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ZOT review

Free#20 of 23 in ZX Spectrum Emulators

A focused, free 48K emulator for snapshots, tapes, joystick input, and custom C backends.

7.2/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

ZOT is an open-source C project for emulating the ZX Spectrum 48K, the Z80 processor, and CP/M 2.2. Its Spectrum implementation covers the 48K ROM and RAM layout, ULA video and keyboard behavior, memory contention, beeper audio, Kempston joystick input, snapshot loading, and tape playback. It suits developers building a focused emulator workflow, preserving 48K software, or connecting emulation to a custom display or audio environment. The optional SDL2 frontend provides a desktop interface for running snapshots and tape images.

The published feature set is practical for common 48K media and input: Z80 snapshot versions 1, 2, and 3, TAP and TZX tape playback, PC keyboard input, Kempston joystick input, ULA video rendering, and beeper audio. Z80 CPU emulation includes undocumented opcodes, while the C API allows graphics and audio backends to be replaced or connected to embedded displays. That combination gives ZOT a clear technical focus, especially for projects that need source-level control rather than a broad, user-facing emulator suite.

ZOT is a strong fit for buyers who want free, open-source 48K emulation with a C integration path and standard snapshot and tape support. It is less suitable for users seeking broader Spectrum model coverage, a fully featured debugging environment, or a turnkey desktop package centered on extensive platform support. Choose it when 48K behavior, core emulation, and backend flexibility matter most; consider an alternative when the priority is a wider machine range or a more complete end-user toolset.

ZOT pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Free and open source with ZX Spectrum 48K emulation
    • Supports Z80 undocumented opcodes, Z80 snapshots, TAP, and TZX
    • C API supports custom graphics, audio, and embedded-display backends
  • Where it doesn't
    • Spectrum support is focused on the 48K model
    • The SDL2 desktop frontend is optional rather than core
    • Custom integrations require C development and backend work

ZOT fact sheet, pricing and score →

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