Amiga Emulators 2026 at a Glance

Which emulator suits your setup? Here is the curated list — from cycle-exact on Windows to the Raspberry Pi portable. All links lead to the current original download.

The Reference. Actively developed since 1997, emulates OCS/ECS/AGA cycle-exact, optionally with JIT for speed. WHDLoad support, Kickstart 1.2 to 3.2, incl. PPC for AmigaOS 4. If you are serious about it, use WinUAE.

• Best for: Windows users, power users, Demoscene fans
• Special feature: RTG graphics, sampler sound, JIT cache, cycle-exact mode
• ROM required: Yes (Kickstart), also runs with AROS ROM free of charge

The Cross-Platform King. Fork of WinUAE with a slick launcher, online netplay and auto-download of complete configurations. Ideal if you do not just use Windows or want to switch between Mac and PC hassle-free.

• Best for: Mac/Linux users, beginners wanting a GUI
• Special feature: Online multiplayer, cloud save, HD config database
• ROM required: Yes (or AROS)

The Pi Amiga. Optimised UAE port for ARM — runs smoothly already on the Pi 3B+, perfectly on Pi 4/5. With launcher, analogue gamepad support and pre-configured A500/A1200/CD32 setups. Ideal as a little Amiga by the TV.

• Best for: Pi tinkerers, retro kiosk by the TV
• Special feature: WHDLoad integrated, GUI operable by controller
• ROM required: Yes (or AROS)

The Beautiful Newcomer. Complete rewrite in Swift/C++ with focus on clean UX and precise OCS/ECS emulation (A500/A1000/A2000). No AGA yet, but what already works looks outstanding. Distinct macOS feel.

• Best for: Mac users who want something tidier than FS-UAE
• Special feature: Debugger/inspector integrated, rewind function
• ROM required: Yes

The Legal All-in-One for Beginners. Contains official Kickstart ROMs (1.3/2.04/3.1/3.x) and AmigaOS licences, licensed games/demos, pre-configured WinUAE setups. Costs money, but saves hours of ROM sourcing and is the only legal way to get Kickstarts without original hardware.

• Best for: Beginners, legally-minded users, gift idea
• Special feature: Value/Plus/Premium editions (from approx. €10)
• ROM required: No — includes everything