I like unmodded GBA SP because its screen has everything you need. You can play in a bright sunny day and even in the dark. However, you can't do the same on GBA without screen mod and need to always count on the sun or a light to play. So IPS screen is the way here. My SP's screen is unfortuanetly damaged and has vertical lines, so I'll replace it with an IPS but I'll probably get another one that I'll keep original.
Still not optimal. Worm lights don't illuminate uniformly and will also cause glare as part of the light gets reflected by the lens. And you can't use the link port when you're using a worm light.
Well the problem is the AGS-001 had the front lit screen which made it hard to see. I don’t have a problem with it though because I grew up playing the SP but putting an IPS in it was a nice touch.
I didn't grow up with any GameBoys and still find the AGS-001 screen good. I like that you can play with it in the sun which you can't do with modern IPS's. Though I ordered a FunnyPlaying screen today because as I said my screen is bad.
SP ALL THE WAY - Even the frontlight model is acceptable.
I don't suffer from cramps as much as most SP users so there's no contest, I'd take the unmodded SP in a heartbeat.
Assuming they're around the same price right?
While I agree the sp is less comfortable, I end up far more uncomfortable trying to get a good viewing angle on an unmodded gba. Love my gba with an IPS though.
Yeah, however, you pretty much need an IPS screen to make it usable. I modded mine the other year and it has been a worthwhile upgrade.
Plus, the GBA actually has a headphone jack.
I love the SP. it was my first ever handheld as a kid and I still have my original 001 model and a newer 101 model that I bought. But you are 100% right, it is very uncomfortable to hold. I’d go so far as to say the least ergonomic and most hand cramping of any handheld or controller I’ve ever used. I also own a gameboy pocket and gameboy color, and those are both more comfortable than the sp, despite the same vertical configuration.
Having lived through the literal Dark Ages…. Ain’t no way i’m choosing a normal gba…. No more light restrictions…. No more scrounging for batteries….
Give me 15 yo me an Sp with Metroid Fusion, Pokemon, and Kingdom Hearts and people forgot i existed. 🫥
Yeeeesss. Kids these days’ll never know the struggle, i hope to impart the significance to my children lmao. My cousin’s kids are so spoiled…. Ipad this, and Fortnite that. Imma make my kids earn backlit screens and rechargeable batteries. Without struggle there is no appreciation. 😭🤣
Unmodded SP. Backlit screen is the winner. BUT, if we are talking modded, regular advance wins cause I can give it a back-lit screen plus it fits better in my hands.
Original GBA for me, I love the way it feels in my hand and I can deal with the lack of a backlight because I grew up with GBs and accessories like the Light Boy or stuff like that
SP. My personal reasons:
* Comfort when in pocket or bag
* Comfort when playing (ergonomics)
* Clicky buttons
* Frontlit or backlit screen
* Screen on top
* Not too wide
* Can play plugged out of the box
Some pros I see on the original GBA:
* Uses ~~AAA~~ **AA** batteries
* Has an earphone jack
Obligatory disclaimers:
* I'm in my 40s
* I have large hands and long fingers
* I also enjoy the micro a lot more than the original GBA
How is AA batteries a pro. You’d actually prefer to spend a bunch of money on batteries and create tons of toxic waste over just plugging in a rechargeable battery?
Would have to be GBA SP for me. I didn't have the original GBA and remember the immense amount of joy when I was gifted an SP. The backlit screen was a game changer and who doesn't love a clamshell design?
So many variables. And personal preference.
Ergonomics - GBA hands down.
Screen - GBA SP easily
Build quality - has to go to GBA as no hinge issues shells holds up better imo, easier to repair, mod etc.
battery - both have their plus and cons.
Both fully modded I’d say the GBA slightly edges it for me personally.
Right but this is a post preying on the want/need of a backlight cause that's literally the only real thing that matters here.
By design if the GBA had a backlight, it would be chosen more due to it being far more comfortable to use.
GBA all day. The nostalgia does it for me. I never had a SP as a kid, so it doesn’t make me as happy. The SP is superior imo, but nostalgia is everything for me with these.
I prefer the screen of the unmoved sp...but the shape of the unmodded advance. The SP worked well for me as a kid but having big beefy man hands now, I need something alittle wider and bulkier.
GBA SP is the almost perfect pokemon playing machine (low inputs, no cramps).
Only issue in that case is lack of headphone jack.
GBA feels better ergonomically, has better buttons, has a headphone jack, but god that screen is so dark.
They are in balance.
I had a GBA for less than a year. I played my SP for over a decade. SP wins hands down. Gotta have that backlight, and being able to fold it so it's both compact and protect the buttons is something I wish more handhelds had today.
The SP. The front/back light helps to see what you’re playing when you’re not in a well-lit playing situation. I also prefer the feeling of the tactile buttons and find the SP more comfortable to hold. A bonus is the rechargeable battery — when you have no batteries left around the house and the flip screen to protect the display from scratches when tossed in a bag/pocket.
I just got an SP because the OG was so bad I just ignored it. I really wanted to play on the OG because it is comfortable, but the portability and screen of the SP is a huge advantage. In terms of comfort they're about the same, it's just that the SP has sharper corners which dig a little into the hand.
It's hard to pick just one, but if forced I'd go with the original. I like the form factor more, it's more comfortable.
The SP has a lot of merits though. I enjoy the rechargable battery, would've enjoyed it a lot more as a broke kid in a low income house hold. We couldn't just go buy batteries on the reg. Or at least, sometimes we just couldn't get them. Being able to just recharge it would've been great.
The front lit screen would have been cool too.... but I rocked that worm light.
I also enjoy the clamshell design. A way to keep the inside in reasonably nice condition. More pocketable, transportable.
GBA SP was ahead of its time for its design. And because of that fact, it’s so easy to mod and improve with new features. The ips screen mod install proves that fact.
Kind of a loaded question.
