How to Connect Switch to TV? A Simple Guide

Introduction

Inarguably, the Nintendo Switch is one of the most versatile home consoles out there. Play on the go or from your TV. Plugging your Switch into a television means that all these great games you're playing — no matter where you are — get that bigger screen treatment and can be shared with others. How to connect Switch to TV? Use this quick step-by-step guide to hook up your Switch with the TV. We also go through some troubleshooting approaches for common issues which one may run into during the exercise. Well, also, you can get to know some of the favorite ways you could link your Switch to the TV without necessarily using the official dock.

How to Connect Switch to TV: Step-by-Step Guide

The Nintendo Switch makes gaming solutions flexible; use it on-the-go as a handheld or connect it to your TV using the included Switch dock. You can dock your Switch and experience your favourite games on the big screen, using Joy-Con controllers or the Switch Pro controller. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to set up docked mode.

Before we begin, have the following:

Nintendo Switch Console

Nintendo Switch AC adapter + HDMI cable

Dock for the Nintendo Switch

TV with an open HDMI port

Step 1: Update Your Switch

You should start by turning on your Nintendo Switch and connecting it to the Internet if it isn't already. From the home screen, go to System Settings and then to System. From that, you'll find that there's now an update starting in the background to download the latest firmware.

Step 2:  Plug In Dock Cables

You'll want only the AC adapter and normal-sized HDMI that was included in the box with your Switch when you bought it. Plug the HDMI cable into the back of the dock in the HDMI port, and then connect the AC adapter to the power input on the rear side of the dock. Now, don't hook either cable to either your TV or wall outlet, OK?

Step 3: Insert the Switch into the Dock

Push the back of your Nintendo Switch down into the dock, making sure it snaps in properly/fully connected to the dock connector at the bottom. You should feel/hear a click that will show full insertion, with the screen facing forward through the dock's cut-out.

Step 4: Attach Dock Cables to TV

Insert your Switch into the dock with care, and with the same end of the HDMI cable that you just attached, insert it into one of the open HDMI input ports that you have left on your TV. Finally, plug the Switch AC into any nearby wall outlet or surge protector.

Step 5: Power the TV ON and switch it ON

Turn on your TV either with the remote itself or the power button, and change its input to that same HDMI source you just plugged the dock into. Finally, press the power button on your Nintendo Switch to turn it on. You should now see your gameplay from the Switch, full screen on the TV when it's docked!

In just a few simple steps, you'll have the Switch console outputting to the biggest screen in your house for maximum gaming immersion. That's where the official Switch dock from Nintendo excels: it ensures excellent power and video signal transfer while using docked mode, keeping your Switch safe and secure while playing. A single setup ensures it's ready any time you want your Nintendo Switch to enter TV mode back at home.

How to Connect Switch to TV without using the dock?

I mean, the Switch does have basic HDMI out, and you'd even be able to get a picture on a TV screen without that cumbersome dock with only a few inexpensive pieces. In just a moment, I'll break down the steps to connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV without needing a dock.

Prerequisites

First, gather together the following equipment:

Nintendo Gaming Console

USB-C power adapter

USB Hub / Docking Station with Power Delivery

HDMI Adapter Cable: USB-C to HDMI

HDMI cable

Television or external monitor with HDMI-in

Step 1: Plug into TV via USB Hub

Take your USB hub/docking station and an HDMI cord. Connect one end of the HDMI cord to one of the HDMI output ports on the hub, and connect the other end to an open HDMI input on your television. This will send video signal from the hub to your TV's big screen once everything is connected.

Step 2: Connect the Adapter to the Hub

Next, you'll need your USB-C to HDMI adapter; plug this directly into the USB-C port on your USB hub. This adapter will take the Switch's video feed and funnel it through the hub onto your TV display.

Step 3: Switch to Hub Link

Now, power up your Nintendo Switch and connect the console directly to the USB-C data syncing port on the hub using the provided USB-C cable. The Switch is now connected, and the hub is providing added power that allows it to send along its HDMI video out and, obviously power the device.

Step 4: Hub Power

This will make the hub work, and of course, your Switch that is connected to it. Take the usb c charger and plug it into the power input port of the hub.

Step 5: Game On

There will be nothing left on your Nintendo Switch screen other than the dock! The USB hub passes the HDMI video signal to the TV, and the USB ports also keep your Switch charged through the wall adapter.

Now, pick up your controllers and game the old-fashioned way on the biggest screen in your house.

Why Can't My Switch Connect to the TV? 

If you have just set up your Nintendo Switch dock and HDMI connection, then you may see the TV displaying nothing but "no signal" when trying to play while it is in docked mode. Below are a few common reasons why your switch won't connect to your television.

Wrong Television Input

The easiest one is that your TV input is on the wrong source. Take your TV remote and change inputs until you see your Switch gameplay, making sure to display the correct input to go with the physical HDMI port your dock is plugged into.

HDMI Is Getting Loose

The HDMI cable running between your dock and your TV may simply be a bit loose, on one end or both. Take a look at the end that connects to the dock itself and verify that it is still plugged firmly in the dock with nothing like bent pins or any other damage visible. Then go ahead and rock it into the TV port to see if that video signal establishes.

Frayed HDMI Cable

Inspect your Nintendo Switch dock HDMI cable very well, especially the connectors at both ends and the entire length of the wire. In this checking, look for any cut, tear, or crimping that may have taken place to the HDMI wire that may otherwise compromise its ability to transfer video signal from the docked Switch to your television. Replace suspected defective cables.

Power issues

Just make sure, testing any docked connectivity problems, that both your Switch and your TV are fully powered on. Also, make sure the switch dock power adapter is securely connected into both the dock and the wall outlet/surge protector so power is consistent. If the problems persist across reboots, you might want to try a different wall socket. 

Still No Signal?

If you check the cables, inputs, and power connection but still do not see any video output to your TV in docked mode, you should get in touch with Nintendo Support to evaluate a possibly defective dock. Pictures or video of your setup will help diagnose problems in your Switch dock. 

Conclusion

Plugging your Nintendo Switch into the TV is, therefore, easy. With all having been said and done, you should now be able to connect your Switch to the TV following the steps above.  

Should you really come across any issues, resort to the below troubleshooting tips or probably consider looking at other methods such as a USB-C to HDMI adapter or portable USB hub. When you invest in premium quality accessories from reputable brands like UGREEN, your gaming experience is really taken up a notch. This is because those extra ports, added features, and convenience really make a lot of difference in your gameplay. 

So now with the Switch connected to a TV, enjoy your games on a bigger screen and have fun with friends and family. Happy gaming!