Hardware Compatibility
GB-Link works with original hardware and select FPGA consoles. This page summarizes what is and isn’t supported.
Consoles
| Console | Supported | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Game Boy (DMG) | Yes | GB link modes |
| Game Boy Color | Yes | GB link modes |
| Game Boy Advance | Yes | GBA and GB modes |
| Analogue Pocket | Yes | Requires link port support |
| Chromatic | Yes | FPGA with link support |
| Game Bub | Yes | FPGA with link support |
| Emulators | No | Requires physical link port |
| Emulation handhelds | No | No physical link port |
Link cables
The firmware auto-detects cable type at mode selection.
| Cable Type | Supported Modes |
|---|---|
| OEM GBA Link Cable | GBA modes only |
| Generic GBC Link Cable | All GBA and GB modes |
GBA cable quality
Cheap third-party GBA cables often have only 4 conductors and may be missing a proper ground connection. This causes unreliable links. Use a quality cable or the generic cable included with GB-Link USB V2.
Connector orientation (GBA)
- Slim = Master — adapter connects here
- Wide = Slave — connects to the other GBA
Host devices and browsers
| Platform | Browser | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Chrome, Firefox | Supported |
| macOS | Chrome, Firefox | Supported |
| Linux | Chrome, Firefox | Supported (udev rules required) |
| Android | Chrome | Supported |
| iOS | — | Not supported (no WebUSB) |
Communication uses WebUSB (Chrome, Edge, and other Chromium browsers) or WebSerial (Firefox 151+). No drivers needed.
For step-by-step Connect instructions per browser, see Setting Up Your Adapter.
Adapter hardware
| Source | Notes |
|---|---|
| GB-Link USB V1 (Etsy) | Assembled Pico-based adapter; bring your own link cable |
| GB-Link USB V2 (Crowd Supply) | Assembled, cased, includes cable |
| DIY Pico PCB | Open-source design |
| DIY Pico Zero PCB | Compact open-source design |
Voltage selection
The firmware supports 3.3V and 5V link levels via hardware pins. DIY builders should refer to the Hardware & Wiring guide. Do not pull both GP11 and GP12 low at the same time — this can damage the board.