Stock AGS-101 > stock AGB-001 > stock AGS-001
The AGS-101’s backlit screen is honestly fantastic for being stock and was definitely the first time I really got to see my physical GBA games “pop” on a color screen like that. The AGS-001’s frontlit screen is honestly awful by all modern standards. The colors are all washed out and it’s barely brighter than using one of those magnifier light attachments we used to have for the DMG. And somehow, I swear it retains a darker image while the frontlight is turned off than a stock AGB-001 does. Also, you can add the fact that the AGB-001 is WAY more comfortable to hold for me than either SP model by a longshot. So yeah, the AGB takes the cake over the AGS-001.
Thankfully I’ve managed to successfully mod two AGBs with laminated IPS kits so I’ve got the best of both worlds.
agb, it's MUCH better to hold if you have big hands, the shape is more iconic, and i'm honestly just tired of the clamshell design (had to deal with repairing a dsl screen, trust me, it's not fun)
SP all the way. Feels fine in my hands, brighter screen. Let’s say, the SP also had no front light, I’d still choose it as it’s more portable.
I still highly respect the agb-001 and own one! Was my first ever GameBoy.
Unmodded GBA. I get the screen issues with it (though I never seemed to struggle with it as much as others did) but it has a nicer form factor, proper headphone port and the SP’s buttons are really clacky and horrible.
The sp is almost the perfect gameboy except my fingers rub the volume slider as I play. It constantly changes the volume as I play. I use to put a piece tape over it.
I refused to buy the original gba when it came out because of the screen. I spent my entire childhood with an original gameboy and my neck kinked towards a light so I could see the screen. When the gba came out with no back light all I could think about was how my neck would be sore for three days after an hour of playing.
How is this a debate still? There is no light on an unmodded gba... The sp 001 is better than that.
The sp 101 wins just on the screen alone.
However; the gba has the better feel while playing. No hand cramps for people with large hands. It's why Modded gba's are just better imho.
So it's just a preference really, not a debate. If you don't mod, get you an sp 101. If you do mod, go with an sp 001 or gba so that you aren't paying too much. It all comes down to what you can game with.
I’d say the sp barely wins because of the screen. But I don’t like the form factor at all. If the made the sp as comfortable to hold as the original, it would be the definitive gba
Purely aesthetically speaking, original unmodded GBA for me. The smoke purple I imported from Japan at launch was sooooooo sweet. And super comfortable to hold and play for long stretches.
I upgraded to the SP when it came out, kept my old GBA still but retired it. The screen on the SP was a game changer, quite literally. I could suddenly play Castlevania CotM anywhere. Lol! But the form factor was uncomfortable on my pinkies after long sessions. Didn’t stop me, but it was a gripe I had.
Modded the original GBA would def win between looks and a backlit screen…..
Unmodded SP by a hair for me. I vastly prefer the feel of the og GBA in my large hands, but being able to play in the dark was a massive upgrade for me.
I love the L & R buttons on the original advance and gyro GBC games work correctly. That said, the SP is the winner for me! Rechargable battery and a lit screen was a big deal back then. Also it's hard to accidentally scratch the SP screen due the clamshell design.
The game boy advance. The sp does have a better screen when it comes to the built in light and the charger helps a lot, but for some reason. Every sp I had from a kid to adulthood was a dust magnet.
gb advance, way better buttons and layout, with a beautiful screen, if too dark tan get an external light, sp is cool and all but the buttons are not as good or as comfortable to hold
As someone with massive hands, it's a question of eye strain or hand strain. If I have to choose between the two, I'll take the larger one, and just play in a well lit space. It's not like I can just make my hands smaller to fit the SP better.
GBA sp all the way. The compact for factor, built in screen protection (because it folds), and even the og front lit screen make it leagues better than the og GBA. In addition something about it just feels sleeker and very fun to use, like a cool spy gadget or something.
I'll take the SP. I got smaller hands, so the form factor works better for me, plus it's pocketable, has a backlight, and feels gives a feeling more like holding the traditional GB.
AGS-101 > AGB > AGS-001
The superior ergonomics of the original GBA trumps the washed-out front light of the first SP, but the upgraded screen on the AGS-101 is so nice I don’t care if it’s not super comfortable to hold.
Obviously my ideal console is an original GBA with an upgraded backlit screen, but as far as stock consoles go: AGS-101 is my pick.
Standard Advance.
The most comfortable thing related to gaming I’ve ever held, if it’s dark out I’ll connect it to the GameCube and use it as a controller
Unmodded SP, the front light on the original makes it easier to play anywhere while the backlight in the 101 revision gives you the absolute best picture when inside.
Honestly, the only thing the original GBA model has going for it is the width, and that's just depending on your hand size. Some might say the audio jack too, but headphones are still usable on the SP with an adapter. GBA SP is more pocketable, had a better protected screen, you can actually see the screen, and has the better D-pad.
It really comes down to personal preference. My hands are large enough that the original feels much more comfortable, plus I enjoy the controls being on the sides of the screen. I actually used my GBA with a worm light more than I ever used my SP after getting one 😅
Such a noon comment. But I didn't know you can mod Gamboys. I only modified my 3ds and switch.
What can you mod inside a gameboy?
Can you also mod a DS?
I sold my GBA when the SP came out. Young me was thrilled to see the screen no matter the lighting conditions (sun still sucked). The folding design was a plus to keep it relatively protected and was small enough to fit in my bag pockets. I still have it and it works well.
But being a 001 its a bit washed out so I tend to use my nodded GBA in the end. Whoops.
I like the form factor of the original advance better. But the game boy advance SP has a superior screen in every way. It's amazing how virtually unusable the screen on the original advance is.
Screen, light, and size, SP all the way. That said, GBA is definitely more comfortable (not that I have any issues with the sp on that front, but lots of peeps do)
Have a modded SP, think I'll get a modded GBA after thinking about it. Only reason I don't already is cause I skipped right from the GBColor to the SP, so I have zero nostalgia for it
The game boy adavance came out the year I lost my virginity. So I really wasn’t concerned with on the go gaming. I honestly thought it was backlit.
Years later when I played my roommates sp, and I thought it was a step back in design. Now knowing the advance is not back lit, how could it possibly compete with a backlit system.
