600XL

Released in 1983, the Atari 600XL was part of the XL series — a redesign of Atari’s 8-bit computer line with a sleeker, more modern aesthetic. Equipped with a 6502C CPU, 16KB of RAM, and the same ANTIC/GTIA/POKEY chipset combo used in earlier models, the 600XL offered full compatibility with most Atari 400/800 software. It featured a chiclet-style keyboard, built-in BASIC, and an enhanced OS, all in a more compact case. While it was less expandable than the 800, it served as a solid entry-level machine and gained popularity due to its attractive price and sleek design.

Notable Features

• Sleek, modern design as part of the XL series refresh
• Built-in Atari BASIC and OS ROM — no need for separate cartridges
• Same graphics/sound capability as earlier 800/400 models
• More affordable than Atari 800 and 800XL, but with less RAM
• Full SIO support for Atari printers, drives, and modems

---

Historical Significance

• Positioned as a low-cost entry point in Atari’s 1983 product lineup
• Targeted against Commodore 16 and VIC-20 in budget market
• Compatible with a vast 400/800 software library
• Popular in Europe and North America, though quickly overshadowed by 800XL
• Reflected Atari’s attempt to modernize and streamline its hardware lineup

---

Collector's Notes

• Rarity: Moderate – less common than 800XL, but not difficult to find
• Desirability: Medium-high – appreciated for its clean design and legacy compatibility
• Common Issues:
  • Faulty keyboard matrix or unresponsive keys
  • Expansion bus access requires case modification
  • RAM limited to 16KB unless modified internally
• Display Tips: Best shown with matching SIO peripherals, Atari joystick, and a cartridge-based game like Miner 2049er

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	600XL
Manufacturer	Atari
Launched	Thursday, November 3, 1983
Discontinued	1985
Launch Price	$199 (launch price)
Country	United States
CPU	MOS 6502C @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC)
Units Sold	Estimated hundreds of thousands globally
Power	External 9V AC power supply, internally regulated
Storage	Cassette (410), 5.25" floppy (810/1050), via SIO interface
Expansion	Parallel bus (hard to access), SIO for peripherals
Cartridge Slot	1 × front-loading expansion port for software cartridges
Keyboard	57-key chiclet-style full keyboard
Sound	4-channel audio via POKEY chip
Graphics	ANTIC and GTIA chips – hardware scrolling, sprites, fine color
Display	Up to 320×192 resolution, 16 colors, text and high-res modes
ROM	24KB (10K OS + 8K Atari BASIC + 6K I/O)
RAM	16KB standard (not easily expandable internally)