You can easily connect a Nintendo Switch to a computer monitor if the monitor has an HDMI input. If it’s an older monitor without this input, it’s still possible to connect the Switch. You just might need an adapter.
This post will examine if you can connect a Nintendo Switch to a computer monitor. I’ll tell you why this is easy to do and explain how you can make it happen quickly. I’ll also provide you with some other important relevant information.
Let’s get after it.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- You can connect a Nintendo Switch to a computer monitor
- If the monitor is newer and has an HDMI input, you can plug the output cable from the Switch directly into it.
- You might need to use an adapter to connect the Switch if it’s an older monitor with an HDMI input.
- You don’t need a PC to use a computer monitor with a Nintendo Switch or any other type of gaming console.
Can You Connect a Nintendo Switch to Computer Monitor?
If you have Nintendo Switch but not a TV, you might be wondering if you can connect it to your computer monitor. The answer is yes, you can connect the two very easily as long as you have the correct input on the monitor.
Most newer computer monitors should have an HDMI input. This is a standard input that has been used to connect many gaming consoles to monitor sources for years, whether that’s a TV or computer monitor.
If your monitor has this input, all you need to do is plug the output cord running from the Switch into the monitor. Then you can power both of these on and will be ready to play any of your favorite games.
If the monitor you want to connect to doesn’t have an HDMI input, it’s still possible to connect the Nintendo Switch to it. You just need to use an adapter that turns the HDMI output from the Switch into whatever input you need.
If you have an old monitor that doesn’t have any modern inputs at all, you might run into issues with connecting a Switch. Typically there is a way to connect, but a 20-year-old monitor might be unable to do it.
How to Connect Nintendo Switch to PC Monitor with HDMI
The easiest way to connect a Nintendo Switch to a PC monitor is by using an HDMI connection. The Switch comes with an HDMI cable that allows you to connect it to a TV or any other monitor with one of these inputs.
All you need to do to make this happen is plug the HDMI output running from the Switch into the input of the monitor you want to use. Then connect the monitor and Switch to a power source, and turn them on.
That’s all there is to it for using a modern computer monitor with a Nintendo switch. You don’t need any special equipment or procedures to make this happen.
How to Connect Nintendo Switch to PC Monitor without HDMI
Now, if the monitor you want to connect the Nintendo Switch to doesn’t have an HDMI connection, you’ll need to use an adapter to make this happen. And the adapter type depends on your input in the monitor.
Many slightly older monitors could have a VGA input. So you’ll need to get an HDMI to VGA adapter for this. These are easy to find, and you can order one online or pick one up the next time you’re at an electronics retailer.
Once you have the proper adapter, you just need to connect the HDMI cable from the Switch to one end of it and then plug the other end into your monitor. Power both of them on, and you should be ready for gaming.
If you have a really old-school monitor, you might not be able to find an adapter that works for this. But you probably don’t want to use an older monitor anyways because you won’t get to enjoy the graphics coming from the console.
How to Connect Switch to PC Monitor with Dock
If you don’t have the Nintendo Switch dock with you, it’s still possible to connect it to a PC monitor. You’ll still need the proper adapter to make this happen, but you don’t need to bring the dock with you everywhere you go.
Unplug the HDMI and USB-C cables from the Switch dock to get started. And make sure that you have a USB-C to HDMI adapter. You’ll need this adapter and the proper cables to make the connection without a dock.
Connect the USB-C and HDMI cables plugged into the dock to the proper inputs of the USB-C to HDMI adapter. Then connect the USB-C outport port on the adapter to the USB-C input of the Nintendo Switch.
You can then plug the HDMI end of the cable into the PC monitor you want to use. Turn both on, and you should be good to go.
Keep in mind that you might also need to use an adapter to connect the HDMI output to your PC monitor if you don’t have an HDMI input. Just follow the steps mentioned in the section above to make that happen.
How to Choose a Gaming Monitor for Nintendo Switch
Here are a few key factors that you should take into consideration.
Response Time
Your monitor’s response time is essential when it comes to getting the best Nintendo Switch experience possible. The lower the response time on the monitor, the quicker your button presses will happen on the display. That will give you a highly fluid and enjoyable gameplay experience.
Size
Size comes down to what you specifically want from a Switch monitor. You may only need a small, more portable monitor, but you may also want a large screen that allows you to truly soak in the graphics. No matter what you go with, be sure to do your research and get the style that best works for you.
HDMI
The last, and definitely the most important thing you need to ensure is that the monitor you select has an HDMI connection. This is the connection that allows you to connect your Switch to the monitor. Without it, you simply cannot play.
After you ensure your monitor has the proper HDMI connection, it is a good idea to prioritize a low response rate for the best possible gaming experience.
The size will differ from person to person, but the general rule is to get a crisp resolution alongside fluid mechanics. However, none of that is possible without an HDMI.
Final Thoughts
You can connect a Nintendo Switch to a computer monitor, and doing so is very easy if you have a monitor with an HDMI input. Simply plug the end of the HDMI cord from the Switch dock into the monitor to make this happen.
Have you ever connected a Nintendo Switch to a computer monitor? What type of monitor was it, and how did it work? Let me know in the comments below.
