C64 Models
From the iconic breadbin to the modern FPGA recreation, every C64 model explained
Five decades of C64 design
The Commodore 64 appeared in several case designs and variants between 1982 and 1993. Each model reflects the spirit of its time.
With over 17 million units sold, the C64 is the best-selling home computer of all time. Those numbers are spread across several models: the original breadbin, the slimmer C64C, the simplified C64G, the keyboard-free C64GS and the modern Commodore 64 Ultimate.
Although each model looks different on the outside, they are all software-compatible. A game that runs on a 1982 breadbin works just as well on a 1990 C64C. That consistency is one of the reasons the C64 community remains active today.
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Official C64 models
1982-1986Commodore 64 "Breadbin"
The original C64 with its iconic rounded case - nicknamed the "breadbin" for its distinctive shape.
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1986-1993Commodore 64C
The redesigned C64 with a flatter, angular case matching the Amiga 500 aesthetic.
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1990Commodore 64G
The budget C64 variant with a simplified motherboard and an external power supply unit.
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1990Commodore 64 Games System (C64GS)
Commodore's attempt to sell the C64 as a game console - without a keyboard.
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2023-presentCommodore 64 Ultimate (C64U)
The modern FPGA recreation of the original C64 with HDMI output, USB and near 100% software compatibility.
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2025-presentCommodore 64C Ultimate (C64CU)
The official FPGA recreation of the 1986 C64C. Same slim case, three modern editions, fully compatible with the entire C64 software library.
Read more▶Modern C64 Variants
Beyond the classic original models, several manufacturers brought modern C64 recreations to market. These devices use contemporary hardware, require no maintenance of ageing electronics and connect easily to modern televisions via HDMI.
The pocket-sized C64, plug and play
THEC64 Mini is a compact recreation of the original breadbin, roughly half the size of the original. It comes pre-loaded with 64 classic games and connects to any TV via HDMI. The keyboard is non-functional, making it purely a gaming device. A joystick is included.
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Full-size, fully functional keyboard
THEC64 (often called the Maxi) is a full-size recreation with a working keyboard. It runs a curated selection of 64 built-in games but also accepts USB drives, allowing you to load a much wider range of C64 software. It connects via HDMI and includes a competition joystick.
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Explore the Commodore 64
Discover the full history of the C64, its legendary SID sound chip, and the best emulators for modern devices.
C64 history▶
