<P> Home computers were a class of microcomputers entering the market in 1977, and becoming common during the 1980s . They were marketed to consumers as affordable and accessible computers that, for the first time, were intended for the use of a single nontechnical user . These computers were a distinct market segment that typically cost much less than business, scientific or engineering - oriented computers of the time such as the IBM PC, and were generally less powerful in terms of memory and expandability . However, a home computer often had better graphics and sound than contemporary business computers . Their most common uses were playing video games, but they were also regularly used for word processing, doing homework, and programming . </P> <P> Home computers were usually not electronic kits; home computers were sold already manufactured in stylish metal or plastic enclosures . There were, however, commercial kits like the Sinclair ZX80 which were both home and home - built computers since the purchaser could assemble the unit from a kit . </P>

When were computers first sold to the public