Commodore 64x

From RetroWikipedia
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Commodore 64x
Commodore 64x system in retro chassis
DeveloperCommodore USA (original), My Retro Computer Ltd (current)
ManufacturerCommodore USA, My Retro Computer Ltd
Product familyCommodore
TypeHome computer
Release dateApril 2011 (2011-04) (original), June 2022 (2022-06) (relaunched)
Introductory priceUS $295–1499 (original), £129–£1149 (2022 relaunch)
Operating systemUbuntu 10.10, Commodore OS Vision 2.0/3.0, Windows 11, Modern Linux
CPUOriginally: Intel Atom D525 or Core i7 (Sandy Bridge); Currently: Intel N100 or AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
MemoryUp to 64 GB DDR5 (Infinity), up to 32 GB DDR4 (Legend II)
StorageM.2 PCIe (x2), SATA (x2–4), up to 3 TB HDD (original), user-configurable
GraphicsNvidia Ion 2, Intel HD Graphics (original); Radeon 780M iGPU (current Infinity)
SoundRealtek ALC662 (original), motherboard-integrated HD audio
ConnectivityUSB 2.0/3.0, HDMI, DVI-D, VGA, RJ45 LAN (1Gb/2.5Gb), Wi-Fi 6E (Infinity), SATA, GPIO, PS/2, CIR
WeightApprox. 3.1 kg (varies by config)
Websitewww.myretrocomputer.com

The Commodore 64x is a modern Mini-ITX personal computer housed in a faithful replica of the original Commodore 64 chassis. Originally introduced in April 2011 by Commodore USA, it returned to the market in 2022 under the stewardship of UK-based My Retro Computer Ltd.

The system preserves the aesthetic of the 1982 classic while offering modern hardware and operating systems including Windows 11, Linux, and the enthusiast-developed Commodore OS Vision. Two prebuilt systems are offered today: the quiet, fanless Legend II and the high-performance Infinity.

History

The Commodore 64x was created in response to overwhelming demand for a retro-styled PC. Production began in 2011 with models ranging from the basic Atom-powered units to Core i7-equipped "Extreme" editions. Following the passing of Commodore USA founder Barry Altman and the company's closure, production ceased.

In 2022, My Retro Computer Ltd acquired the original injection molds and reintroduced the system, complete with new internal mounting kits, venting systems, and DIY-friendly configurations. The relaunch included Kickstarter funding, which survived legal challenges and achieved “Project We Love” status.[1]

Models

2011–2012 (Commodore USA)

  • **Starter / Ultimate / Extreme**: Ranging from Intel Atom to Core i7, with 2–8 GB RAM and 1–3 TB storage.
  • **Barebones Kit**: Case-only option for hobbyists, priced at US $295.

2022–present (My Retro Computer Ltd)

  • Legend II: Intel N100, up to 32 GB DDR4, fanless, suitable for quiet retro builds.
  • Infinity: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS, up to 64 GB DDR5, Radeon 780M graphics, modern gaming capable.

All systems are Mini-ITX based and customizable with My Retro Computer offering full systems, components, or just the C64x case (in original beige or a limited RGB variant with swappable mechanical key switches).

Software

The C64x originally shipped with Ubuntu 10.10 and Commodore OS Vision (v1). My Retro Computer now preinstalls Commodore OS Vision 2.0, a custom Linux distribution designed to emulate the experience of the classic Commodore systems. A new version, Commodore OS Vision 3.0, is in development and installable on request.

The systems are compatible with:

  • VICE C64 emulator
  • Modern Linux distros (Ubuntu, Mint, etc.)
  • Windows 10/11
  • Commodore OS 2.0 / 3.0 (community-supported)

DIY Builds and Accessories

My Retro Computer encourages DIY builds with optional kits:

  • Raspberry Pi 4 mounting plate
  • Rear exhaust fan kits
  • Internal venting mods
  • Builders’ kits for both Legend II and Infinity

Customers are invited to submit YouTube videos or build guides to be featured on the official store page.

Availability

Available for purchase via MyRetroComputer.com and through its official UK distributor Mini-ITX.com, systems are generally built to order with a 3–5 day turnaround.

References

  1. "Commodore 64 Returns As A PC Gaming Powerhouse With An Intel CPU And GeForce GPU". 17 June 2022.