Brits rewind to retro tech as nostalgia takes over in 2025

• New research reveals that nearly three-quarters of Brits (71%) had a specific piece of retro tech they wished they had owned as a child, nearly half (45%) are now looking to buy one in the future.

• 43% of those surveyed say nostalgia is the main reason they are seeking out a retro tech item.

• Two in five (40%)  associate their fondest childhood memories with classic tech gadgets.

Nostalgia is driving a major retro tech resurgence, with nearly half (45%) of Brits planning to buy a vintage device in the future. New research from Back Market reveals that 43% are drawn to classic tech for nostalgic reasons, proving that old-school gadgets aren’t just a passing trend - they’re a cultural movement.

Nearly 40% of Brits already own an iconic retro tech device, with the Nintendo Wii (40%), digital cameras (40%), and iPods (38%) topping the list. Among them, a third (31%) regularly use their retro gadgets for their throwback appeal, while one in ten (11%) even display them as a design feature in their home. 

In an age dominated by the latest devices, constant notifications, and social media, Brits are increasingly looking back to the past for comfort. The research shows that 28% of Brits miss the simple pleasure of flipping through physical photos or watching home videos, with 20% stating that they miss the functionality of their retro tech devices without the constant buzz of notifications; while 21% miss screen-free experiences altogether. 

While nostalgia is the biggest motivator, Back Market’s research also highlights that 38% of Brits turn to retro tech as a more affordable alternative to buying the latest devices. With the rising cost of new technology, many consumers are looking for ways to enjoy entertainment and functionality without the premium price tag. Additionally, 22% of those surveyed cited the simplicity of older gadgets as a key reason for their appeal. 

It’s not just physical photos and VHS recordings that Brits miss; gaming nostalgia is also at an all-time high. Mario Kart has been crowned the ultimate throwback title, with one in five (20%) naming the iconic racing game as ‘the peak of gaming,’ securing its status as a timeless classic. When it comes to the most coveted throwback gadgets, Brits are eager to get their hands on…

Brits retro tech wish list: 

• iPods/MP3 players (20%)

• Gameboy (20%)

• CD players/Vinyl/Walkman (18%)

• Digital Cameras (17%)

• Nintendo DS (17%)

• Polaroid Camera (15.7%)

“Nostalgia plays a powerful role in the way we connect with technology,”

said Luke Forshaw, Head of Brand at Back Market.  

“Many of us have fond memories tied to devices from our past, whether it’s listening to music on a Walkman, capturing moments with a disposable camera, or playing classic games on a Gameboy. “It’s clear from our research that Brits are craving a return to simpler, more tactile experiences in contrast to the fast-paced digital world we live in today. “At Back Market, we’re all about circularity and prolonging the lives of our tech devices; retro or new! The rise in demand for retro tech devices showcases how ‘new’ certainly doesn’t always mean better.”

The resurgence of retro-tech highlights a growing interest in reconnecting with the past and embracing simpler forms of technology. As modern devices become more advanced and interconnected, many people are seeking out gadgets that offer a break from the constant digital noise. Whether it's listening to music on a Walkman, capturing moments with a Polaroid camera, or playing a beloved childhood video game, the appeal of retro technology lies in its ability to evoke memories and offer a different, often more tactile, experience.

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ENDS

Note to editors

Research of 2,000 Brits was commissioned and conducted by Back Market in March 2025.

About Back Market 

Back Market is the largest marketplace for refurbished devices. Its goal is to prolong the life of tech products, reduce the impact of e-waste by creating a robust circular economy, and make buying renewed tech safer, easier, cheaper, more appealing and accessible for everyone.

Back Market also aims to redefine the standard of quality and customer experience in the refurbished electronics industry. As such, Back Market offers many of the same assurances buying new technology does - providing a 12-month warranty and complete transparency around the condition of the device.

After being founded in 2014, Back Market has reduced roughly one million tonnes of CO2 from being released, prevented the exploitation of about 160,000 tons of primary natural resources, and amassed over fifteen million customers worldwide. Back Market is also a recently certified B corporation company.

For more information head to: Retro Tech.