Kenbak-1 // First Personal Computer

3D Model

When we think about the first personal computer, many immediately recall the iconic Altair 8800, often heralded as the first commercially successful personal computer. However, there’s an often overlooked predecessor that deserves recognition: the Kenbak-1.

The Kenbak-1, developed by John Blankenbaker in 1971, is considered by many to be the first true personal computer. This pioneering machine predated the Altair 8800 by a few years and was designed for educational purposes. Despite its limited production—only around 50 units were made—the Kenbak-1 laid the groundwork for the personal computing revolution that would follow.

Unlike the Altair 8800, which used a microprocessor, the Kenbak-1 was built using small and medium-scale integrated circuits. It had 256 bytes of memory and was programmed using a series of switches and LEDs on the front panel.