THIS WEEK’S UPDATE
Retro Tech Is Back - And So Am I
This one's a bit different - we’re coming at you this week in partnership with Back Market, the refurbished-tech marketplace. If you’re a regular around here you already know I'm a Back Market convert (the iPod).
New Back Market research shows this isn't just me being sentimental - 71% of Brits wish they'd owned a specific piece of retro tech as a kid, and 45% now plan to buy one. Retro tech is genuinely having a moment.
Below are the retro devices I'd actually buy - and how to get the most from each. Let's get into it!
iPods & MP3 Players
My home turf. The device that got me off the streaming treadmill after one too many price hikes. Building your own offline library, the click-wheel, no notifications mid-song. Nano for the gym/kids, Classic for a full collection. Tip: consider a modded Classic (flash storage + bigger battery) if you want it as a forever player.
Game Boy & Handheld Classics
The device that invented handheld gaming. Pokémon and Tetris still hold up on a commute. DS if you want the bigger library and dual screens. Tip: look for a backlit-screen version (or mod) and stock up on batteries.
Digital Cameras (the digicam comeback)
The early-2000s point-and-shoot look is back thanks to TikTok. No fiddly settings, fits in a pocket, that distinctive flash-photo aesthetic you can't fake on a phone. Anyone looking for real nostalgia will get an instant camera for their next outing.
Physical Audio: Listening to Retro Devices
Ditch the AirPods. Wired headphones give you that warmer, no-lag sound retro audio was made for - and they never need charging. Pair them with a used Walkman or Discman for a fully physical listen.
Retro as Home Décor
Fun stat to close on: 1 in 10 people now display their retro tech as a design feature at home, and a third use theirs regularly.
That's my retro shortlist, but there's loads more on Back Market - from consoles to cameras. Affordable, warrantied, and kinder to the planet than buying new.
Everything at Back Market comes with a 12-month warranty.
~ Mark
