focus on tracking stability, high output, and scratch performance. Its direct-fit design works with DJ turntables that accept removable headshell-style cartridges.
Best For: DJs who want a matched two-cartridge set with pre-mounted styli and a protective aluminum flight case.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for scratching
- Improved tracking ability and high output
- Includes two pre-mounted cartridges and an aluminum flight case
- Covered by a 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Designed for DJ turntables with compatible removable headshell mounting
- A twin set may be more than needed for users replacing only one cartridge
This is a strong choice when scratch-focused performance and convenient setup matter more than buying a single replacement cartridge.
Best Complete Installation Kit – Audio-Technica AT-XP3 DJ Cartridge
The Audio-Technica AT-XP3 is a practical turntable cartridge for scratching when you need a conventional cartridge installation setup. It includes mounting hardware and a non-magnetic screwdriver, making it suitable for replacing or installing a cartridge on a compatible headshell.
Best For: DJs who want a single cartridge with the basic screws, washers, nuts, and screwdriver included.
Pros:
- Includes multiple screw lengths for installation
- Washers, nuts, and a non-magnetic screwdriver are included
- Analog signal format
- Backed by a U.S. one-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Requires a more involved installation than a direct-fit cartridge
- The supplied notes do not specify scratch-focused tracking or output features
The AT-XP3 makes sense for buyers who value included installation accessories and want a straightforward single-cartridge package.
Best Single Scratch Cartridge – Ortofon OM Scratch White
The Ortofon OM Scratch White is a single turntable cartridge for scratching with a spherical stylus, high output, and a stated tracking force of 4.0 g. It is designed for mounting on a headshell and emphasizes reliable scratch-oriented tracking.
Best For: DJs who need one scratch cartridge for a compatible headshell-mounted setup.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for scratching
- Spherical stylus is optimized for scratch use
- High output and maximum scratch performance
- Includes a 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Only one cartridge is included
- Requires a compatible headshell for mounting
Choose the OM Scratch White when you want a focused, single-cartridge solution with clearly specified scratch tracking characteristics.
Best Value Two-Pack – Reloop Concorde Black Cartridge
The Reloop Concorde Black is a two-pack turntable cartridge for scratching that combines a special spherical stylus, high tracking ability, and high output voltage. Its direct SME mounting is designed to simplify tonearm installation.
Best For: DJs who want two scratch-ready cartridges with a broad 2–5 g tracking-force range.
Pros:
- Two cartridges are included
- Special spherical stylus and high tracking ability
- High output voltage of 6 mV
- Direct SME mounting supports easy tonearm installation
Cons:
- Requires a compatible SME-style tonearm connection
- Recommended tracking force is relatively specific at 4 g
The Reloop Concorde Black is a practical two-cartridge option for scratch DJs who prioritize easy mounting, strong tracking, and high output.
Precise Elliptical Tracking – Audio-Technica AT-XP5
The Audio-Technica AT-XP5 is a strong option when you need a turntable cartridge for scratching that balances secure tracking with detailed playback. Its elliptical bonded stylus, rigid body, and reinforced cantilever are designed for dependable DJ use.
Best For: DJs who want an elliptical cartridge with high output and adjustable tracking force.
Pros:
- 3 x 0.7 mil elliptical bonded stylus tip
- 5.5 mV high-level output
- Rigid PPS/glass-fiber body helps support durability
- Carbon fiber-reinforced ABS cantilever and nylon suspension support precise tracking
Cons:
- Requires a separate headshell or compatible mounting setup
- Recommended tracking force is relatively substantial at 3.0 grams standard
The AT-XP5 is a practical pick for scratch-oriented setups where tracking stability and output matter. Its 1/2-inch mount and included alignment protractor support a more hands-on installation.
Scratch-Focused Performance – Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch
The Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch is purpose-built for DJs looking for a turntable cartridge for scratching. Its pre-mounted stylus, high output, and stated focus on scratch performance make it a convenient choice for compatible DJ turntables.
Best For: Scratch DJs who want a ready-to-use cartridge with strong tracking and high output.
Pros:
- Tailored specifically for scratch performance
- Improved tracking ability for DJ use
- High output supports a strong phono signal
- Pre-mounted stylus simplifies setup
Cons:
- Sold as a single cartridge rather than a pair
- Requires a turntable with a compatible removable headshell or SME tonearm mount
For scratch-focused setups, the Concorde MK2 Scratch stands out for its specialized design and simple installation. Confirm your tonearm compatibility before purchasing, especially if you do not use a removable headshell system.
Ready-to-Use Budget Setup – Gemini HDCN-15 Headshell Cartridge
The Gemini HDCN-15 combines a standard SME-style headshell with a factory-aligned CN-15 cartridge, making it a convenient turntable cartridge for scratching and everyday DJ playback. It is designed for quick installation without separate alignment tools.
Best For: DJs who want an affordable, pre-aligned replacement or backup headshell and cartridge.
Pros:
- Cartridge comes pre-mounted and factory-aligned
- Standard SME-style connection fits many compatible turntables
- Designed for steady, skip-resistant groove tracking
- Rugged housing helps reduce vibration transfer
Cons:
- Supplied cartridge specifications are less detailed than some alternatives
- Compatibility depends on having a standard headshell connection
- Positioned as a practical budget solution rather than a specialized scratch cartridge
The HDCN-15 is especially useful as a spare or quick replacement because the alignment work is already done. It offers a straightforward path back to the decks for DJs who prioritize convenience and affordability.
