2.9-inch IPS screen for Game Boy Advance: a readable image, without filing the shell

The first-generation Game Boy Advance (AGB-001) has neither backlight nor contrast: unless the light hits it at a low angle, the original screen stays dark. This kit replaces the panel with a 2.9-inch IPS screen and supplies a replacement shell already cut to the right opening. That is what saves you the filing work required by older IPS kits.

What it does

• 2.9-inch IPS panel: backlight, deep blacks and wide viewing angles, where the original panel had you hunting for light.
• No cutting: the supplied shell is cut out for the display area of the panel, which is wider than the original window.
• Adjustable brightness: several levels, adjusted from the console once the kit is fitted.
• Complete shell: front, back, battery cover and lens, in the chosen colour.

What it doesn't do

• Not suitable for the Game Boy Advance SP, Game Boy Micro, Game Boy Color or original Game Boy: the panel and shell are made for the AGB-001 only.
• Adds no rechargeable battery, USB-C or video output: power still comes from two AA batteries, and a backlit screen uses more power than the original panel.
• Does not guarantee strictly solder-free installation: depending on the revision of the kit you receive, the brightness control may require a wire soldered to the motherboard.
• The "no lens" option costs less because it is supplied without the pre-cut protective lens — check the option before confirming.
• Supplier instructions in English or Chinese: no French documentation is included in the box.
• Supplied without console and without games, in compliance with the law.

Compatibility

First-generation Game Boy Advance, model AGB-001, the horizontal console that runs on two AA batteries. The clamshell models (Game Boy Advance SP, AGS-001 and AGS-101), the Game Boy Micro and earlier Game Boy models are not covered: neither the ribbon cable nor the shell fits them. The kit does not touch the cartridge slot: the console's backward compatibility with Game Boy and Game Boy Color remains unchanged.

Skill level required

Intermediate. You need to open the console with a Y1 tri-wing screwdriver and a small Phillips, remove the motherboard, disconnect the original panel and transfer everything into the new shell. Allow 45 to 90 minutes depending on how used you are to disassembly. Have a plastic spudger and an anti-static work surface ready. If the revision you receive requires soldering the brightness wire, a fine-tip soldering iron and some experience of board-level soldering are needed.

In the box

• 1 IPS screen, 2.9 inches, with its ribbon cable and control board
• 1 complete replacement shell (front, back, battery cover) in the chosen colour
• 1 pre-cut protective lens — except with the "no lens" option
• The set of buttons and the fixings that go with the shell

The exact contents vary depending on the option selected; the option description is authoritative.

Read before ordering: Retro peripherals

Delivery in 10 to 18 days · ships within 3 to 5 days · 2-year legal guarantee · 14-day returns.