Sound is a crucial part of any gaming experience, so when issues with the audio arise, it can be a real drag. The Nintendo Switch, just like any other console, has some sound issues every now and then, such as not playing sound when docked to the TV. If you’re having that problem, don’t worry.
The Nintendo Switch may not play sound when docked to a TV due to various software or hardware malfunctions. Fortunately, adjusting a few system settings, changing your HDMI cable, and updating software can be effective in fixing this problem. Start by confirming your TV volume is turned up!
There are many ways you can steer clear of sound loss by your Nintendo Switch when docked to a TV. The easiest of them is performing regular check-ups on your console to ensure all is in order. But if it’s already happening, you’re probably looking for how to fix it. We’ll cover it all so that you can get back to your favorite games — sound included.
Why Is the Nintendo Switch Not Playing Sound on My TV?
The dock is such a great feature on the Nintendo Switch, but it gives users problems from time to time. We have guides on other Switch/Dock fail states like a blinking green light, blurry or stretched images on the TV, or a dock that just plane won’t work.
As far as this audio issue, if you notice it all the time (not just when docked), or you have sound but it’s just very quiet, see our other related guides on those situations.
For now, Here are some reasons why the Nintendo Switch console’s sound might not be working on the TV:
TV Volume Is Turned Down or Muted
When docked to a TV, sound from the console depends on the television’s volume level. First of all, check that the TV volume isn’t turned down or muted before you can decide on the next step to take.
HDMI Cable Is Loosely Connected to TV
Confirm that your HDMI cable isn’t damaged or loosely connected to the TV. Unplug the cable and plug it back in firmly, then check if the problem is resolved.
If the sound still isn’t playing, you can test the other HDMI ports on your TV. The problem could be that the current port is damaged and malfunctioning.
Software Crash
The Nintendo Switch, like any other gaming console, may freeze, lag, or glitch during use, causing errors such as loss of sound.
An upside of the Switch is that it’s a powerful console with firm software that quickly fixes the audio issues once you perform a simple reset to get the system back on its toes.
Hardware Breakdown
The Nintendo Switch is a sturdy console designed for portability and it should generally endure rigorous gaming. This, however, doesn’t mean that it’s immune to destruction.
Essential hardware, such as the stereo system speakers, can become defective over time. This usually occurs after extended periods of being tossed around in backpacks, exposure to dust and fluids, and getting dropped on floors.
Bluetooth Headphones Are Connected
If you normally use Bluetooth headphones while gaming, your headset might still be connected to the console. Even when docked to a TV, the Nintendo Switch will send sound to the headphones if they’re connected.
How Can You Get a TV to Play Sound Through a Switch?
You can get your TV to play sound through a Nintendo Switch by following this simple guide:
- Plug an HDMI cable into your Switch and connect it to the HDMI input on your TV
- Go to System settings then to TV settings
- Scroll down to TV sound and select Automatic
You should be receiving the best sound quality from the TV once you’re done following these simple steps. Just turn up the volume and enjoy your game.
How to Fix Audio Issues on Nintendo Switch Docked to TV
Let’s dive right in and go through solutions to restore sound to your Switch.
Examine System Settings
The default setting of your console might be to mute when headphones are disconnected. To enable audio rendering when headphones are disconnected, you’ll have to disable the Mute When Headphones are Disconnected option.
This is how to do it:
- Go to the home screen
- Select System Settings
- Scroll down and select System
- Move to the right and disable the Mute When Headphones are Disconnected option
For a more detailed explanation, watch this video.
If the problem persists after you have disabled the mute option as above, you’ll need to carry out a quick sound test to diagnose the complication.
Perform Software Updates
Nintendo Switch has made system updates available for download through the internet to improve the functionality and stability of its system, and to provide the simplest and most user-friendly experience.
The console will often download the latest version of updates automatically when connected to a network. The system updates will come in handy if a minor bug is the cause of sound loss.
You can also perform system updates manually by following these simple steps:
- Select the System Settings icon from the home screen
- Scroll down to System
- Select System Update on the right side
Restart the Console
The system will reboot on its own once the updates are done. If not, you can restart it manually and then check if the sound is back. Sometimes a manual reboot is necessary to restore normalcy to the Switch.
Press and hold down the power button at the top of the Switch for a few seconds. When a menu appears, select Power Options and then restart the console.
Disconnect Bluetooth Headset
If you use Bluetooth headphones or a headset when gaming, you have to unpair it from the Switch once you’re done playing.
You should also disconnect any headphones from the console, or they’ll reroute the sound.
Select Another Game
If you aren’t getting any sound when playing a particular game, try to launch a different game to see if the problem still occurs.
There are times when games have bugs or require updates, and that’s why you might not be receiving sound from the TV.
Visit a Nintendo Store for Repair
If you’ve tried out all the solutions mentioned above and the issue still repeats itself, the loss of sound may be caused by a hardware breakdown.
Contact Nintendo customer support or, better yet, visit your nearby Nintendo store for repairs.