this post was submitted on 21 Feb 2025
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The MSXBOOK: Reviving MSX in a Modern Notebook

Introduction to the MSXBOOK

A Chinese company called 8086YES! has introduced an intriguing device named MSXBOOK, which they are selling for $215 on the Tindle web site. The MSXBOOK is a portable laptop that brings back the spirit of the Japanese home computer standard.

Features and Specifications

  • 9.7-inch LCD Screen: With a resolution of 1024x768.
  • Backlit Mechanical Keyboard
  • Speakers and Headphone Jack: A pair of built-in amplified stereo speakers and a 3.5mm audio output jack.
  • Battery: Equipped with a 4000mAh lithium battery that promises up to 4 hours of usage.
  • Hardware Compatibility: MSX2-compatible and retro computing enthusiasts will appreciate the support for KDL firmware.

Additionally, it features an external cartridge slot, DB9 joystick/gamepad slots, USB ports, and a 4GB SD card storage option.

Turbo Mode Support (Optional)

The "Turbo" speed settings support speeds up to 5.37 MHz or 8.06 MHz.


Given its price point, features, and compatibility options, is the MSXBOOK worth the $215 investment?

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[–] Redkey@programming.dev 2 points 1 day ago

Very similar variants of the same CPU and VDU were used in the Colecovision, the MSX, and Sega's early systems, among others.

I've also read that there were several ports from the ZX Spectrum to the MSX, due to them sharing essentially the same CPU at the same clock speed, and the MSX VDU having a video mode that could operate similarly to the Spectrum's display.