Vintage cathode-ray tube (CRT) TVs are experiencing a resurgence in popularity among enthusiasts who value their unique attributes and nostalgic appeal. Despite being replaced by flat-screen displays, CRTs still hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, videographers, and collectors.
Shaan Joshi, a game developer and writer from central Florida, has amassed an impressive collection of 40-50 Sony PVMs, which he estimates will last him his entire life. He buys them online and has even partnered with internet strangers to source large collections of CRTs. For Joshi, it’s not just about the technology; it’s about the experience.
“I want to experience the same thing again – but I also want to maximise what is the best way to do it?” says Joshi. He argues that CRT enthusiasts are on an epic quest to recreate specific memories or feelings from their childhoods.
The CRT scene has inspired a growing market for upscalers, which change the projection and character of classic video game graphics, making them look good even on modern displays. Mike Chi, creator of RetroTINK upscalers, says he has sold thousands of devices that accurately imitate the way old CRT screens display graphics.
As the community grows, so does its impact on creators. Game developer Billy Basso’s game Animal Well features graphics that simulate the output of CRTs, and Bella Roberts, a social media content creator, uses an old consumer CRT to watch Stranger Things on her Amazon Firestick.
While there are downsides to CRTs, including their size and hazardous materials, many enthusiasts argue that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. For Joshi and others like him, the CRT scene offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and delve into a vast world of largely forgotten, vintage tech.
The community’s fascination with CRTs has also sparked debates about the importance of preserving nostalgia and the emotional impact of technology on human behavior. Professor Andrew Przybylski from the University of Oxford notes that watching cartoons or playing old games on CRT TVs can evoke a strong sense of nostalgia and social bonding among enthusiasts.
As the CRT revival continues to gain momentum, it’s clear that these vintage TVs hold more than just technical value – they evoke memories, emotions, and a deep connection with the past.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250911-the-people-who-hunt-down-old-tvs