You were probably expecting this one. Fax machines had a brief, bright period that lasted something around a year where they were the favored way to communicate, but since then, phones, email, and text messages have launched past it. The internet practically killed it.
But, some companies still use them, since they’re considered perfect copies for security purposes. But, while a lot of places may have them, they’re not often used – and if you still have one of these in your home, it’s unlikely it gets much use. Some printers include them as part of the machine, which has helped keep the tech on life support.
Turn These Old Items Into Attractive Decorations
You probably have a few paper maps stashed in your glove compartment, but in the age of smartphones and wireless maps, they're getting less and less use as a cheerful electronic voice guides people to their destinations. But there's no need to toss them all into the trash – some maps, if kept well and hung in the right way – can make for charming wall hangings.
Otherwise, most maps can take their place alongside floppy disks, servant buttons, milk cabinets, and the other items that you'll find on this list. They're outdated and probably not helpful.
Load Up Netflix Instead
Nothing brings the word “obsolete” to mind like a VCR. Unless you're quite young, you probably have some VHS tapes hanging around in old boxes, but it's difficult to convince yourself you need a VCR unless you're very interested in recording television shows. Even DVDs have taken a hit thanks to better formats, streaming, and being able to bring up almost anything on Youtube
They were the favorite way to watch and re-watch your favorite shows or movies, but these days they're relegated to the trash heap. Some places may pay good money for a well-kept model, but if it's used enough, leave it for the garbageman.
From the Doorstep to the Garbage Can
Hardly anyone does anything with a phone book, be it the yellow pages or the white pages, other than picking it up and dropping it straight into the trash. Once upon an age, these were important books to have by the phone if you needed to call a friend, find a business, or look up other information, but again, thanks to the smartphone, this service is nothing more than redundant.
They might be useful as a stepping stool, to add a little bit of height to a seat, or as kindling, but otherwise, they're more or less useless.
They Look Good But use Your Phone
There's nothing wrong with liking an old analog alarm clock, but if you're using one to rise in the morning, you've missed a few things. All you have to do is ask your smartphone to wake you at a certain time and you have all the features of a circular alarm clock.
But they aren't worthless: a nice alarm clock is an interesting look for the mantle, and if you're a heavy sleeper, putting one of them across the room can help get you out of bed. Otherwise, however, leave them off and ticking away.