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The Spectrum Collector’s Edition is a white, collector-focused version of Retro Games’ modern recreation of the ZX Spectrum—not a new release of Sinclair’s original 1980s computer. Its standout extras are THEPRINTER, a modern take on the original thermal printer, and a matching joystick, alongside a Microdrive-style USB stick, printed collectibles and the system’s 48 pre-installed games.
What is The Spectrum Collector’s Edition?
Retro Games Limited developed the white edition with PLAION REPLAI. It builds on the modern The Spectrum, which recreates the experience of the 16K, 48K and 128K ZX Spectrum models. The collector bundle’s central differences are its all-white colourway and accessories; the core computer functions are substantially shared with the standard black edition.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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ZX Spectrum Handheld | $129.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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The Spectrum Handbook | $10.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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The ZX Spectrum Ula: How to Design a Microcomputer (ZX Design Retro Computer) | $37.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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ZX Spectrum Assembly. Let's make a game? | $2.08 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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ZX Spectrum Games Code Club: Twenty fun games to code and learn | $11.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The white computer also has a working rubber keyboard. Retro Games CTO Chris Smith said the original white Spectrum was made to mark the millionth ZX Spectrum and presented to Sir Clive Sinclair during a visit to the Timex factory in Dundee in December 1983. Smith described the new white edition as a response to repeated customer requests. Time Extension’s interview with Chris Smith
What comes in the box?
- The Spectrum White Edition: the computer with a working rubber keyboard.
- THEQUICKSHOT II: a matching white, eight-button USB joystick with microswitch controls and auto-fire.
- THEPRINTER: a modern take on the original Spectrum thermal printer.
- THEMICRODRIVE: a Sinclair Microdrive-styled USB stick preloaded with Fusion Paint.
- Printed collectibles: a spiral-bound manual inspired by classic Spectrum documentation and a Collector’s Edition of CRASH magazine.
- Cables: USB-C power and HDMI cables.
So, yes: the announcement says a printer is included. It describes THEPRINTER as a modern take on the original thermal printer; it does not establish that it is an original period device. Retro Games and PLAION REPLAI’s announcement
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- 25 built-in Spectrum games
- A classic design, reimagined in clamshell form
- MicroSD slot for endless gaming
- 800x480 IPS high resolution screen
- Themed rubber key funtion buttons, Stereo speakers and headphone jack
What can the computer do?
The manufacturer’s announcement lists these system features. They are announced specifications, not independent test results.
- Recreates the 16K, 48K and 128K experiences and includes 48 pre-installed games.
- Provides four save slots per game and instant rewind of up to 40 seconds.
- Includes a full BASIC mode with virtual cassettes.
- Outputs at 720p over HDMI, supports 50/60Hz, and offers 4:3 and pixel-perfect display options plus optional CRT filters.
- Supports USB loading of TAP, TZX, PZX, SZX, Z80 and SNA files, with four USB ports.
The emphasis is on recreating and displaying a Spectrum experience while adding conveniences such as rewind and save slots—not on replacing the character of the original hardware with a modern gaming PC.
Rank #2
How does it compare with the standard black The Spectrum?
Currys’ UK listing for the standard black edition confirms that it shares many of the main computer features. The clearest difference is what each package includes: the Collector’s Edition adds its white finish and display-oriented accessories, while Currys lists the standard model’s box contents as the system, HDMI cable and USB-C power cable.
| Feature | Collector’s Edition | Standard black edition |
|---|---|---|
| Colour and presentation | White system and matching collector accessories, according to the announcement. | Black system, according to Currys’ UK listing. |
| Included extras | THEQUICKSHOT II joystick, THEPRINTER, THEMICRODRIVE USB stick with Fusion Paint, spiral-bound manual and Collector’s Edition CRASH magazine, plus power and HDMI cables. | System, HDMI cable and USB-C power cable, according to Currys’ listing. |
| Games and main functions | Announcement lists 48 games, save slots, up to 40 seconds of rewind, BASIC mode, HDMI output and USB support. | Currys lists 48 games, save progress, up to 40 seconds of rewind, 720p HDMI and four USB ports; it says the system emulates 48 and 128 models. |
| Price and availability | Announcement-era UK RRP was £199.99, with a planned 26 June 2026 release and preorders exclusive to PLAION REPLAI. Current stock and terms are not established by that announcement. | Currys has a live UK listing; a current price is not stated here. |
Sources: Retro Games and PLAION REPLAI’s announcement and Currys’ UK listing. The £199.99 figure is the announced RRP, not confirmation of a current selling price.
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Rank #3
- Used Book in Good Condition
Can you buy it now?
The announced release date was 26 June 2026, which has passed. The announcement said preorders were exclusive to PLAION REPLAI and described the run as strictly limited, but those announcement-era terms do not confirm present stock or where remaining units can be purchased. Check PLAION REPLAI’s current product information before relying on availability or price. For a separately listed alternative, Currys has a UK listing for the standard black The Spectrum; check its live listing for current terms.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why is the white finish significant?
The white collector version draws on a rare historical precedent rather than introducing a new original Sinclair model. In an interview published on 14 April 2026, Retro Games CTO Chris Smith said the original white Spectrum commemorated the millionth ZX Spectrum and was presented to Sinclair in 1983. Smith also said the Spectrum sold one million units in 20 months; that is his attributed historical figure, not an independent sales estimate. Time Extension’s interview with Chris Smith
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
