Corrections (updated October 2026)
After this post was published, Henry at Matrix Orbital pointed out some errors. Thanks, Henry. Here’s what we corrected:
- We compared our bare CFA835 module to the BGK19264A-BK, which comes in a 5.25″ bay insert. The matching bare module is the GLK19264A-7T-1U, and this post now compares against it.
- Our prices were for the BGK model. At GLK19264A-7T-1U list prices, the Matrix Orbital base model costs less. When it’s configured to match the CFA835’s standard -20 to +70°C rating and 3.3V to 5V input, the CFA835 costs less at 25 to 99 pieces.
- We left out that software sets the backlight color on the tri-color (-TCI) model, 0 to 255 for each RGB channel. The tri-color model is a $2.50 option.
- We didn’t give credit to the -VPT option, which accepts 9 to 35V. It’s a $20.00 option.
- According to Matrix Orbital, the GLK is available with FSTN transmissive and STN transmissive glass.
The Matrix Orbital GLK19264A-7T-1U and the Crystalfontz CFA835 are both intelligent graphic LCD modules with a keypad, status LEDs and a command set for text and graphics. Specs below come from the GLK19264A-7T-1U manual (rev 2.2) and the CFA835 product page.
At a glance
| Matrix Orbital GLK19264A-7T-1U | Crystalfontz CFA835 | |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 192×64 | 244×68 |
| Color options | Gray on yellow-green, gray on white, white on blue (standard); tri-color on black (-TCI, +$2.50) | Dark on light gray, light on blue |
| Interfaces | Standard model: RS232, TTL or I2C (set by jumper). USB and RS422 are separate models. USB isn’t offered on 3.3V (-LV) models. | USB 2.0, logic-level serial, RS232, I2C and SPI on every unit, several running at once, at 3.3V or 5V |
| GPIO | 6 outputs (5V, 10mA each) | 13 inputs/outputs |
| Keypad | 7 tactile keys | 6 backlit keys, fully decoded |
| Status LEDs | 3 bi-color | 4 bi-color (red/green) |
| Audio | Piezo buzzer | None |
| Storage | 256KB for fonts and bitmaps | 256K flash, 64K RAM, MicroSD slot |
| Supply voltage | 5V standard; 3.3V (-LV, +$2.50); 9 to 35V (-VPT, +$20) | 3.3V to 5V, no adder |
| Operating temperature | 0 to +50°C standard; -20 to +70°C with the -E option (+$10) | -20 to +70°C standard |
| Viewing direction | 12 o’clock | 12 o’clock |
| Extras | Optional Dallas One-Wire header (USB model) | ATX power control, optional FBSCAB fan and temperature board |
| Form factor | 1U; the BGK version comes in a bay insert | 1U; optional drive bay bracket |
| Lead time | 4 to 8 weeks for online orders (per Matrix Orbital, October 2026) | Less than 2 weeks for most quantities |
Display and resolution
The CFA835’s 244×68 panel has about 27% more horizontal pixels than the GLK’s 192×64. That extra width helps with graphs and multi-line status screens.
The CFA835 comes in two versions. The CFA835-TFK is dark on light gray, with FSTN transflective glass and a white LED backlight, so it reads well in bright ambient light. The CFA835-TML is light on blue, with STN transmissive negative glass and a white LED backlight, for low ambient light.
The GLK comes in three standard colors. The tri-color (-TCI) model is a $2.50 option that lets software set the backlight color.
Interfaces and I/O
This is the biggest difference between the two.
On the GLK, the standard model switches between RS232, TTL and I2C with jumpers. For USB or RS422 you order a different model, and those models support only that one protocol. USB isn’t available on 3.3V (-LV) models, so a 3.3V design that needs USB can’t use the GLK.
Every CFA835 supports USB, logic-level serial, RS232, I2C and SPI, and several can run at once, on either 3.3V or 5V. You don’t have to commit to a protocol when you order, and one part number can serve several host designs.
The CFA835 also has 13 GPIO pins. The GLK has 6, and they’re outputs only.
Input and feedback
The GLK has a 7-key keypad, 3 bi-color LEDs and a piezo buzzer.
The CFA835 has a 6-key backlit keypad that registers any combination of presses, 4 bi-color LEDs and separate brightness control for the keypad and display backlights. It has no buzzer.
If your interface needs sound or a seventh key, go with the GLK. For more status LEDs or a backlit keypad, go with the CFA835.
Power and environment
The standard GLK runs on 5V. A 3.3V version (-LV) adds $2.50. The wide-voltage -VPT option has its own switching supply and adds $20. It accepts 9 to 35V, so it can run straight from 12V or 24V rails.
Every CFA835 runs on anything from 3.3V to 5V at no extra cost.
The CFA835 is rated from -20 to +70°C as standard. The GLK’s standard range is 0 to +50°C, and -20 to +70°C requires the -E option, which adds $10.
Pricing
These are list prices and may change. Contact each manufacturer for volume and OEM quotes.
The GLK’s base model runs on 5V and is rated 0 to +50°C. Every CFA835 runs on 3.3V to 5V and is rated -20 to +70°C. The second and third columns show the GLK with the options needed to match.
| Quantity | GLK base | GLK + extended temp (-E) | GLK + extended temp + 3.3V (-E, -LV) | CFA835 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $99.98 | $109.98 | $112.48 | $124.29 |
| 25 | $99.98 | $109.98 | $112.48 | $111.56 |
| 50 | $89.98 | $99.98 | $102.48 | $100.48 |
| 100 | $82.15 | $92.15 | $94.65 | $97.73 |
| 200 | $80.31 | $90.31 | $92.81 | $93.29 |
The GLK base model costs less at every quantity. Configured to match the CFA835’s temperature and voltage ratings, the GLK costs more at 25 and 50 pieces, and the difference stays under $3.50 per unit at 100 and 200. The GLK’s USB and RS422 models are separate options and may also cost more. Every CFA835 includes all of its interfaces.
Lead time
Matrix Orbital’s website currently lists 4 to 8 weeks for online orders because of high demand. CFA835 lead time is less than 2 weeks for most quantities. If your schedule is tight, confirm lead time with either supplier before you lock in a part.
Which one fits?
Go with the GLK19264A-7T-1U if the lowest base price matters most, or if you need a buzzer, a software-controlled RGB backlight (a $2.50 option) or 9 to 35V input (a $20 option).
Go with the CFA835 if you need higher resolution, several interfaces on one part number, USB at 3.3V, 13 GPIO, MicroSD storage, ATX power control, a transflective display, -20 to +70°C operation without extra-cost options, or delivery in less than 2 weeks.
See the CFA835-TFK or CFA835-TML product pages for full specs and volume quotes. If you have questions about fitting the CFA835 into your design, contact our engineering team.
Jeffrey Nystrom is an engineering technician at Crystalfontz. He graduated from ITT Technical Institute of Technology with his B.S. in Electronics Engineering. In his position, Jeff engages in customer technical support, works on engineering projects, and supports Crystalfontz’s manufacturing operations. Outside of the office, Jeff enjoys working in his shop, tinkering with his 3D printer, and going on new adventures with his family.