Modding Nintendo handhelds consoles is nothing new. I have previously shown other screen kits for the GameBoy Pocket and GameBoy Color where the original screens are replaced with a modern version of them. Today I have a V5 Laminated Screen Kit from HISPEEDIDO for the GameBoy Advance console.

In my opinion the GameBoy Advance is the best version of the GameBoy handhelds. I prefer it over the GameBoy SP because I have large hands and the GameBoy SP is a bit too small for me. That being said the GameBoy SP has a clear advantage over the GameBoy Advance, in that its screen is backlit making it far superior for playing games. Luckily we have replacement screen kits that can level the playing field.

The specific kit I used in the video below is the "HISPEEDIDO GBA V5 LAMINATED LCD KIT" You can purchase this from Amazon or eBay. The kit I purchased came with a shell that doesn't require trimming and this is what I recommend as trimming the original shell can be a pain.

The full specifications of the screen are as follows:
-720x480 display resolution: 9 pixels to 1 pixel with Integer scaling so there are no distortions
-Wide Viewing Angle of 178 degrees
-Laminated Glass Screen with PCB embedded in metal shell from factory
-Built in OSD Menu can be controlled using L+R+Select
-Retro Pixel effects to simulate the original GBA LCD and 2 additional effects
-15 Brightness levels
-8 Color modes
-FRM on/off function, this is Frame Blending and it used on a few games for the GBA, but for most games isn't necessary so it can be left off
-Compatible with both 32pin and 40pin motherboards 

I have used other screens in the GameBoy Advance and I can say without a doubt that this screen looks the best. The brightness adjustment has enough range to fit anyone's preference and the colors are absolutely stunning looking. Have a look for yourself....



The full installation video can be viewed below. Before we get to the video though there are a couple things I want to point out about this kit that I got wrong in the video.

First you do not have to solder to use this. The soldering is only required if you wish to use the L+R trigger/Select buttons to open the built in OSD Menu to adjust the screen settings. Personally I think this is the best way to do this as the touch sensors in my opinion are a bit finicky.