COOL TECH GADGETS FROM THE 90s YOU CAN STILL BUY TODAY

The Enduring Appeal of 90s Tech

The 1990s were a transformative decade for consumer technology. It was a time when digital innovations were becoming mainstream, yet devices still had a tactile, mechanical quality that's often missing from today's sleek, minimalist gadgets. There's something undeniably special about the chunky buttons, colorful plastic casings, and the satisfying clicks and whirs of 90s tech.

Whether you're a collector looking to complete your retro tech collection, someone who wants to relive the nostalgia of their youth, or a new enthusiast discovering these iconic gadgets for the first time, this guide will help you find authentic 90s tech that's still functional and available today.

Surprisingly, many of these devices aren't just museum pieces—they're still practical and usable in 2025, offering unique experiences that modern equivalents can't quite replicate. Let's dive into the world of 90s tech treasures!

Portable Music Players

Sony Walkman (Cassette Players)

The iconic Sony Walkman revolutionized how we listen to music on the go. While streaming services dominate today's music landscape, there's something special about the ritual of selecting a cassette, inserting it, and pressing play.

Where to Find Them:

• Refurbished Models: Several companies specialize in restoring vintage Walkmans to like-new condition. Models like the WM-FX290, WM-EX615, and the premium WM-DD33 are particularly sought after.
• New Old Stock: Occasionally, you can find unopened, never-used Walkmans that have been sitting in storage for decades.
• Modern Recreations: Some companies now produce new cassette players inspired by the classic Walkman design but with modern components.

A refurbished Sony Walkman WM-FX290 in excellent condition typically costs between $100-150, while rarer models can fetch $300+.

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Sony Discman (Portable CD Players)

The successor to the Walkman, the Discman brought digital audio quality to portable music. Despite their reputation for skipping when jostled, later models had impressive anti-skip technology.

Popular Models Still Available:

• D-EJ915: One of the last and most reliable Discman models with 48-hour battery life and excellent anti-skip protection.
• D-141: Ultra-compact model that was ahead of its time.
• D-NE700: Advanced model that supported MP3 CDs, bridging the gap between CD and digital music eras.

Functional Discmans typically range from $50-120 depending on condition and model rarity.

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Virtual Pets & Handheld Games

Tamagotchi

These digital pets took the world by storm in the late 90s, teaching an entire generation about responsibility (or the consequences of neglect). The good news? Bandai has reissued many classic Tamagotchi models.

Available Options:

• Original Reissues: Bandai has released smaller versions of the original 1996/1997 Tamagotchi with the same gameplay.
• Tamagotchi On/Meets: Modern color-screen versions that maintain the spirit of the original while adding new features.
• Vintage Originals: If you want the authentic 90s experience, original units in working condition are still available on secondary markets.

New Tamagotchi reissues cost around $20, while rare vintage models can sell for $100+.

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Tiger Electronics Handheld Games

Before smartphones put games in everyone's pockets, Tiger Electronics handhelds were the affordable way to play on the go. These simple LCD games had dedicated screens for each game.

Popular Games Still Available:

• Sonic the Hedgehog 3
• The Little Mermaid
• X-Men
• Mortal Kombat

Hasbro has recently reissued some classic Tiger handhelds, available for around $15-25. Vintage units in working condition typically sell for $30-80 depending on rarity and condition.

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Cameras & Photography

Polaroid Cameras

Instant photography has made a massive comeback, and 90s Polaroid cameras are at the heart of this revival. The immediate gratification of a physical photo is something digital photography can't replicate.

Best Models to Look For:

• Polaroid 600: The classic 90s Polaroid camera, available in countless designs.
• Polaroid OneStep: Simple to use and iconic in design.
• Polaroid Impulse: Features a built-in flash and sonar autofocus.

The Polaroid brand has been revived by the Impossible Project (now Polaroid Originals), which produces new film for vintage cameras. Vintage Polaroid cameras typically cost $60-150, and new film packs run about $18-25 for 8 exposures.

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Disposable Cameras

The ultimate 90s vacation companion, disposable cameras are experiencing a renaissance among younger generations who appreciate their unpredictable, authentic results.

