Side by side
Spike (RISC-V ISA Simulator) vs VICE
Both stand on emulator software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
Spike offers functional RISC-V simulation with documented debugging and extension workflows. Check that the target ISA, host system, and build prerequisites fit your project.
Visit Spike (RISC-V ISA Simulator) Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
VICE covers a broad set of Commodore systems and includes detailed C64 video and sound emulation. Readers should account for the stated limitations on several emulators and the absence of warranty.
Visit VICEThe facts
| Spike (RISC-V ISA Simulator) | VICE | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | vice-emu.sourceforge.io |
| On emulator software | #32 of 39 | #28 of 39 |
Spike (RISC-V ISA Simulator): what it does well
- Models one or more RISC-V harts
- Includes interactive register and memory debugging
- Documents GDB connection through OpenOCD
- Allows custom instruction additions
- Free and open source
What to know first
- The V extension requires a 64-bit host
- Build requires device-tree-compiler and Boost libraries
- The license does not require maintenance or support
VICE: what it does well
- Emulates eight Commodore computer systems.
- C64 emulation includes VIC-II video and SID sound.
- Supports up to four external disk drives.
- Joystick input can use keyboard or connected joystick.
What to know first
- Several emulators remain under construction.
- macOS builds require macOS 12.0 or later.
- Distributed without warranty.
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