The retro digicam trend has given old cameras a second life, but there is also a practical reason to hold onto them: many can serve as high-quality webcams. According to the Camera & Imaging Products Association, shipments of built-in-lens digital cameras grew 29.6% in 2025 to about 2.44 million units, with another 13.6% increase projected for 2026. While that growth isn't tied specifically to the retro trend, it reflects renewed interest in hardware many consumers had written off.
For older DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and some compacts, the simplest route is a USB connection. Canon, Nikon, and Sony all publish compatibility lists and offer free webcam utilities. Setup can be as easy as installing software, plugging in a data cable, and selecting the camera in Zoom or Teams. However, not all models deliver equal quality: some Nikon DSLRs only output a VGA-resolution live view, and the camera's microphone usually won't transmit audio, so a separate mic is needed.
When USB support isn't available, an HDMI capture device can work—provided the camera has clean HDMI output and can run on external power. But that adds cost. Elgato's Cam Link 4K sells for $99.99, not including cables or a dummy battery, while a dedicated 2K webcam like the Anker PowerConf C200 costs $60 and includes microphones. Before buying accessories, owners should also consider resale value: B&H notes one writer bought a Canon PowerShot S95 for $130 in 2023, and by 2026 it was averaging over $400 on the used market. In some cases, selling the old camera may make more financial sense than turning it into a desk accessory.