This page details the specifications for Atari Lynx for both the Model I and Model II. If you're after details of various console box releases, you can find them here.
The Atari Lynx was the world’s first full-color portable video game system released in 1989 (US) and 1990 (UK). You can read its history over at the brief history page.
Thanks to ausretrogamer for the photo above.
Technical SpecificationsDeveloper | Epyx Atari Corporation |
Type | Handheld game console Fourth generation Two models available |
Price | $179.99 at launch (Lynx I, 1989) $120 at relaunch (Lynx II Deluxe Set, 1991) $99 at relaunch (Lynx II Base Set, 1991) |
Retail Availability | 1989 - 1995 Around 3 million were sold |
Display | 3.5-inch LCD back-lit display (with backlight on/off on Lynx II) 160 × 102 resolution 4096 colours Note: The original screen can be easily replaced with a modern LCD mod kit, which makes an enormous difference to the quality of picture produced. |
Audio | Speaker: 8Ω 0.2W (Lynx I), 16Ω 0.2W (Lynx 2) 4 Channel Sound 32-bit DAC (8-bit × 4 channels) 100Hz to above 20kHz Lynx I - Mono Lynx II - Stereo |
Processors | Dual custom CMOS chips “Mikey” 16-bit running @ 16 Mhz
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Memory and Storage | 512b of bootstrap and cartridge-loading ROM 64 KB 120ns DRAM Cartridges of 128, 256 and 512 KB (up to 2MB with bank switching) Note: There are SD card based cartridges for the Lynx that let you play many ROMs including official and homebrew ROMs. |
Network | Comlynx serial UART with up to 18 player connectivity |
Ports | 3.5mm Stereo Headphone (mono in Lynx I) Comlynx network port 9V Power |
Power | 9V DC power supply 6x AA batteries inside the unit with 4-5 hours (Lynx I) and 5-6 hours (Lynx II) play time |
Dimensions | Display - 82.55 × 47.75 mm (3.25 × 1.88 inches) Lynx I - 273 × 108 × 38 mm (10.75 × 4.25 × 1.5 inches) Lynx II - 235 × 108 × 51 mm (9.25 × 4.25 × 2 inches) |
Weight (console only) | Lynx I - 519g Lynx II - 441g |