Storage · The Beige Era · 1986
Apple 3.5 Drive
The Apple 3.5 Drive became the standard external floppy companion for compact Macs and the Apple IIGS.
Common external 3.5-inch drive for Macs and Apple IIgs.
AppleCD SC (1988)
Apple 3.5 Drive: key facts
When was the Apple 3.5 Drive released?
The Apple 3.5 Drive arrived in 1986. Apple discontinued it in 1994.
How much did the Apple 3.5 Drive cost?
The Apple 3.5 Drive launched at $499 in 1986, about $1,457 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: 0.8 MB storage, DB-19 floppy port.
Why does the Apple 3.5 Drive matter?
Common external 3.5-inch drive for Macs and Apple IIgs.
Full specifications
| CPU | — |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | 0.8 MB |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | DB-19 floppy port |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | 3.5-inch floppy drive |
| Operating system | Driver/firmware support |
| Released | 1986 |
| Discontinued | 1994 |
| Launch price | $499 |
How the Apple 3.5 Drive compares to today
This entire device held less data than a single modern phone photo (~4 MB).
Launched at $499 in 1986, about $1,457 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker.
Related Storage models
Open the Apple 3.5 Drive in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11