ApplEm
ApplEm: A free emulator with broad Apple II model, disk-image, and debugging support. Ranked #5 of 20 in Apple II Emulators by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users seeking a free browser and desktop emulator.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers seeking a free browser and desktop emulator
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Apple II model coverageMulti-model
- Facts checked14 Nov 2026
Where it wins
- Emulates Apple IIe Enhanced, II Plus, IIc, and IIgs
- Loads and writes DSK, DO, PO, and WOZ images; IIgs supports 2MG
- Includes save states, debugger, and expansion card emulation
Where it doesn't
- Native desktop app is limited to macOS
- Its extensive debugging tools may be unnecessary for casual play
- The web version's offline use depends on progressive web app installation
Our verdict on ApplEm
ApplEm is an Apple II emulator for people who want to run software across several Apple II generations in a browser or on macOS. It models the Apple IIe Enhanced, Apple II Plus, Apple IIc, and Apple IIgs. The browser version uses WebAssembly and WebGL, while a separate native macOS app uses the same core. The project is MIT-licensed, and its ROMs are included in the build, so users do not need to supply separate ROM files.
Disk support is a notable strength for users working with a range of images: ApplEm loads and writes DSK, DO, PO, and WOZ files, and IIgs 3.5-inch drives support 2MG and 400K/800K images. Autosave and five manual save-state slots per machine provide ways to preserve progress. The emulator also includes Mockingboard, serial, parallel, and mouse interface card emulation. In the browser, progressive web app installation enables offline functionality, which may suit users who want browser access without requiring a continuous connection.
ApplEm’s integrated CPU debugger, memory browser, heat map, soft-switch monitor, disk file explorer, BASIC detokenizer, and disassembler make it particularly suited to enthusiasts and developers exploring how Apple II software works. Configurable CRT effects and saveable monitor profiles add display customization. That depth may be more than someone seeking only a straightforward way to launch a disk image needs. The browser edition and macOS app offer two access routes, but users specifically seeking a native desktop app for another operating system should look elsewhere. For Apple II users who value model coverage, disk tools, and inspection features in a free emulator, ApplEm is a strong fit.
Your product? Our editors can test ApplEm in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
ApplEm pricing
ApplEm fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Apple II model coverage | Multi-model |
| Host platform | Cross-platform |
| Disk image formats | DSK, DO, PO, WOZ, 2MG |
| Built-in debugger | Yes |
| Save states | Yes |
| Joystick support | Yes |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop |
| Platforms | Web, macOS |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | web-a2e.retrotech71.co.uk |
| Facts checked | 14 Nov 2026 |
Alternatives to ApplEm
- OpenEmuA polished Mac library for classic games, but not a dedicated Apple II emulator.7.9
- AvidemuxA free, open-source tool for basic video processing—not Apple II emulation.7.9
- AppleWinA free desktop emulator with Apple II models, peripherals, video modes, and a debugger.7.9
ApplEm vs the competition
- ApplEm vs OpenEmu
- ApplEm vs Avidemux
- ApplEm vs AppleWin
- ApplEm vs POM2
- ApplEm vs LinApple
- ApplEm vs GSSquared
Compare ApplEm with any tool side by side →
Used ApplEm? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used ApplEm for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
ApplEm is listed in our Apple II Emulators directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/applem/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/applem.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update