Acorn · 1983
Acorn Electron
A cheaper, smaller BBC Micro for the home. Elite ran on it too.
Then vs now
| Maker | Acorn |
|---|---|
| Released | 1983 |
| Processor | MOS 6502A, 2 MHz |
| Memory | 32 KB |
| Storage | Cassette |
| Launch price | £199 |
| Big in | UK |
Launch price is for the base model in its home market and is approximate. US prices adjusted with the US Consumer Price Index (BLS).
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Where people started on one
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Questions and answers
When did the Acorn Electron come out?
The Acorn Electron was released in 1983 by Acorn.
How much did the Acorn Electron cost when it was new?
About £199 for the base model at launch.
How much memory and speed did the Acorn Electron have?
32 KB of memory and a MOS 6502A processor at 2 MHz. A typical 2025 flagship phone has about 262,144 times more memory.
How many people had the Acorn Electron as their first computer?
Nobody has added it to the First Computer Atlas yet. If it was yours, add it.
Where was the Acorn Electron popular?
It was especially popular in UK.
Can you still buy the Acorn Electron?
Only second-hand. Working units turn up on eBay and at retro computing fairs; boxed, tested machines cost the most. Check sold listings rather than asking prices to judge what one is worth.