6 Most Outdated 90s Tech Gadgets That Are Surprisingly Still Used

The 1990s introduced a range of tech gadgets that were cutting-edge at the time but now seem outdated. However, despite massive advancements in technology, some of these devices are still in use today. Here are six tech gadgets from the ’90s that surprisingly haven’t been fully retired.

1. Floppy Disks

Floppy disks were once a primary method of data storage, holding a tiny 1.44 MB of information. Today, they’re obsolete for most people, but some companies, especially in industries like aviation, still rely on them for legacy systems.

While it seems strange in a world of cloud storage and terabyte hard drives, floppy disks remain necessary for certain older technologies. In these niche environments, upgrading the systems would be more costly than sticking with these outdated disks.

2. Fax Machines

Fax machines were everywhere in the 1990s, enabling users to send scanned documents over telephone lines. Even with the rise of email and digital signatures, many businesses, particularly in healthcare and legal fields, continue to use fax machines today.

The reliability and legal acceptance of faxes keep these devices in use, even though there are faster, more efficient ways to send documents. Despite being relics of the past, fax machines hold on in certain industries that prioritize security.

3. Pagers

Pagers, or beepers, were once the go-to communication device for anyone on the move, especially professionals like doctors. While mobile phones have largely replaced them, some hospitals and emergency services still rely on pagers for their simplicity and reliability.

In areas where cell service is unreliable, pagers are favored for their stronger signal reach. The fact that they work during power outages also makes them a trusted backup in critical environments.

4. VCRs

VCRs may seem like ancient history, but many people still have VHS collections they can’t part with. While DVD players and streaming services dominate today’s entertainment world, there’s still a small but dedicated community that clings to their VCRs.

For those who love physical media or have recordings that never made it to DVD, VCRs provide a nostalgic link to the past. Repair services for VCRs still exist, keeping these machines running for a dedicated few.

5. Cassette Players

Cassettes were a staple for music lovers in the ’90s, and while they’ve mostly been replaced by digital formats, some people still listen to cassette tapes. Whether for nostalgia or because they love the unique sound quality, a small market for cassette players persists.

Musicians have even started releasing new albums on cassette as a retro collectible, which has sparked a bit of a revival. Though it’s a niche group, cassette enthusiasts prove that older formats can still find life.

6. Palm Pilots

Before smartphones took over, personal digital assistants (PDAs) like the Palm Pilot were essential for organizing contacts, calendars, and tasks. Some users still prefer these simple devices over modern smartphones for their basic, distraction-free functionality.

Without the temptation of social media or endless apps, Palm Pilots serve a practical purpose for those who need only the essentials. Their simplicity and long battery life keep them alive in small corners of the tech world.