GP32 versus GP32 FLU

[PulsatingQuasar]

OK, I have tried to get some good advise about whichone to take but after reading all the releated posts on this and other sites, I am no closer to an answer.

RANT: Why is there no review about the pros and cons of both models?? I would have thought there would be one right now.

My problem is, when does visibility become a problem with the non FLU version. Is it the same as reading a book and watching the pictures? When that becomes a problem, it's also a problem with the GP32? Or somewhat earlier?

Is it true that the FLU version is somewhat darker when the FLU is off and you have to have the FLU allways on?

I would mostly like to hear from people that have or have had both models because they can truelly give advise. People with only the non FLU say you don't actually need it and people with the FLU say they can't understand how anyone can live without it.

So, who can help me and when is there going to be a review?

 

[Axeman]

The bottom line....

A FLU unit is exactly the same as a non-flu, except it also has a front light....

I.e. you can play a FLU with the light off and it'sexactly the same as a non-FLU. It's a reletive Thing - when you;ve been playiong a nicely lit GP32, switching off that light makes it seem much darker.

If you can afford the FLU, go for it - if you can't, don't - as simple as that. There are no disadvantages to getting a FLU apart from the price.

 

[rcx21000]

GP32 (Don't have this, so might not be 100% accurate):
Pros: Battrey life goes atleast 10 hours, no matter what setting
Cons: Almost anything under sunlight power won't be enough for seeing the screen

GP32FLU:
Pros: Light
Cons: Battrey goes only 6 hours w/ light on, and 10 off. Lots of dust in screen. Button in back to switch light on/off can bother you (it RARLEY bothers me). Slightly darker than GP32, so its better to keep on.

Bottom line: GET GP32FLU!!!!! Even if you have to wait longer to save up money for it. Then get 8AA (I use 2000mAh, and get ~4hours pre set with light on) rechargable battries, and a recharger.

 

[angrypants]

the gp32 screen is pretty nice as far as a hand held with not light it is pretty easy to see. The gba for instance is0 really hard to see due to reflections and stuff but the gp32 screen it really pretty nice and easy to see even in somwhat dim light. The flu would be nice and if you have the cash get it. The screen will be the same regardless but if you are playing in the dark its got to be nice to flip it on and play in the drak. From my point of view as being one who owns a gba and gp32 with out any sort of light I would say that the gp32 is fine with out it and has a really nice screen if you have seen an original gba its far and away better than that so don't compare it to that its much easier to see.

 

[dj jesus]

i disagree with angrypants entirely. i have a gp32 non flu and i never use it <_< ... it is my first handheld system and i thought it would be fun, but it is really too much of a pain in the ass to ever play. the lighting has to be really good, i.e. sitting right under a direct light source, for it to be enjoyable at all ( at least for me), and even then, it's not enjoyable because you will have to hold it at a certain angle to keep the light there. just too much of a pain in the ass to be of any use to me. i am going to sell mine soon and possibly consider getting a FLU but......... probably not :unsure:

 

[orangemapped]

Personally, I can cope with my non-flu version.
I use it mainly on the metro on the way to work.
Even through tunnels, the lights on the met make the GP32 aright visability wise.

But, playing in dimly lit rooms poses a problem.
If I'm playing it at home, I have to have the lights up high, or sit in the conservatory (glass roof) so there's a good light supply.

So, I guess it just depends where youre using it.

 

[Bonks]

I had a non FLU unit.... then got a FLU version... worth it purely to be able to play lying in bed while the girlfriends asleep

as for rcx21000 cons, i never got any of these, no dust, battery life is still around 10 hours (its all in the batteries you use ) and never noticed it being any darker with the light off :unsure:

bottom line, it makes the unit about 10 times more enjoyable cause the non FLU DOES get annoying if you dont have a decent light behind you (like sitting in the living room with the TV by the window.... no light behind you = not much fun) I found myself lying upside down once on the couch just to play :blink: lol

 

[Flack]

There are no disadvantages to getting a FLU apart from the price.

I disagree.

Disadvantage #1: Price (you mentioned this). $50 to have a light on your GP32. I play mine in the car, at home, and at work, and have never needed extra lighting.

Disadvantage #2: The trapezoid effect. I've never used a FLU so I can't really speak on this, but enough people have mentioned it that it must be a factor.

Disadvantage #3: The dust factor. The majority of people with FLU's have complained about internal dust, both introduced into the screens before and after they got their unit.

Just some thoughts from a different point of view.

