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No Video Output to TV in TV Mode on Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2

This article can help when you place your Nintendo Switch 2 console in the dock to use TV mode and no video output is sent to the TV. You may see the Error Message "Cannot display on TV. Please use the provided AC adapter" after removing the console from the dock.

Before you start

You will need:

  • Your Nintendo Switch 2 console
  • Your Nintendo Switch 2 dock
  • Your Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter (Model NGN-01)
  • An Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
  • Your TV

What to do

  1. Confirm that you're using an adequately powerful AC adapter with the dock.
    • The Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter (Model NGN-01) Image of a Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter (MOD. NGN-01) and USB-C Cable is recommended to be used with the dock. Another AC adapter and cable can be used if the power output is at least 54W.
    • The Nintendo Switch AC adapter (Model HAC-002) can be used to power the Nintendo Switch 2 console when plugged into the console directly, but can not provide enough power to be used with the dock.
  2. Confirm that the HDMI cable you're using is an "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cable. This should be printed on the cable.
  3. Remove the console from the dock and confirm that the console powers on. If it doesn't, press the POWER Button once to turn it on.
  4. Check that the console and the dock aren't warm.
  5. Ensure that the air ventsTop of the Nintendo Switch 2 console on the top of the console and the air ventDiagram showing the back of the Nintendo Switch 2 dock on the dock are not covered or obstructed.
    • Remove any accessories, stickers, decals, etc., that may be blocking the air vents.
    • Clean off any dust or debris blocking the vents.
  6. Ensure the console and dock are placed in an open, ventilated area.
    • Do not place the console near a heat source, or in a location where heat can easily build up.
  7. Reset the AC adapter. Unplug it from the dock and the power outlet, then wait 20 seconds.
  8. Plug the AC adapter back into the power outlet, and then directly into the USB-C port on the bottom of the console.
  9. Confirm that the console is charging.
    • The console isn't charging
      1. Unplug the AC adapter and plug it into the USB-C port at the top of the console.
      2. Confirm that the console is charging.

      If the console is still not charging, try another AC adapter. If the console charges with another AC adapter, then the original accessory is likely faulty and will need to be replaced.

      If the console still isn't charging, then the console will need to be sent in for service.

      For your convenience, Nintendo provides a quick and easy-to-use online service request process.

  10. Plug the AC adapter back into the dock.
  11. Re-dock the console. Check to see that the console screen goes black.
    • The console screen is still on while docked

      The console screen should go black when docked while the dock is connected to a TV and power. If the console stays on when docked, the dock will need to be sent in for service.

      For your convenience, Nintendo provides a quick and easy-to-use online service request process.

Situation not resolved

If the issue persists, try the following:

  • If any external device is being used, like an HDMI splitter, plug the HDMI cable from the dock into the TV directly.
  • Try a different Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable.
  • Review your TV and HDMI settings to confirm nothing is preventing the connection from displaying.
    • If you need assistance confirming this, please contact the manufacturer of the TV.

If there's still no video output on the TV, the dock will need to be sent in for service.

For your convenience, Nintendo provides a quick and easy-to-use online service request process.

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