Playing a vinyl record at the wrong speed can make music sound hilariously wrong—too slow and deep, or fast and squeaky. Luckily, figuring out the correct speed isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. Whether you’re new to vinyl or fine-tuning your setup, this guide explains every trick to instantly determine the right RPM.

🎯 The Three Standard Vinyl Speeds

Most records are designed to be played at one of three speeds:

33⅓ RPM – full-length LPs (12-inch), most common speed
45 RPM – singles, EPs, some audiophile LPs
78 RPM – shellac records from before the 1950s

Choosing the wrong one changes pitch and tempo dramatically—so identifying the right speed matters.

🔍 1. Check the Label — The Easiest Method

Nearly all modern records list the required speed directly on the label or sleeve.

Look for text such as:

33⅓ RPM
45 RPM
78 RPM
Play at 45 RPM
Long Play (LP) → usually 33⅓
Single / 45 Single → usually 45 RPM

If the record tells you, trust it.

🛠️ 2. Use the Record Size as a Quick Clue

When no speed is printed, the size gives a strong hint:

12-inch Records

Mostly 33⅓ RPM
Exceptions: audiophile 12-inch singles may be 45 RPM

7-inch Records (Singles)

Usually 45 RPM
Some older or indie releases: 33⅓ RPM

10-inch Records

Could be 33⅓ or 45 RPM
Check label or trial-listen

Shellac Records

Thick, heavy, brittle
Always 78 RPM

🎧 3. Listen for Speed Errors

If you’re unsure, play the record briefly at different speeds:

🎵 Sounds too slow, deep, and dragging →

Speed is too low. Try a higher RPM.

🎵 Sounds fast, high-pitched, helium-like →

Speed is too high. Try a lower RPM.

With experience, your ears will instantly detect which is correct.

🕰️ 4. Check the Era of the Release

The age of a record can hint at the correct speed:

Pre-1955: likely 78 RPM
1950s–present LPs: 33⅓ RPM
1950s–present singles: mainly 45 RPM

🗂️ 5. Consult the Sleeve, Catalog Number, or Discogs Listing

If your record doesn’t clearly state the RPM:

Look at the outer sleeve (often hidden in small text)
Search the catalog number online
Check the release on Discogs, which lists speed for nearly every known pressing

🧪 6. Audiophile Exception: Some 12-inch LPs Are 45 RPM

Modern high-fidelity reissues—especially 180g or 200g vinyl—may use 45 RPM for improved sound quality.

Common clues:

“2×45 RPM”
“Mastered at 45 RPM”
Two discs for a short album

If a 12-inch album has only 2–3 songs per side, it is likely 45 RPM.

🏁 Final Tips for Choosing the Right Speed

Always try to find printed information first.
Use size and year as secondary clues.
Trust your ears—speed errors are very obvious.
When in doubt, start at 33⅓ RPM, then adjust.

✔️ Conclusion

Identifying the correct record speed is easy once you know how to read the visual and audio cues. For most listening situations:

LP = 33⅓ RPM
Single = 45 RPM
Shellac = 78 RPM

With these tips, you’ll avoid speed mistakes and keep your vinyl sounding exactly as the artist intended.

How to Tell What Speed a Record Should Play At