Articles • Monitors

How To Connect Nintendo Switch To Monitor (Can It Be Done?)

by Jake Redman

While the Nintendo Switch embodies the best of console and hand-held worlds, sometimes you just want to play games on a big screen. However, it can be hard to get the chance, especially when sharing a TV with others. Knowing how to connect a switch to monitors could be a game-changer – check out our tips below to learn how. 

Various Methods Of Connecting Nintendo Switch To Computer Monitor  

1. Connecting Through HDMI 

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to connect a Switch to a monitor with HDMI. 

  1. 1
    Ensure that both the Switch and monitor are turned off and unplugged before starting to avoid injury.  
  2. 2
    Open the back cover on the Switch dock. 
  3. 3
    Connect the Switch USB cable into the AC Adapter port and a nearby outlet. 
  4. 4
    Plug the HDMI cable that came with the Switch into the HDMI output in the rear of the dock. Then, connect the other end to the HDMI port on the monitor – this can typically be found on the back or side of a monitor. 
  5. 5
    Plug in your monitor to the nearest outlet and slide your Switch into the dock with the screen facing forward. 
  6. 6
    Turn both the Nintendo Switch and monitor on. 
  7. 7
    Release the joy-cons by holding the rear release buttons and sliding them up. Reconnect them by sliding them back into their slots until you feel them click into place. 

Why would someone connect their Switch to a monitor using an HDMI cable? It is the easiest process to follow and works with most modern monitors. It even works if you want to use your laptop as a monitor for switch. However, it may not be the best method for older monitors. 

How To Connect Switch To Monitor (Can It Be Done?)

2. Connecting Through USB Port 

To connect a Switch to a USB-C monitor, you will need a USB-C to HDMI adapter. You will need to ensure that the adapter has a USB-C input for power, a standard HDMI port, a USB 3.0 port, and a USB-C connector. This method does not use the dock, making it a good option for those who have lost or damaged their dock. 

  1. 1
    Ensure that both the Switch and monitor are turned off and unplugged before starting to avoid injury.  
  2. 2
    Open the back cover on the Switch dock. 
  3. 3
    Disconnect the USB-C and HDMI cables from the back of your Switch’s dock if necessary.
  4. 4
    Mount your Switch on a stand or lie it on a flat surface near the monitor, such as on your desk. 
  5. 5
    Connect your USB-C power cable and HDMI cable to the adapter. 
  6. 6
    Connect the adapter to your Switch's USB-C port in the center bottom of the console. 
  7. 7
    Select the relevant input or channel. 

A similar technique can be applied when using a VGA port. 

nintendo switch hooked up to monitor

Why Connect A Nintendo Switch To Monitor? (Benefits Explained) 

Connecting a Switch to an external monitor ensures that you have better picture quality as you play. Monitors, especially gaming ones, can produce excellent graphics and minimal screen tear while in use. Not only that, but input lag will also be low, meaning that you can play high-action FPS games without worrying about shaving the milliseconds.  

In more practical terms, using a Switch with a monitor means that you can free up the TV for others in your home, watch TV and play without sacrificing performance, or not wait to play with a large screen. 

The main downside to the method comes from having to sit relatively close to your monitor, especially if you do not own Bluetooth headphones or lack a headphone cable extension. If you do not mind using Bluetooth headphones and getting a little close to a larger screen, this method may be a good backup for when a TV or dock is unavailable. 

Related: How To Stream Switch On Twitch

man wearing headphone playing video games

Common Connecting Switch To Monitor Questions

Why does my Nintendo Switch have no sound when connected to monitor? 

If your Nintendo Switch is connected to a monitor with no sound, try plugging in your headphones or connecting Bluetooth ones. If this is not possible, try redirecting the audio from the HDMI signal to another source, such as externally connected speakers. 

Related: How To Play Sound From A Monitor

Can all monitors be connected to Nintendo Switch?  

As a rule, if the two ports match and you have the right parts, then yes. Make sure that you are purchasing the right adapter if necessary; for example, A MacBook may need you to use a USB HDMI adapter. 

How many HDMI ports does a Nintendo Switch have? 

The Nintendo Switch dock has one HDMI out port alongside a USB and AC Adapter port, respectively. The Switch itself has a USB-C input port at the center bottom of the console. 

Conclusion

Knowing how to connect a Nintendo Switch is a breeze once you know how. We hope with our tips above, you can enjoy using a larger screen at any time without having to wait on a repair job or housemate to finish using the TV.