 

[T3dium]

I have a FLU version and I would have to say that I use the light almost all the time. I have two pairs of rechargable AA batteries. I plan to get another four recharable AAs just because it dose run them down much quicker with the
light on. I haven't had it that long to find out about the dust problem but I'm sure it will happen. It lives in my pocket most of the time when not being used so it's only a matter of time.
it was only another £20 for the FLU version. I think it was worth it.
If you get a FLU version you might find you don't need it that often but I'm pretty sure there will be a time when you are glad you have it.

 

[Carface]

God just listening to all of you with FLUs is making me so jealous. I got the bloody GP32 non Flu cos I thought Id be able to fit my own FLU soon after I but been waiting ages now and wonder if its ever coming!
All Im saying is that if I hadnt been lead to believe that a DIY kit would be available around May June time then I would have waited and purchased a GP32 FLU version.

I rlly wanna play at night in bed or in the living room while everyone else is watching TV but I cant and that for me spoils the whole experience of this machine alot. Whats the point in being portable if u cant actually watch it anywhere you go!
I would like to play Doom sum the missions hard to see and FLU it must be a breeze!

It seems for some people the FLU is not an issue but for me its essential and not even getting any news from whats going on about this DIY FLU is rlly whats annoying!

 

[johnno15]

I have both the normal gp32 (im in the process of selling) and the flu and i must say the flu is really the way to go it makes it so much eaisier and more enjoyable to play because you dont have to worry about having the right light or holding it at the right angle. As for the trapezoid effect and dust problems i must be one of the lucky few because the trapezoid hasnt happened and as long as you keep the plastic on the screen that it comes with (which isnt noticeable with the light on) then the dust doesnt get in. Any way the simple answer is GET A FLU

 

[PulsatingQuasar]

OK guys! You have convinced me. The FLU is the way to go.

I'm a real retro gamer but also like FPS shooters so Doom, Hexen and Heretic are things that I must have on it.

I also hope Dark Forces, Rise of the Triad and Duke3D will apear on it.

 

[pip]

I would not bother with the GP32 unless it had Backlit tbh, it makes it a real console instead of just a toy to play with for an hour. The FLU is everything

 

[Vicious_Al]

I got flu last winter.









..(i'm sorry)

 

[PulsatingQuasar]

Yeah, but wouldn't you like the FLU while you have the flu?

Sorry, open door.

 

[papapopalung]

i've got gp32 FLU, and i'd recommend it. ease of use... rechargeable batteries... doubles up as torch... mmm...

what the hell's 'trapezoid effect'? like when you get muscle cramp off playing too long?

reflections- it's helluva annoying keep seeing my reflection in the screen when i'm playing (i'm an ugly type, see) - can someone come up with a mod involving anti-glare glass or something (y'know, like in posh photo frames)

 

[ColinR]

Get plastic surgery...

FLU here. Extreme quality vs the GBA (don't have a nonFLU GP32 to compare). I am a little concerned about this dust issue (first time I've read about it). How can dust enter post-mod? It looks completely sealed.

Battery life is all in the batteries you use (obviously having the light on eats into your gametime) but the higher your mAh rating on your AAs the better. It is worth that extra amount of cash to get the better batteries over Tandy's (remember them?h) own brand!

 

[Azure]

i've got gp32 FLU, and i'd recommend it. ease of use... rechargeable batteries... doubles up as torch... mmm...

what the hell's 'trapezoid effect'? like when you get muscle cramp off playing too long?

reflections- it's helluva annoying keep seeing my reflection in the screen when i'm playing (i'm an ugly type, see) - can someone come up with a mod involving anti-glare glass or something (y'know, like in posh photo frames)

It is a blueish line that comes from the lower right corner and sort of creates a trapezoid. You don't notice it when you start playing a game. Retrogames' review mentions it.

 

[TJFBryant]

I love my non flu and my FLU ( I have both kinds). I ve had mine (non flu)way before a flu was ever considered for the GBA...let alone the GP32. In dim lighting it is difficult to see. BUT the screen is brighter than the GBA screen. (YES..I have both of these too.)..hehehe.
So honestly.....I have no trapazoid effect, no dust under my FLU and it works just fine.

So finally Axeman is right.

It comes down to what you really want to pay for, and how you feel about playing it in the dark or not.


Also, my non flu works fine in semi dimmed conditions....then again..maybe I am just used to it.

 

[PulsatingQuasar]

I'm going for the GP Rapid Powerbank.

It's a charger for 4 batteries with a loading time of 2-5 hours( depending on if you place 2 or 4 batteries) with 4 2100 mAh batteries.