Where to Buy a VHS Player?

 

VHS players might seem like relics of the past, but for collectors, film buffs, and anyone wanting to relive old home movies, they’re still a must-have. The problem? They haven’t been manufactured for years, so you’ll have to hunt for second-hand models.

Whether you’re after a top-tier machine for the best possible playback or just a solid, affordable player to watch old tapes, knowing which models to look for is key. Not all VHS players are created equal - some offer vastly superior picture quality, while others are cheap but unreliable. Below, we’ve highlighted two of the best options: one for those who want the absolute best of the best, and another that offers great value without breaking the bank.

The Best VHS Players to Buy

Best High-End VHS Player (If Money’s No Object): JVC HR-S9600EK

Collectors and serious VHS enthusiasts swear by the JVC HR-S9600EK, and for good reason. This model is part of JVC’s legendary S-VHS range and is one of the best VHS machines ever made. Here’s why:

• Superior picture quality, thanks to built-in Time Base Correction (TBC), which stabilises shaky or degraded tapes.
• Advanced noise reduction, meaning old recordings look sharper and clearer.
• S-Video output for better visuals than standard composite connections.
• Built to last, making it a solid investment for collectors.

If you’re serious about VHS or want to digitise your old tapes, this is the one to get. Expect to pay £250–£400 for a well-maintained unit.

We actually found the unit pictured below on ebay for a staggering 1500 Euros! 

 

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck VHS Player: Panasonic NV-FJ620

If you don’t want to splash out on a high-end model but still want reliable performance, the Panasonic NV-FJ620 is a great choice. It’s a solid, no-fuss player that won’t cost you a fortune. Key features include:

• Great picture quality for a standard VHS player, thanks to Panasonic’s high-quality internals.
• SCART connectivity, perfect for most UK televisions.
• Affordable pricing, usually found for £50–£150 on second-hand markets.

It’s not packed with premium features like TBC or S-Video, but for most people, it does the job well. If you just want to watch old home movies without spending a fortune, this is your best bet.

We found the one below for just £129 on ebay - barg! 

Now that you know which models to look for, let’s look into the best places to actually buy one in the UK. 

Where to Buy a VHS Player Online

Since VHS players are no longer being made, your best bet is to find a second-hand or refurbished model. Online marketplaces are the easiest way to browse a variety of options, but prices and quality vary. Here’s where to start your search.

eBay – The Best Selection, But Buyer Beware

eBay is the go-to marketplace for VHS players in the UK, with hundreds of listings at any given time. You’ll find everything from budget machines for under £50 to high-end models like the JVC HR-S9600EK for £300+.

Pros:

✔ Huge selection, from cheap players to premium models.
✔ Buyer protection through eBay’s Money Back Guarantee.
✔ Auctions and "Make an Offer" listings mean you can get a bargain.

Cons:

✘ Condition varies - some sellers don’t test their machines properly.
✘ High demand for top models means prices can be inflated.
✘ Delivery risk - VHS players are fragile and can be damaged in transit.

Top tip: Always check seller feedback and look for listings that mention the machine has been tested and is in full working order.

Amazon UK – Limited Stock, Mostly Refurbished

Amazon still has some VHS players available, but they’re mostly refurbished units sold by third-party sellers. New VHS players are extremely rare and very expensive.

Pros:

✔ Some sellers offer warranties or returns.
✔ Amazon’s customer service is generally reliable.

Cons:

✘ Very limited selection, with most listings being DVD/VHS combos rather than standalone VHS players.
✘ Prices can be high, especially for refurbished units.

Top tip: If you go the Amazon route, read the reviews carefully and check whether the seller offers a return policy in case of issues.

Facebook Marketplace & Gumtree – Local Bargains

For a cheap, no-postage option, check out Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree. People often sell old VHS players they’ve had lying around for years, meaning you can grab a bargain - sometimes even for free.

Pros:

✔ No delivery risk - you collect the item in person.
✔ Many sellers just want to get rid of old tech, so you can haggle.
✔ You can inspect and test the player before buying.

Cons:

✘ No buyer protection - if it doesn’t work, you’re out of luck.
✘ Selection depends on your area, and listings come and go quickly.

