The allure of vintage charm is making a comeback in the tech world. There is a rising trend of people turning to older gadgets that offer a unique experience that modern smartphones and laptops can’t replicate. Whether it’s the rhythmic clattering of a typewriter or the nostalgic feel of a photo developing in your hands, these older devices have an appeal that is hard to resist.
Tech companies are capitalizing on this wave of nostalgia, merging retro designs with contemporary functionality. This article will explore some of the coolest retro-inspired devices currently available in the market.
Digital typewriters
Image credits:Free writing
In a world constantly beeping with notifications, filling our screens with tabs and endless scrolling, digital typewriters offer a refreshing escape. These devices strip down the writing process to its basics: just you, a keyboard, and your words, devoid of any distractions.
- Freewrite ($699): With its design inspired by classic typewriters, Freewrite offers a minimalist writing experience. It features a small screen and satisfying buttons to press. Drafts are automatically synced to the cloud and can be exported to any software for further editing.
- Pomera ($549): Pomera offers a contemporary take on the Freewrite device. Designed like a compact laptop, it comes with useful tools like spell check, document management, and word count. With multiple transfer options and up to 20 hours of battery life, it combines simplicity with functionality.
Boomboxes, cassettes and record players
Image credits:Bumpboxx
Boomboxes are making a comeback not only as functional audio devices but also as design statements. Modern versions combine the classic features of big buttons, cassette decks, and oversized speakers with contemporary improvements like Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable batteries. Additionally, cassette players and record players are also regaining popularity.
- We Are Rewind ($579): The GB-001 is a modern reimagining of the classic boombox, offering all the essential features such as woofers, tweeters, cassette player and recorder, while incorporating modern additions like Bluetooth and a rechargeable battery.
- Bumpboxx: Currently available on Kickstarter, the new BB-777 combines a bold ’80s aesthetic with a range of modern features. It comes with a powerful 3-way speaker system, two cassette decks with high-speed recording and dubbing, a built-in CD player, USB recording and much more.
- Retrospekt ($99): A minimalist take on the classic Walkman-style player, this portable cassette device offers the essentials: play, rewind, fast forward, and record. It supports both battery power and USB-C, making it a simple yet modern throwback.
- Kickback World ($500): This DEKO record player has become popular not only for its superior functionality but also for its aesthetic appeal. Its unique “Swedish modernist” design contrasts with the traditional suitcase-style record players commonly seen in the market.
Instant cameras
Image credits:Polaroid
Instant cameras bring back the excitement and anticipation of holding a physical photo just a few seconds after taking it. The imperfect beauty of the film and the tangible memory it creates makes each shot feel more meaningful than a digital snap on a smartphone.
- Polaroid ($199): Polaroid continues to innovate while maintaining its popularity. The most recent addition to their product line is the Polaroid Flip, a retro-looking instant camera with modern features like autofocus and app connectivity for remote control.
- Fujifilm ($234): The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo combines the best of both worlds: it’s a mirrorless camera that lets you shoot digitally and print photos instantly. It also offers digital storage and sharing capabilities. The device was recently upgraded to include USB Type-C connectivity.
- Kodak ($35): The single-use disposable camera from Kodak is a simple, reliable device that produces quality photos without the need for advanced photography skills. Last year, Kodak launched the “Charmera,” a miniature digital camera that can record and transfer photos and videos via a USB-C cable.
Phones
Image credits:tin can
Landline phones are making a quiet comeback, especially among people looking to move away from screen-based communications. They also serve as aesthetic pieces, often used as centerpieces in interior design.
- Can ($100): Tin Can is a landline-inspired device designed for kids. It doesn’t require a phone jack, just Wi-Fi. Only approved contacts can call, and parents can manage these contacts through a companion app. You can pre-order it now.
- Clicks ($499): Clicks Technology introduced a smartphone at CES 2026 that resembles a BlackBerry. Although it provides access to text messaging and productivity apps, it restricts access to mobile gaming and social media, making it an attractive alternative for those looking to return to simpler times.
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