Why Circular Tech is important (and what you can do with it)
We all throw away far too many electronic devices. Game Boys, PSPs, emulation handhelds too… They end up in a drawer or, worse still, in the bin, even though they’re still perfectly usable. What a waste.
At RetroGear, we believe that tech deserves a second life. That’s why we focus on circular technology: upgrading, repairing and refurbishing devices so that you can keep gaming without having to buy new gear.
What is circular tech?
Circular Tech and Slow Tech? This means we don’t throw devices away as soon as they start to malfunction. Instead, we repair, reuse and improve what we already have. Less waste, more value.
For you, this means: you can send your old handheld to us. We’ll repair it, refurbish it or give you store credit so you can choose something new from our shop. It also means you can buy devices from us that have been saved from the rubbish tip!
Why is e-waste a problem?
Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. Only a small proportion is recycled. The rest ends up in landfill sites, often in countries where this causes serious environmental damage.
Throwing away a Game Boy just because the screen is broken or the battery is running out? There’s absolutely no need for that. With a few upgrades, a device like that can last for years to come.
About RetroGear
RetroGear is Europe’s first Slow and Circular Tech shop with an exclusive focus on retro handhelds, such as Game Boys and emulation handhelds. We extend the lifespan of retro handhelds by repairing, upgrading and reusing them, thereby contributing to a sustainable circular economy. We design and build devices that adhere to the slow tech principle: sustainable, easy to repair and designed for mindful use.
At RetroGear, you can buy both new handhelds and refurbished devices that we have carefully reconditioned. You can trade in your old device with us and receive store credit to choose a new or refurbished device. This encourages sustainable use and a mindful, slow approach to technology.
We are using more and more recycled materials in our builds and test every device manually to ensure the highest quality. Our customers are based across Europe, enabling us to build a growing community of gamers, modders and tech enthusiasts who value sustainability, mindful technology and the right to repair.
What do we do at RetroGear?
- We repair, customise and refurbish second-hand handhelds
- You can send in your old device and receive store credit in return
- We are working towards using fully recycled materials in our builds
- Everything is tested, built and checked manually
- You can also build your own custom Game Boy via our mod service
That’s how we keep hardware in circulation. Good for you, better for the planet.
Take a look inside the workshop
Curious to know how we do it? We regularly film our builds, mods and repairs. In our videos, you can see how we replace shells, install IPS screens and put together unique custom builds.
Check out our modding video to see how an old Game Boy is brought back to life.
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We also recycle plastics
As well as salvaging and upgrading hardware, we also ensure that the parts we no longer use are put to good use. Where possible, old shells, buttons and broken casings are recycled. We are working towards using fully recycled plastic for our builds in the future.
This ensures that not only the electronics, but also the casing, remain circular.
Why do you make a difference?
Do you still have an old Game Boy lying around? Or a handheld device gathering dust somewhere? Give it to us. We’ll restore it to mint condition or build something lovely from the parts. In return, you’ll get something that actually works.
So you don’t always have to buy something new. Sometimes it’s much smarter to swap, repair or upgrade.
And yes, it just looks brilliant too!
Custom shells, backlit screens, new buttons. Everything we build has character. No mass production – just unique builds that you can be proud to be seen with.
Ready to join in?
- Trade in your old handheld for store credit. Let us repair or upgrade your device.
- Or put together your own ‘ Game Boy ’ using our custom build tool.
Any questions? Send us a message or follow us on Instagram for builds, tips and new releases.