Australian consumer tech brand LASER has revealed a three-fold increase in demand for retro-inspired products as Aussies look to unplug from screens and reconnect with physical entertainment.

The 40-year-old Australian electronics company has expanded its retro range with a new lineup including cassette boomboxes, Bluetooth turntables, retro gaming consoles and even a lava lamp speaker, tapping into a growing trend among consumers seeking “real-world” experiences in an AI-driven and always-online world.

LASER Managing Director Chris Lau says the retro resurgence goes beyond aesthetics.

“We don’t see this as just another trend, but more so a cultural shift,” Lau said. “In a world of constant technological change and growing anxiety around AI, Aussies are craving experiences that feel real – not just digital.”

 

The company says younger consumers are rediscovering vinyl and retro gaming, while older Australians are revisiting DVDs, CDs and cassette tapes as part of a broader nostalgia movement.

LASER’s latest range blends vintage styling with modern functionality and aggressive pricing, with products ranging from $69.95 through to $299.

Products include a portable cassette boombox with Bluetooth streaming, a suitcase-style turntable with built-in speakers, a lava lamp combined with a Bluetooth speaker and retro gaming devices preloaded with classic titles.

The new lineup includes a Retro Portable Cassette Boombox priced at $99.95, a Retro Bluetooth Turntable with built-in speakers for $69.95, as well as a Retro Lava Lamp with integrated Bluetooth speaker also priced at $69.95.

For gamers, LASER has launched a Handheld Retro Console featuring 50 preloaded games for $129.95, alongside a Retro Gaming Projector loaded with more than 80 classic titles for $299.

The trend aligns with broader shifts in consumer behaviour.

Recent research cited by LASER found 36% of young Australians believe internet use negatively impacts their sleep, while Gen Z consumers are increasingly drawn to retro tech and analogue experiences.

Lau says physical media and affordable offline entertainment remain surprisingly resilient categories.

“DVD players have remained one of our best-selling categories over the last five years, showing Aussies still want entertainment that’s tangible, simple and affordable.”

The new LASER Retro range is rolling out through retailers including JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys and BIG W.