izapple2 review
A free, open-source Apple II emulator with broad image, card, and frontend support.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026
izapple2 is a Go-based emulator for Apple II+, Apple IIe, Apple IIc, and selected clones. Its desktop builds support Linux, Windows, and macOS, while its browser version uses WebAssembly; console and libretro frontends add other ways to run it. The project is open source and free, with features that suit Apple II enthusiasts who want options for launching the emulator and working with disk images. It is a focused choice for Apple II software rather than a general-purpose emulator for other computer families.
Image and hardware support are central strengths. The emulator loads 5.25-inch disk images in NIB, DSK, PO, and WOZ formats, and supports 3.5-inch and hard-disk images in PO, 2MG, and HDV formats. Emulated expansion cards include Disk II, memory, serial, and sound cards. Display modes include high resolution and VidHD super-high-resolution, while input options cover up to two joysticks or four paddles, plus mouse input. Disk writes are saved to per-disk overlay files, a useful distinction for users working with disk-based software.
Tracing covers CPU, softswitch, ProDOS, and SmartPort activity, and emulation speed is adjustable. The main trade-off for buyers who want to resume an exact session is that session save states are unsupported; disk overlays save writes, not the emulator's complete state. Model coverage also remains tied to the listed Apple II systems and selected clones. Choose izapple2 if multi-model Apple II emulation, varied disk formats, expansion cards, and frontend choice matter. Look elsewhere if session save states or emulation beyond this Apple II scope is essential.
izapple2 pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Emulates Apple II+, IIe, IIc, and selected clones.
- Reads floppy and hard-disk images in several listed formats.
- Offers SDL, console, libretro, and WebAssembly frontends.
- Where it doesn't
- Does not support session save states.
- Clone support is limited to selected models.
- Its scope centers on Apple II systems rather than other computer families.
izapple2 fact sheet, pricing and score →
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