How to find the right Game Boy Color Accessories AI guide
Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.
What the AI looks for in Game Boy Color Accessories
- Link cable connector
- Game Boy Color, Game Boy Pocket and Game Boy Advance use the small link connector. The original Game Boy uses the larger one, so you need a matching cable or an adapter. Buying a cable for the wrong connector size is the most common link-cable mistake for trading and multiplayer.
- Screen kit fit
- Check whether an IPS or backlight kit is drop-in or needs shell trimming, soldering or a matching aftermarket shell. Some kits only fit cleanly with a specific replacement shell, and others require soldering.
- Power method
- The Game Boy Color runs on two AA batteries and has no DC power jack. AC adapters and rechargeable packs must fit the battery compartment or come with an installed mod. Adapters made for the original Game Boy's DC jack will not plug into a Game Boy Color.
- Shell compatibility
- A replacement shell must be cut for your screen: the stock screen or the specific IPS kit you are installing. Stock-cut and IPS-cut shells are not interchangeable, and mismatches leave gaps or block the lens.
- Screen lens type
- Prefer glass lenses over thin plastic, and match the lens to the shell and screen kit. Glass resists scratches, while cheap plastic lenses haze and scratch quickly.
Brands that matter
- Nintendo: Original link cables, the Game Boy Printer and the Game Boy Camera all work with the Game Boy Color.
- FunnyPlaying: Well-known maker of IPS screen kits and matching shells for the Game Boy Color.
- Hispeedido: Makes IPS screen kits and aftermarket shells for Game Boy handhelds.
- Hand Held Legend: Modding parts retailer and maker of shells, buttons and screen kits.
- Nyko: Made the Worm Light and other clip-on accessories for unlit Game Boy screens.
What to avoid
- AC adapters made for the original Game Boy's DC jack, which won't fit a Game Boy Color
- Unbranded IPS kits that don't say whether shell cutting or soldering is needed
- Very cheap link cables with poor shielding, which can drop connections mid-trade
- Replacement shells that don't state which screen they are cut for
Questions
Can I link a Game Boy Color to an original Game Boy?
Yes, but you need a cable with one large and one small connector, or a universal cable with an adapter.
Do Game Boy Camera and Printer work on the Game Boy Color?
Yes. Both work on the Game Boy Color, and the Printer connects through the link port.