Side by side
jsc64 vs simple-emu-c64
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.
Free plan Web
Choose jsc64 if you want a free Commodore 64 emulator that can be embedded in a web page and controlled with the keyboard. Developers should account for its proof of concept status and the maker’s note that its rendering and JavaScript engine are less efficient than Flash Player.
Visit jsc64 Free plan LinuxMacWeb+1
simple-emu-c64 focuses on console-based Commodore and 6502 programs across several systems. Its text-only I/O and missing peripheral support make it a narrow fit for users who need more than keyboard and console interaction.
Visit simple-emu-c64The facts
| jsc64 | simple-emu-c64 | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Not published |
| Plans published | None | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | github.com |
| On commodore 64 emulators | #19 of 31 | #15 of 31 |
jsc64: what it does well
- Free software under GNU General Public License version 2
- Runs in modern Firefox, Chrome, and Safari
- Supports loading .prg files through loadPrg
- Can route keyboard input to separate instances
- Project demo lists six ROMs
What to know first
- The maker describes the emulator as a proof of concept
- Canvas and JavaScript are described as less efficient than Flash Player
- Loading .prg files is subject to browser cross-domain policy
simple-emu-c64: what it does well
- Supports six Commodore systems.
- Runs BASIC, assembly, and machine-code programs.
- Includes system-specific memory banking features.
- Reads D64 disk images.
- Free, with source under a revised MIT license.
What to know first
- No graphics, sound, or sprites.
- No joystick, cassette, or serial support.
- D64 support is read-only.
- PET file loading and saving are not implemented.
Alternatives to jsc64 Alternatives to simple-emu-c64 The whole list