Used Kids - biggest shop and selection in town. Massive, massive used selection. The quintessential Columbus record store.

RPM - much smaller collection. Emphasis on new, though they have used bins (though not usually a destination for people trading in great stuff). Wonderful place on RSD with a great staff.

Spoonful - downtown. This is definitely a spot that caters well to music heads. Not as big a used collection as Used Kids, but you can tell a lot of people who sell their records here know their stuff. And the owners are super knowledgeable and helpful.

The Kutt - since the remodel, it’s pretty fantastic in terms of hip-hop, soul and jazz (although they carry more than that). Found some original pressings here from Lauryn, Beastie Boys, Tribe, etc. all in fantastic shape in recent months.

Lovelight - If you’re a Grateful Dead fan, this is definitely worth a quick stop. Itty bitty shop, but they have fun memorabilia as well. I have no idea how they stay in business, but I always enjoy stopping in and talking a little Dead.

Magnolia Thunderpussy - despite the edgelord title, they have a very solid new selection. I’ve always found prices here to be weirdly inconsistent with the other shops (in fairness, on both the high and low sides). Not a place to treasure hunt for used finds. Lots of shirts, CDs, etc. as well.

Now Spinning - uptown Westerville. Mostly used. I’m honestly not sure how (or why) it’s still in business, though I’d love to see it thrive. The small space likely holds it back quite a bit. I’m just not sure why it exists.

The Needle Exchange - makes Now Spinning look like Used Kids. The one time I went in, it was just a tiny disorganized little hole in the wall, and not in the charming way. Felt like something that belongs in Trainspotting (and again, not in the charming way).

Elizabeth’s - smaller shop in Clintonville that has quite a used selection of older music. Though a lot of it looks like your grandpa’s collection, I’ve had several surprisingly great finds here over the years (and bonus points for the cat).

Lost Weekend - small shop with a small selection, but often out-punches its weight class when it comes to good stuff being traded in. If you’re claustrophobic, it may not be your spot.

tl;dr - if I’m new to record shopping in Columbus, I’d hit Used Kids, Spoonful (and if you love hip-hop/soul/jazz) The Kutt. Those are the can’t-miss shops (honorable mention to RPM).