Technology is a fast world and often we miss certain things or because of age etc, some cool tech has been and gone before we even know it. That is where retro gadgets come in, these are gadgets that use the same or similar designs in order to show what gadgets used to be like, but in a twist they actually used modern tech and can be used with the products of today! In this Top Five we are looking to check out some of the more interesting gadgets that come with a retro feel to them!
A mouse from past times
This something for people who were around in the 80′s or for anyone that likes retro cool gear. For this would have been the height of technology during those days when computers where nowhere near as sophisticated as they are today. Yet this mouse may appear to be old, but it will work perfectly fine with a PC or Mac and it even connects via the USB port, so not everything is what it seems with this particular mouse.
These are the details for the ultra cool retro style USB mouse;
Do you yearn for that simpler time? This Retro Mouse has all the style of the days of big hair, punk, blue eye shadow, and leather, but the insides of a fancy optical mouse. It is compatible with PC or Mac; just as long as you have an available USB port, you can swap it in for your regularly scheduled mouse and sing some Journey while you click around the web.
Priced at $19.99
Source [Coolest Gadgets]
Check out this retro games controller
Once again, it is a trip back to the eighties where stuff was a lot less complicated, sure games and computers were not that interesting, but these were simpler times. Just to get an idea of how simple things were in these days, check out this games controller, in its day this would have been cutting edge technology and here we have a chance to see just how things were back in those days. I fear that it will be short lived though as this kind of tech leaves a lot to be desired.
These are the details on the cool looking limited edition USB joystick;
When you plug the limited edition USB joystick (one of only 500) into your Mac or PC, it lights from inside with a brilliant red glow. It’s the perfect partner for the Stella Atari 2600 emulator (free download) and is also compatible with Atari, Amiga and Commodore emulators. It even supports the MAME arcade system and modern games that work with a standard USB D-pad.
Priced at around $30
Source [Technabob]
The cool analogue arcade stick
This is something that will amaze, confuse and probably wind up the person using it, but its retro coolness is off the scale big time. This would have been the ultimate in games controllers in its day and as such would have been in great demand. Therefore, this is a chance to get your hands on a bit of gamer’s history.
These are the details for the cool analogue stick;
We designed our arcade stick with absolutely zero compromise – with authentic parts, a brilliant design and the perfect feel. For the ultimate Neo Geo experience – we used the exact same Seimitsu joystick and 30mm buttons found in original Japanese Neo Geo cabinets. Our goal was to create the holy grail of all Neo Geo arcade sticks – giving the Neo Geo the justice it deserves. The Analogue Arcade Stick offers the most authentic Neo Geo experience possible.
Priced at $199
Source [Retro Thing]
Record player in a briefcase
There would have been a time when something like this would be been seen as something from science fiction, but within a few years the record simply went out of date as cassettes, CD’s and digital music came into their own. However, this updated version is super cool and uses all of today’s tech too, so it may appear to be old, but its not!
These are the details for the Mini Rechargeable USB Turntable;
Belt driven turntable mechanism
Plays 3 Speeds – 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM Records
Plays 7″, 10″ & 12″ Records
Fully automatic return tone arm Internal rechargeable lithium ion battery
Built-In dynamic full range stereo speakers
Leatherette exterior
Chrome snap closure
Heavy duty corner guards
Dimensions: 18″x19″x9″
Weight: 15.43 lbs
Included in box:
Compact Retro Briefcase USB Turntable
Audacity Software Suite PC/MAC
USB Cable
AC Plug Adapter
User Manual
Priced at $69.99
Source [Think Geek]
1950′s style drinks machine
You may think that this from “Back to the Future!” but there was a time when these machines could be found everywhere and they will be again. This machine has the appearance of being from the Rock n Roll years and that is the idea, but this is a mini version as it only holds twelve cans, but they are kept cool and you get that satisfying sound of the can working its way through the inner workings of the machine to the customer.
These are the features and specs for the countertop soda drinks machine;
A simple touch of a button releases the can with the classic “clunk” reminiscent of the genuine article. The cooling power in this machine comes from thermoelectric Peltier elements, a silent technology that doesn’t vibrate as compressors do, and which cools drinks nearly 30 degrees below ambient room temperature. The front panel swings open for easy restocking, while a green LED indicates the machine is on and cooling. 21 1/2″ H x 14 1/2″ W x 13 1/4″ D. (17 lbs.)
Priced at around $130
Source [Hammacher and Schlemmer]
