Some people have reported that when they try to switch from playing in handheld mode to playing on a TV, they only see a black screen. This can be caused by a number of things, but we’ve compiled some tips to help you fix the problem. ..
Which Switch Models Can Connect To a TV?
Nintendo Switch is a console that can be connected to a TV. If you have a Nintendo Switch Lite, there’s no way to connect it to a TV.
The Lite doesn’t have the necessary hardware to output video over USB, so even if you use a third-party dock, it won’t work. ..
Connect Everything In The Correct Order
Plug in the power cord. Plug in the HDMI cable. Plug in the USB cable. Turn on your TV and your Xbox One. Insert the disc for your game into your Xbox One. Select “My Games & Apps” from the main menu on your TV. Select “Xbox Live” from the My Games & Apps menu on your TV. Enter your Gamertag and password if you have them set up, then select “Sign In.” If you’re not signed in, sign in now by selecting “Sign In.” Select “Games” from the main menu on your Xbox One. Insert the disc for your game into your Xbox One. Select “My Games & Apps” from the main menu on your TV. Select “Xbox Live” from the My Games & Apps menu on your TV. Enter your Gamertag and password if you have them set up, then select “Sign In.” If you’re not signed in, sign in now by selecting “Sign In.” Select “Games” from the main menu on your Xbox One. ..
If this doesn’t work, please try the following steps:
- Try turning off your computer and restarting it.
- Try unplugging all cables from your computer and resetting it.
- Try using a different browser or device.
1. Restart Your Switch and TV
After turning off your Switch and TV, try plugging everything back in and turning them both on again. If the issue still persists, you may need to replace your Switch or TV.
We don’t mean putting your Switch into Sleep Mode. Instead, you should power cycle your Switch. Press the power button on the Switch until you see the power options menu. Then select Power Off.
You can also reset your Switch by holding the power button until the console powers off. Turning the console back on with the Power Button completes the power cycle in both cases.
2. Update Your Switch System Software and TV
If you’re using a Smart TV (or even a non-smart TV), be sure to check for new firmware updates. Smart TVs can get their updates over the internet, but for non-smart TVs, you may have to download the update and save it to a thumb drive. Consult the TV’s manual for more information. ..
Nintendo Switch system updates should automatically check for and install updates.
3. Check Your Output Settings
If someone manually sets the Switch to a different video output mode, like an HDMI port that doesn’t support 4K or 1080p, you won’t get any picture.
TVs today support all of the modes the Switch uses. However, the Automatic settings may still be incorrect, so manually selecting the correct resolution may resolve this issue. ..
4. Check Your TV Input Settings
Some TVs accept a variety of video formats, including 1080i and 1080p. If you want to watch a 1080p image on your TV, you’ll need to specify the video format and other settings related to the specific HDMI input.
TV manuals typically have a “settings” or “menu” button on the remote to access its menus. Resetting your TV to its default or 1080p resolution will help improve image quality.
5. Connect Your Switch Directly To the TV
If your Switch is connected to your TV through another device like a soundbar bar or home theater system with HDMI pass-through, try connecting it directly instead. If a direct connection works, it points to an issue with the intermediary device or one of the intermediary cables. You may bypass that device or change its settings to work with the Switch.
6. Are You Using The Right Input?
Your TV probably has more than one HDMI input, and you may have selected the wrong input in the TV settings. So use your television’s input selection function and ensure you have set it to the same input your Switch is plugged into. For example, if you’ve plugged the Switch into the port marked “HDMI 1”, you should also set the TV’s input to HDMI 1, not HDMI 2.
If you have a TV that supports HDR, be sure to connect it to an HDMI input that is compatible with HDR. The Nintendo Switch does not support HDR, so it’s a waste to plug it into an HDMI input that is specifically designed for HDR. Instead, use the ports on your TV that are not designed for HDR. ..
7. Don’t Use a Third-party Dock
Since the Switch’s launch, there have been issues with third-party docks. The Nintendo Switch dock uses custom features, meaning you can’t just plug in any old USB-C dock and expect it to work.
If you’re having TV connection issues, try changing the dock or using a dock officially sanctioned by Nintendo.
8. Check The Dock’s Power
If your Switch dock isn’t getting power, you won’t be able to see anything on-screen. The Switch itself can’t power the dock, so a tell-tale sign that the dock isn’t getting power is that the Switch’s screen stays on while in the dock. ..
If the power adapter doesn’t work, check the outlet. If the outlet is fine, replace the dock or power adapter as necessary.
9. Try a Different HDMI Cable
The Switch requires a high-speed HDMI cable if you want to output 1080p at 60hz. If you’re using a standard HDMI cable rather than a high-speed cable, you’ll be limited to 720p or 1080i.
If you’re experiencing problems with your cable connection, it may be because your cable is not fast enough. Try a different cable and see if the TV will pick up the signal. ..
10. Try a Different HDMI Port
If you have a TV with an HDMI out port, try plugging the Switch into that instead. Some TVs have audio-out or passthrough ports that don’t accept incoming signals or need to be switched to input mode in the TV settings.
11. Test With a Different TV
If you own a Nintendo Switch, and you’re not using it to play games on your TV, you can easily take it with its dock to a friend’s house and test it with their TV. You can connect the Switch to any computer monitor with an HDMI input. If the problem persists on other display devices, you can safely assume something is wrong with your dock or Switch. ..
12. Get in Touch With Nintendo Support
If you’re having trouble with your Switch, it’s time to reach out to Nintendo Support. A problem with your device or accessories may require warranty replacement or repair. If your Switch is no longer under warranty, chat with Nintendo Support just in case, they may have more specific advice. Or perhaps your issue is covered under special conditions that extend the warranty. ..
If you’re having trouble with your Nintendo console, it’s always a good idea to consult with a reputable game console repair service or buy certified replacement parts. ..
