Atari · Gen 2
Hardware
Entry-level home computer introduced alongside the Atari 800 in 1979. It used the same core Atari 8-bit architecture but shipped with a membrane keyboard and a lower-cost case. Early units were built for NTSC markets, with PAL variants also sold in Europe.
Higher-end companion to the Atari 400, launched in 1979 with more expansion options and a more elaborate chassis. It was the only Atari 8-bit model with a right cartridge slot and modular internal memory bays. Like the 400, it appeared in both NTSC and PAL configurations.
Entry-level home computer introduced alongside the Atari 800 in 1979. It used the same core Atari 8-bit architecture but shipped with a membrane keyboard and a lower-cost case. Early units were built for NTSC markets, with PAL variants also sold in Europe.
Higher-end companion to the Atari 400, launched in 1979 with more expansion options and a more elaborate chassis. It was the only Atari 8-bit model with a right cartridge slot and modular internal memory bays. Like the 400, it appeared in both NTSC and PAL configurations.
Best-selling XL-series Atari 8-bit computer, launched in 1983. It combined 64 KB of RAM, built-in BASIC, and the XL case design into a more affordable successor to the 800 and 1200XL. The model was sold in both North American and European PAL versions, and production continued in some markets into 1985.
Short-lived redesign of the 8-bit Atari line released in early 1983. It introduced a new case, full 64 KB of RAM, two joystick ports, and function keys, but also had compatibility issues with some existing software and peripherals. There is no widely documented PAL production version.
Low-cost XL-series computer released in 1983 as the budget successor to the 400. It used the same industrial design language as the 800XL but shipped with less memory. PAL versions included monitor output, while North American units targeted the home-computer market without that emphasis.
Low-cost XL-series computer released in 1983 as the budget successor to the 400. It used the same industrial design language as the 800XL but shipped with less memory. PAL versions included monitor output, while North American units targeted the home-computer market without that emphasis.
Best-selling XL-series Atari 8-bit computer, launched in 1983. It combined 64 KB of RAM, built-in BASIC, and the XL case design into a more affordable successor to the 800 and 1200XL. The model was sold in both North American and European PAL versions, and production continued in some markets into 1985.
Enhanced XE-series model released in 1985 with 128 KB of RAM. It added bank-switched memory and the Enhanced Cartridge Interface, making it the most capable mainstream Atari 8-bit computer. It was sold primarily in North America and Europe.
Enhanced XE-series model released in 1985 with 128 KB of RAM. It added bank-switched memory and the Enhanced Cartridge Interface, making it the most capable mainstream Atari 8-bit computer. It was sold primarily in North America and Europe.
XE-series 8-bit computer introduced by Atari Corporation in 1985. It was functionally close to the 800XL, with 64 KB of RAM and a revised case, and in some markets it was sold as the 800XE instead. Later revisions added the ECI connector.
Atari's XE Video Game System, an industrial redesign of the Atari 65XE sold as a game console in 1987. It was compatible with Atari 8-bit software and accessories, and could function as a computer if an optional keyboard was attached. It is generally treated as the final model in the Atari 8-bit family.