FPGB Mini - Ultra-Compact FPGA Game Boy Clone

FunnyPlaying has launched the FPGB Mini, a smaller version of its budget-priced rival to the Analogue Pocket. Slightly cheaper but with the same software capabilities, the FPGB Mini might be as small as a faithful Game Boy clone will ever get.

Key Specifications

• Price: Standard MSRP of $89; early-bird batch sold at $69
• Dimensions: 113 × 64 × 22 mm (barely larger than a Game Boy cartridge)
• Screen: 2.98-inch, 800×720-pixel IPS display
• Resolution: Five times the original Game Boy's resolution
• Battery: 1800 mAh rechargeable battery (estimated 4-6 hours of gameplay)
• Storage: microSD slot supporting up to 32GB for digital ROMs and firmware updates
• Connectivity: USB-C charging port; with adapter, supports Game Boy Link cables

Competitive Positioning

The FPGB Mini uses FPGA-based hardware emulation rather than software-only emulation found in competitors like Ayaneo. This allows for near-flawless retro console emulation with lower thermal design power (TDP), resulting in better battery life compared to software-based alternatives.

Advantages & Limitations

Advantages:

• Significantly lower cost than the Analogue Pocket ($240) and Game Bub ($249-$300)
• Compact form factor nearly matching a Game Boy cartridge
• High-resolution display (800×720 pixels)
• Long battery life (4-6 hours) thanks to efficient FPGA emulation
• MicroSD expansion for ROMs and firmware updates

Limitations:

• Does not support Game Boy Advance games or emulators for other retro consoles
• Tiny form factor prevents insertion of cartridges with extra hardware features (e.g., rumble)

Availability

The FPGB Mini's first batch sold out within minutes. It is expected to restock on FunnyPlaying's online store, which also offers custom and replacement screens, motherboards, batteries, and other components for official Game Boy models. Additionally, Natalie the Nerd's shop is recommended as a well-regarded source for Game Boy parts and documentation.