From the ZX Spectrum to Apple II: 80s computers in pictures

It's 30 years since the Sinclair ZX Spectrum was launched as an affordable home computer for the masses. Here's a selection of classic computers we came to know and love – from basic gaming machines to those you could program in BASIC
  
  


Home computers: Sinclair ZX80 home computer on the printout of BASIC programming code
A Sinclair ZX80 home computer, sitting on the printout of BASIC programming language Photograph: Alamy
Home computers: The Sinclair ZX81
The Sinclair ZX81, launched in the UK in March 1981 Photograph: Andy Drysdale/Rex Features
Home computers: Sinclair ZX Spectrum with ZX Microdrives
Sinclair ZX Spectrum with ZX Microdrives Photograph: Alamy
Home computers: Sinclair QL, an early home computer produced in 1984/85
Sinclair QL, an early home computer produced in 1984-85 Photograph: Alamy
Home computers: BBC Micro Computer in the 1980s
The BBC Micro was designed and built by Acorn Computers for the BBC Computer Literacy Project, in the 1980s Photograph: SSPL via Getty Images
Home computers: Commodore VIC 20 home computer, 1983
The 8-bit Commodore VIC 20 home computer, from 1983 Photograph: Manchester Daily Express/SSPL via Getty images
Home computers: Commodore C64 home computer
The Commodore C64, an 8-bit home computer introduced in January 1982 by Commodore International Photograph: Interfoto/Alamy
Home computers: Apple II computer in Shanghai, China in April 1985
Apple II computer in Shanghai, China in April 1985 Photograph: Owen Franken/Corbis
Home computers: An Apple IIE manufactured from 1983 to 1985, with the game Frogger
An Apple IIE manufactured from January 1983 to Feburary 1985, with the game Frogger Photograph: ZUMA Wire Service/Alamy
 

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