Atari · Gen 2
Hardware
A Sears-branded version of the original Atari 2600 sold through Sears, Roebuck and Co. It is functionally the same hardware as the launch VCS, but with Sears-only cosmetic branding and packaging.
The original Atari Video Computer System launch model, distinguished by six front-panel switches and a heavier case with substantial RF shielding. Collectors commonly call it the "Heavy Sixer"; early units were produced in Sunnyvale, California.
A Sears-branded early-production version of the original Atari 2600. It uses the six-switch heavy case and early manufacturing characteristics while differing only in Sears labeling and packaging.
A revised North American 2600 with the same six front switches but a lighter construction and reduced internal shielding. It kept the woodgrain styling of the original VCS while shifting production to later manufacturing runs, including Hong Kong-made units.
A cost-reduced Atari 2600 revision with four front-panel switches instead of six. It is externally close to the earlier VCS models but omits the difficulty switches and uses the updated 2600A designation in Atari documentation and on surviving labels.
The PAL-market four-switch Atari 2600 revision sold in Europe and other PAL territories. It shares the same basic case family as the North American 2600A but is electrically and regionally configured for PAL television systems.
A PAL-M regional build of the four-switch Atari 2600 revision for the Brazilian market. The hardware follows the same general 2600A design while using PAL-M video output.
A prototype Atari 2600 redesign intended to use wireless controllers. It was not commercially released, but it is historically significant because its wedge-shaped case influenced later Atari console designs.
A redesigned Sears-exclusive 2600-compatible console in a wedge-shaped case with top-mounted controls. Although mechanically different from earlier 2600 models, it remains compatible with the same cartridge library and is treated as an official Atari-made 2600 variant.
The Japanese Atari-branded version of the 2600, based on the same wedge-shaped redesign as the Sears Video Arcade II. It was released only in Japan and uses Atari branding with Japanese-market packaging and controllers.
The PAL-market version of the compact Atari 2600 Junior revision. It is compatibility-equivalent to the North American Junior apart from the regional television standard and market packaging.
A Brazilian PAL-M variant of the Atari 2600 Junior form factor. It uses the same compact redesign but is region-specific for PAL-M television systems.
A smaller, cost-reduced redesign of the Atari 2600 with a slim black-and-silver case. It is the final major Atari 2600 retail revision in North America and is widely known as the "Junior".