In a recent video, The Retro Channel digs into the Keelog C64 power supply—a sleek modern replacement for aging Commodore 64 bricks that are infamous for catastrophic failures. If you’re dusting off an old C64 or getting into retro computing, this video is a must-watch. The original power supplies are notorious for taking entire machines with them when they go, so upgrading to a safe, reliable PSU is crucial.
This new offering from Keelog, a company better known for keyloggers (yes, really), brings solid voltage performance and low ripple with Mean Well and Hann internal components. The video breaks down both the rectangular and square brick versions, available in grey or black, and includes a teardown, stress tests, and oscilloscope analysis.
Features, Form Factor, and Performance
The Keelog C64 power supply comes in two stylish housings—one compact and one longer—and features a bright LED indicator. While the LED housing is a little wobbly, the performance makes up for it. Voltage output is stable (4.98V unloaded, 4.85V under 1.5A load), and ripple stays impressively low at around 30-40 millivolts even under heavy load.
Inside the sealed unit (which our host bravely cracks open), you’ll find a Hann 9V AC transformer and a Mean Well IRM-5 for 5V DC output. There’s a varistor for surge suppression, dual fuses (main and surface-mount DC), and a fair bit of hot glue that needed some creative alcohol-based removal.
Final Verdict
The verdict? The Keelog C64 power supply is a solid off-the-shelf option. While it lacks user-replaceable fuses and the LED mount could be sturdier, its electrical performance is commendable. If DIY builds or retrofitting old bricks isn’t your thing, this is a hassle-free and safe alternative—especially if you’re wary of rolling the dice on a 40-year-old PSU. Just note: if you’re in Australia, you may want to order the UK version to avoid a price hike.
To see how it performs under the scope, how it stacks up against Electroware, and whether it’s right for your retro setup, catch the full review on The Retro Channel.
