Skip to content
whatismyalternative

DOSBox

An x86 emulator with DOS

Visit DOSBox

DOSBox is an emulator designed to run DOS programs and games on modern operating systems. It addresses the compatibility gap created by the disappearance of native DOS environments, allowing older software to be executed without the original hardware or operating system. The project provides downloads, a compatibility list, a forum, a tutorial and a manual to support users in setting up and running DOS applications.

The software is available as a downloadable release, with the latest version listed as 0.74-3. The project maintains a compatibility list to help users identify which programs and games are supported. Community support is available through a forum, and documentation is provided through a tutorial and a manual. The project also publishes patches for specific platform issues, such as keyboard and mouse handling on Linux. The software is distributed as a free download, with no paid editions, trials or seat-based licensing described on the site.

12 alternatives to DOSBox

Ranked by how well each tool replaces DOSBox: shared features, audience, price and popularity.

  1. Powerful open source virtualization for personal and enterprise use

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    58 out of 100 matchContact sales
  2. A free operating system built by a volunteer association of individuals, distributed as a

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    58 out of 100 matchContact sales
  3. The Versatile Commodore Emulator

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    57 out of 100 matchContact sales
  4. Multi-purpose emulation framework for preserving software history.

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    57 out of 100 matchContact sales
  5. Cross-platform IA-32 (x86) PC emulator.

    Covers 0 of 2 key features and is open source.

    Open source
    57 out of 100 match—
  6. Runs classic graphical adventure and role-playing games using their original data files

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    56 out of 100 matchContact sales
  7. Porting Android to x86

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    55 out of 100 matchContact sales
  8. Free, GPL CD/DVD-ROM device emulator for Linux

    Covers 1 of 2 key features and is open source.

    Open source
    54 out of 100 match—
  9. A reasonably secure operating system

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    54 out of 100 matchFree
  10. Run Windows-based programs on a Mac.

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    54 out of 100 matchContact sales
  11. Pocket operating system

    Covers 1 of 2 key features, has a free plan and is open source.

    Free planOpen source
    54 out of 100 matchContact sales
  12. Virtual Machines for VirtualBox & VMware

    Covers 0 of 2 key features and has a free plan.

    Free plan
    53 out of 100 matchFree