Visitors to Shenzhen’s Huaqiang North recently have noticed a striking phenomenon: old CCD cameras, once treated as “electronic waste” and sold by weight, are now selling like hotcakes. Prices have surged from dozens of yuan per jin, or a few hundred yuan per unit, to well over a thousand yuan, with some popular models exceeding 2,500 yuan—rising far faster than gold and becoming a major trend in the digital world.
As China’s digital trend barometer, Huaqiang North reflects the broader market. Based on on-site visits and current conditions, this article analyzes the market performance, product attributes, and key details of the CCD camera craze.
I. On-Site Report: The Current CCD Market in Huaqiang North
On February 26, 2026—the ninth day of the Lunar New Year—many shops in Huaqiang North had not yet fully reopened, but stores specializing in second-hand CCD cameras were already bustling. During a reporter’s visit, Mr. Wang’s shop made its first sale right after opening: a Canon CCD camera.
“Before, no one wanted these things. We sold them by weight—dozens or a hundred yuan per jin, and people still thought they took up too much space,” Mr. Wang said. “Now, models that used to cost a few hundred yuan sell for over 2,000 yuan, and popular ones can reach 2,500 yuan.”
Multiple second-hand CCD sellers in Huaqiang North reported explosive sales growth in recent months and worsening supply shortages, creating a situation of demand exceeding supply. Some sellers admitted that finding a fully functional, good-condition CCD is now harder than sourcing a new mirrorless camera. Scarcity has directly driven prices up, with some models surging nearly 10 times—far outpacing gold.
II. What Is CCD, and Its Former Market Status
CCD is not a specific camera model but a key component in early digital cameras: the Charge-Coupled Device, which acts like the camera’s “film.” Because digital cameras from 2000 to 2010 widely used CCD sensors, people began referring to these cameras simply as “CCDs.”
CCD cameras declined with the rise of smartphones. As phone cameras improved, offering high-definition images, instant editing, and easy sharing, CCDs—with low resolution, softer imaging, memory cards, proprietary batteries, and the need for card readers to transfer photos—became inconvenient and impractical.
Millions were abandoned or discarded, turning into “electronic waste.” Before 2020, no one in Huaqiang North even wanted to buy them by weight.
In just a few years, these outdated devices have become highly sought-after among young people, with prices skyrocketing dozens of times.
III. Why CCD Cameras Suddenly Boomed
The CCD craze is driven by a mix of young consumer demand, aesthetic trends, and market speculation—with young buyers as the core force.
1. Retro Vibe: The Unique Imaging of CCD
Unlike smartphones that pursue sharpness and clarity, CCDs naturally produce grainy, warm-toned images with soft vignetting and dreamy highlight blooming. This “imperfect” aesthetic is known as “flawed beauty.”
In portrait photography, CCD’s low resolution softens skin imperfections, creating gentle, story-like photos. A 16-year-old visitor from Shanxi said: “Several friends have one, so I wanted one too. I bought this for 1,258 yuan because retro cameras take nicer photos.”
2. Emotional Value: The Slow-Shooting Experience
Amid fast-paced life, many young people have grown tired of “point-and-shoot, instant-post” phone photography. They prefer the slow, ritualistic experience of CCD cameras: manual operation, physical memory cards, and the process of transferring photos via a card reader.
CCD’s “imperfection” matches Gen Z’s desire for a relaxed lifestyle. There’s no need to obsess over composition or complex settings—just turn on and shoot. Blurry or overexposed shots are even seen as part of the retro charm.
3. Social Media Boost
The CCD trend exploded online. Celebrities shared photos taken with CCDs, influencers promoted them widely, and the hashtag #CCDCamera on Xiaohongshu has surpassed 6.1 billion views with over a million posts, turning a niche hobby into a national trend.
For young people, owning a CCD is more than a tool—it’s a social statement. Photos taken with CCDs naturally carry a “retro filter” and stand out on social media.
Additional Factors Driving Up Prices
Beyond consumer demand, two key factors fueled the price surge:
- Supply shortage: CCD cameras are completely discontinued. Only used units remain, and each sale reduces the available stock.
- Speculation: Resellers and scalpers stockpiled units, refurbished old cameras, and promoted “limited-edition scarcity” online, marking up prices repeatedly.
IV. Buying Tips and Warnings
Amid the frenzy, some photography enthusiasts call the rise “unreasonable,” arguing prices far exceed the actual value. “They were sold by weight before—now it’s all just hype,” one commented.
Huaqiang North sellers warn: all CCDs on the market are used; there are no new units. Buyers should:
- Choose long-standing, reputable sellers.
- Check brand, condition, and functionality.
- Beware of refurbished or fake “CCD cameras” modified from old phone cameras.
CCDs have clear drawbacks: low resolution, short battery life, and cumbersome operation. They are mostly used as secondary cameras, not primary devices.
V. Public Opinion: Mixed Views on the CCD Trend
Netizens are divided over the boom and price surge:
- Critics dismiss it as hype:“It’s all speculation—outdated electronic waste selling for thousands is ridiculous.”“Total tax on intelligence.”
- Others express surprise:“Who knew electronics could go up in value? People threw these away before, and now they’re treasures.”
- Some see a chance to profit:“I have an old CCD at home—I’m selling it while it’s hot.”
- Many urge rationality:“It’s fine to buy for love, but don’t get swept up in hype. Shop reasonably.”
The comeback of CCD cameras reflects a collision of retro aesthetics, social needs, and market speculation. Their transformation from “electronic waste” to “internet-famous items” reveals young people’s pursuit of unique aesthetics and emotional value.
As an outdated electronic product, CCD has no technical barriers or long-term collectible value. Its price will depend on market trends.
At its core, a camera is for recording life. Whether it’s a CCD or a smartphone, both can capture moments and freeze memories.
Questions to consider: Have you ever owned a CCD camera? Would you spend 1,000 yuan or more for retro nostalgia?