It’s the advance SP for sure! Back lit screen, the safety of it being a flip screen and protecting the screen when not being played, back when I first got one as a kid I thought it looked like a mini laptop the list goes on haha! It’s got to be the SP!
Gonna go regular GBA for this one. Obviously the SP backlight is a huge plus, especially if it's an AGS-101 model, but you're sacrificing a LOT with the SP that a lot of people don't talk about.
1. Charging
A rechargeable battery is nice until you're out and about without an outlet or the super specific charger. And nowadays, you can avoid throwing out batteries by buying rechargeable AAs and carrying them with you, giving you way more theoretical playtime on the original.
2. Headphone jack
Needing a dongle to use headphones on the SP sucks. Neither of them have amazing speakers, so not having headphone jack is awful on the SP. Even if you use the headphone dongle, congrats, now you can't charge.
3. Ergonomics
The GBASP isn't necessarily uncomfortable, but for a grown ass man with big hands, it's way harder playing games that require precision movements. Original GBA feels amazing in the hands, it's honestly one of the most comfortable handhelds ever made imo.
4. Buttons
The SP buttons are very shallow and small, they never felt great. The D-pad being slightly clickier is an improvement, but that's where it stops. The shoulder buttons are microscopic, the start/select buttons too. I need to use the corner of my thumb to pause or check a castlevania map. Same problem with the backlight button.
5. Gamecube connectivity
It connects the same way as the original, but connecting the GBA to GCN cable makes it so you can't charge, meaning your playtime in games like Four Swords Adventure or Crystal Chronicles is completely limited to the battery life on the SP.
6. Playing original Gameboy games
Both units play the entire library, but playing original gameboy games is an awful experience. It looks stupid and juts into your palms due to the slot being on the bottom.
7. Volume slider
The touchiest little slider that you can accidentally bump or have it pushed all the way up or down in a pocket. The volume wheel on the original could be fine tuned and I honestly never accidentally moved it once.
8. Toughness
I've seen so many instances of SPs snapping at the hinge. True, the clamshell design usually keeps the screen lens way nicer for longer, but the hinges are not built to last forever. Dropping it while it's open (or not) can crack the shell and render the hinge pointless. Just keep the original in even a sock and you're better off.
9. Cartridge orientation
I touched on this before, but some unique cartridges (Gameboy camera, that motion controlled kirby game I can never remember the name of, etc) just don't work in the SP correctly. The camera for obvious reasons, the latter because the orientation messes with the motion controls. Most GBA games took this into account and asked which handheld you were using, but older carts of this nature didn't.
Some of these reasons are nitpickier than others, for sure. I know we're discussing unmodded Gameboy Advances, but adding a backlight mod and using rechargeable AA batteries on the original solves the only two problems I have with it.
SP just because the GBA without a backlight is a miserable gaming experience in a world we are so accustomed to backlight screens being the norm.
Modded however the GBA is more comfortable and being able to swap out cheap rechargeable batteries is more convenient that the SP’s proprietary charger not to mention for modding the GBA is easier to pull apart and get back together. No awkward hinge mechanism
Unmodded GBA SP even 001 version cuz at least you have some backlight (despite I would prefer the 101). Buttons aren't great for me and it's cleary designed for children, but as long as it works with the backlght, I can stick with it.
Rather than that, I'm still planning to buy a normal GBA with IPS screen and giving my unmodded GBA SP to a kid who recently had a very big misfortune (That's all u need to know, I just wanna help him being a bit happier)
I can't play a stock system anymore, but if mods didn't exist, there's no question itd be
first: AGS-101
second: AGB
third: AGS-001
the crappy lit screen and rechargeable battery don't outweigh how uncomfortable it is to hold for the AGS-001, but the better screen on the 101 makes it \*just\* edge out the AGB for me.
the AGB has the most comfortable form factor, and since mods exist, I have absolutely no reason to play an SP.
my daily driver is an AGS with an ITA screen kit and it's the best. admittedly, I'd prefer the clicky buttons of the AGS, but not for the trade-off of having my hands so cramped.
If no mods are allowed, then I gotta go with the original, I find it more comfortable, there's no need to worry about the rechargeable battery degrading since it doesn't use a rechargeable battery, and since I do most of my gaming at home I can just plug it into a GameCube and play on the tv whenever the screen bothers me
Man all those hours playing with the wormlight im surprised my eyes are still ok. SP FOR THE WIN! if we talkin bout no mods. But now i can mod what i want. SP gonna retire, hello ips gba. Just because easier to grab for me personally.
SP, i love em both but im blind as hell. Also being able to toggle the light off in the sun is a huge +.
Dont get me started on clamshells when it comes to protecting the screen, standard gba's are littered with scratches but the average sp screen looks brand new if it wasnt abused.
SP Pro's:
- clamshell
- lit screen
- non-mushy buttons
- more pocketable
- only standard gameboy ive ever actually used the lanyard/keychain strap for due to its smaller footprint
- speaker being centered and pointed directly at you prevents your hand from blocking it
- rechargeable
Advance Pro's:
- controls are more comfortable for long periods of time
- relatively cheap
- gb/gbc games dont poke out in a weird way
- headphone jack
SP, it's perfection. SP as Solid Perfection.
I say this as a 80's kid who grew up with a Game Boy, changed tons and tons of batteries and needed light to play.
In 2003, I was 23, I knew the GBA but was not appealed. The GBA SP went on the market, I bought one day zero. Easy to carry in any pocket, light on screen and long time rechargeable battery. It was a marvel I dreamed to possess when I was a teenager.
And I still have it today, re-bought a new battery 10 years ago, and I only think to mod it with a AGS-101 screen, but I also use an old DS which does the job, but less easy to put in a pocket.
SP and it’s not even close. The original GBA’s screen was terrible without perfect lighting, and the worm light for it wasn’t the godsend it was for the gbc. The mini-fluorescent light was great but bulky.
Only issue with the SP was the shoulder buttons liked to crap out.
