Fast fix
If your Nintendo Switch® isn’t showing up on your TV:
- Double-check the HDMI cable and port on your TV.
- Try using a different HDMI cable or Switch dock.
- Look inside the dock’s HDMI port for bent pins or debris.
- Connect the dock to another TV to isolate the issue.
- If the dock or port is visibly damaged, it may be time for professional repair.
So you’re docked up and ready to game—but your Nintendo Switch screen is nowhere to be found. No signal, no flicker, no anything. We get it—it’s frustrating, especially when you’ve already tried new cables and inputs and it still won’t show up on the TV.
At Asurion, we’ve seen a lot of these issues come through the shop, and more often than not, it’s not the Switch—it’s the dock or the HDMI port inside it. If you’re wondering how to tell whether your Nintendo Switch HDMI port is failing—and whether you can fix it—here’s what you need to know.
How the Nintendo Switch connects to your TV
Unlike most consoles, the HDMI port on a Nintendo Switch is built into the dock—not the handheld console itself. That means your display setup depends on:
- The HDMI-out port on the dock
- A working HDMI cable
- A TV or monitor input that can receive the signal
If any part of that chain fails, you’re left staring at a blank screen even if your Switch is powered on and docked correctly.
If you're not 100% sure your setup is right, here’s a quick refresher on how to connect a Nintendo Switch to your TV.
Signs your HDMI port may be the problem
If the TV input is set correctly and your HDMI cable is good, check the dock. These are common signs of HDMI port failure:
- The HDMI cable wiggles or won’t stay fully inserted
- You see bent pins or gunk inside the dock's port
- Video only shows up when the cable is positioned just right
- Your Switch charges in the dock but doesn’t display anything on the TV
All of these can point to damage inside the port—either from wear and tear, debris, or internal board issues.
Check out our guide on what to do when your Switch won’t connect to your TV if you’re still ruling things out.
What causes HDMI port damage?
There are a few reasons your dock’s HDMI port might stop working:
- Repeated plugging/unplugging of the cable
- Pulling or twisting the cable while docked
- Using oversized or off-brand HDMI cables
- Dust, pet hair, or moisture inside the port
- Minor internal board failures from heat or impact
You can sometimes see the damage just by looking—use a flashlight to check for bent metal or blackened pins.
Can you fix it yourself?
Technically, yes—but it’s not easy. The HDMI port is soldered onto a board inside the dock’s shell, so repairing it requires:
- A replacement HDMI board or USB-C interface
- Precision screwdrivers
- A soldering iron and heat-safe workspace
- Comfort with opening plastic shells without cracking them
This kind of repair is better left to Nintendo repair pros. If you’re not experienced with console hardware or soldering tools, it’s really easy to make things worse. Visit your nearest uBreakiFix by Asurion store—we’ll test your dock, check for HDMI damage, and get you back to gaming fast.
FAQ
Why won’t my Switch connect to the TV?
It could be a damaged HDMI port, a bad cable, or even a misconfigured TV input. Try a known working cable and test the dock on another TV.
How do I know if the HDMI port is broken?
Look for bent or damaged pins in the dock’s HDMI port. If wiggling the cable changes the signal—or if the cable won’t stay secure—it’s likely the port.
Can I fix the HDMI port myself?
You can try, but it requires soldering and precision tools. If you're not confident, take it to a pro.
Where can I get the port repaired?
Bring your dock to your local uBreakiFix by Asurion store for a diagnostic and fast, hassle-free repair.
