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Commodore 128

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Page last updated Jan 27, 2026

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Description

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The C128 is a significantly expanded successor to the C64, with nearly full compatibility. The newer machine has 128 kB of RAM in two 64 kB banks, and an 80-column color video output. It has a redesigned case and keyboard. Also included is a Zilog Z80 CPU which allows the C128 to run CP/M, as an alternative to the usual Commodore BASIC environment. The presence of the Z80 and the huge CP/M software library it brings, coupled with the C64's software library, gives the C128 one of the broadest ranges of available software among its competitors.

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The 8-Bit Guy

Commodore 128 Complete Restoration and Board Repair.

The 8-Bit Guy

Commodore History Part 5 - The C128

The 8-Bit Guy

Repairing Martin Galway's Commodore 128

The 8-Bit Guy

The Commodore 128 - My favorite 8-bit home computer

retrobits

Commodore 128 vs 128D vs 128DCR and why you need one now

TheRetroChannel

Commodore 128 commercial 1986

VingtTrois Seize

Eye of the Beholder for Commodore 128 - Ultimate Gaming Rig Setup

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Commodore 128.

Features and functionality

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The C128DCR model includes updated ROMs and extra RAM for the VDC, offering improved capabilities over the original C128D.
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The C128 features two video chips, requiring either two monitors or a switchable monitor to utilize both VIC-II and 8563 modes.
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C128 supports 1 MHz in 40-column mode and both 1 MHz or 2 MHz in 80-column mode using the 8563 chip.
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The 40-column mode offers sharper text with s-video, while 80-column mode requires a digital RGB or CGA monitor for color output.
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Build quality

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The European C128D featured a plastic case with a carrying handle and a cooling fan, whereas the North American C128DCR had a metal case and no fan.
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Some units exhibit poorly finished screw holes, hinting at rushed manufacturing processes.
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User experience

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Some owners find the fan noise in the C128D distracting, preferring the silent operation of the C128.
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Owners often use the C128 in C64 mode due to limited C128-specific software, despite the system's advanced capabilities.
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Despite a history of instability in some units, the C128 is praised for its BASIC programming capabilities.
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Comparisons

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The C128D is considered rarer than the C128, and its keyboard alone can be more valuable than the entire unit.
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Use cases and applications

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The additional VRAM in the C128DCR enhances its capability to run programs like I Paint and I Port, which utilize 64k VDC RAM for high-resolution imaging.
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Software and compatibility

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The C128's floppy drive reads CP/M and DOS floppies, solving speed issues by operating 5-6 times faster than the C64, though disabled in C64 mode.
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The SD2IEC device is recommended for modern software access, complementing traditional floppy drives for easier file transfer.
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