1200XL

The Atari 1200XL, released in early 1983, was a short-lived but stylish 8-bit home computer positioned as a premium successor to the Atari 800. It featured 64KB of RAM, a redesigned OS, a luxurious full-travel keyboard, and a striking silver-and-black case. Internally, it retained the familiar 6502-based architecture with the ANTIC, GTIA, and POKEY chips, offering the same excellent graphics and sound as earlier models. However, the 1200XL suffered from software and peripheral incompatibilities, a high price, and lack of expandability, leading to its discontinuation within the year. Despite its flaws, it remains a favorite among collectors due to its design and rarity.

Notable Features

• Sleek silver-and-black case with smoked plastic keyboard bezel
• Built-in diagnostic functions and improved OS features
• Excellent keyboard – considered one of the best on any Atari 8-bit
• 4 function keys and better key response than 400/800 or 600XL
• Removed parallel bus for internal expansion, limiting upgradability

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Historical Significance

• Intended as a bridge between the 800 and the upcoming XL line
• Criticized for lack of compatibility with some 400/800 software and peripherals
• High retail price and market confusion limited its success
• Rapidly replaced by the more affordable 800XL later in 1983
• Became a cult favorite among collectors due to its elegant design and rarity

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Collector's Notes

• Rarity: High – one of the rarest mass-produced Atari 8-bits
• Desirability: Very high due to distinctive styling and short production run
• Common Issues:
  • OS compatibility with older 400/800 software
  • Function key overlays often missing
  • Minor power supply reliability issues
• Display Tips: Showcase with original Atari joystick, BASIC cartridge, and Atari 1200XL-specific brochures or overlays

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	1200XL
Manufacturer	Atari
Launched	Saturday, January 1, 1983
Discontinued	1983
Launch Price	$899 USD
Country	United States
CPU	MOS 6502C @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC)
Units Sold	~100,000–150,000 (estimated)
Power	External 9V AC PSU; regulated internally
Storage	Cassette (410), disk drives (810, 1050), via SIO
Expansion	SIO port for disk, printer, modem (no parallel bus)
Cartridge Slot	1 × front-loading software expansion port
Keyboard	61-key full-travel mechanical keyboard with 4 function keys
Sound	4-channel audio via POKEY chip
Graphics	ANTIC and GTIA chips – supports Player/Missile Graphics, fine scrolling
Display	Up to 320×192 pixels, 16 colors
ROM	24KB (new OS with built-in diagnostics and I/O routines)
RAM	64KB standard