Original Game Boy DMG parts and mods, the upgrade and repair hub for the DMG-01.
Browse Game Boy DMG parts by upgrade type
- DMG IPS screen kits. Hispeedido RIPS V4 / V5 with OSD, FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel
- DMG replacement shells, transparent, atomic, custom colors
- DMG buttons and silicone membranes
- DMG capacitor kits and components
- DMG rechargeable battery mods
- DMG modding tools, tri-wing, Phillips, soldering
The original Nintendo Game Boy DMG-01 launched in 1989 and remains a centrepiece of the modding scene. The classic green-on-gray reflective screen is dim by today's standards, which is why backlit IPS upgrades dominate the DMG mod ladder. ZedLabz stocks the Hispeedido RIPS V4 and V5 IPS kits with on-screen menu and pixel effects, the FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel IPS, replacement shells, fresh buttons, capacitor kits and the tools to fit it all.
Quick picks for any DMG build
- If it's your first DMG mod: the Hispeedido RIPS V5 IPS kit with a fresh shell and button set. Brightness, palette and pixel effect controls via the OSD wheel. An evening's project for first-timers comfortable with a Phillips screwdriver.
- The everyday build: RIPS V5 IPS plus a transparent or atomic-colored shell, fresh face buttons, conductive silicone membrane and a 3-capacitor refresh, restores audio and screen reliability alongside the visual upgrade.
- The dream rig: FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel IPS in a matching IPS-ready shell, capacitor refresh, fresh buttons and a Helder Game Tech audio mod. The brightest, sharpest DMG you can build today.
The DMG mod ladder
- IPS screen kit: the headline mod. Hispeedido RIPS V5 has the largest community install base on DMG; FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel offers a different aesthetic. Browse the IPS section in this collection for the full range.
- Custom shell + buttons: visual transformation. Browse shells and buttons. Choose between the original DMG shell and a pre-cut IPS-ready shell depending on your kit.
- Capacitor refresh: DMG-01 boards are decades old; the original electrolytic capacitors degrade with age. Common symptoms: dim screen, distorted sound, intermittent power. A capacitor kit is a low-cost preventative on any console of this era.
- Rechargeable battery mod: replace the four-AA tray with a Li-Po pack and USB-C charging. See rechargeable battery mods for the current options.
- Audio enhancement: the most technical mod, an audio amplifier or speaker upgrade for clearer sound. Some soldering required.
Hispeedido RIPS V5 vs FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel, which IPS kit?
| Kit | Install difficulty | Shell needed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hispeedido RIPS V5 (with OSD) | Two solder points to button board, otherwise no-cut. An evening for first-timers | Standard DMG shell or pre-cut IPS-ready DMG shell | First-time modders, OEM-look builds with palette and pixel-effect control |
| FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel IPS | Larger panel, requires shell trimming or a pre-cut IPS-ready shell. Plan for an evening with patience | FunnyPlaying IPS-ready DMG shell strongly recommended | Modders chasing the most accurate pixel rendering |
Worldwide delivery with tracking on every order. Message support if you need help choosing between RIPS V5 and Retro Pixel.
Related collections
- Game Boy Pocket Parts. MGB-001 mods
- Game Boy Color Parts. CGB-001 mods
- Game Boy Advance Parts. AGB-001 mods
- No-solder mod kits, beginner-friendly drop-in installs
Game Boy DMG. FAQs
Is it worth modding an original Game Boy with an IPS screen?
For most builders, yes. The original DMG-01 reflective screen has its own retro charm, but it depends entirely on ambient light and is dim indoors. An IPS upgrade adds a backlight, brighter colors, selectable palettes and pixel-grid effects. Tradeoffs: shorter battery life than the original, and the install isn't fully reversible without keeping the original parts.
Which DMG IPS kit should I buy first?
For a first-time modder, the Hispeedido RIPS V5 is the most-installed DMG IPS kit. Two solder points to the button board, the rest is mechanical. The FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel renders pixels more sharply but the panel is larger and works best with a pre-cut IPS-ready shell.
Do I need to solder for DMG mods?
For the most popular IPS kits, yes, lightly. The RIPS V5 needs two wires soldered from the speaker pads to the included button board for OSD controls; the rest of the install is mechanical. Capacitor refreshes and audio mods need more involved soldering. Custom shells and button swaps don't need any. See our soldering supplies if you're starting out.
Why upgrade a DMG at all today?
The DMG-01 was a 1989 design, so the original screen, capacitors and contact pads are all decades into wear. An IPS upgrade addresses the screen; a capacitor kit addresses ageing power and sound; a fresh shell and silicone membrane addresses contact tactility. Together they extend a console you'd otherwise eventually shelve.
What tools do I need to mod a DMG?
Tri-wing Y-bit (DMG shell screws), Phillips PH00 (internal screws), plastic pry tool, ESD tweezers. For IPS kits with OSD, capacitor refreshes and audio mods, add a temperature-controlled iron, the Miniware TS101 is a popular starting point, plus solder and quality flux. Browse our modding tools and soldering supplies.
