Care to name any makes and models, likes and dislikes?
My favorite table is the newest, a Luxman PD-151 Mk2. It’s pricey when new; I got mine used at a tremendous discount. Vintage Luxman tables last a long time and hold their value well.
My second favorite is the VPI Traveler. It is all lean and no fat. It’s discontinued, but was made with precision here in the US. A fantastic bargain can be found in used models under $1K. I prefer the V1 aesthetically to the V2, although both versions sound virtually identical to me. I use a V1 in my office system.
My best “entry-level” table was the Pioneer PLX-1000. I recommend it for a sub-$1000 choice when purchased new. Direct driven, precise speed control, good isolation, a detachable headshell, VTA adjustment and an included dust cover make this table a great buy. Its main weakness is that the tonearm is not as good as is found in more expensive models, like the Traveler or a Technics SL-1200GR.
I dislike tables lacking VTA (height) adjustment, those with poor isolation and crummy tonearms. Speed control is not generally an audible problem with many new turntables, but more precise speed control matters with piano music. Vintage tables can have problems with speed control and damaged tonearm bearings, so beware.
Also, be alert that many tables from 30-40 years ago have low mass tonearms that can be a bit harder to match to current MC cartridges.