18 Devices Everyone Borrowed From Friends
Here's a look at 18 real devices that friends have always borrowed, from Walkmans and Game Boys to VR headsets and power banks.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
This list explores how different eras of technology shaped friendships through the simple act of borrowing. From portable music players like the Walkman and iPod to gaming devices such as the Game Boy and PSP, each item reflects a cultural moment where access mattered as much as ownership. In today’s digital age, even modern tools like VR headsets and power banks continue this tradition of sharing devices among friends.
1. Discman
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In the late 90s and early 2000s, the Sony Discman was the crown jewel of portable music. Borrowing one from a friend meant getting to listen to full albums on the go. The skip protection wasn’t perfect, but the experience felt futuristic.
2. Walkman
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Before the Discman, cassette players like the Sony Walkman dominated. Friends often swapped or borrowed units to listen to mixtapes during bus rides or hangouts. Having one meant instant cool points, especially if paired with chunky foam headphones.
3. Game Boy Color
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Nintendo’s Game Boy Color was endlessly borrowed between friends, especially for Pokémon battles and trades. It was the ultimate playground device, with kids handing it back and forth during recess. Bright colors and addictive titles made it unforgettable.
4. iPod Classic
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Before streaming, the iPod Classic held thousands of songs, and borrowing it meant inheriting someone’s entire music taste. Scrolling through the click wheel felt satisfying and personal. It was like holding a portable music library in your hand.
5. Portable DVD Player
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These small foldable screens were gold during long trips. Borrowing one meant having access to movies without lugging around a laptop. Friends often passed them around for sleepovers or bus rides.
6. Tamagotchi
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Digital pets like the Tamagotchi often got shared among classmates when someone couldn’t keep up with feeding or cleaning them. Borrowing one was a big responsibility, and sometimes tragic if the pet didn’t survive. It was an early lesson in digital caretaking.
7. PSP (PlayStation Portable)
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The PSP was revolutionary with its graphics and ability to play movies on UMDs. Friends constantly borrowed it to try out different games. Sharing memory sticks was almost as common as borrowing the console itself.
8. Nintendo DS
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With its dual screens and Wi-Fi connectivity, the DS encouraged sharing. Friends lent each other consoles to try out Mario Kart or Nintendogs. PictoChat even turned it into a social messaging tool during gatherings.
9. iPad
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When tablets first emerged, the iPad was a status symbol. Friends often borrowed it for quick browsing, watching shows, or showing off games like Angry Birds. It became a multipurpose entertainment hub.
10. GoPro
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Before everyone had high-quality cameras on their phones, borrowing a friend’s GoPro was the easiest way to capture action shots. Surf trips, skate sessions, and vacations were often documented with a borrowed device. It represented adventure and creativity.
11. Flip Video Camera
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Compact and easy to use, Flip Video cameras were passed around to record school projects, trips, and silly moments. They were among the first to make video recording accessible to everyone. Borrowing one meant being able to capture memories without professional gear.
12. Polaroid Camera
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Even though Polaroids have come back in style, they were heavily borrowed decades ago, too. Instant photos made them perfect for parties and get-togethers. Friends who owned one were often pressured into lending it for special occasions.
13. Digital Cameras
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Before smartphones took over photography, borrowing a compact digital camera was common. They were lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for trips or events. Sharing memory cards was just as fun as sharing the camera itself.
14. MP3 Players (Non-iPod)
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Brands like Creative Zen and Zune also had their fans, and friends often borrowed these for school trips. Though not as sleek as the iPod, they carried hundreds of songs. Borrowing one was still a ticket to hours of music.
15. Camcorders
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Families often owned camcorders, and borrowing one from a friend was the only way to record events before smartphones. School projects, sports games, and family events often relied on these borrowed devices. They were bulky but essential.
16. VR Headsets
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From Oculus Rift to PlayStation VR, borrowing a headset became the way to experience virtual reality without shelling out big money. Friends would take turns exploring immersive games and apps. It was always an exciting group activity.
17. Bluetooth Speakers
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Before everyone had one, Bluetooth speakers were borrowed constantly for parties, hangouts, and even classroom events. They turned any space into a mini-concert. Friends who owned quality ones like JBL or Bose were always popular.
18. Power Banks
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As smartphones became central to daily life, borrowing power banks became a ritual. Everyone had that one friend who always carried a portable charger. Borrowing one could mean the difference between a dead phone and making it home safely.