We live in a world where technology seems to change before our eyes. What this means is that a hot item today may run its course fast and be obsolete within 12 months. Don’t let this stop you from sourcing and selling old technology though. Believe it or not, outdated video and audio technology including VHS tapes, camcorders, and cassette tapes are in demand. High demand! Plenty of people still use these items and actually seek them out on eBay.
Outdated technology you should sell on eBay
Large console TVs, old telephones, Polaroid cameras, cassette players, slide projectors, record players, typewriters, and even Sony Walkmans are sellable. Some may call them vintage, others collectables, while many need their parts or just simply need them in their lives.
It may not be an item you use but surprisingly enough, some people actually use these devices and the media that goes inside them.
Product sourcing to sell online
The best place to find outdated technology, other than your grandparent’s garage, would be at estate sales, garage sales, flea markets and of course op shops.
What kinds of dead technology sell well on eBay, and why do people want it?
This will probably surprise you if you are new to eBay, but yes, people actually buy all kinds of dead or old technology to use for very specific reasons. These items are usually impossible to find at retail stores, so buyers and collectors turn to eBay.
Bookmark this list for quick access when out sourcing for eBay.
- Polaroid film: This item is no longer made, but plenty of Polaroid film still exists. It may be hidden away in desk drawers, closets, or cabinets. The best places to find Polaroid film is at estate sales or garage sales in the boxes of junk. Most people are completely clueless that Polaroid film has any value in the real world. This item is usually sold in lots of several packages, and the singles can sell for about $20 per pack.
- Typewriter ribbon: Many of you reading this probably have never even used a typewriter, much less owned one and had to buy ribbon for it. Some writers still prefer using an actual typewriter rather than a computer and therefore seek out typewriter ribbon on eBay. Ribbons can go for as much as $20 each and are most successfully sold in lots.
- Micro cassette tapes: Remember those dictaphones? Technology has evolved and most smart phones have a dictation, voice memo, or audio recording feature. But some people still prefer good old fashioned cassette tapes. These can sell for crazy prices on eBay. Prices are all over the board depending on quantity, brand, and length of recording time.
- VHS tapes: Recording family gatherings, little league games, and other events with a mobile phone is commonplace in our society today. But VHS tapes are still good sellers on eBay. If planning to resell, choose VHS new in the package. Again, there can be a range of prices depending on brand, length of recording time, and number of items in the lot. Always do your homework and check completed sold listings on eBay to see what buyers have paid in the past.
A precaution about selling dead tech on eBay: be prepared for buyers to report that the item is damaged, dried out, or brittle. Because of the age of the vintage media, the items may very well be disintegrated or too old to use. Take the buyer’s word for it and be prepared to offer a refund or replacement.
