The full-size Spectrum retro computer has leaked – the $99 device with 48 games is coming in November

A full-fledged, modern remake of the classic 8-bit Sinclair ZX Spectrum computer, developed by Retro Games and marketed as The Spectrum, is expected to launch soon. The new machine is modelled on the iconic Spectrum 48K design, with rubber block keys and rainbow stripes, and offers 48 built-in games. Retro fans can easily load their own titles via USB. Leaked in listings at Polish and UK online retailers, the Spectrum 48K and 128K compatible machine is available from November 22nd and will cost £89, which is likely to equate to $99 at US retailers.

Retro mini consoles and home computers have been popular in recent years, and the latest trend is for full-size replicas. Retro Games launched the C64 to capitalize on retro fans' demand for larger, fully functional toys, and the Spectrum is set to be the next big thing. Hopefully a successor to the A500 Mini will give fans a full-size replica of the Amiga in the coming months.

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(Image credit: Retro Games)

Turning our focus back to The Spectrum, and while there are no official Retro Games product pages available, the packaging photos and sales listings give most of the away. Most importantly, this machine aims to offer full-on Spectrum fun with the convenience of modern interfaces like HDMI and USB, as well as the fully functional recreation of the keyboard – so you can perhaps play your own Sinclair BASIC games.

Key Spectrum Specifications:

IN THE BOX: The Spectrum Home Computer, USB-C Power Cable (1.8m – 6ft) (AC adapter NOT included), HDMI Cable (1.8m – 6ft).
Emulates 48 and 128 models of the ZX Spectrum.
Fully functional replica keyboard.
48 built-in games including Manic Miner, The Hobbit and Head Over Heels.
Multi-region 720 HD output via HDMI, with PAL (50 Hz) and NTSC (60 Hz) compatibility. Playback in original 4:3 aspect ratio or pixel-perfect, with or without CRT filter and configurable frame size.
Choose from 12 attractive frames for gameplay.
Save games at any time in any of the 4 slots per game and rewind gameplay up to 40 seconds.
Play your games via a USB stick with compatibility with multiple file types (TAP/TZX/PZX/SZX/Z80/SNA).
Four USB-A ports for adding additional controllers for multiplayer games and for USB sticks.

While the above specs make it clear that you'll need to use your own power supply, and this should be easily possible with the included USB-C cable, no mention of an included joystick is worrying. There's no joystick or joypad to be found in the retail offerings either. This would be a significant omission, given that the primary focus of nostalgic buyers is gaming.

The list of built-in games isn't the most important thing here, as you can easily add your own games via USB, but the box does highlight some classic built-in titles like Manic Miner, The Hobbit, Saboteur, and Head Over Heels.

Overall, the device looks good and seems to be a comprehensive retro offering, but we'd hold off on reviews looking for mentions of audio/video glitches and whether a joystick/joypad is actually included. Some retro channels state that the official launch will be this Tuesday, but keep in mind that availability isn't scheduled until November 22nd. While you wait, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Spectrum retro gaming on your PC, Raspberry Pi, tablet, smartphone, or browser. Surprisingly, new games are still coming to the platform in 2024.

The full-size Spectrum retro computer has leaked – the $99 device with 48 games is coming in November

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