Year: 1988
Initial Price: $4999, $11,091 in 2018)
The Compaq Portable III is a PC/AT-compatible computer released by Compaq Computer Corporation in 1987. It was advertised as being much smaller and lighter than the previous portable x86-PCs, however it was still quite large by today’s standards.
Three models were announced at release. The Model 1 had a list price of 3999 USD and was equipped with a 12 MHz Intel 80286, 640 KB RAM, 1.2 MB 5.25″ floppy, and a 10″ amber colored gas-plasma display. Other options included the Model 20 at 4999 USD which added a 20 MB hard disk, the one I have, or 5799 USD or the Model 40 with the upgraded 40 MB hard disk. There was also an optional ISA Expansion chassis allowed for 2 full length 16-bit ISA add-in cards for 199 USD. Power is supplied using a mains electricity outlet, no battery exists.
I bought this computer for Christmas so the Compaq Portable wont feel alone for the holidays.
The Computer looks very good except for the keyboard cable that has rot. It is a known issue that the keyboard cable is disintegrating for all Compaq portable models. Every time you move it, more pieces will flake off.
Cable Rot 
Cable changed on keyboard end 
Cable changed on System end
I had taken the cable from an old Cherry AT busted keyboard and started soldering. I am pretty happy with the outcome of the project.
Here are some photos of the finished project. See more on Facebook
My Compaq Portable III came without the cable. Do you have the specifications where to solder de conections? Thank you
I have a Compaq 111 and was just wondering it’s value it’s mint condition in the bag with original manual and lots of discs
Hi Lee,
If its mint with a bag and accesories I seen them go from 400 US dollars to 700 dollars.
Hope this helps!
I’ve always admired the design and you can see it was really well thought out. Just setting it up becomes a treat. Sliding the keyboard latches in and swinging it down revealing that PC/AT keyboard layout. Pressing the two large top latches releasing the display panel then swinging it up to a perfect angle. Table art for sure.
The only real heartache with these systems is the display. The orange plasma looks beautiful but so prone failure over time.