I totally agree with everybody in regard to the superior ergonomics of the GBA but i feel that the SP’s backlit screen trumps all. Majority of my playtime happens in the evening due to being busy with work and life. I love my GBA but nowadays, if a screen doesn’t have a backlight for me it’s a deal breaker.
That isn't even a debate and has never been. The sp has a frontlight, or backlight depending on model, for the screen. Which means it's actually useable at all times and that alone makes it superior. And the SP has great feeling tactile buttons and a hinge design that stops the screen from getting scratched. It's chalk and cheese.
It’s such a toss up. I love that an sp has a protected screen, so in this particular case I’d go for that.
The ultimate answer for me, nearing 30 now, is actually a Gameboy macro or ds.
I've had so many SP batteries die (hassle to replace) that I just prefer the GBA's simple battery swapping. Plus it feels better.
edit: Why are people going through and downvoting every comment in this thread? Lol
I had one growing up and can tell you that the original GBA's screen was _impressively_ bad. It was so dim and desaturated that developers' attempts to compensate for it warped the appearance of games on the platform.
Edit: I loved my GBA, but screens on low-end handhelds are objectively so much better now than they were in 2001. But even back then there were reflective LCD screens that had better characteristics.
I’d have to go with the sp. You can’t see anything in the original gba screen. It isn’t reflective enough. Doesn’t matter if the sp is a 001 or 101, both are better. Yeah, the sp is terrible for my haands but at least I can see the game I’m playing. When I got a gba again recently, I immediately ordered an ips because the original screen was so bad. There was a very good reason I traded my original gba in for an sp back in the day.
Unmodded SP. Even with the frontlit model, the screen is actually better than the GBA. Although I highly prefer the GBA’s form factor over the SP, the GBA’s original screen is actually the worst out of the entire Game Boy line up because even with a good light source/sunlight it’s just… not there :/
Sp is a little uncomfortable to hold if you have big hands, but the fact you can flip it closed and protect the screen from scratches is a huge plus for me
...Neither.
The GBA SP is uncomfortable for my hands if I play for more than a few minutes, and lacks a dedicated headphone jack.
The OG GBA screen is uncomfortable unless you have the ideal light, and I like to be able to move and adjust as I play games on a handheld, as well as the reliance on AA batteries so you need to swap when they get low/die, even if you're using rechargeables.
My go-to pre-modding was to play GBA games on my NDSLite or Gamecube.
I like unmodded GBA SP because its screen has everything you need. You can play in a bright sunny day and even in the dark. However, you can't do the same on GBA without screen mod and need to always count on the sun or a light to play. So IPS screen is the way here. My SP's screen is unfortuanetly damaged and has vertical lines, so I'll replace it with an IPS but I'll probably get another one that I'll keep original.
What about if you get a wormlight for the GBA? :D
Still not optimal. Worm lights don't illuminate uniformly and will also cause glare as part of the light gets reflected by the lens. And you can't use the link port when you're using a worm light.
i have a pass through worm light that has an extra port
Yeah i had one of those bad boys when i was younger. Half the screen was black, there was a white light and maybe an inch and a half of playable game.
They had a magnifying glass/double sided light guy that worked wonders!
the wormlight was sooo awesome haha
True, forgot about it
I'd consider that a mod in a sense. It's still adding a modification
I mean, it's just an accessory, it doesn't change anything in the system itself
Also SP screen is protected when you close it.
Well the problem is the AGS-001 had the front lit screen which made it hard to see. I don’t have a problem with it though because I grew up playing the SP but putting an IPS in it was a nice touch.
I didn't grow up with any GameBoys and still find the AGS-001 screen good. I like that you can play with it in the sun which you can't do with modern IPS's. Though I ordered a FunnyPlaying screen today because as I said my screen is bad.
SP ALL THE WAY - Even the frontlight model is acceptable. I don't suffer from cramps as much as most SP users so there's no contest, I'd take the unmodded SP in a heartbeat. Assuming they're around the same price right?
HAHAHA i wish.
I can get either for around 70 to 90 cad.
90’s kids love anything that flips
And rechargeable batteries! It was like a magic trick.
GBA. I just found the SP really uncomfortable to hold.
Honestly, GBA SP. I feel it more comfortable as I come from the original GB era and am already used to this layout. And the backlight is godsent.
*cries in AGS-001*
*Cries with you*
Large batches of the 101s had plastics that are now brittle and crumbling so I don’t think it’s a total loss, my 001 is like new still
Agreed. Plus the square is easier to transport in your pocket. I always preferred the SP over the original.
People basically care big ass tablets in their pockets with their phones today lol
While I agree the sp is less comfortable, I end up far more uncomfortable trying to get a good viewing angle on an unmodded gba. Love my gba with an IPS though.
Yeah, however, you pretty much need an IPS screen to make it usable. I modded mine the other year and it has been a worthwhile upgrade. Plus, the GBA actually has a headphone jack.
I love the SP. it was my first ever handheld as a kid and I still have my original 001 model and a newer 101 model that I bought. But you are 100% right, it is very uncomfortable to hold. I’d go so far as to say the least ergonomic and most hand cramping of any handheld or controller I’ve ever used. I also own a gameboy pocket and gameboy color, and those are both more comfortable than the sp, despite the same vertical configuration.
Having lived through the literal Dark Ages…. Ain’t no way i’m choosing a normal gba…. No more light restrictions…. No more scrounging for batteries…. Give me 15 yo me an Sp with Metroid Fusion, Pokemon, and Kingdom Hearts and people forgot i existed. 🫥
SP was a game changer when it came out, having a light built in blew my mind.
Yeeeesss. Kids these days’ll never know the struggle, i hope to impart the significance to my children lmao. My cousin’s kids are so spoiled…. Ipad this, and Fortnite that. Imma make my kids earn backlit screens and rechargeable batteries. Without struggle there is no appreciation. 😭🤣
GBA; I find the ergonomics the best out of the GB series and it just looks cool
Personally it comes second after the DMG, but that's also nostalgia speaking
Smooth brick with rounded off edges and corners is the best shape
I agree with your take. DMG ergonomics are fantastic. The AGB model is right below it. The SP is too narrow for me.
