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XRoar review

Free#23 of 53 in Multi-System Emulators

A focused, capable emulator for Dragon and Tandy systems with broad media support.

6.7/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

XRoar is a free, open-source emulator for Dragon and Tandy 8-bit computers, including Dragon 32/64, Tandy Colour Computers, Tandy MC-10, Alice 4K and related systems. It is aimed at solo users and small teams preserving, exploring or developing for these machines. Builds or source instructions cover Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and WebAssembly-based browser use, while desktop and mobile deployment support broaden access beyond a single operating system.

Its strongest area is media and hardware emulation. XRoar reads and writes cassette tape images and audio files, along with DSK, VDK and DMK floppy-disk images. It also supports DragonDOS, Delta, RS-DOS and other cartridges, plus hard-disk media. Composite-video simulation includes PAL and NTSC support, while joystick and virtual joystick input suit software designed around original controls. Machine snapshots and PNG screenshots add practical preservation features, and GDB remote debugging support gives developers a way to inspect emulated software.

XRoar is particularly suitable when system accuracy, legacy media formats and debugging matter more than a broad library of unrelated platforms. Browser use is available through WebAssembly compilation, and pyDriveWire and DriveWire 4 integrations extend its fit for compatible storage workflows. Firmware ROM images are required for useful operation, so setup includes obtaining the appropriate machine firmware. The Android build is described as an older port, and documentation is the listed support channel. Choose XRoar for focused Dragon and Tandy emulation; choose a broader emulator if you need many unrelated computer or console families in one product.

XRoar pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Emulates ten listed Dragon, Tandy and related systems
    • Supports cassette, floppy-disk, hard-disk and cartridge media
    • Runs across desktop, mobile and browser environments
  • Where it doesn't
    • Firmware ROM images are required for useful operation
    • Android support is provided through an older port
    • Its focus is limited to Dragon, Tandy and related systems

XRoar fact sheet, pricing and score →

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