Want to enjoy your favorite Nintendo Switch games on the big screen? We’ve got you covered! Whether you have the official dock handy or not, there are ways to connect your Switch to your TV that are super easy and fun to follow.
So grab your Joy-Cons, and let’s get started!
Option 1: Connecting Nintendo Switch to TV With the Dock
This is the easiest and most common way. If you have the original dock that came with your Switch, you’re already halfway there.
Here’s what you need:
- A Nintendo Switch console
- Official Switch dock
- HDMI cable
- Power adapter (AC adapter)
- A TV with an HDMI input
Now follow these simple steps:
- Open the back of your Switch dock.
- Plug the AC adapter into the top port labeled “AC ADAPTER.”
- Plug the HDMI cable into the port labeled “HDMI OUT.”
- Connect the other end of the HDMI cable into your TV.
- Close the back of the dock (optional).
- Make sure your TV is set to the right HDMI input.
- Now put your Switch into the dock. The screen should go black – this means it’s switching to the TV.
- Voilà! Your game should now appear on your TV screen.
Tip: If the screen doesn’t show up on your TV, double-check the cables and your TV input settings.
Option 2: Connecting Nintendo Switch to TV Without the Dock
No dock? No problem! It’s still possible to play games on your TV—just with a tiny bit of creativity.
Before we jump in, note that this method requires extra accessories and might not be officially supported by Nintendo. So be careful!
What you’ll need:
- USB-C to HDMI adapter (compatible with video output)
- HDMI cable
- AC adapter (the official Switch charger)
- Your Nintendo Switch console
- A TV with an HDMI input
Follow these steps to connect without a dock:
- Take your USB-C to HDMI adapter and plug the USB-C end into your Switch.
- Plug in the Switch power adapter to the USB-C port labeled “Power” on the adapter (Some don’t work without power!)
- Use your HDMI cable to connect the HDMI-out port of the adapter to your TV.
- Turn on your TV and switch to the correct HDMI input.
- Once powered and connected correctly, your Switch screen should move to the TV.
Important: Not all USB-C adapters work! Make sure it says it supports video output and is tested with Switch consoles.
Pros and Cons of Playing on TV
Let’s take a quick look at the good and the not-so-good sides of playing your Switch on a TV.
Pros:
- Bigger screen = better view and more fun
- Perfect for multiplayer and party games
- Better sound if your TV has good speakers
- Saves Switch battery by running off wall power
Cons:
- Need to carry extra cables or adapters when not using dock
- Can be tricky without official accessories
- May not work with all TVs or adapters
Can I Use a Third-Party Dock?
Yes, but be very careful. Not all third-party docks are safe. Some have caused charging problems or even bricked consoles in the past.
If you must use one, look for these signs:
- Lots of good reviews online
- Official statements or testing with Nintendo Switch
- Power delivery support and HDMI output support
Or better yet, stick to using the official dock when possible!
How to Switch Back to Handheld Mode
Switching back to handheld mode is just as easy.
- Gently remove the Switch from the dock or unplug the USB-C HDMI adapter.
- The screen should light up on your console again right away.
- Now you can pick it up and keep playing on the go!
Fun Fact: You can pause your game on the TV and instantly continue on handheld mode. No lag, no issues!
What If It Doesn’t Work?
Don’t worry. Sometimes a few things can go wrong, but most problems are easy to solve.
Try this quick checklist:
- Make sure the Switch is charged
- Check all cable connections
- Ensure HDMI port on TV is working
- Try a different HDMI cable
- Restart both your Switch and TV
Still stuck? You might want to reach out to Nintendo Support or verify your adapter/dock is working correctly.
Bonus Tip: Charge While Playing
When using the Switch on TV mode, it charges automatically if it’s connected to power – docked or not.
That way, you can enjoy endless hours of Mario Kart, Zelda, or Animal Crossing without worrying about low battery!
Wrap Up
Whether you’re using the official dock or taking the DIY route with an adapter, connecting your Switch to a TV is totally doable.
Play solo, with friends, or with the whole family – there’s nothing like Switch gaming on the big screen!
Now go grab those Joy-Cons and race, smash, build, or battle your way into your next epic game night!