This is a customizable order form for the Game Boy Color and the various services offered. Please note that all costs listed are for service only, requiring you to ship not only the console but the mod/upgrade parts you have purchased yourself (with exception to the Full Recap Service as I will provide new capacitors from Console5)
Screen Replacement / Backlit Screen Install
While the Game Boy Color screen was a huge upgrade over the original model, the lack of a backlight still made it a difficult handheld to use under anything but ideal lighting conditions. Trying to play a stock Game Boy Color these days is even worse thanks to years of superior backlit screen technology in all portable electronics. There are a wealth of options available so instead of linking to one specific kit, this install service covers most kits out there, under a few conditions… Some kits are designed specifically for aftermarket shells and would require extensive OEM shell cutting to work and the results not ideal. I’m linking to several sites that carry a range of kits so its up to you to read the features and style you think you would like best and pick one to pair with your OEM shell or decide on a shell swap and new screen. I understand this can be confusing so don’t hesitate to reach out with recommendations. If a shell (OEM or aftermarket) is sent along with a new screen that either does not pair or would require more cutting/modification than I’m willing to do I reserve the right to ship it back and refund the order (minus shipping cost and fees). If you are not sure please reach out first!
If you want to keep an OEM shell the following specifical kit has been installed by me in one before and is a great option (please also buy the bracket and LENS below to make alignment process easier and guaranteed and the larger viewer area is required):
HispeedIDO Q5 OSD IPS – HandHeld Legend
GBC Q5 IPS Bracket – HandHeld Legend
GBC Q5 IPS Glass Lens – HandHeld Legend
All other kits can be found here and some work with OEM shells and some are meant to be paired with aftermarket so read descriptions carefully:
GBC Replacement Displays – HandHeld Legend
GBC Replacement Displays – RetroGameRepairShop
Rechargeable Battery Mod
While the GBC only requires 2 AA batteries and has a decent battery life, many want the ease of plug and charge and there are several kit options out there that can give you that flexibility. I would recommend NatalieTheNerd’s “Safer Charge DC” kit as the best option but FunnyPlaying also has a decent rechargable circuit kit from HandheldLegend. I will install either with this service which includes the soldering of the kit to the GBC board, wiring and battery compartment modification (if using OEM shell)
You can find either kit option here (Safer Charge DC requires separate battery purchase which is the link directly below Safer Charge DC)
Safer Charge DC Kit – NatalieTheNerd
Safer Charge DC LiPo Battery – RetroGameRepairShop
FunnyPlaying GBC LiPo Kit – HandHeldLegend
Full Recap Service
Electrolytic Capacitors have an estimated shelf life of about 15 years and many of these old retro gaming systems are long past that time. Prevent unwanted power, video or audio issues by proactively replacing these in your Game Boy Color system. If your Game Boy Color is already exhibiting issues a failed capacitor could be the culprit and is usually a good first step in the diagnosis and repair. All capacitors will be replaced on the system motherboard with a cap kit from Console5 which I will provide for this service, included in the cost
Full Service Cleaning
After years of heavy use many handhelds will exhibit accumulation of dirt, dust and debris and this can not only impact the aesthetic appearance of the system but dirty system components can impact component life and performance. Your console will be completely disassembled and cleaned from the inside out. All PCB and internal electrical components will have dust and debris removed via an electronic air compressor and then be cleaned with 99% isopropyl alcohol and brushed clean. Outer shell and other non-electronic components will be taken apart and soaked in a soap/water mixture and carefully scrubbed to remove stains and debris buildup. Any light markings, scuffs or other blemishes will be safely removed to the best of my ability. Once the console is re-assembled the outer shell will be given a coat of plastic UV protectant to restore shine and prevent UV damage. Depending on the handheld system I will do my best to buff out light scratches on the screen/panel as well
