The Nintendo Switch is a special console. Unlike its predecessor the Wii U, the Switch offers a great handheld experience over its capabilities as a gaming console. To experience it for yourself, you need to know how to take advantage of Nintendo Switch’s docked mode. Let’s see how to connect a Nintendo Switch to your TV using the included dock.
Read more: How to turn off the Nintendo Switch (and its controller)
Short answer
To connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV, you must use the Nintendo Switch Dock. Plug the USB-C adapter that comes with your switch into the dock, then plug the other end into an outlet. Connect the official Nintendo HDMI cable to the back port of the dock, then plug the other end into your TV. Finally, dock your Nintendo Switch to connect to your TV.
How to connect Nintendo Switch to a TV
Look for the power adapter for your Nintendo Switch console. Plug it into an outlet.
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Plug the USB-C end into the back port of the Nintendo Switch dock.
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Find the HDMI cable for your Nintendo Switch console. Plug one end behind the Nintendo Switch dock.
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Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into your TV. The HDMI port on your TV is usually located on the back.
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Dock your Nintendo Switch. When the light on the left side of the dock turns green, you know that you have made a successful connection and a signal is being sent to your TV via HDMI cable.
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Your switch screen should appear on your TV immediately. If not, it means your TV has the wrong input. Use your television remote control to switch to the correct HDMI input for your Nintendo Switch.
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There are a number of things that can go wrong. However, first, follow all the steps described in this article. If your switch still doesn’t show on your TV, there are several reasons.
- On your TV, make sure you have the correct HDMI input. There is a chance that you are not using the correct input, due to which the switch is not displayed on-screen.
- Check your HDMI cable. If you use a third-party HDMI cable, it may not be compatible with Dock, leaving the connection somewhere along the line. If you want to ensure a stable connection, use the official Nintendo HDMI cable included with your Nintendo Switch console.
- Check your HDMI connection. If the HDMI cable is not secured to the port by all means, the connection will be unstable
Make sure you are using official Nintendo Cables. Will Switch Dock work with off-brand HDMI cable? Usually, but not all the time.