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86Box vs DOSBox

Side-by-side comparison for macOS

86Box

8.0
Utilities

Emulator of x86-based machines based on PCem

DOSBox

7.0
System Tools

Emulator for x86 with DOS

Metric 86Box DOSBox
Category Utilities System Tools
AI Score 8.0 7.0
30-day Installs 48 297
90-day Installs 151 1.1K
365-day Installs 706 4.7K
Version 5.3,8200 0.74-3,3
Auto-updates No No
Deprecated No No
GitHub Stars 4.1K 66
GitHub Forks 484 19
Open Issues 22 1
License GPL-2.0 GPL-2.0
Language C C++
Last GitHub Commit 1mo ago 13y ago
First Seen Oct 26, 2022 Aug 9, 2023

Reviews

86Box

86Box is an x86 emulator that allows users to run older operating systems and software. It supports various hardware configurations and is ideal for retrocomputing enthusiasts and developers needing legacy system testing.

Emulates x86-based machines to run older operating systems and software.

Pros

  • + Open-source and free under GPL-2.0
  • + Supports a wide range of hardware configurations
  • + Active development with frequent updates
  • + Niche appeal for retrocomputing
  • + Free to use

Cons

  • - No auto-update feature
  • - Some bugs, particularly with OpenGL rendering and Voodoo

DOSBox

DOSBox is a DOS emulator that allows users to run classic DOS games and applications on modern systems. It's a niche tool appealing to retro gaming enthusiasts and those needing legacy software support.

Emulates an x86 computer running DOS to execute old DOS applications and games.

Pros

  • + Free and open-source under GPL-2.0
  • + Cross-platform support including macOS via Homebrew
  • + Active community providing solutions and workarounds

Cons

  • - No auto-update feature
  • - Some users experience technical issues requiring manual fixes