If you’re buying a Game Boy Advance (GBA) and want to make sure it’s an original Nintendo model and not a counterfeit or refurbished unit, this guide will help you spot the differences.
1. Check the Label (Serial Number & Stickers)
(1) Serial Number & “TM” vs. “R” Mark
- Early Models (2001-2002):
- Uses “TM” (Trademark) logo.
- Comes in silver box packaging.
- Later Models (2002+):
- Uses “®” (Registered Trademark) logo.
- Comes in white box packaging.
- Suspicious Cases:
- If an early serial number (e.g., AJ10) has an “®” mark, it might be a refurbished or re-shelled unit.
(2) Region Codes
The first two letters indicate the region:
- AJ = Japan
- AH = Hong Kong
- AS = Asia-Pacific
- AC = Europe
(3) Sticker Aging
- Original stickers may show slight yellowing or wear (due to sweat/oil exposure).
- Fake/replaced stickers look too new or are misaligned.
2. Inspect the Shell & Buttons
(1) Shell Quality
- Power LED has a frosted (not glossy) finish.
- Battery compartment has 11 mold marks inside (counterfeit shells may lack these).
- “Nintendo” logo should be sharp (no blurry edges).
(2) Screws
- Original GBA:
- Battery compartment: Phillips (cross) screws.
- Other screws: Tri-wing (Y-type) screws.
- Fake GBA: May use only Phillips screws.
3. Motherboard & Internal Checks
(1) Screen Ribbon Cable
- Early models (0-series): 40-pin ribbon cable.
- Later models (1-series): 32-pin ribbon cable.
- Red flag: If an early serial number (e.g., AJ10) has a 32-pin cable, it might be a refurbished unit.
(2) Soldering & Modifications
- Original motherboard: Clean, no visible repairs.
- Refurbished unit: May have messy solder, replaced capacitors, or exposed copper traces.
4. Packaging & Accessories
(1) Box Type
- Silver box = Early models (TM logo).
- White box = Later models (® logo).
- Mismatch? If an early serial number comes in a white box, it may be a re-shelled unit.
(2) Manual & Extras
- Japanese models: Last page of the manual may have a store stamp + purchase date.
- Non-JP models: May not have stamps, but check other authenticity signs.
5. Additional Verification Tips
✅ Weight: Original GBA weighs ~140g (with batteries).
✅ Screen: Original screen is non-backlit (reflective TFT). Many refurbished units install IPS screens.
✅ Cartridge slot wear: Original units show natural wear if heavily used.
Final Checklist to Avoid Fakes
🔹 Check the label (TM/® mark, serial number, aging).
🔹 Examine the shell (Nintendo logo, screws, battery compartment).
🔹 Open it up (if possible) to check the motherboard.
🔹 Verify packaging (silver/white box, manual stamps).
🔹 Test functionality (buttons, screen, sound).
Leave a Reply