ZX-Poly Emulator
ZX-Poly Emulator: A focused open-source emulator for ZX-Poly modes, enhanced video, and varied media formats. Ranked #12 of 23 in ZX Spectrum Emulators by our editors (8.1/10); pricing: Open source; best for ZX-Poly and enhanced video experiments.
At a glance
- Editor score8.1 / 10
- PricingOpen source
- Best forZX-Poly and enhanced video experiments
- Paid fromFree
- Supported Spectrum models128k
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Multi-CPU ZX-Poly emulation with synchronized Z80 CPUs
- Broad snapshot, tape, disk, ROM, and PROM image support
- Windows, macOS, Linux, gamepad, and joystick support
Where it doesn't
- Focused on 128k support rather than broader ZX Spectrum coverage
- Spec256 emulation is restricted
- Proof-of-concept focus may not suit production-oriented use
Our verdict on ZX-Poly Emulator
ZX-Poly Emulator is an open-source Java emulator and proof-of-concept platform for users exploring ZX-Poly multi-CPU emulation and ZX-Spectrum 128 software. It runs either in ZX-Poly mode, using synchronized Z80 CPUs, or in standard ZX-Spectrum 128 mode. Pre-built downloads support Windows, macOS, and Linux, while a cross-platform JAR provides another way to run the emulator.
Its strongest area is media and video support. The emulator loads Z80, SNA, SZX, ZXP, ZIP, ROM, and PROM images, along with TZX, TAP, and WAV tape files. It supports WAV export for TZX and TAP, plus TRD and SCL disk images. Video output includes standard 256x192 and enhanced ZX-Poly modes, while gamepad and joystick support helps accommodate interactive software. These capabilities make it a practical choice for format-heavy experimentation and for examining the enhanced video behavior that distinguishes ZX-Poly from a standard ZX-Spectrum 128 setup.
The trade-off is focus. ZX-Poly Emulator is centered on 128k support and a specialized multi-CPU concept rather than broad coverage across ZX Spectrum models. Spec256 emulation is also restricted, so users seeking a wider or more complete implementation of that area may need an alternative. Choose it for open-source desktop emulation, varied image and tape handling, controller support, and ZX-Poly video experiments; choose something else if broader model coverage or a less experimental scope matters more.
Your product? Our editors can test ZX-Poly Emulator in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
ZX-Poly Emulator pricing
ZX-Poly Emulator fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported Spectrum models | 128k |
| Host platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Tape formats | TZX, TAP, WAV |
| Snapshot formats | Z80, SNA, SZX, ZXP, ZIP, ROM, PROM |
| Built-in debugger | Not verified |
| Open source | Yes |
| Peripheral support | Gamepads and joysticks |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to ZX-Poly Emulator
- ZEsarUXA broad desktop emulator for Spectrum models, storage formats, peripherals, and debugging.9.4
- JNEXTA free desktop emulator for ZX Spectrum software, peripherals, recording, and reverse debugging.9.3
- zx_goA deep desktop emulator for classic Spectrum systems, Next support, peripherals, and debugging.9.2
See all ZX-Poly Emulator alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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