Top tip: If possible, test the VHS player in person before handing over any money. Bring a tape with you to check it plays properly.

 

Where to Buy a VHS Player in Person

If you are on the hunt for a cheap VHS player and do not mind a bit of rummaging, charity shops, car boot sales, and flea markets can be great places to look. You might think ebay has completely killed these off, but you’d be wrong! There are still plenty, and plenty of people who enjoy buying and selling at them. The benefit as a buyer is much less competition than on ebay - so you really do have a better chance of picking up a bargain. Additionally, the sellers in these places are less likely to know about the VCR they’re selling, so there’s potential to pick up a high end unit cheap as chips! Yes, you will not always find what you are after, but when you do, the prices are often much lower than online or in second-hand electronics stores.

Charity Shops – A Hit or Miss Option

Larger charity shops, especially those that sell furniture and electricals, sometimes stock VHS players. You are more likely to find them in places like the British Heart Foundation’s specialist furniture and electrical stores, rather than in your local high street Oxfam.

Pros:

✔ Prices are usually low, sometimes as little as £10.
✔ Many charity shops test electrical goods before selling them.
✔ Your purchase supports a good cause.

Cons:

✘ Availability is unpredictable, and many stores no longer accept VHS players as donations.
✘ No returns if the player does not work.

Top tip: Call ahead or visit larger branches that specialise in electrical goods. British Heart Foundation’s website lets you check stock in some locations.

Car Boot Sales – Best for Bargain Hunters

Car boot sales are one of the cheapest places to find a VHS player, as many sellers are just trying to get rid of old electronics. You might even find one for free if you ask the right person.

Pros:

✔ Sellers are often open to haggling, so you can get a great price.
✔ You can inspect the player in person before buying.
✔ Occasionally, you might find someone selling a full VHS collection alongside a player.

Cons:

✘ No way to test if it works unless the seller brings a power supply.
✘ Condition can vary, and some players may be faulty.

Top tip: Bring a blank VHS tape with you and ask the seller if they can plug in the player so you can check if it works.

Flea Markets – More Likely to Have Collectable Models

Flea markets tend to attract vintage and electronics sellers, making them a better bet if you are looking for a higher-end VHS player rather than just a cheap one. You are more likely to find rare models like JVC’s Super VHS range, but prices will reflect that.

Pros:

✔ A better chance of finding well-maintained or premium VHS players.
✔ Some sellers specialise in retro tech and may offer advice or repairs.
✔ Less competition than online, meaning you might find a hidden gem.

Cons:

✘ Prices can be higher, especially for sought-after models.
✘ Some sellers may not allow returns if the player turns out to be faulty.

Top tip: Look for stalls selling other vintage electronics, as they are more likely to have quality VHS players than a random household clearance stall.

If you want to make sure you are getting a working machine, next we will cover what to check before buying a VHS player.

 

What to Check Before Buying a VHS Player

Buying a VHS player second-hand is always a bit of a gamble, especially if you are getting it from a private seller or a car boot sale. Many machines have been sitting in storage for years, and some might have faults that are not immediately obvious. To avoid wasting money, here is what you should check before making a purchase.

Does it power on?

This is the absolute minimum test. If you are buying in person, ask the seller if you can plug the machine in. The display should light up, and you should hear the internal mechanisms respond when you press the eject or play button. If the player does not power on at all, it is probably not worth the risk unless you know how to repair electronics.

Does it accept and eject tapes properly?

Insert a tape and see if the machine pulls it in smoothly. If it struggles, makes a grinding noise, or immediately spits the tape back out, there could be a mechanical fault. Likewise, check that the eject function works properly, as a faulty eject mechanism can lead to tapes getting stuck inside.

Do the play, rewind, and fast-forward functions work?

Even if a VHS player powers on, the tape transport system might be worn out. If possible, test whether the tape plays properly, and then try rewinding and fast-forwarding. If the machine is slow to respond or makes excessive noise, the belts and gears may be in poor condition.

Is the picture stable and clear?

