Lynx:Model Differences

Page content & researching collaboratively taken from io55.net's Lynx page with permission.

There are two released models of the Lynx, and five revisions which only impact system modding.

Models

Models are arranged chronologically.

Model 1 (1989-1991)

The original version of the Lynx. Featuring an absolutely gargantuan form factor, the Model 1 Lynx is generally a little bit worse than the Model 2 in certain features, unless you have massive hands and don't care about these things - which is completely understandable. To be specific, the Model 1 has shorter battery life (at 4-5 hours), mono instead of stereo audio, and a slightly worse screen (although neither model's screen is exactly “good” nowadays). Outside of this, the Model 1 and 2 are the same in crucial functionality, such as region lock (both have none), and hacking/modding capability: both models are capable of receiving all important mods and can use flashcarts.

Model 2 (1991-1995)

Released at the relative peak of the Lynx's life, the Model 2 is generally the better system in all ways but form factor (for people who have large hands). Featuring an improved battery life (at 5-6) hours, stereo audio, a vaguely better screen, power saving functions (can turn off the backlight - if you hate yourself), and “rubber hand grips”, the Model 2 is a bit nicer and appears to be about as common as the Model 1 within the 2nd hand market. While these changes do make it a slightly better system, it doesn't really matter if one ends up getting the Model 1, as the 2's improvements are pretty minor and will probably be a target for user modding anyways.

Revisions

While both the Model 1 and Model 2 feature motherboard revisions, these revisions have no impact to external functionality and thus, will only be important to system modding. This section will be expanded and linked into other Lynx modding pages when they have been created. Pages relating to Lynx motherboard revisions have been linked below.

https://atarigamer.com/pages/hardware-details

https://atarilynxdeveloper.wordpress.com/2013/09/01/lynx-model-2-hardware-revisions/