Klive IDE vs Spectaculator

Klive IDE combines a retro-computer emulator with development tools for Sinclair Z80-based machines. It supports Z80 Assembly, ZX BASIC (Boriel's Basic) and SJASMPLUS; its native assembler is built in, while the latter two rely on external toolchains. A one-click workflow compiles a program, places it in the emulated machine, then runs or debugs it with breakpoints. Active emulators cover ZX Spectrum 48K and 128K, ZX Spectrum +2E/+3E, and Cambridge Z88; ZX Spectrum Next support is in progress. The Monaco-based editor provides VS Code keyboard shortcuts, syntax highlighting, diagnostics, code folding and symbol navigation. Debug views include CPU and ULA state, memory, disassembly, watches, BASIC listings and system variables. Klive loads TAP and TZX tape files and DSK disks for ZX Spectrum +3E, and exports TAP, TZX or Intel HEX. It also offers a scripting engine for commands and build pipelines, and can record emulator video with stereo audio. The IDE is free, MIT licensed, and available for macOS, Windows and Linux.

Spectaculator is a Sinclair ZX Spectrum emulator for Windows, iOS, and Android. It supports TAP and TZX tape formats and SZX, SNA, and Z80 snapshot formats, with a built-in debugger and support for a range of peripherals, including joysticks, mice, Microdrives, printers, and Multiface models. The Windows debugger includes projects, complex breakpoints, watches, an inline assembler, memory inspector, call stack, screen inspector, and graphics inspector. Windows version 9.1 can save or copy screenshots at configurable sizes as PNG or BMP, and includes joystick and controller configuration enhancements. The iOS app accepts games in.tap,.tzx,.dsk,.szx, and.z80 formats, with customizable controls and artwork. On iOS 13.4 and later, an external keyboard can be used for games and BASIC programs; devices on iOS 12 and earlier are limited to text adventures. The Android 2.6 release requires Android 6.0 Marshmallow or later. Spectaculator is paid, with listed one-time plans from $2.99, paid once and a 30-day trial for the Windows plan.