Skip to content

How to Hook Up an Original Nintendo to Your TV

How to Hook Up an Original Nintendo to Your TV
Nic Weber

Last updated

Ever wondered how you can connect your classic Nintendo console to a modern TV? Let’s dive into that nostalgic journey together.

Connecting the original Nintendo console, also known as the NES, to your TV might seem like a puzzle from the past, but it’s easier than you think!

Quick Steps to Hook Up Your NES

First off, you’ll need your Nintendo console, an AV cable, and possibly an RF adapter. Most modern TVs use HDMI, but we’ll get around that.

Locate the AV cable ports on your NES—one for video (yellow) and two for audio (white and red). Connect these to the corresponding inputs on your TV. If your TV doesn’t have these ports, you’ll need an RCA to HDMI adapter. Simply plug the RCA cables into the adapter and then connect the adapter to your TV’s HDMI port.

Can’t Find Your Old Cables? No Problem!

If you’re missing your AV cables or need an RF adapter, don’t fret—they’re readily available online. After setting everything up, select the correct input or source on your TV, and voila—you’re ready to play!

For those rare cases where you’re dealing with even older TVs, you might need an RF adapter. Plug the adapter into the NES and then connect it to the TV’s coaxial port, tuning your TV to channel 3 or 4.

Bringing Nintendo Fun to Playbite

Now, after setting up your NES, why not bring some of that Nintendo magic to your phone? With Playbite, you can play fun mobile games and earn rewards like Nintendo eShop Gift Cards! It’s a great way to experience the joy of gaming while possibly getting more gear for your Nintendo spree.

Download the Playbite app today and start earning while playing. Who knows? You might discover your next favorite game or earn enough for that game you’ve been eyeing on the eShop. Let the games begin!

Win official Nintendo gift cards by playing games on Playbite!
Win official Nintendo gift cards by playing games on Playbite!

In case you’re wondering: Playbite simply makes money from (not super annoying) ads and (totally optional) in-app purchases. It then uses that money to reward players with really cool prizes!

Join Playbite today!

Play Games.Earn points.Get gift cards!

Playbite

Noise

Playback Rewards

4.5 Star Rating (13.7k)
Silly Arrow
User avatar User avatar User avatar User avatar

500k players and counting...

The brands referenced on this page are not sponsors of the rewards or otherwise affiliated with this company. The logos and other identifying marks attached are trademarks of and owned by each represented company and/or its affiliates. Please visit each company's website for additional terms and conditions.