New white edition ZX Spectrum replica is a glimpse of the 1980s that never happened

Product shot of new white ZX Spectrum replica with classic Spectrum joystick and other accessories
(Image credit: PLAION GmbH / Retro Games)

I have a huge soft spot for the ZX Spectrum since it was my first computer. So I'm very excited to see that The Spectrum, a modern-day remake of the original, is getting a sharp refresh that reimagines the 1980s icon with a new colourway never seen before. And it's even bringing back a classic accessory too.

The new design for The Spectrum continues to respect the look of the original 1882 device complete with rubber buttons, but it's now coming in brilliant white. It will come in a bundle with a bunch of other goodies, including a revived QuickShot II joystick.

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The Spectrum is designed to replicate the look and feel like the original ZX Spectrum from 1982, complete with rubber keys. It outputs video via HDMI in 720p and comes with 48 classic games built in (and you can run many others available online).

The white Spectrum Collector's Edition will be released through a partnership between Retro Games and Plaion Replai. The bundle will include a white version of the console along with the iconic QuickShot II joystick, which inspired the design of the Golden Joystick that was awarded as a prize on Channel 4's TV show GamesMaster in the 1990s.

It also includes the Spectrum's thermal printer, plus a USB stick inspired by the Sinclair Microdrive, which comes loaded with Fusion Paint, a spiral-bound manual and a Collector's Edition of Crash magazine.

Product shot of new white ZX Spectrum replica with classic Spectrum joystick and other accessories

(Image credit: PLAION GmbH / Retro Games)

The bundle will be released on June 26. It's already available for pre-order on Plaion's website for £199.99 / €229.99 (around $260).

If you can't wait and want to treat yourself for Christmas, see current deals below, or check out our picks of the best retro game consoles and the best retro handheld game consoles for more options.

Joe Foley
Freelance journalist and editor

Joe is a regular freelance journalist and editor at Creative Bloq. He writes news, features and buying guides and keeps track of the best equipment and software for creatives, from video editing programs to monitors and accessories. A veteran news writer and photographer, he now works as a project manager at the London and Buenos Aires-based design, production and branding agency Hermana Creatives. There he manages a team of designers, photographers and video editors who specialise in producing visual content and design assets for the hospitality sector. He also dances Argentine tango.

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