12 Old Tech Gadgets That Are Still in Demand
Dig out those old electronics stashed away in the attic — they just might be worth a small fortune today. From groundbreaking gadgets that revolutionized the way we live and work to quirky collectibles that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia, vintage tech has become a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Whether it’s a first-generation iPod or a retro gaming console (yes, Game Boy, we’re talking about you), here are 12 outdated devices that still command big bucks.
1. First-Generation iPhone
Apple’s inaugural iPhone (yuck, is that a home button?!) revolutionized the smartphone industry by introducing new features like a touchscreen, camera, and internet access. Factory-sealed units have been known to sell for thousands at auctions, with one “exceedingly rare” 4GB model selling for an eye-gouging $190,373 in 2023.
2. Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera
Introduced in 1972, the SX-70 captivated photographers with its ability to produce instant photos and its fold-out design that shrunk down to the size of a paperback book (pretty neat, indeed). Known for its sleek, futuristic look, the SX-70 remains a favorite among collectors and fans of vintage tech. Depending on the model and condition, you’ll find these polaroid cameras listed for anywhere from around $200 to over a grand, with rare editions or sealed units fetching even more.
3. Sony Walkman TPS-L2
As the first portable cassette player, the Walkman transformed the way we listened to music in a pre-Spotify era. Originally priced around $150, refurbished units or those in mint condition can fetch around $1,000 online.
4. Nintendo Game Boy
Launched in 1989, this handheld gaming console introduced portable gaming to the masses (I can’t be the only one who played Tetris on this bad boy for days on end). While used units can start around $80, those in mint condition or with original packaging can be listed for upwards of $2,000, especially among retro gaming enthusiasts.
5. Sega Dreamcast
Featuring online gaming capabilities and an impressive library with titles like “Shenmue,” “NFL 2K,” and “Jet Set Radio,” the Sega Dreamcast was ahead of its time when it launched in 1999. Though it was discontinued a few years later, it has gained a cult following among retro gaming fans. Consoles in good condition are listed for anywhere between $200 to over $1,500.
6. Atari 2600
As a pioneer in home video gaming, the Atari 2600 featured beloved classics like “Space Invaders” and “Birthday Mania.” While well-preserved vintage consoles can sell for anywhere from $100 to $500, rare editions that include games like “Air Raid,” “Frogger,” and “Donkey Kong” can list for much higher prices (around $800).
7. Apple Macintosh
Apple’s first personal computer, the Macintosh 128K, was originally sold for $2,495. But today, units in good condition are listed for anywhere from $1,000 to over $2,500, due to their rarity and significance in the world of tech. Collectors prize these machines not only for their historical value, but also for their role in changing the way we browse and use the internet.
8. Commodore 64
Once a staple in home computing (especially in the late ’80s and early ’90s), the clunky Commodore 64 — also known as the C64 — remains popular among retro tech enthusiasts. Depending on its condition and attached accessories, they can sell for anywhere from around $100 to $400, with pristine units fetching even higher prices.
9. Tamagotchis
Hailing from Japan, these digital pets were all the craze in the ’90s. By enabling users to care for a virtual pet, the pocket-sized devices mimicked all the responsibilities of real pet ownership, including feeding, cleaning, and playing with their pixelated companions. If neglected for too long, the pets could even “die,” teaching kids a harsh lesson in responsibility and care (I’m low-key still traumatized).
Original 1996 models in mint condition list for around $100, while rarer editions can command prices in the thousands.
10. Motorola DynaTAC 8000X
This Motorola phone that doubled as a weapon (hence the name “brick phone”) was the first official cellphone to succeed the beeper. Released in 1983, it came with a hefty price tag of nearly $4,000 and limited talk time, but it revolutionized the way people communicated on the go. Original models in working condition are listed for upwards of $2,300 today, valued not only for their historical significance but also as a symbol of technological advancement.
11. Apple iPod Classic 1st Generation
The OG iPod from 2001 rocked our worlds by introducing the ability to store thousands of songs (as opposed to the measly dozen or so tracks that fit on a CD). Its sleek design and innovative click wheel made it a must-have gadget, cementing Apple’s status as a giant in the tech world. Factory-sealed first-generation iPods can command thousands of dollars, while refurbished ones in good or mint condition are listed for around $75.
12. Psion Series 5
Dubbed the “pocket computer,” the Psion Series 5 was an advanced PDA (personal device assistant) for its time. Featuring a touch-sensitive screen and a full QWERTY keyboard, well-preserved units are listed for several hundred dollars (around $250), while rare editions like the Revo 8MB can command even higher prices.