Side by side
DOSBox vs DOSBox Pure
Both stand on ms-dos emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
DOSBox provides DOS emulation and disk image support for running older software and games. Check the compatibility list for a game's status and use secure mode with untrusted files, keeping in mind the commands it disables.
Visit DOSBox Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
DOSBox Pure offers a range of DOS file and disk-image support, controller mapping, and save states in a free desktop emulator. Note the save-state conditions and the network limitation if those matter to your setup.
Visit DOSBox PureThe facts
| DOSBox | DOSBox Pure | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | dosbox.com | schelling.itch.io |
| On ms-dos emulators | #1 of 26 | #2 of 26 |
DOSBox: what it does well
- Free and open source.
- Emulates several DOS-era CPU and graphics standards.
- Mounts floppy and CD-ROM images.
- Supports IPX networking and serial nullmodem connections.
- Publishes a compatibility list for games.
What to know first
- The latest listed version is 0.74-3.
- Secure mode disables MOUNT, IMGMOUNT, and BOOT.
- Listed packages cover Mac OS X, Windows, Fedora, and Debian.
DOSBox Pure: what it does well
- Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Loads DOS executables, folders, and disk images.
- Provides 10 save-state slots per content.
- Gamepad controls can map to keyboard, mouse, or joystick.
What to know first
- Complex late-era DOS games may have save-state problems.
- Save states require matching game and video or CPU settings.
- The emulated network card cannot access the real internet.
- Software graphics rendering uses much more CPU.
Alternatives to DOSBox Alternatives to DOSBox Pure The whole list