Do you want to enjoy your Nintendo Switch games on a big screen? Discover how to easily connect your console to the TV and find solutions to the most common problems.
Connecting the Nintendo Switch to the TV
To enjoy your games on a big screen, you will need the official Nintendo Switch dock and power adapter. The connection is done in a few simple steps: first connect the necessary cables to the dock, then place your console inside. Once you select the correct HDMI input on your TV, you can comfortably play on your television.
Preparing the Dock
The dock has a small cover on the back. Open it to access the connection ports. Here are the connections to make:
Plug in the cable: one end into the dock’s "OUT" port, the other into your television.
Connect the power adapter: plug it into the dock’s "AC ADAPTER" port and into a power outlet.
Before closing the cover, check that the cables are not damaged and that they pass properly through the designated opening. If you notice exposed wires or bent connectors, do not use these cables.
Once the connections are complete, place the dock on a stable surface, such as a Nintendo Switch TV stand, near your TV. For an optimal gaming experience, you can even use a keyboard and mouse on Nintendo Switch, or if you prefer another setup, try connecting a PS5 controller on Android for more flexibility. Avoid places that are too hot or humid, as they could damage your equipment.
Connecting the Console to the TV
Place the console into the dock. Position it with the screen facing you (the Nintendo logo should be visible) and the + and - buttons facing upward. You will feel a small click when it is properly seated. Is a green light on the dock turned on? Perfect! The Switch’s screen will automatically turn off, which is normal. Now just select the correct HDMI input on your TV to start playing.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Having display issues with your Switch? Don’t panic, it’s often easier to fix than you think. Most issues come from settings or hardware. Let’s look together at how to identify and fix these small problems.
Picture Problems
Is the screen black? Start by checking your TV settings. Make sure the HDMI source selected matches the port where your Switch is connected. If it still doesn’t work, try another port on your TV – some can be finicky.
Also verify that your Switch is properly installed in the dock, screen facing forward. The small green light on the dock should be lit. If it’s not, the console may be in sleep mode: press the POWER button to wake it up.
As a last resort, check if the HDMI cable is damaged. A faulty cable can cause display issues. In this case, try another one – any standard model will do.
Hardware Issues
Connection problems sometimes come directly from the hardware. Start by inspecting your cables: check if they are bent, twisted, or damaged. A faulty cable can cause display problems or even completely prevent connection.
The dock can also be the source of the issue. Check that it is not damaged and that all ports are clean. If possible, test your Switch on another dock, or conversely, another Switch on your dock. This will help you pinpoint exactly where the problem comes from.
Compatibility of the Nintendo Switch Lite with a Television
The Nintendo Switch Lite is not compatible with a television. This model was designed solely for portable gaming, meaning it cannot be connected to a TV, whether with a dock or an HDMI cable. Unlike the standard Switch or the OLED version, the Lite does not have the internal components necessary to send the image to an external screen.
Even if you have an official dock or third-party accessories, it won’t change anything: the Switch Lite simply cannot display its games on a TV. There is also no adapter or reliable workaround to bypass this limitation.