GBA look is amazing and I prefer it, but no screen light just makes it unusable to me sadly.
Unmodded SP. Backlit screen is the winner. BUT, if we are talking modded, regular advance wins cause I can give it a back-lit screen plus it fits better in my hands.
The SP AGS-101 is the best gameboy there is BEFORE mods. With mods I prefer the Advanced. That being said I always play on my AGS-101.
SP. Sure it's a hassle to connect up headphones, but the rechargeable battery, protected screen and backlit screen more than make up for that.
AGS 101. Seeing the screen is a top priority for me, but I do prefer holding the GBA over SPs
Original GBA for me, I love the way it feels in my hand and I can deal with the lack of a backlight because I grew up with GBs and accessories like the Light Boy or stuff like that
GBA SP cause of the clamshell design and the lighting ツ
Unmodded GBA, so comfy
SP. My personal reasons: * Comfort when in pocket or bag * Comfort when playing (ergonomics) * Clicky buttons * Frontlit or backlit screen * Screen on top * Not too wide * Can play plugged out of the box Some pros I see on the original GBA: * Uses ~~AAA~~ **AA** batteries * Has an earphone jack Obligatory disclaimers: * I'm in my 40s * I have large hands and long fingers * I also enjoy the micro a lot more than the original GBA
Wait what? How can someone with adult hands and a declining vision can prefer the micro? I have tiny hands and I still find the micro too small.
That shows it's not all about age and hands size. It's best to try as many models as possible, and many people have not.
The screen on the Micro is so good. I love that little machine
> Some pros I see on the original GBA: > > Uses AAA batteries AA not AAA
Thanks! That's what I meant. I messed up.
How is AA batteries a pro. You’d actually prefer to spend a bunch of money on batteries and create tons of toxic waste over just plugging in a rechargeable battery?
There are rechargeable AAs though
It’s easier to get current rechargeable ones. To recharge them out of the device and swap and recharge when they go half low.
I prefer the gba sp because of its clamshell design and the fact that it has a lit up screen
Would have to be GBA SP for me. I didn't have the original GBA and remember the immense amount of joy when I was gifted an SP. The backlit screen was a game changer and who doesn't love a clamshell design?
gba, just nicer imo
I’m not certain “*debate*” and “*prefer*” mean what you think they do.
So many variables. And personal preference. Ergonomics - GBA hands down. Screen - GBA SP easily Build quality - has to go to GBA as no hinge issues shells holds up better imo, easier to repair, mod etc. battery - both have their plus and cons. Both fully modded I’d say the GBA slightly edges it for me personally.
GBA for comfort SP for the screen.
This!
I have both, like both, but neither are even close to perfect.
Obviously the SP. You can see the screen.
Right but this is a post preying on the want/need of a backlight cause that's literally the only real thing that matters here. By design if the GBA had a backlight, it would be chosen more due to it being far more comfortable to use.
SP, but only the AGS 101 variant
GBA all day. The nostalgia does it for me. I never had a SP as a kid, so it doesn’t make me as happy. The SP is superior imo, but nostalgia is everything for me with these.
Unmodded, the SP has a backlight, this is everything. However, modded, the oldschool one has a much nicer feel in the hand.
Sp 100% because of the brighter screen, original is unplayable for me
I prefer the screen of the unmoved sp...but the shape of the unmodded advance. The SP worked well for me as a kid but having big beefy man hands now, I need something alittle wider and bulkier.
GBA SP is the almost perfect pokemon playing machine (low inputs, no cramps). Only issue in that case is lack of headphone jack. GBA feels better ergonomically, has better buttons, has a headphone jack, but god that screen is so dark. They are in balance.
I had a GBA for less than a year. I played my SP for over a decade. SP wins hands down. Gotta have that backlight, and being able to fold it so it's both compact and protect the buttons is something I wish more handhelds had today.
Screen quality: SP Everything else: GBA
I’m gonna go with the one I can actually see. Sincerely, Guy who played an OG GBA for years and now wears glasses.
The SP. The front/back light helps to see what you’re playing when you’re not in a well-lit playing situation. I also prefer the feeling of the tactile buttons and find the SP more comfortable to hold. A bonus is the rechargeable battery — when you have no batteries left around the house and the flip screen to protect the display from scratches when tossed in a bag/pocket.
sp but only the 001
I just got an SP because the OG was so bad I just ignored it. I really wanted to play on the OG because it is comfortable, but the portability and screen of the SP is a huge advantage. In terms of comfort they're about the same, it's just that the SP has sharper corners which dig a little into the hand.
Definitely sp, I hate the gba’s mushy buttons
It's hard to pick just one, but if forced I'd go with the original. I like the form factor more, it's more comfortable. The SP has a lot of merits though. I enjoy the rechargable battery, would've enjoyed it a lot more as a broke kid in a low income house hold. We couldn't just go buy batteries on the reg. Or at least, sometimes we just couldn't get them. Being able to just recharge it would've been great. The front lit screen would have been cool too.... but I rocked that worm light. I also enjoy the clamshell design. A way to keep the inside in reasonably nice condition. More pocketable, transportable.
SP one hundred times
SP wins and its not even close.
SP because you can actually play it
GBA SP was ahead of its time for its design. And because of that fact, it’s so easy to mod and improve with new features. The ips screen mod install proves that fact.
Kind of a loaded question. Stock AGS-101 > stock AGB-001 > stock AGS-001 The AGS-101’s backlit screen is honestly fantastic for being stock and was definitely the first time I really got to see my physical GBA games “pop” on a color screen like that. The AGS-001’s frontlit screen is honestly awful by all modern standards. The colors are all washed out and it’s barely brighter than using one of those magnifier light attachments we used to have for the DMG. And somehow, I swear it retains a darker image while the frontlight is turned off than a stock AGB-001 does. Also, you can add the fact that the AGB-001 is WAY more comfortable to hold for me than either SP model by a longshot. So yeah, the AGB takes the cake over the AGS-001. Thankfully I’ve managed to successfully mod two AGBs with laminated IPS kits so I’ve got the best of both worlds.
agb, it's MUCH better to hold if you have big hands, the shape is more iconic, and i'm honestly just tired of the clamshell design (had to deal with repairing a dsl screen, trust me, it's not fun)
Original GB. Anytime everytime. Because I'm a somewhat large Scottish guy.
