Revisit time with a modern spin on classic gadgets that bring a touch of nostalgia to your tech collection. From reimagined retro designs to clever updates that blend old-school charm with functionality, these devices offer a delightful nod to the past. From handheld consoles that resurrect childhood memories to clever kitchen appliances marrying vintage aesthetics with modern tech, these picks celebrate the best of both worlds. Whether it’s gaing on a quarter-sized arcade cabinet or tuning into tunes on a Marshall speaker, each gadget invites you to relive the past with a fresh twist. Let’s take a trip down memory lane, reimagined for today’s world.
Christmas Gift Guide 2024: 12 gifts for the Retro Head
Big nostalgia, modern upgrades!
1. Teenage Engineering EP–1320 Medieval ($299)
OK, maybe a medieval-themed pocket sampler is stretching the definition of ‘retro’ – are you nostalgic for the Black Death? But this Teenage music-maker – more Dungeons & Dragons than drum’n’bass – is truly unique. It packs a whole array of olde worlde instruments into a compact and alluring package, with 128MB of storage (96MB pre-loaded, 32MB for your own samples). The built-in microphone, speaker and sequencer make it a versatile tool, while a bank of effects and an arpeggiator round out its impressive feature set.
2. Miyoo Mini Plus (₹4,999)
This Game Boy-inspired handheld marries classic design with modern enhancements, available in a delectable rainbow of color options. Featuring a sunlight-readable 640x480 IPS display, an optional translucent body, and 15,000 retro games bundled in, it offers five hours of continuous gameplay. A perfect gift for nostalgic gamers!
3. FiiO DM13 (₹POR)
Vinyl and cassettes have made their comebacks, and now CDs are following suit! The FiiO DM13 portable CD player delivers retro charm with modern features like aptX HD Bluetooth and USB audio support, breathing new life into your classic CD collection.
4. Orange Pyramid System (₹79,500)
With its pyramid-inspired design, this amplifier doubles as a bold statement piece and a retro-modern hi-fi system. Equipped with Bluetooth, RCA, and aux inputs, plus a pair of included speakers, it’s an audio centerpiece fit for a pharaoh.
5. The Spectrum (₹14,575)
Relive the glorious ZX Spectrum era with this faithful modern replica. Packed with 48 built-in games, HDMI output, save states, USB game loading, and even a 40-second gameplay rewind function, it’s sweet nostalgia upgraded for modern convenience.
6. Nanoleaf Expo Starter Kit (From ₹25,925 for 4)
Turn your gadget collection into a showstopper with this customizable smart display case. Featuring modular LED lighting and rhythm visualization, it’s the perfect showcase for retro gear, collectibles, or anything you love to display.
7. TinyTV 2 (₹5,200)
This adorable 1-inch TV is nostalgia in miniature form. Flip through “channels” with its tiny remote or knobs, or load MP4 videos via your PC. Its 216x135 resolution screen brings a playful dose of retro charm to your desk or shelf.
8. Smeg 10-in-1 Countertop Oven (₹TBA)
Smeg blends its signature retro style with modern cooking tech in this 30L countertop oven. Featuring 33 automatic programs, it’s capable of baking, roasting, and more—all wrapped up in a sleek, vintage-inspired design.
9. Official Data East BurgerTime Quarter-Size Arcade Cabinet (₹23,000)
Bring the ’80s arcade experience home with this quarter-scale BurgerTime cabinet. With an illuminated marquee and the original ROM, it lets you make burgers while dodging foes like Mr. Egg, Mr. Hotdog, and Mr. Pickle.
10. HMD Barbie Phone (₹18,735)
For those looking to embrace the “dumb phone” trend in style, this Barbie flip phone is the ultimate choice. Its mirrored front doubles as a compact and glam accessory, offering a retro break from smartphone overload.
11. Marshall Emberton III (₹17,999)
Marshall’s retro design meets cutting-edge audio with this portable Bluetooth speaker. Delivering powerful 360° sound with over 32 hours of battery life and IP67 waterproofing, it’s ideal for music lovers on the move.
12. Retrospekt Polaroid 600 InstantArt (₹13,700)
For instant photography with flair, this bold Polaroid camera uses refurbished vintage components for a truly analog experience. Its vibrant design and sustainable build make it a standout gift for retro photography fans.