Storage · The Garage Era · 1978

Apple Disk II

Disk II transformed the Apple II from cassette-bound hobby machine into a practical computer, thanks to Woz’s famously elegant controller design.

Apple Disk II (1978), Storage by Apple

Apple Disk II: key facts

When was the Apple Disk II released?

The Apple Disk II was released in June 1978. Apple discontinued it in 1984.

How much did the Apple Disk II cost?

The Apple Disk II launched at $495 in 1978 — about $2,356 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).

What are the Apple Disk II’s specs?

The Apple Disk II used a N/A, with None of memory and 0.14 MB of storage. It ran Driver / firmware support.

Why does the Apple Disk II matter?

Wozniak’s brilliantly cheap floppy system for the Apple II.

Full specifications

CPUN/A
Cores
Memory (RAM)None
Storage0.14 MB
DisplayNone
GPUN/A
PortsApple II disk controller
WeightVaries by model
Dimensions5.25-inch floppy drive
Operating systemDriver / firmware support
ReleasedJune 1978
Discontinued1984
Launch price$495

How the Apple Disk II compares to today

This entire device held less data than a single modern phone photo (~4 MB).

Launched at $495 in 1978 — about $2,356 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).

Cross-architecture speed figures are clock-only and approximate; inflation figures use US CPI.

Did you know?

Its controller used far fewer chips than rivals, saving Apple money and buyers frustration.

Related Storage models

Open the Apple Disk II in the interactive archive →

Last updated: 2026-06-27