The GBA is a classic handheld, but its dim screen and AA batteries show its age. Luckily, today’s mod kits make it easy to give your Game Boy Advance a modern upgrade. Here are the best mods you can buy right now—and the ones worth skipping.
Quick Picks (Top Mods)
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Must-Have: IPS Screen Kit — sharp, bright, night-and-day difference.
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Best Comfort Upgrade: Replacement Shell & Buttons — clean look, smoother feel.
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Power Fix: USB-C Rechargeable Battery Mod — no more AA hunting.
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1. IPS Screen Mods (The #1 Upgrade)
Stock GBA screens are dim, washed out, and hard to see. IPS kits completely fix this—giving you console-quality visuals with adjustable brightness. They install with minimal effort and make your GBA feel brand new.
Top Pick: FunnyPlaying IPS kits are the gold standard, with excellent brightness and color accuracy.
2. Replacement Shells & Buttons
Many old GBA shells are scratched, yellowed, or creaky. A fresh housing kit with new buttons makes your handheld feel solid again. Transparent and custom-color options let you add personality too.
Tip: Pair a new shell with a glass lens for the cleanest IPS screen look.
3. Rechargeable Battery Mods
Stop burning through AAs. Modern battery mods give you a rechargeable pack with USB-C charging, often lasting longer than the original. They’re drop-in replacements for the battery door, so no shell cutting required.
4. Audio & Speaker Upgrades
The stock GBA speaker is weak. Swapping to a higher-quality replacement (often bundled with an amp) gives you louder, cleaner audio. Not a must-have for everyone, but worth it if you play without headphones.
5. Other Nice-to-Have Mods
- Glass Lens: Replace scratched plastic with durable glass.
- Backlit Buttons: A style mod that looks awesome in low light.
- Custom PCBs: For advanced builders—better power regulation and extra features.
Pair these with a full modding guide or check out power upgrades if you want a complete setup.
FAQs
Do I need soldering to mod my GBA?
Most IPS kits and battery packs are solder-free. Audio amps usually require light soldering.
Will mods hurt the resale value?
Not usually—modded GBAs often sell for more if the work is clean. Just keep the original shell if you want to restore later.
What’s the easiest GBA mod for beginners?
A new shell and buttons. Cheap, quick, and makes your handheld feel brand new.
Ready to Upgrade Your Game Boy Advance?
Start with an IPS screen—it’s the mod that changes everything. Then add a new shell and rechargeable battery for the ultimate handheld experience.