Commodore 64C Ultimate goes on sale in three editions

Commodore has started shipping the Commodore 64C Ultimate and opened sales to new buyers. The product revives the slimline design of the Commodore 64C.

The machine is the second model in the company's recent Ultimate line, following the Commodore 64 Ultimate released in 2025.

Some customers who placed pre-orders have already begun receiving the computer, which is now available for general purchase in three editions. Prices start at USD $299.99 for the BASIC Beige version, rise to USD $349.99 for the Starlight Edition, and reach USD $499.99 for the Founder's Edition.

The latest release recreates the slimmer casing associated with the original Commodore 64C, which first appeared in the mid-1980s as a redesign of the company's better-known breadbin-style machine. Commodore said it re-acquired the original tooling for the 64C case to produce the new version.

The company has kept the core hardware approach used in the earlier Commodore 64 Ultimate. Rather than relying on software emulation, the line uses FPGA technology to recreate the original system and supports up to 99% compatibility with original software and peripherals, including monitors, printers, joysticks and game cartridges.

That compatibility is central to its pitch to retro computing enthusiasts, many of whom still use original software and accessories. At the same time, the new model adds modern connections such as HDMI and USB, in an effort to make the machine easier to use with current displays and accessories.

One change in the 64C Ultimate is support for a standard USB mouse. The machine also ships with a full GEOS suite, giving users access to applications including word processing, spreadsheets, file management and paint software.

Community demand

The new version appears aimed at customers who wanted the look of the later Commodore 64C without giving up the functionality of the previous Ultimate machine. Commodore said members of its community had repeatedly asked for the slimline form.

"While more advanced Commodore machines in 1986 were being embraced by those looking towards the next generation, the 64C was able to stand port-to-port with its newer siblings to show that there was plenty of life left in the 8-bit generation," said Peri Fractic, President & CEO, Commodore International.

"The same can be said for the 8-bit generation in 2026. New software is in development from our incredible community every day, creating a thriving ecosystem for gamers, musicians, programmers and more. This truly is our Ultimate era," Fractic said.

The company is also trying to broaden the appeal beyond collectors and players of older games. It described the machine as a practical introduction to BASIC coding, tying the product to the educational and hobbyist roots of home computing.

Each Ultimate unit also ships with an updated USB cassette containing more than 100 games, demos and related content. The documentation is designed to mirror the original 64C manuals, with a user guide and quick-start material intended to preserve the feel of the earlier machine.

Three editions

The BASIC Beige model is positioned as the closest reproduction of the original 64C. The Starlight Edition adds a translucent case and reactive LED lighting for the case and keyboard. The Founder's Edition includes PVD gold keycaps, gold-plated Commodore and power badges, and a translucent white case.

Customers choosing the Founder's Edition also receive several commemorative items, including a Commodore share certificate, a Commodore flag and a necklace featuring Commodore 64 and power badge dog tags.

The relaunch reflects a broader market for retro hardware, with old computer and console brands being revived for buyers interested in original-style machines rather than software-only reproductions. Commodore's approach focuses on reproducing both the form and behaviour of the original hardware while adding selected modern conveniences.

The Commodore name still carries weight among long-time users because of the original Commodore 64's place in home computing history. The company described itself as the official steward of the original brand and said its advisers include veterans of the historic Commodore business, including Leonard Tramiel and members of the teams behind the Commodore 128 and Commodore 64.

For Commodore, the latest release builds on the reception of the 2025 Commodore 64 Ultimate, which it said was well received by enthusiasts. The new model keeps the same internal platform but changes the case and firmware, while adding mouse support and maintaining compatibility with older software and accessories.

Sales of the Commodore 64C Ultimate are now open in all three editions, with the entry model priced at USD $299.99.