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The Spectrum vs a Real ZX Spectrum
Quick version: The Spectrum is a modern remake of the ZX Spectrum from Retro Games Ltd, released in November 2024. It plugs into a TV by HDMI, has 48 games built in and runs games made for the 48K and 128K models. A real ZX Spectrum is the 1982 original: it loads from cassette and plugs into a TV. Buy the remake for easy play on a modern TV, and the original for the real loading screens, keyboard and sound.
At a glance
| Spec | The Spectrum (2024) | ZX Spectrum (1982) |
|---|---|---|
| Made by | Retro Games Ltd | Sinclair Research |
| UK release | 22 November 2024 | 23 April 1982 |
| Games | 48 built in, plus programs you own from a USB stick | Cassette tapes (Microdrive, and 3-inch disks on the +3) |
| Memory | Runs 48K and 128K games | 16 KB, 48 KB or 128 KB, depending on the model |
| Picture | HDMI, 720p at 50 or 60 Hz | To a television set |
| Extras | Save slots, rewind, extra colours, display frames | None: it is the real thing |
The Spectrum (2024)
The Spectrum went on sale on 22 November 2024. It has 48 built-in games, including Manic Miner, Head Over Heels, Saboteur! Remastered, The Hobbit, Army Moves and The Great Escape.
- Classic Mode: the full ZX Spectrum experience, with BASIC programming and virtual cassettes.
- 48K and 128K: runs games made for both.
- Saves and rewind: four save slots per game, and you can rewind up to 40 seconds.
- Your own games: load programs you own, with the cassette loading effects if you want them.
- Extended colours: ULAplus colour mode for richer palettes, and 12 display frames around the picture.
- Four USB ports: for joysticks, gamepads and USB sticks.
The box has The Spectrum, an HDMI cable, a USB power lead and a manual. There is no gamepad and no mains adapter, so you may need to buy both.
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The original ZX Spectrum
The ZX Spectrum launched in the UK on 23 April 1982 and sold more than five million units. It has a Z80A processor at 3.5 MHz and came with 16 KB or 48 KB of memory, and later 128 KB. Its rubber keyboard and rainbow stripe were designed by Rick Dickinson. Sound comes from a simple beeper, and the 128K models add an AY sound chip.
Tapes and tape decks are now decades old, so ask for a photo or video of it loading a game before you buy.
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Which should you buy?
- The Spectrum if you want the games on a modern TV, with saves and rewind, and no tapes to look after.
- A real ZX Spectrum if you want the original keyboard, cassette loading and the computer itself. Read the story of the playground war between the Spectrum and the C64 for why it still matters to UK gamers.
For an Amiga remake instead, see THEA500 Mini, and to compare every plug-and-play option, see our best retro mini consoles.
FAQ
How many games are on The Spectrum?
48. They include Manic Miner, Head Over Heels, The Hobbit, Skool Daze, Jack the Nipper and The Great Escape.
Can The Spectrum play 128K games?
Yes. Retro Games says it is compatible with games for the 48K to 128K ZX Spectrum models.
Does The Spectrum come with a joystick or gamepad?
No. The box has the computer, an HDMI cable, a USB power lead and a manual. It works with many USB game controllers.
See also: Retro PC guides · Retro gaming gift guide
Buying for someone else? See our retro gaming gift guide.