Commodore SX-64 Videos, Hardware, and Resources
Explore Commodore SX-64 hardware, software, portable computing history, repairs, and projects featured in the Geek With Social Skills archive.
Videos and Projects
This section features Geek With Social Skills videos covering the Commodore SX-64, including hardware, software, stories, repairs, accessories, and future projects.
Commodore SX-64 Systems
Software, Demos, and Stories
This section will continue to grow as additional SX-64 videos and project pages are published.
System Overview
The Commodore SX-64 is a transportable version of the Commodore 64 that combines the computer, color display, floppy disk drive, and detachable keyboard into a single self-contained system.
- Released: 1984
- Original price: $995 USD
- CPU: MOS Technology 6510 running at approximately 1 MHz
- Memory: 64 KB RAM
- ROM: 20 KB
- Graphics: VIC-II
- Sound: SID 6581
- Display: Built-in 5-inch color CRT
- Storage: Built-in 1541-compatible 5.25-inch floppy disk drive
- Keyboard: Full-size detachable keyboard that clips onto the front of the system for transport
- Weight: Approximately 23 lb (10.5 kg)
Technical Specifications
The SX-64 retains much of the Commodore 64 architecture while integrating components that normally required separate peripherals into a compact transportable enclosure.
Processor, Memory, and Custom Chips
- MOS Technology 6510 CPU running at approximately 1 MHz
- 64 KB RAM
- 20 KB ROM
- VIC-II graphics processor
- SID 6581 sound chip
Display and Storage
- Built-in 5-inch color CRT display
- Integrated 1541-compatible 5.25-inch floppy disk drive
- External video output for use with a separate display
- IEC serial bus for compatible Commodore disk drives and printers
Ports and Expansion
- Cartridge expansion port
- User port
- Two joystick ports
- IEC serial port
- External video connection
- Detachable keyboard connection
Physical Design
- Transportable all-in-one enclosure
- Detachable full-size keyboard serves as the front cover during transport
- Folding carrying handle doubles as a stand
- Internal power supply
SX-64 vs. Commodore 64
The SX-64 is closely related to the standard Commodore 64, but it is not simply a C64 placed in a different case. Its integrated design introduces several important differences.
- Built-in 5-inch color CRT instead of relying on an external television or monitor
- Integrated 1541-compatible floppy disk drive
- Detachable keyboard and folding carrying handle for transport
- Internal power supply rather than an external Commodore 64 power brick
- No standard Datasette cassette port
- Modified system ROM behavior and display colors intended to improve readability on the built-in CRT
- Different internal layout, cooling requirements, and service considerations
Most Commodore 64 software and many peripherals work with the SX-64, but software or hardware that depends on cassette support or specific Commodore 64 hardware assumptions may behave differently. For broader platform information, see the Commodore 64 System Guide.
History and Legacy
Released in 1984, the Commodore SX-64 represented Commodore's effort to build on the enormous success of the Commodore 64 while entering the growing market for transportable computers. Originally known during development as the Commodore Executive 64, it combined a Commodore 64-compatible computer with an integrated display and floppy disk drive in a single enclosure.
During the early 1980s, "portable" computers were generally designed to be carried between locations rather than used on a lap. The SX-64 reflected that philosophy, making it well suited for demonstrations, trade shows, classrooms, service technicians, and business environments where a complete computer system could be transported as one unit.
Although it never approached the sales of the standard Commodore 64, the SX-64 became one of Commodore's most distinctive products and is widely regarded as one of the earliest commercially successful color portable computers.
Its industrial design, integrated construction, and distinctive appearance continue to make it stand out among other transportable computers of the era. For collectors, the SX-64 also offers a unique ownership experience by combining several classic Commodore technologies into a single machine.
Restoring and maintaining an SX-64 can involve mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic preservation in addition to the challenges normally associated with repairing vintage computer hardware.
For Geek With Social Skills, the SX-64 represents an opportunity to document restoration, maintenance, software demonstrations, hardware upgrades, accessories, and the history of one of Commodore's most memorable machines.
Explore More
- Browse the full video archive for Commodore SX-64, portable computing, and Commodore 64-related videos.
- Visit the Retro Computer Systems hub.
- Explore the Commodore 64 system guide.
- See the Retro Tech Want List for SX-64 accessories, documentation, and original software.