In the fast-paced world of technology, gadgets come and go, but some discontinued devices have stood the test of time by becoming highly sought-after collectibles. These gadgets, once considered cutting-edge, now fetch a small fortune due to their rarity, nostalgic value, or groundbreaking features. Whether it’s an old gaming console, a vintage mobile phone, or an early portable music player, these tech treasures remind us of how far we’ve come and why certain innovations will always have a special place in history. Here are 18 discontinued tech gadgets that are worth much more today than you might expect.
Apple iPod Classic (6th Generation)
When Apple discontinued the iPod Classic in 2014, it marked the end of an era for digital music lovers. Today, however, collectors are willing to pay a premium for this iconic gadget, especially models with large storage capacities. Its sleek design and ability to store up to 160 GB of music make it a coveted item. Original models, still in mint condition, can fetch up to several hundred dollars online. Some rare editions have even gone for more than $1,000 in auctions. Its simplicity and durability add to its nostalgic appeal. In a world dominated by streaming services, owning an iPod Classic feels like owning a piece of history.
Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP
First introduced in 2003, the Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP was a handheld console that revolutionized portable gaming with its clamshell design and backlit screen. Although newer handheld consoles have emerged, the Game Boy Advance SP is still sought after by collectors. Its compatibility with Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges adds to its versatility. If you have a special edition, such as the Zelda-themed version, it could be worth several hundred dollars today. In pristine condition, complete with the original packaging, prices have soared even higher. Nostalgia and the love of retro gaming make this device valuable to enthusiasts. It’s a reminder of simpler gaming days.
Sony Walkman TPS-L2
The original Sony Walkman, the TPS-L2, first hit the market in 1979, revolutionizing how people listened to music on the go. Over 40 years later, this portable cassette player has become a collector’s dream. Vintage models in good working condition can command several hundred dollars, with some fetching over $1,000. Its cultural significance as the first truly portable music player adds to its mystique. Limited editions or models with the original accessories, like the headphones or carrying case, can significantly increase its value. Audiophiles and retro tech enthusiasts alike covet this iconic gadget. It’s not just a piece of technology but a pop culture icon.
PalmPilot Professional
Before smartphones, the PalmPilot was the must-have gadget for anyone who wanted to stay organized. Released in 1997, the PalmPilot Professional was among the most advanced personal digital assistants (PDAs) of its time. Although long obsolete, this device is now a collector’s item. Enthusiasts who appreciate its place in tech history are willing to pay up to $300 for a well-preserved model. Its combination of stylus input and basic computing functions make it a tech relic worth holding onto. Finding one with all original packaging and accessories can boost its value considerably. The PalmPilot represents a time when mobile computing was just beginning.
Microsoft Zune HD
Though Microsoft’s Zune was never as popular as Apple’s iPod, the Zune HD, released in 2009, has gained a cult following since its discontinuation in 2012. Tech enthusiasts and collectors are now willing to pay several hundred dollars for this underappreciated device. Its OLED touchscreen, HD radio, and slick user interface set it apart from other MP3 players of its time. A pristine Zune HD with the original box can go for up to $500 or more on auction sites. For many, the Zune HD represents the “what if” scenario of what could have been a major competitor to the iPod. Despite its commercial failure, it’s now seen as a unique piece of tech history.
Atari 2600
The Atari 2600, originally released in 1977, is often credited with popularizing home video gaming. Its iconic design and library of classic games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man make it a must-have for vintage gaming collectors. While the console itself is valuable, it’s the rare games and accessories that can drive prices through the roof. A complete, boxed console in good condition can sell for over $500. Rare games, such as Air Raid, have sold for tens of thousands of dollars. For those who grew up in the early days of gaming, the Atari 2600 holds a special place. It’s a symbol of the golden age of video games.
Apple Newton MessagePad 2100
Though Apple’s Newton MessagePad series was not a commercial success, the Newton MessagePad 2100, released in 1997, has become a valuable collector’s item. Its groundbreaking handwriting recognition software paved the way for future tech advancements. Discontinued in 1998, a well-maintained MessagePad 2100 can fetch anywhere from $300 to over $1,000, depending on its condition and accessories. As one of Apple’s first attempts at mobile computing, it’s a unique part of the company’s history. Today, tech historians and Apple enthusiasts alike seek out this forgotten gadget. Owning one is like holding an early piece of the smartphone puzzle.
Nintendo Virtual Boy
The Virtual Boy, Nintendo’s foray into 3D gaming in 1995, was widely considered a failure upon its release. However, time has been kind to this unique console. Collectors now clamor for working units, with prices often exceeding $500 for complete sets. Although its monochrome red display and uncomfortable design were major flaws, its rarity has made it a must-have for vintage gaming enthusiasts. Special edition games and complete boxed consoles can push the price even higher. It remains a curious footnote in Nintendo’s history, representing the company’s bold but flawed experimentation. Today, it’s a rare glimpse into what could have been the future of gaming.
Motorola DynaTAC 8000X
The Motorola DynaTAC 8000X, released in 1983, was the world’s first commercially available mobile phone. Its iconic brick-like design and hefty price tag of nearly $4,000 made it a symbol of wealth and status. Today, original models in working condition can fetch upwards of $1,000, depending on the condition. As the pioneer of mobile communication, it holds a significant place in tech history. Despite its impractical size by today’s standards, the DynaTAC is a collector’s dream. Owning this device is like holding a piece of early mobile revolution. Its rarity and historical importance continue to drive its value on the market.