Available Options:

• Kodak FunSaver: The classic yellow disposable camera, still manufactured today.
• Fujifilm QuickSnap: Known for slightly more vibrant colors than Kodak.
• Ilford XP2: For black and white photography enthusiasts.

New disposable cameras cost around $15-20 each. Many photo labs still develop film, typically charging $10-15 per roll with digital scans.

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Communication Devices

Pagers/Beepers

Before smartphones, pagers were the way to stay connected on the go. While pager networks have largely shut down in the US, collectors still seek these iconic devices, and some models can be repurposed for display or modified for other uses.

Collectible Models:

• Motorola Bravo: One of the most popular pagers of the 90s.
• NEC Prism: Known for its colorful translucent cases.
• Motorola Advisor: Higher-end model with more features.

Vintage pagers typically sell for $20-50 as collectibles. Some specialty services still use pagers (particularly in healthcare), but these are modern versions.

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Clear Landline Phones

Transparent electronics were all the rage in the 90s, with clear phones being particularly popular. These see-through devices let you peek at the inner workings while making calls.

Popular Models:

• Conair Phone 20: The classic clear phone with neon accents.
• Northwestern Bell Clear Phone: Simple and elegant design.
• Radio Shack Clear Phones: Various models with different features.

The best part? These phones still work with modern landlines! Vintage clear phones typically sell for $30-70 depending on condition and features.

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Home Entertainment

Boomboxes

The ultimate symbol of 90s portable audio, boomboxes combined cassette players, CD players, and powerful speakers in one carry-anywhere package.

Sought-After Models:

• JVC RC-550: Known for excellent sound quality and distinctive design.
• Sony CFS-1000: Powerful and feature-rich model.
• Lasonic i931X: Modern recreation of a classic 80s/90s design with Bluetooth added.

Vintage boomboxes in working condition typically sell for $100-300, while modern recreations with added features like Bluetooth cost $150-200.

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Lava Lamps

While not electronic in the traditional sense, lava lamps were a staple of 90s bedroom decor and tech aesthetic. These hypnotic mood lights have remained in production continuously since their invention.

Classic Options:

• Mathmos Astro: The original lava lamp, still made by the same company.
• Lava Lite 14.5": The standard size found in many 90s bedrooms.
• Colormax: Features color-changing LED bases for added effects.

New lava lamps cost $20-40 for basic models, while premium versions or vintage originals can cost $60-100+.

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Buying Guide: What to Look For

When purchasing vintage 90s tech, keep these factors in mind to ensure you get functional items that will last:

Condition Assessment

• Battery Compartments: Always check for corrosion from old batteries.
• Mechanical Parts: Buttons, switches, and moving components should operate smoothly.
• Plastic Condition: Avoid items with yellowed or brittle plastic, which indicates degradation.
• Original Packaging: Items with original boxes and manuals typically command higher prices but are often better preserved.

Seller Reputation

• Specialized Retailers: Shops that focus on vintage electronics often test and sometimes refurbish items before selling.
• Return Policies: Ensure the seller offers returns if the item doesn't work as described.
• Detailed Descriptions: Look for listings that specifically mention the item has been tested and works properly.

Compatibility Considerations

• Power Requirements: Some vintage devices may need voltage converters if purchased from international sellers.
• Media Availability: Consider whether you can still get the media the device uses (cassettes, film, etc.).
• Repair Options: Research whether replacement parts are still available if something breaks.

Why 90s Tech Still Matters

In an age of seamless digital experiences, 90s tech offers something different: tactile interactions, mechanical feedback, and a certain charm that comes from devices designed to do one thing really well. There's a reason these gadgets are experiencing a revival—they connect us to a simpler technological era while still being functional enough to use today.

Whether you're building a collection, looking for a conversation piece, or simply want to experience the technology that shaped a generation, these 90s gadgets offer a window into an important transitional period in consumer electronics—when digital technology was becoming mainstream but hadn't yet taken over every aspect of our lives.

The best part? Many of these items are still relatively affordable compared to other collectibles, making 90s tech nostalgia accessible to almost anyone who wants to experience it.