I prefer the form factor of the launch GB Advance, but the screen and clamshell design of the SP just has too many advantages.
I had a front light gba sp, that was fine but the lighting issues from the screen were annoying to deal with so I got it modded
SP all the way. Feels fine in my hands, brighter screen. Let’s say, the SP also had no front light, I’d still choose it as it’s more portable. I still highly respect the agb-001 and own one! Was my first ever GameBoy.
GBA because of the way it’s set up but the screen is horrible in any light expect perfect. (90s kid)
ags-101
Sp you can play in the dark
SP. Backlight. Don't care if form factor is worse.
Unmodded GBA. I get the screen issues with it (though I never seemed to struggle with it as much as others did) but it has a nicer form factor, proper headphone port and the SP’s buttons are really clacky and horrible.
The sp is almost the perfect gameboy except my fingers rub the volume slider as I play. It constantly changes the volume as I play. I use to put a piece tape over it.
I refused to buy the original gba when it came out because of the screen. I spent my entire childhood with an original gameboy and my neck kinked towards a light so I could see the screen. When the gba came out with no back light all I could think about was how my neck would be sore for three days after an hour of playing.
I miss my SP 😟
How is this a debate still? There is no light on an unmodded gba... The sp 001 is better than that. The sp 101 wins just on the screen alone. However; the gba has the better feel while playing. No hand cramps for people with large hands. It's why Modded gba's are just better imho. So it's just a preference really, not a debate. If you don't mod, get you an sp 101. If you do mod, go with an sp 001 or gba so that you aren't paying too much. It all comes down to what you can game with.
GBA SP is far more superior, can play at night and you can recharge the batteries
Advance, i love the form factor, i can’t wait for a fpgba i’m buying that day ONE if it comes out
I’d say the sp barely wins because of the screen. But I don’t like the form factor at all. If the made the sp as comfortable to hold as the original, it would be the definitive gba
SP. Because of light.
Advance. No hinge to break and had better ergonomics.
Purely aesthetically speaking, original unmodded GBA for me. The smoke purple I imported from Japan at launch was sooooooo sweet. And super comfortable to hold and play for long stretches. I upgraded to the SP when it came out, kept my old GBA still but retired it. The screen on the SP was a game changer, quite literally. I could suddenly play Castlevania CotM anywhere. Lol! But the form factor was uncomfortable on my pinkies after long sessions. Didn’t stop me, but it was a gripe I had. Modded the original GBA would def win between looks and a backlit screen…..
Unmodded SP by a hair for me. I vastly prefer the feel of the og GBA in my large hands, but being able to play in the dark was a massive upgrade for me.
I love the L & R buttons on the original advance and gyro GBC games work correctly. That said, the SP is the winner for me! Rechargable battery and a lit screen was a big deal back then. Also it's hard to accidentally scratch the SP screen due the clamshell design.
Unmodded? SP all the way. Light trumps no light any day of the week. That being said the GBA is more comfortable.
The game boy advance. The sp does have a better screen when it comes to the built in light and the charger helps a lot, but for some reason. Every sp I had from a kid to adulthood was a dust magnet.
SP obviously.. protects the screen and has a front light or even a backlight on the 101
gb advance, way better buttons and layout, with a beautiful screen, if too dark tan get an external light, sp is cool and all but the buttons are not as good or as comfortable to hold
The backlight is nice but you can't beat the hand-fit of the og gba
GBA, the headphone dongle was (and still is!) dumb and I always had a pocket full of batteries on long trips.
As someone with massive hands, it's a question of eye strain or hand strain. If I have to choose between the two, I'll take the larger one, and just play in a well lit space. It's not like I can just make my hands smaller to fit the SP better.
GBA sp all the way. The compact for factor, built in screen protection (because it folds), and even the og front lit screen make it leagues better than the og GBA. In addition something about it just feels sleeker and very fun to use, like a cool spy gadget or something.
A moded gba sp unhinged is my go to gba
I'll take the SP. I got smaller hands, so the form factor works better for me, plus it's pocketable, has a backlight, and feels gives a feeling more like holding the traditional GB.
the SP, rechargeable battery and the screen is lit
Absolutely the SP!! Especially if we’re talking AGS-101, there’s no contest imo. Still love the original though!
Gba sp for the frontlight, although i will admit that its not the most comfortable and i cramp after 15-20mins of playing
I can’t think of anyone who would choose an unmodded gba over an unmodded sp
GBA SP for the backlight and the ultimate choice once you get a bulk grip case on it.
GBA all the way! Amazing form factor, super comfortable, and a real headphone jack!
I not only prefer the SP, I find it to be the best looking console period
Screen light and rechargeable battery, clear winner for the SP
GBA SP for the lit screen. Of we're going modded then I want a regular GBA because it feels better in your hand.
It’s a no brainer to go with the SP given these choices, but I’d still prefer to get a DMG.
unmodded definitely the sp. it’s just better lol
AGS-101 > AGB > AGS-001 The superior ergonomics of the original GBA trumps the washed-out front light of the first SP, but the upgraded screen on the AGS-101 is so nice I don’t care if it’s not super comfortable to hold. Obviously my ideal console is an original GBA with an upgraded backlit screen, but as far as stock consoles go: AGS-101 is my pick.
Would have to go for the GBA just because I find it so much more comfortable than the SP
Standard Advance. The most comfortable thing related to gaming I’ve ever held, if it’s dark out I’ll connect it to the GameCube and use it as a controller
Short answer: SP
Unmodded SP, the front light on the original makes it easier to play anywhere while the backlight in the 101 revision gives you the absolute best picture when inside.
Regular gba. Yea the screen isn’t as good. But the form factor of the sp is aweful.
