Z80 @ 3.5Mhz - 16KB ROM - 48KB RAM

Two years after it's release, the ZX Spectrum gets a much needed external makeover. Even though the rubber keys were something that set the Spectrum apart and made it interesting to the eye, Sinclair thought that the public was ready for a better keyboard to type on.

Still based on the same membrane, underneath the keys, the Spectrum+ had proper keys, arranged like a modern typewriter. The keys also had some dedicated functions, like the "Extended Mode" and the quote keys, which were originally only available by holding down key combinations with the original Spectrum . The design of the case was also much more rugged, and was based on Sinclair's current Business machine, the QL. There was also an addition of a much needed reset switch - no more did you have to pull the plug on the spectrum, potentially damaging the transformer! Other than these fairly minor changes, the Spectrum remained the same.

The ZX Spectrum+ retailed at £180 was £50 more expensive than the still ever popular original machine It still outsold the original, however, even tough there were reports at the time of faults with production. A kit was also available for £20 to transform the original Spectrum to the new layout and feel of the +. The general public was in love with the computer and it showed, with the ZX Spectrum on it's 3rd year of domination of the UK home micro scene.

Image source: Planet Sinclair