Best Scratch Twin Pack – Ortofon Concorde MK2 DJ
If you need a turntable cartridge for scratching, the Ortofon Concorde MK2 DJ Twin Cartridge is built around scratch and backcueing. It includes two cartridges with pre-mounted styli, so it is a practical choice for DJs who want accurate sound reproduction and dependable groove handling.
Best For: DJs who want a matched two-cartridge setup for scratching and backcueing.
Pros:
- Designed for scratch and backcueing
- Accurate sound reproduction and excellent groove handling
- Fits DJ turntables with a removable headshell
- Includes two pre-mounted cartridges in an aluminum flight case
Cons:
- The twin-pack format may be more than needed for a single replacement
- Compatibility depends on having a removable headshell
This is a strong all-in-one option for scratch DJs who value secure handling and the convenience of two ready-to-use cartridges. Its included aluminum case also makes storage and transport easier.
Best Tracking Value – Reloop Concorde Black
For shoppers comparing a turntable cartridge for scratching, the Reloop Concorde Black emphasizes tracking stability with a special spherical stylus and a recommended tracking force of 4 g. Its direct SME mounting also supports quick tonearm installation.
Best For: Scratch DJs seeking high tracking ability, low vinyl wear, and straightforward SME mounting.
Pros:
- Excellent for scratching with very high tracking ability
- Special spherical stylus and low vinyl wear
- Direct SME mounting simplifies installation
- 6 mV output voltage and 20 Hz–18 kHz frequency range
Cons:
- Recommended tracking force is relatively specific at 4 g
- Designed around SME tonearm mounting
The Reloop Concorde Black is a focused choice for scratch use, especially when reliable tracking and simple installation matter more than a twin-cartridge bundle.
Best All-Rounder Twin Pack – Ortofon Concorde MK2 Mix
The Ortofon Concorde MK2 Mix is a versatile turntable cartridge for scratching when you also want an all-around DJ setup. This twin pack includes two cartridges with pre-mounted styli, plus an aluminum flight case, and is designed for scratch and backcueing.
Best For: DJs who want an affordable, versatile twin pack for scratching, backcueing, and general mixing.
Pros:
- Groovy all-rounder for general DJ use
- Designed for scratch and backcueing
- Two cartridges with pre-mounted styli included
- Aluminum flight case adds convenient storage and transport
Cons:
- The twin-pack format may not suit buyers replacing only one cartridge
- Compatibility is centered on SME tonearm mounting or removable-headshell setups
With its all-round positioning and two-cartridge format, the Concorde MK2 Mix makes sense for DJs who want scratch capability without choosing a narrowly specialized model.
How We Picked the Best Turntable Cartridge for Scratching
We focused on cartridges designed for DJ use rather than general hi-fi listening. The most important considerations were tracking stability during back-cueing and scratching, resistance to skips, output level, replacement convenience, and compatibility with common DJ tonearms. We also considered whether each option is sold as a single cartridge, a pair, or a complete headshell-and-cartridge assembly.
Product format matters in this category. Concorde-style cartridges mount directly to compatible tonearms, while standard 1/2-inch cartridges require a headshell and careful alignment. The included stylus profile, recommended tracking force, and setup instructions should always be checked against your turntable and mixer system.
Quick Comparison
- Best for dedicated scratch setups: Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch models, with DJ-oriented construction and convenient tonearm mounting.
- Best for flexible standard mounting: Audio-Technica AT-XP3 or AT-XP5, depending on whether you prefer a conical or elliptical stylus design.
- Best for a ready-to-use package: Gemini HDCN-15, which combines a headshell and cartridge.
- Best for paired turntables: Twin and 2-pack options from Ortofon and Reloop.
- Best for DJ mixing as well as scratching: Ortofon Concorde MK2 DJ or Mix models, depending on the sound and handling balance you want.
Key Buying Factors for a Turntable Cartridge for Scratching
Tracking and Stylus Design
Stable tracking is the top priority. A conical stylus is common for scratching because it tolerates lateral movement and back-cueing well. Elliptical designs can offer more detailed playback, but they may require more careful setup and handling for aggressive performance techniques.
Mounting Compatibility
Confirm whether your tonearm accepts a Concorde-style cartridge or a standard 1/2-inch mount. A direct-mount cartridge is faster to install, while a headshell-mounted option offers more flexibility but requires alignment and correct overhang.
Tracking Force and Record Care
Use the manufacturer’s recommended tracking force and balance the tonearm accurately. Excessive force can increase record wear, while too little force may cause skipping. Clean records and a clean stylus also help maintain reliable performance.
Single, Twin, or Replacement Format
A twin pack makes sense for a two-turntable DJ setup and usually provides a matching pair. A single cartridge is more economical when replacing one damaged stylus or building a backup system.
Who Should Buy Which Turntable Cartridge for Scratching?
Choose an Ortofon Concorde MK2 Scratch cartridge if quick installation, scratch-focused handling, and a proven DJ-style format are your priorities. Select an Audio-Technica AT-XP model if you prefer a conventional headshell setup or want to compare stylus formats. The Gemini package is convenient for buyers who need a cartridge and headshell together. Reloop options are worth considering for straightforward DJ replacement value, while the Concorde DJ and Mix models suit users who want a broader balance between scratching, cueing, and regular mixing.