Spectral is an experimental Sinclair ZX Spectrum emulator for Windows, Linux, and macOS. It supports TAP, TZX, PZX, and CSW tape files, Z80, SNA, and SZX snapshots, as well as several disk formats. The listed peripheral support includes multiple joystick types, gamepads, audio systems, a Kempston mouse, Gunstick, Lightgun, Mikro-plus, and Nec µ765 and Betadisk. Gamepad support is listed for Windows and Linux. The project provides source code, binary releases, and build instructions for all three desktop platforms. The listed 1.16 release includes custom ROM/BIOS selection and a palette editor. Its roadmap mentions an embedded ZXDB, browser, and gallery. The maker describes the code as highly experimental and likely to change, while noting that ease of use may appeal to newcomers and that experienced ZX users may find limited value in it right now. Spectral is free and open source, with public domain, 0-BSD, and MIT (No Attribution) licensing listed.
Who it is for
Spectral may suit newcomers looking for an emulator the maker describes as easy to use, or users interested in trying an experimental ZX Spectrum project. Experienced ZX users may find limited value in it at present.
What is good
- Supports TAP, TZX, PZX, and CSW tape formats.
- Works with Z80, SNA, and SZX snapshots.
- Provides source code, binaries, and build instructions.
- Lists joystick, gamepad, and other peripheral support.
- Free with public domain, 0-BSD, and MIT licensing listed.
What to know first
- The maker describes the code as highly experimental.
- The code is prone to change.
- The maker says experienced ZX users may find little value right now.
- Gamepad support is listed only for Windows and Linux.
Verdict
Spectral covers a broad set of tape, snapshot, and peripheral formats across Windows, Linux, and macOS. Its experimental status and the maker’s caveat about experienced users are worth considering before choosing it.
Spectral plans and pricing
All plansCompared on ZX spectrum emulators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Host platforms
- Windows, Linux, macOS
- Tape formats
- TAP, TZX, PZX, CSW
- Snapshot formats
- Z80, SNA, SZX
- Open source
- Yes
- Peripheral support
- Beeper, AY, TurboSound/Turbo-AY, Kempston mouse, Kempston/Fuller/Cursor/Sinclair joysticks, gamepads, Gunstick, Lightgun, Mikro-plus, Nec µ765, Betadisk