Psion Series 5
The Psion Series 5, released in 1997, was an advanced PDA with a touch-sensitive screen and a full QWERTY keyboard. Though it has long been surpassed by modern smartphones, its innovative design and functionality have kept it in the hearts of tech enthusiasts. Today, a well-preserved Psion Series 5 can sell for several hundred dollars. Rare editions, such as the Series 5mx, can command even higher prices. Its compact, foldable design and ability to run basic software made it a powerful tool for its time. Collectors appreciate its place in the evolution of mobile computing. It remains a beloved relic of the pre-smartphone era.
Tamagotchi (Original 1996 Version)
The original Tamagotchi, released in 1996, was a digital pet craze that swept the world. Millions of these egg-shaped devices were sold, and though many modern versions have been released, the original remains the most valuable. Sealed, unopened Tamagotchi toys from 1996 can fetch prices well over $300. The simplicity of caring for a digital pet struck a chord with children and adults alike. As a piece of 90s nostalgia, it’s a prized collectible today. Special editions or rare colors can drive the price even higher. Tamagotchi represents a simpler time in tech, before smartphones dominated the world.
HP-01 LED Watch
Released by Hewlett-Packard in 1977, the HP-01 was one of the first digital watches to include a calculator. Its sleek design and cutting-edge LED display made it a futuristic piece of wearable tech. Though only produced for a few years, the HP-01 has become highly collectible. Today, well-maintained models can sell for up to $5,000, especially if they include the original accessories and manual. As an early example of a “smart” wearable, the HP-01 was far ahead of its time. It’s a prized collectible for tech enthusiasts and watch collectors alike. The HP-01 is a symbol of the early days of digital innovation and wearable tech, making it a highly desirable piece of tech history.
Sega Dreamcast
Though Sega’s Dreamcast was released in 1999 and discontinued just two years later, it remains a beloved console among gaming enthusiasts. Its advanced graphics and internet connectivity were revolutionary at the time, and today, it holds a special place in the hearts of retro gamers. Dreamcast consoles in mint condition can sell for up to $400, while rare games and accessories can command even higher prices. Limited edition versions, such as the Sega Sports Dreamcast, are particularly valuable. Collectors love its innovative features, which paved the way for modern consoles. Despite its commercial failure, the Dreamcast is now considered one of the most influential gaming systems.
Apple iBook G3 (Clamshell)
Apple’s iBook G3, released in 1999, was a bold departure from traditional laptop designs with its clamshell shape and vibrant colors. While it was discontinued in 2001, this laptop has since become a collectible item, especially for Apple enthusiasts. A well-preserved iBook G3 can fetch upwards of $500, with some models reaching even higher prices depending on condition. Its unique design and role in Apple’s resurgence during the early 2000s make it a valuable piece of tech history. Collectors particularly seek the original packaging and accessories. The iBook G3 represents Apple’s innovative spirit in the pre-iPhone era.
Polaroid SX-70
The Polaroid SX-70, first introduced in 1972, was the world’s first instant SLR camera, and it quickly became a photography icon. Discontinued in the 1980s, the SX-70 is now a highly sought-after collector’s item. A well-maintained model can fetch anywhere from $300 to over $1,000, depending on its condition and whether it comes with the original case and accessories. Its groundbreaking folding design and the ability to produce instant prints made it a favorite among both professionals and hobbyists. Polaroid enthusiasts value the camera for its retro charm and engineering marvel. Owning an SX-70 is like holding a piece of instant photography history.
Nokia 8110 (The “Matrix” Phone)
The Nokia 8110, also known as the “Matrix phone” due to its appearance in the 1999 film The Matrix, became an instant cult classic. Though discontinued long ago, the 8110 remains a highly collectible piece of mobile phone history. In good condition, these phones can fetch prices up to $300, with limited editions selling for even more. The sliding cover that revealed the keypad gave the phone a futuristic appeal. It was one of Nokia’s most iconic designs, and its association with the movie only adds to its allure. For collectors of mobile phones and movie memorabilia, the Nokia 8110 is a must-have.
IBM ThinkPad 701C
Released in 1995, the IBM ThinkPad 701C is best known for its innovative “butterfly” keyboard, which expanded when the laptop was opened. Though this model was discontinued shortly after its release, it has since become a highly valuable collector’s item. A well-preserved ThinkPad 701C, especially one with the original packaging and accessories, can sell for over $500. Its unique design and role in laptop history make it a coveted piece among tech enthusiasts. As an early example of cutting-edge laptop design, it remains a symbol of innovation in portable computing. Collectors appreciate it not only for its rarity but for its place in the evolution of technology.
Magnavox Odyssey
The Magnavox Odyssey, released in 1972, was the first home video game console ever made. Though it was quickly overshadowed by later consoles, the Odyssey is now a highly valuable collector’s item. A complete set with all the original components can sell for upwards of $1,000, with rare editions commanding even higher prices. Its rudimentary graphics and simple gameplay might seem primitive today, but the Odyssey paved the way for the entire video game industry. Collectors and gaming historians alike seek this console for its groundbreaking role in gaming history. Owning one is like holding the very origins of home video gaming.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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