Texas Instruments · 1981
TI-99/4A
A price war with Commodore pushed it below $100 before TI quit home computers in 1983.
Then vs now
| Maker | Texas Instruments |
|---|---|
| Released | 1981 |
| Processor | TI TMS9900, 3 MHz |
| Memory | 16 KB |
| Storage | Cassette, cartridges |
| Launch price | $525 (about $1,810 in 2024 dollars) |
| Big in | USA, Europe |
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 TI-99/4A come out?
The TI-99/4A was released in 1981 by Texas Instruments.
How much did the TI-99/4A cost when it was new?
About $525 for the base model at launch, roughly $1,810 in 2024 US dollars after inflation (US Consumer Price Index).
How much memory and speed did the TI-99/4A have?
16 KB of memory and a TI TMS9900 processor at 3 MHz. A typical 2025 flagship phone has about 524,288 times more memory.
How many people had the TI-99/4A as their first computer?
Nobody has added it to the First Computer Atlas yet. If it was yours, add it.
Where was the TI-99/4A popular?
It was especially popular in USA, Europe.
Can you still buy the TI-99/4A?
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.