Klive IDE combines an emulator and development environment for programming Sinclair Z80-based computers. It is a free, MIT-licensed project for macOS, Windows, and Linux, described by its maker as a passion project for retro-computing enthusiasts. Active emulators cover the ZX Spectrum 48K and 128K, ZX Spectrum +2E/+3E, and Cambridge Z88; ZX Spectrum Next support is still in progress. The IDE supports Z80 Assembly, ZX BASIC (Boriel's Basic), and SJASMPLUS. Its native Klive assembler is built in, while ZX BASIC and SJASMPLUS use external toolchains. A one-click workflow compiles code, loads it into the emulated machine, and runs or debugs it with breakpoints. The editor offers VS Code keyboard shortcuts, syntax highlighting, diagnostics, code folding, and symbol navigation. Debugging views include CPU and ULA state, memory, disassembly, watches, BASIC listings, and system variables. Klive loads TAP and TZX tape files and DSK disks for ZX Spectrum +3E, and exports TAP, TZX, or Intel HEX. Its emulator can record video with stereo audio to MP4, WebM, or MKV.
Who it is for
Klive IDE suits retro-computing enthusiasts who want to write and debug software for supported Sinclair Z80 machines. It is also relevant to developers comfortable with external toolchains for ZX BASIC or SJASMPLUS.
What is good
- Built-in assembler has no external dependencies.
- One-click compile, inject, run, and debug workflow.
- Debugging views expose CPU, memory, and system information.
- Loads TAP and TZX tapes and exports Intel HEX.
- Available for macOS, Windows, and Linux.
What to know first
- ZX Spectrum Next support is still in progress.
- ZX BASIC and SJASMPLUS require external toolchains.
- macOS may flag the installer as coming from an untrusted source.
Verdict
Klive IDE brings editing, emulation, and debugging together for several Sinclair Z80 machines. Check the supported machine list and external-toolchain requirements against your preferred setup.
Klive IDE plans and pricing
All plansCompared on ZX spectrum emulators
- Host platforms
- macOS, Windows, Linux
- Tape formats
- .tap, .tzx
- Built-in debugger
- Yes
- Open source
- Yes
- Peripheral support
- virtual keyboard, floppy disk drives
