The Game Boy Pocket (released in 1996) is a redesigned version of the original Game Boy. Although some technical specifications were unchanged, the Game Boy Pocket is otherwise improved and more compact.
Game Boy Pocket | |
---|---|
Release Date | July 21, 1996 September 3, 1996 |
Discontinued | 2003 |
Predecessor | Game Boy (1989-2003) |
Successor | Game Boy Light (1998-2003) |
Technical improvements[]
The Game Boy Pocket is smaller and lighter than its predecessor. The display measures 65mm diagonally, slightly smaller than the original Game Boy at (66mm or 2.6"), and larger than the Game Boy Color's display (~59mm or 2.32").
It's powered by 2 x AAA batteries and much lighter at 148g with batteries (125g without), compared to the original Game Boy's 394g with 4 x AA batteries (220g without). However, power consumption is higher at 80 - 90 mAh, against 70 - 80 mAh (original Game Boy). Hence, playing time is significantly shorter at up to 10 hours versus 30 hours for its predecessor.[1]
A true black-and-white display replaced the original green-tinted 'pea soup' monochromatic display. It's also much sharper and has a faster pixel response time than the original display, so blurring and ghosting are less of an issue. The battery status LED found on its predecessor was initially omitted, but re-added in later units.
However, the Game Boy Pocket's internal speaker and headphone port both suffer from quieter/lower sound output.[citation needed] There is a more audible noise compared to the original Game Boy, and when using an AC adapter there's a noticeable low pitched hum through headphones.[citation needed]
The system was discontinued in 2003.[citation needed]
Gallery[]
- ↑ Nintendo UK: Game Boy Pocket technical data https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Support/Game-Boy-Pocket-Color/Product-information/Technical-data/Technical-data-619585.html