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SpeccyP

Free#16 of 23 in ZX Spectrum Emulators

SpeccyP: A capable hardware-focused emulator for Raspberry Pi microcontroller projects. Ranked #16 of 23 in ZX Spectrum Emulators by our editors (7.6/10); pricing: Open source; best for RP2040 hardware emulation projects.

7.6/10Editor score

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SpeccyP7.6 Visit SpeccyP

At a glance

Editor score
7.6 / 10
Pricing
Open source
Best for
RP2040 hardware emulation projects
Paid from
Free
Facts checked
21 Sep 2026

Where it wins
- Supports Spectrum, Pentagon, Scorpion, Navigator, and MurmoZavr models
- Offers HDMI, VGA, TFT, AY-compatible, and I2S output options
- Handles disk images, TAP files, save states, and multiple controllers
Where it doesn't
- Requires compatible RP2040, RP2350A, or RP2350B hardware
- Targets microcontroller projects rather than desktop or mobile computers
- Hardware setup and peripheral compatibility depend on the chosen board

Our verdict on SpeccyP

SpeccyP is open-source firmware for emulating ZX Spectrum-compatible machines on Raspberry Pi RP2040, RP2350A, and RP2350B microcontrollers. It is aimed at makers building compatible Raspberry Pi Pico-based hardware projects, rather than users looking for a conventional desktop or mobile emulator. The supported range includes the ZX Spectrum 48 and multiple Pentagon, Scorpion, Navigator, and MurmoZavr configurations, with precompiled firmware available for several supported boards.

Platform fit is SpeccyP’s defining strength. Video can be delivered through HDMI, VGA, or TFT, while audio supports soft and I2S AY-3-8910 modes and TurboSound. Input options cover USB and PS/2 keyboards, USB mice, NES and Xbox gamepads, and wireless gamepads. That combination gives hardware builders room to match the emulator to a specific display, sound path, and control layout, but it also makes the project less suitable for anyone who wants to install an emulator on a general-purpose computer.

For software and media handling, SpeccyP supports TRD and SCL disk-image mounting, TAP tape-file loading, SD-card file loading, and quick save and load states. Its open-source model is free and avoids a conventional plan structure. Choose SpeccyP when the goal is a dedicated ZX Spectrum-style build around supported Raspberry Pi microcontrollers, especially where varied video, audio, storage, and controller connections matter. Choose another option if the priority is desktop or mobile deployment, broad host-platform coverage, or an emulator that does not require compatible microcontroller hardware.

Your product? Our editors can test SpeccyP in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

SpeccyP pricing

Plans Open sourceFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.

See plans on github.com

SpeccyP fact sheet

Free plan	Not verified
Paid from	Free
Supported Spectrum models	Not verified
Host platforms	RP2040, RP2350A, RP2350B
Tape formats	TAP
Snapshot formats	Not verified
Built-in debugger	Not verified
Open source	Yes
Peripheral support	PS/2 keyboard, USB keyboard, USB mouse, NES gamepad, Xbox gamepad, wireless gamepad, HDMI, VGA, TFT
Deployment	Self-hosted
Support	Docs
Built for	Solo, Small business (editorial estimate)
Pricing	Open source
Website	github.com
Facts checked	21 Sep 2026

Alternatives to SpeccyP

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Featured on iTechGuides

SpeccyP is listed in our ZX Spectrum Emulators directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update