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The Best Thrift Store Electronics to Flip for Profit in 2026

Jan 17, 2026 • 7 min

Electronics are some of the most profitable items you can flip, but they also come with the most risk. A broken camera looks exactly like a working one when it’s sitting on a thrift store shelf. But if you know what to look for and how to test things, you can turn a $10 find into a $100 profit.

Here are the best electronics to keep an eye out for in 2026.

Retro Gaming Gear

The demand for old video games and consoles isn’t slowing down. People are nostalgic for the systems they grew up with. Look for things like original Game Boys, Nintendo DS handhelds, and even older consoles like the Wii or PlayStation 2. Even the controllers and cables can be worth more than the consoles themselves sometimes.

Vintage Audio Equipment

Old school receivers, turntables, and speakers are highly sought after by collectors. Brands like Marantz, Pioneer, and Technics are the gold standard here. Even if they need a little cleaning, these items can command high prices on eBay or local marketplaces.

High End Headphones

People are always looking for a deal on premium audio. Look for brands like Bose, Sony, or Sennheiser. Just make sure to check the ear pads and the headband for wear. You can often buy replacement pads for a few dollars and make a used pair of headphones look brand new again.

Calculator Gold

It sounds boring, but graphing calculators like the TI-84 are consistent money makers. Students always need them, and they hold their value incredibly well. You can often find these for $5 in a bin and sell them for $50 within hours.

Point and Shoot Cameras

Digital cameras from the early 2000s are having a huge moment right now. Gen Z loves the “vintage” look of low resolution digital photos. Brand like Canon, Nikon, and Sony are the most popular. If you find a small digital camera with its battery and charger, grab it.

The Most Important Rule

Always test before you buy if the store allows it. Bring a few common batteries (AA and AAA) and a universal charging cable with you on your sourcing trips. A two minute test can save you from a costly mistake.

Flipping electronics is all about taking calculated risks. Start with smaller, cheaper items and build your knowledge from there. Once you know what sells, you can start making some serious profit.