Esa vieja cámara digital que tiraste en un cajón vale mucho más de lo que piensas

Resurgence of Early 2000s Digital Cameras

A surprising trend has emerged: the high demand for older digital compact cameras, particularly among Gen Z. These cameras, once discarded for their inferior quality compared to smartphones, are now highly sought after for their unique, retro image aesthetic, which is characterized by grain and slightly off-kilter colors.

Market Demand and Scarcity

The demand is so high that secondhand markets in Spain, and other countries, such as the US and China, are struggling to keep up. Vendors report selling these cameras rapidly, leaving many customers disappointed. Online marketplaces like Wallapop and Milanuncios have reported substantial increases in search volume for these cameras.

• Wallapop reported a 600% increase in searches between 2021 and 2024.
• Milanuncios reported a 28% increase in searches in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous six months.

This increased demand has led to higher prices for these once-cheap cameras. While some can be found for €30-€50, others in good condition sell for over €150.

Reasons Behind the Trend

Several factors contribute to this trend:

• Retro Aesthetic: The imperfect image quality creates a unique, nostalgic look that is popular on social media.
• Less Filtered Images: These cameras offer a less-filtered image than modern smartphones, appealing to those seeking authenticity.
• Celebrity Influence: Celebrities are also using these cameras, furthering their popularity.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to film cameras, digital cameras provide a more affordable way to achieve this retro style.

Challenges and Implications

The increased demand has resulted in challenges:

• Scams and Counterfeits: The popularity has also led to an increase in scams, so buyers should be cautious.
• Parts Scarcity: Finding replacement parts can be difficult due to the age of these cameras.
• Industry Response: Major camera manufacturers are noticing the renewed interest and are considering reintroducing similar models.