CDs are selling far faster than vinyl records again — and price is the reason

In 2026, CD sales grew 16% while vinyl record sales grew just 2.4%. The reason is simple: a vinyl record costs about £35, a CD about £12. John Lewis saw CD player searches jump 96% since July, with two models selling out. Shop owner Richard Farnell in Manchester said vinyl has become too expensive for younger buyers, who are now choosing CDs instead.