The micro's D-Pad is a little bit bigger than the SPs but the real advantage it that it is raised instead of sunk into the surface making it much easier to use. Both the Micro and the original GBA are like this and should fix the problem you are having with the SP's D-Pad

also the Micro is great, the thing is about the exact same size as the original NES controller, it's 2"x4" and can be slipped into just about any pocket. It's great for gaming on the go. I carry mine with me to play GBA pokemon games (to raise pokemon to transfer to Platinum :) It's really a nice system that I wish had been available earlier and for longer (I think it only sold like 2.5mil so it might be a little difficult to fine one)

Then just use a gamecube controller. As long as you don't grind your thumb, the D-Pad is workable.

Or get one of these (preferably at a lower price).

This is my gba:

GBA SP:

I don't have any problems with the d-pad of my gba (and I play frequently) but I don't see any differences between both D-pads.

The original GBA didn't have a backlight and was a complete pain to actually see what's the screen from my experience. I'd highly suggest against one of those.

Do you have a gamecube? Maybe get a gameboy player.

Yes, i'm playing on my tv w a gba player.  So, what do u think of the d-pad in the original?

Get the micro, it feels so small and sleek. o_O

Don't use the micro if you're using the GBA player, especially if you have a link cable, since it uses a different one.

And in practical terms, the gamecube controller doesn't need a link cable, nor batteries (rechargeable or otherwise).

The Micro is the best GBA. But if you want to be able to play older GB/GBC games, you should get the GBA SP Mark II. The first GBA's screen is horrible. But if you don't like the D-Pad on the GBA SP Mark II, you should have a Micro for GBA games and then a Game Boy Color for older GB/GBC games.

Or just use your DS Lite when you want to play on the go, and use your Game Boy Player when you want to play on the TV. I don't see why you need another system if you already have a DS Lite and a Game Boy Player. You can play every Game Boy game except 2 or 3 now.

I agree get the micro. the no back light on the regular GBA is a pain in the A**

The D-pad in the original is fine. But I've never played on the SP or micro, so I can't compare.