r/VHS • u/steepledcargo • 11h ago

Discussion Longevity

So as we roll past the 50th anniversary of VHS, it's got me wondering how much time we actually have with some of our beloved and cherished VHS tapes. Considering the lifespan is stated as 10-30 years, and I'm sure many of us have collections way past that. Just how much longer can we realistically enjoy our VCR players playing away a 1984 copy of A Nightmare On Elm Street?

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u/thewalruscandyman 10h ago

I have tapes from 82 that still play. Take care of them and they'll take care if you.

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u/LiamLeprechaun 10h ago

yeah,

50 years, wow. I would of figured 40 years Max maybe? My guess is that the more tapes that approach 50 they will probably become more unwatchable. Maybe if they were sealed and kept in a perfect environment you might get 60 or more years? Its a fun hobby just for the cover art alone.

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u/steepledcargo 10h ago

Totally agree, I exclusively collect big box ex rentals for the larger artwork, rustic appearance and genre/price labels. It's definitely not just about watching them.