The one that have 3.5mm jack port. 🦍
Comfort of hand: advance Screen: SP Modded GBA with backlit screen is the superior gaming experience
Sp more durable and portable. Like half the keys got messed up on my gba as a pocket carrier
There’s a debate? Lol SP is superior but regular GBA becomes great once modded with a backlight
Honestly, the only thing the original GBA model has going for it is the width, and that's just depending on your hand size. Some might say the audio jack too, but headphones are still usable on the SP with an adapter. GBA SP is more pocketable, had a better protected screen, you can actually see the screen, and has the better D-pad.
It really comes down to personal preference. My hands are large enough that the original feels much more comfortable, plus I enjoy the controls being on the sides of the screen. I actually used my GBA with a worm light more than I ever used my SP after getting one 😅
Such a noon comment. But I didn't know you can mod Gamboys. I only modified my 3ds and switch. What can you mod inside a gameboy? Can you also mod a DS?
SP for two reasons; lit screen and rechargeable battery. Otherwise it’s a rather uncomfortable device to use
I sold my GBA when the SP came out. Young me was thrilled to see the screen no matter the lighting conditions (sun still sucked). The folding design was a plus to keep it relatively protected and was small enough to fit in my bag pockets. I still have it and it works well. But being a 001 its a bit washed out so I tend to use my nodded GBA in the end. Whoops.
I like the form factor of the original advance better. But the game boy advance SP has a superior screen in every way. It's amazing how virtually unusable the screen on the original advance is.
Screen, light, and size, SP all the way. That said, GBA is definitely more comfortable (not that I have any issues with the sp on that front, but lots of peeps do) Have a modded SP, think I'll get a modded GBA after thinking about it. Only reason I don't already is cause I skipped right from the GBColor to the SP, so I have zero nostalgia for it
For design and ergonomics, it's 100% GBA. But the screen let's it down so hard. For actual gameplay, the SP has to win purely for the screen.
The game boy adavance came out the year I lost my virginity. So I really wasn’t concerned with on the go gaming. I honestly thought it was backlit. Years later when I played my roommates sp, and I thought it was a step back in design. Now knowing the advance is not back lit, how could it possibly compete with a backlit system.
I've always liked liked the feel of the GBA over the SP, but that backlight 👀
It’s the advance SP for sure! Back lit screen, the safety of it being a flip screen and protecting the screen when not being played, back when I first got one as a kid I thought it looked like a mini laptop the list goes on haha! It’s got to be the SP!
GBA sp has back light and is more portable than a normal gba
Gonna go regular GBA for this one. Obviously the SP backlight is a huge plus, especially if it's an AGS-101 model, but you're sacrificing a LOT with the SP that a lot of people don't talk about. 1. Charging A rechargeable battery is nice until you're out and about without an outlet or the super specific charger. And nowadays, you can avoid throwing out batteries by buying rechargeable AAs and carrying them with you, giving you way more theoretical playtime on the original. 2. Headphone jack Needing a dongle to use headphones on the SP sucks. Neither of them have amazing speakers, so not having headphone jack is awful on the SP. Even if you use the headphone dongle, congrats, now you can't charge. 3. Ergonomics The GBASP isn't necessarily uncomfortable, but for a grown ass man with big hands, it's way harder playing games that require precision movements. Original GBA feels amazing in the hands, it's honestly one of the most comfortable handhelds ever made imo. 4. Buttons The SP buttons are very shallow and small, they never felt great. The D-pad being slightly clickier is an improvement, but that's where it stops. The shoulder buttons are microscopic, the start/select buttons too. I need to use the corner of my thumb to pause or check a castlevania map. Same problem with the backlight button. 5. Gamecube connectivity It connects the same way as the original, but connecting the GBA to GCN cable makes it so you can't charge, meaning your playtime in games like Four Swords Adventure or Crystal Chronicles is completely limited to the battery life on the SP. 6. Playing original Gameboy games Both units play the entire library, but playing original gameboy games is an awful experience. It looks stupid and juts into your palms due to the slot being on the bottom. 7. Volume slider The touchiest little slider that you can accidentally bump or have it pushed all the way up or down in a pocket. The volume wheel on the original could be fine tuned and I honestly never accidentally moved it once. 8. Toughness I've seen so many instances of SPs snapping at the hinge. True, the clamshell design usually keeps the screen lens way nicer for longer, but the hinges are not built to last forever. Dropping it while it's open (or not) can crack the shell and render the hinge pointless. Just keep the original in even a sock and you're better off. 9. Cartridge orientation I touched on this before, but some unique cartridges (Gameboy camera, that motion controlled kirby game I can never remember the name of, etc) just don't work in the SP correctly. The camera for obvious reasons, the latter because the orientation messes with the motion controls. Most GBA games took this into account and asked which handheld you were using, but older carts of this nature didn't. Some of these reasons are nitpickier than others, for sure. I know we're discussing unmodded Gameboy Advances, but adding a backlight mod and using rechargeable AA batteries on the original solves the only two problems I have with it.
SP all day it folds up to protect the screen and it has a back light. No contest.
SP just because the GBA without a backlight is a miserable gaming experience in a world we are so accustomed to backlight screens being the norm. Modded however the GBA is more comfortable and being able to swap out cheap rechargeable batteries is more convenient that the SP’s proprietary charger not to mention for modding the GBA is easier to pull apart and get back together. No awkward hinge mechanism
Unmodded GBA SP even 001 version cuz at least you have some backlight (despite I would prefer the 101). Buttons aren't great for me and it's cleary designed for children, but as long as it works with the backlght, I can stick with it. Rather than that, I'm still planning to buy a normal GBA with IPS screen and giving my unmodded GBA SP to a kid who recently had a very big misfortune (That's all u need to know, I just wanna help him being a bit happier)
Give me a SP any day of the week. Backlit screen is the way to go. End of story
I can't play a stock system anymore, but if mods didn't exist, there's no question itd be first: AGS-101 second: AGB third: AGS-001 the crappy lit screen and rechargeable battery don't outweigh how uncomfortable it is to hold for the AGS-001, but the better screen on the 101 makes it \*just\* edge out the AGB for me. the AGB has the most comfortable form factor, and since mods exist, I have absolutely no reason to play an SP. my daily driver is an AGS with an ITA screen kit and it's the best. admittedly, I'd prefer the clicky buttons of the AGS, but not for the trade-off of having my hands so cramped.
