bit-tech Shopping: Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP (GBA)

Rating: 10

Time with product: 16 Months

Strengths: Built in terrific light. Smaller. Screen color is more saturated.

Weaknesses: No headphone jack. Lithium battery...maybe.

Summary: I've tried both the original Gameboy Advance and this new GBA. I think the "feel" of the original is nicer because it was wider and maybe easier to hold. I feel with this new GBA, my hands are almost pressed together while playing, but it really isn't that bad. Also, as mentioned, it is disappointing that Nintendo did not put in a headphone jack. That would be my biggest complaint. You have to pay $20-$25 or so for an adapter to be able to use headphones. I was used to the original GBA using AA batteries and had my rechargeable NiMH batteries and charger all the time. I thought the lithium battery wouldn't last long, but I've continued to be amazed at how long it will last! I sometimes go months without playing the GBA and it will still be charged and ready to go when I pick it up again. And the play time is a good 6-8 hours. So, in the end, lithium isn't that bad...so far. Overall, I'm very happy with it and love that I can play GB, GBC, and GBA games on it. I'd definitely choose it over my original GBA.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 1

Strengths: Redesign of GBA includes backlit screen, clamshell design

Weaknesses: No standard headphone jack

Summary: The Game Boy Advance SP is a redesigned version of the original GBA. The most important new features are an improved screen with a built-in backlight and a more compact design. The button layout is very comfortable for most players, and the folding clamshell design helps protect the screen. The only major downside is the lack of a standard headphone jack. To use headphones, you must purchase an additional adapter, which plugs into the same port as the charger. It's an annoyance in an otherwise very well done redesign.