But like every console issue, you may experience the Switch not connecting to TV. Please don’t panic; we are here today to walk you through all its troubleshooting steps. By the end of this guide, you will be a maestro in resolving this problem on your own. Let’s get started.
Why Your Switch is Not Connecting to the TV
We know the joy of switching the Nintendo Switch from handheld mode to TV. Its multifunctional capabilities have made it more popular among users. But what’s frustrating is when it refuses to connect to the TV. There are multiple reasons for this, such as:
How to Fix Switch Not Connecting to TV
Now that you know the possible reasons, we have described all the troubleshooting methods you can try to use Nintendo Switch on your TV without any hassle:
1. Charge Your Switch
If your Switch is running low on battery, trying to connect to the TV might not work. So, it’s a good idea to make sure it has a decent amount of charge before you link it to the TV. Connection issues may appear when the battery level dips critically low.
2. Restart Switch
A glitch in the Nintendo Switch could also prevent you from connecting it to your TV. As advised by Nintendo, you should try to restart it. A restart eliminates any bugs or glitches and gives the console a fresh start. First, try soft resetting the console; if that doesn’t work, move on to hard reset.
↪ Soft Reset
↪ Hard Reset
READ MORE: How To Screen Record On Nintendo Switch Using A Capture Card ➜
3. Restart Your TV
Sometimes, your TV fails to recognize the Switch due to some minor glitches or bugs. It would be best if you tried restarting it. This action will help refresh the TV’s settings and may resolve any temporary glitches that could hinder the connection between the Switch and the TV. Every TV is different, especially with the influx of streaming devices so make sure to check the manual. But the general steps to restart a Smart TV are:
4. Check the Switch and Dock for Any Abnormalities
A faulty Dock or Switch won’t let the connection to a TV be successful. Start by carefully examining the Switch console itself. Check for visible damage, loose components, or any irregularities around the charging port. Make sure that it is securely seated in the Dock, as a loose connection can hinder the TV connection. Next, inspect the Dock. Examine it for any physical damage, ensuring the connectors inside the Dock are clean and debris-free. Sometimes, gathered dust or dirt can interfere with the connection. Additionally, confirm that the Dock’s USB and HDMI ports are in good condition and not bent or damaged. READ MORE: How to Fix Nintendo Switch Dock not Working ➜
5. Use Original Nintendo Accessories
One reason for the Switch having issues while linking to the TV is the use of third-party or local accessories. Opting for third-party chargers or subpar USB cables may introduce interference, disrupting the seamless transition from handheld to TV mode. Always use the original Nintendo accessories when connecting your Switch to the TV. Their reliability and compatibility, explicitly designed for the Nintendo Switch, ensure a seamless and glitch-free setup. The official AC adapter keeps your console powered up safely. The HDMI cable ensures top-notch connections between your Switch and the TV. And if you go with the official Dock, you can switch between handheld and TV modes smoothly.
6. Use a Different HDMI Port
Using the wrong (or a faulty) HDMI port can cause issues with the connection between the Switch and the TV. Each HDMI port on your television is assigned a specific input channel. If the console is plugged into the wrong port, the TV won’t recognize the signal correctly. This misalignment can lead to a blank screen, resulting in a failed connection between the Switch and the TV. Nintendo recommends trying a different HDMI port to troubleshoot this problem. Start by unplugging the HDMI cable from both the TV and the Dock. Now, connect the HDMI cable to a different port on your TV. Make sure it’s securely plugged in on both ends. Once that’s done, power on your Switch and check if the TV recognizes the connection. READ MORE: How to Fix HDMI No Signal ➜
7. Connect the Switch & TV Correctly
The below-mentioned procedure is a Nintendo-verified solution. When you first encounter issues with your console and generic solutions (like restarting the console or TV) don’t help, resort to this fix:
8. Check the Input on Your TV
If you have chosen a different input source for the HDMI port on your TV other than the one your Switch is connected to, it may result in connectivity problems. So, it would be best if you check the input on your TV by following this procedure:
9. Reset the AC Adapter
If your Switch is still not connecting, attempt to resolve the issue by resetting the AC adapter and ensuring the console functions in handheld mode. You can do it by following these steps: READ MORE: Is Your Nintendo Switch Not Turning On? Try These Fixes ➜
10. Modify TV Resolution Settings
Sometimes, the TV resolution settings are not compatible with the Switch. So, Nintendo recommended adjusting them manually. This approach helps identify the suitable resolution, ensuring a clear and adequately displayed image on your TV screen. Here’s how you can do that: READ MORE: How To Use A Nintendo Switch Pro Controller For PC Gaming ➜
11. Disabling Match TV Power State
Turning off Match TV Power State means your device won’t automatically follow the TV’s power changes. It prevents your device from unexpectedly shutting down when the TV is turned off and also gives you more control over how your device manages power. Follow the below-mentioned procedure to disable this option on your Switch:
12. Update the Firmware of Switch and TV
An outdated software version of both the Switch and the TV can trigger issues like this. If any of them is running on an older firmware, you could have a problem connecting them. So, it would help if you keep your devices up-to-date. Here, we will be discussing how you can update Nintendo Switch and Smart TV:
↪ Nintendo Switch
↪ Smart TV
13. Try a Different Dock or TV
If you’re facing challenges connecting your Nintendo Switch to the TV, a practical troubleshooting step is to try using a different Dock or TV (if you have access to other devices). This helps pinpoint whether the issue lies with the Nintendo Switch itself or the specific Dock or TV in use. READ MORE: Can You Play DS Games on the Switch? Here’s How ➜
14. Initialize Switch Without Deleting Save Data
The last solution is to initialize your Nintendo Switch when all else fails. It’s a risky fix, but it can solve the issue if done correctly. We have mentioned the detailed process of it below. Follow the steps in chronological order to avoid any inconvenience.
Last Effort: Contact Nintendo Support
If you have tried the solutions above and are still unsuccessful in connecting your Switch and TV, we recommend you contact Nintendo Support. They can provide personalized guidance, troubleshoot problems, and offer solutions based on your situation. Visit the official website or reach out to their Consumer Assistance Hotline at 1-800-255-3700. READ MORE: Is My Nintendo Switch Moddable? How to Check For Patched Units ➜
Wrapping Up
There you have it. A detailed guide to fix the connection issues between your Switch and the TV. While troubleshooting, prioritize official accessories, thoroughly check HDMI connections, and check if the TV is connected to the Switch correctly. If issues persist, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from Nintendo Support. Navigate through the troubleshooting process with confidence, and soon, you’ll be back to enjoying seamless gaming on your TV.