If you have access to a TV while testing, check the video output. A working VHS player should produce a steady picture with minimal distortion. If you see rolling lines, excessive static, or flickering, the heads might need cleaning, or the machine could have a more serious internal fault.

Are the connections compatible with your TV?

Most UK VHS players use SCART or RCA connections, but modern TVs often lack these inputs. If your TV does not have the right ports, you may need an adapter. It is worth checking this before you buy, as an adapter will be an extra cost.

Does it come with a remote control?

A missing remote is not necessarily a deal-breaker, but some VHS players rely on remote functions for tracking adjustments and advanced playback features. Universal remotes can sometimes work as a replacement, but it is best to check compatibility first.

Has it been serviced or refurbished?

If you are buying from a shop or an online seller, check if the VHS player has been serviced or refurbished. A machine that has been professionally cleaned and had its belts replaced is far more likely to work reliably than one that has just been pulled out of a loft and sold as seen.

Final checks before buying

If you are buying online, ask the seller for a video of the machine working, if possible. For in-person purchases, do not rush the decision - take your time and check the key functions. A little caution now can save you from disappointment later.

If you are struggling to find a VHS player or do not want to risk buying second-hand, we will cover some alternative ways to watch your old tapes.

 

Alternatives to Buying a VHS Player

If you are struggling to find a good VHS player or are unsure about investing in second-hand tech, there are a few other ways to watch or preserve your old tapes. Depending on what you need a VHS player for, some of these options might be more practical than hunting down a working machine.

Convert Your VHS Tapes to Digital

If your main goal is to watch old home videos rather than build a VHS collection, converting your tapes to digital formats is a smart option. This allows you to watch them on a computer, TV, or even store them on a USB stick or cloud service for safekeeping.

You can either buy a VHS-to-digital converter and do it yourself or pay a professional service such as ourselves to handle it.

• DIY conversion kits include a USB capture device that connects a VHS player to your computer. Popular models include the Elgato Video Capture and the ClearClick Video to Digital Converter. You will still need a VHS player to use these, so borrowing one might be an option.
• Professional digitisation services like Digital Converters (us!) can convert your VHS tapes to DVD or digital files, or even store them in the cloud for a small subscription fee. 

Borrow or Rent a VHS Player

If you only need a VHS player for a short time, consider borrowing one rather than buying. Ask friends or family if they have one stored away, or check local community groups on Facebook, Freecycle, or Nextdoor.

Some libraries, universities, and community centres still have VHS players available for public use, particularly those that archive historical recordings. If you are a student, check with your university’s media or library department.

Look for DVD/VHS Combo Players

VHS players on their own can be hard to find, but DVD/VHS combo units are also out there if you want something with a dual purpose. These were popular in the early 2000s and often included features like HDMI output, making them easier to connect to modern TVs.

Some models, like the Panasonic DMR-ES35V or Toshiba RDXV60, also have built-in DVD recorders, allowing you to transfer VHS tapes to DVD. These tend to be more expensive than standalone VHS players, but they offer extra functionality.

While these were seemingly more popular in the US, we found the rather lovely Samsung DVD-V5600 pictured above on ebay for a bargain £86! 

Use a TV with Built-in VHS

In the late 90s and early 2000s, there was a bit of a craze for TVs with built-in VHS players. If you come across one of these, it can be an all-in-one solution, though they are bulky and not always easy to find, and the quality of both parts can be somewhat lacking. They were perfect for kids' bedrooms, and we have fond memories of our own cheap and cheerful Bush unit! Charity shops and house clearance sales sometimes have them for cheap.

We found this Matsui item on ebay for £75 - which seems a bit steep if you ask me! 

Buying a decent working VHS player in the UK is not as easy as it once was, but if you know where to look, you can still find a machine that suits your needs. Whether you are after a premium model, a budget-friendly player, or even a free one, options are out there if you are patient.

Online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace remain the most convenient places to search, while second-hand shops, charity stores, and car boot sales can be great for finding unexpected bargains. If you are struggling to get hold of a player, consider alternatives like VHS-to-USB conversion or borrowing one from a friend.

With a bit of effort, you can still enjoy your old tapes without breaking the bank. Happy viewing!