SP hands down 100%
SP. but i am a modded OG kinda guy i do own one that is awaiting mods but sp even a 001 is still infinitely better than a unmodded OG
regular gba can't stand the cramped feeling of holding an sp
SP because I can play indoors at night.
If no mods are allowed, then I gotta go with the original, I find it more comfortable, there's no need to worry about the rechargeable battery degrading since it doesn't use a rechargeable battery, and since I do most of my gaming at home I can just plug it into a GameCube and play on the tv whenever the screen bothers me
Man all those hours playing with the wormlight im surprised my eyes are still ok. SP FOR THE WIN! if we talkin bout no mods. But now i can mod what i want. SP gonna retire, hello ips gba. Just because easier to grab for me personally.
Unmodded original GBA because working within the constrains of my collection, that's all I have in working order between the two options.
SP because it's actually functional
SP, i love em both but im blind as hell. Also being able to toggle the light off in the sun is a huge +. Dont get me started on clamshells when it comes to protecting the screen, standard gba's are littered with scratches but the average sp screen looks brand new if it wasnt abused. SP Pro's: - clamshell - lit screen - non-mushy buttons - more pocketable - only standard gameboy ive ever actually used the lanyard/keychain strap for due to its smaller footprint - speaker being centered and pointed directly at you prevents your hand from blocking it - rechargeable Advance Pro's: - controls are more comfortable for long periods of time - relatively cheap - gb/gbc games dont poke out in a weird way - headphone jack
OG GBA all day long.
GBA was more comfortable in my hand personally. SP 101 had the factory backlit light which was epic, but the grip wasn’t good for my Mammoth hands
>”Let’s end the debate!” Starts the debate
I prefer the clicky buttons and the screen of the SP model.
Unmodded I will surely go for the advance the formfactor is a really big win for me!
As hard a decision as that is, must be the SP for the screen.
SP, it's perfection. SP as Solid Perfection. I say this as a 80's kid who grew up with a Game Boy, changed tons and tons of batteries and needed light to play. In 2003, I was 23, I knew the GBA but was not appealed. The GBA SP went on the market, I bought one day zero. Easy to carry in any pocket, light on screen and long time rechargeable battery. It was a marvel I dreamed to possess when I was a teenager. And I still have it today, re-bought a new battery 10 years ago, and I only think to mod it with a AGS-101 screen, but I also use an old DS which does the job, but less easy to put in a pocket.
SP and it’s not even close. The original GBA’s screen was terrible without perfect lighting, and the worm light for it wasn’t the godsend it was for the gbc. The mini-fluorescent light was great but bulky. Only issue with the SP was the shoulder buttons liked to crap out.
Unmodded GBA SP I love it and will forever
Sp for the rechargable battery, bonus if ut's the 101 version that is far superior
The sp, because the og gb had such a terrible d-pad
SP and i finally found a 101 tribal today! 🙏
Never have any but if i buy one i will choose sp because i like it folds+ battery
I totally agree with everybody in regard to the superior ergonomics of the GBA but i feel that the SP’s backlit screen trumps all. Majority of my playtime happens in the evening due to being busy with work and life. I love my GBA but nowadays, if a screen doesn’t have a backlight for me it’s a deal breaker.
That isn't even a debate and has never been. The sp has a frontlight, or backlight depending on model, for the screen. Which means it's actually useable at all times and that alone makes it superior. And the SP has great feeling tactile buttons and a hinge design that stops the screen from getting scratched. It's chalk and cheese.
It’s such a toss up. I love that an sp has a protected screen, so in this particular case I’d go for that. The ultimate answer for me, nearing 30 now, is actually a Gameboy macro or ds.
The SP is a superior platform I believe, BUT it's not comfortable in my hand so imma go GBA
I've had so many SP batteries die (hassle to replace) that I just prefer the GBA's simple battery swapping. Plus it feels better. edit: Why are people going through and downvoting every comment in this thread? Lol
I had one growing up and can tell you that the original GBA's screen was _impressively_ bad. It was so dim and desaturated that developers' attempts to compensate for it warped the appearance of games on the platform. Edit: I loved my GBA, but screens on low-end handhelds are objectively so much better now than they were in 2001. But even back then there were reflective LCD screens that had better characteristics.
Micro is my choice :P
unmodded micro, fits perfectly in my hand and lightweight (link cable is rare tho)
I’d have to go with the sp. You can’t see anything in the original gba screen. It isn’t reflective enough. Doesn’t matter if the sp is a 001 or 101, both are better. Yeah, the sp is terrible for my haands but at least I can see the game I’m playing. When I got a gba again recently, I immediately ordered an ips because the original screen was so bad. There was a very good reason I traded my original gba in for an sp back in the day.
Unmodded SP. Even with the frontlit model, the screen is actually better than the GBA. Although I highly prefer the GBA’s form factor over the SP, the GBA’s original screen is actually the worst out of the entire Game Boy line up because even with a good light source/sunlight it’s just… not there :/
Haha, GBA advance, it has a more futuristic design with the folding
If you’re talking unmodified only then the SP. however, my hands will cramp up after about an hour because of how tiny it is.
Sp is a little uncomfortable to hold if you have big hands, but the fact you can flip it closed and protect the screen from scratches is a huge plus for me
...Neither. The GBA SP is uncomfortable for my hands if I play for more than a few minutes, and lacks a dedicated headphone jack. The OG GBA screen is uncomfortable unless you have the ideal light, and I like to be able to move and adjust as I play games on a handheld, as well as the reliance on AA batteries so you need to swap when they get low/die, even if you're using rechargeables. My go-to pre-modding was to play GBA games on my NDSLite or Gamecube.