Commodore 64 Ultimate
| File:Commodore 64 Ultimate.jpg Commodore 64 Ultimate (2025) | |
| Developer | Commodore International, Inc. |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Commodore International, Inc. |
| Type | Home computer (modern reissue) |
| Release date | July 2025 |
| Introductory price | US$399 (base model) |
| CPU | FPGA-based "Ultimate" core (65816, 6510, C128, Amiga modes) |
| Memory | 2 MB (expandable to 16 MB) |
| Storage | microSD, USB, internal flash |
| Display | HDMI, composite, S-video |
| Sound | Stereo SID emulation |
| Input | USB keyboard/mouse, DB9 joystick |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB |
| Backward compatibility | Commodore 64, C128, Amiga (selective), Ultimate64 |
| Website | commodore.net |
The Commodore 64 Ultimate is a modern, hardware-recreated version of the original Commodore 64, released in July 2025 by the revived Commodore International, Inc. It is based on FPGA technology and designed to emulate the functionality of the C64, C128, and portions of the Amiga systems, while adding modern conveniences such as HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi.
Development
The system is heavily based on the earlier Ultimate 64 project by Dutch developer Gideon Zweijtzer. Zweijtzer, an electronics engineer and retro computing enthusiast, originally developed the Ultimate 64 as a drop-in FPGA replacement for the Commodore 64 motherboard. The project gained acclaim for its cycle-accurate emulation and low latency output.
In 2024, Zweijtzer partnered with the newly revived Commodore International to bring the Ultimate 64 technology into an official product line. The Commodore 64 Ultimate incorporates enhanced features, improved aesthetics, and official branding while remaining fully compatible with the original architecture.
Features
The Commodore 64 Ultimate includes the following enhancements over the original:
- FPGA-based reimplementation of the 6510 and related chips
- HDMI video output at 720p and 1080p
- Dual SID emulation with stereo support
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet for file transfers and BBS connectivity
- SD card and USB ports for loading software
- USB keyboard and mouse support
- Optional mechanical keyboard with original-style keycaps
- Support for modern display resolutions and scanline simulation
- Onboard BASIC 2.0, C128, and cartridge image loading
Compatibility
The machine runs cycle-accurate C64 software, including original games, demos, and utilities. It supports cartridges, disk images (.d64, .g64), and PRG files. With firmware updates, partial support for the Commodore 128 and early Amiga configurations is also available.
Reception
Retro computing communities have widely praised the C64 Ultimate for its blend of authenticity and usability. It has been described as “the closest modern recreation of the original Commodore 64 experience,” offering both hardware purists and casual users a reliable platform for 8-bit computing in the modern age.