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C64 by ChronoCoders vs CCS64

Both stand on commodore 64 emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

C64 by ChronoCoders

Free plan LinuxWindows

Choose C64 by ChronoCoders if you want a free Commodore 64 emulator with a separately modelled 1541 drive and configurable controls. Look elsewhere if you need bundled ROM images or save states that transfer across different builds and platforms.

Visit C64 by ChronoCoders

CCS64

Free plan LinuxWindows

CCS64 pairs broad C64 hardware emulation with recording, debugging, and multiplayer features. Its documentation notes approximated SID filter and amplifier emulation, and regular use carries a listed registration cost.

Visit CCS64

The facts

C64 by ChronoCodersCCS64
Free planYesYes
Open sourceNot publishedNot published
Runs onLinux, WindowsLinux, Windows
Lowest paid planNot publishedShareware registration: $30, paid once
Plans publishedNone1
MakerNot publishedNot published
Websitegithub.comccs64.com
On commodore 64 emulators#10 of 31#6 of 31

C64 by ChronoCoders: what it does well

  • Free to use under the repository's MIT-licensed source code.
  • Models the computer and 1541 drive on separate clock domains.
  • Supports VIC-II graphics features and SID 6581 sound.
  • Can write disk changes back to D64 images on clean exit.
  • Supports keyboard, joystick, and SDL-recognized game controllers.

What to know first

  • Users must supply their own legally obtained C64 ROM images.
  • The GUI binary requires a C11 compiler and SDL2.
  • Save-state snapshots require matching platform, build, endianness, and compiler ABI.

CCS64: what it does well

  • Emulates many C64 peripherals and cartridges.
  • Supports multiple disk, tape, and program formats.
  • Can record video with audio or audio alone.
  • Includes a machine-code monitor and backward tracing.
  • Replay covers up to 60 minutes of emulation history.

What to know first

  • SID filter and amplifier emulation is approximated.
  • Current downloads listed are Windows executables.
  • Regular users are asked to register for $30, paid once.

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