Stephen Thomas Erlewine's review: "all of its emotions are on the surface, delivered with optimistic, youthful self-belief, yet the unusual, distinctive guitar textures give it an unexpected tension that makes it an exhilarating debut." 4 out of 5 stars.

Jerry McCulley's review: "Though not quite as moody or musically accomplished as October, arguably the band's first masterpiece, Boy still ranks as one of U2's best albums."

Mark Prindle's review: "This isn't radio-ready overproduced rock - it's rough-around-the-edges art rock in the vein of early Public Image Limited (with more emphasis on guitar) - a darned fine attempt to combine the amateurish feel of punk with the emotional moodmaking of all those silly types of music that aren't punk." Rating: 8/10.

Debra Rae Cohen's review: "U2 is talented, charming and potentially (they're all still under twenty-one) exceptional. But as a new Next Big Thing, they're only the next best thing to something really new." 4 out of 5 stars.

Le Samourai's review: "this amazing debut LP stands moody and proud like the menacing, grey Irish thunder cloud it was when it was first released in 1980."