800

The Atari 800, launched alongside the 400 in late 1979, was the high-end model of Atari’s first 8-bit computer family. Built around the MOS 6502 CPU and Atari’s custom ANTIC, GTIA, and POKEY chips, the 800 featured superior graphics, 4-channel sound, and robust expansion options. Unlike the membrane-equipped 400, the 800 sported a full-travel mechanical keyboard, two cartridge slots, and internal expansion bays for RAM and other hardware. Designed with a modular, professional feel, it was powerful, flexible, and fully compatible with 400 software. Though more expensive, it became a favorite among educators, hobbyists, and early game developers.

Notable Features

• Professional-grade keyboard and modular internal expansion
• Dual cartridge slots allowed BASIC and application/game cartridge simultaneously
• Excellent graphics and audio capabilities compared to contemporaries
• Durable case and internals, often used in schools and labs
• Compatible with most Atari 400 software and peripherals

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Historical Significance

• Part of Atari’s pioneering 8-bit computer family
• Offered arcade-level graphics at home thanks to in-house custom chips
• Widely used by hobbyists and early game developers (many classic games began here)
• Set the bar for user-friendly, expandable home computers
• Helped Atari compete with Apple, Commodore, and Tandy in early 80s market

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Collector's Notes

• Rarity: Moderate – less common than later Atari 800XL or 65XE
• Desirability: High – especially working models with full RAM and boxed cartridges
• Common Issues:
  • RAM card failures or seating issues
  • Aging power supplies and SIO cables
  • Sticky keys or broken keyboard mounts
• Display Tips: Showcase with BASIC cartridge, Atari joystick, and a CRT running Star Raiders or M.U.L.E.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	800
Manufacturer	Atari
Launched	Thursday, November 1, 1979
Discontinued	1983
Launch Price	$999 (base model with 8KB RAM)
Country	United States
CPU	MOS Technology 6502C @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC)
Units Sold	~500,000
Power	External PSU with internal voltage regulation
Storage	External cassette (410), 5.25" disk drive (810), via SIO port
Expansion	Internal slots for RAM/ROM cards; SIO port for peripherals
Cartridge Slots	Dual front-facing slots for software or expansion modules
Keyboard	Full-stroke 61-key mechanical keyboard
Sound	4-channel stereo-capable sound via POKEY chip
Graphics	Hardware sprites (Player/Missile Graphics), scrolling, fine color control
Display	256×192 max resolution, 16 colors (via ANTIC + GTIA chips)
ROM	10 KB (OS and support for BASIC via cartridge)
RAM	8 KB standard, expandable to 48 KB via internal cards