Free Guide to Connecting Your PS5 to Your TV

Understanding PS5 Connections and Display Requirements

The PlayStation 5 connects to televisions through different types of cables and ports, and understanding which options work with your specific TV is the first step. The PS5 console includes an HDMI 2.1 cable in the box, which is designed to handle the console's advanced graphics and high frame rates. This cable connects the PS5 to an HDMI port on your television.

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Most modern televisions manufactured in the last 10-15 years have at least one HDMI port. The PS5 requires an HDMI port that supports HDMI 2.1 specifications to take full benefit of the console's 4K resolution at 120 frames per second. However, the console also works with older HDMI 2.0 ports, though you may not experience the highest resolution or frame rate options. Many TVs have multiple HDMI ports, often labeled as HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3, and HDMI 4 on the back or side of the television.

The PS5 also has an optical audio output port if you want to connect external sound systems, and a USB-C port for charging controllers and connecting other accessories. For the video connection itself, however, HDMI is the primary and recommended method for all users. The console does not support older connection types like composite cables or component cables.

Check your TV manual or the back panel to locate HDMI ports
Count how many HDMI ports your TV has available
Note which other devices are currently using your TV's HDMI ports
Determine if your TV was manufactured after 2015, which typically indicates HDMI 2.1 support

Takeaway: Before connecting your PS5, identify at least one available HDMI port on your television and verify it's not currently in use by another device like a cable box or streaming device.

Gathering Your Materials and Checking Compatibility

Before you begin connecting your PS5 to your television, gather all the necessary materials and verify that your setup will work together. The PS5 package includes the console itself, one HDMI 2.1 cable, the power cord, one controller (DualSense), and documentation. You should not need to purchase additional cables for a basic connection, though you may want extras for different room setups.

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Your television needs to have at least one available HDMI input port. HDMI ports are usually located on the back of the TV, though some models also have ports on the side for easier access. The HDMI 2.1 standard supports higher bandwidth than previous HDMI versions, allowing for 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second. TVs manufactured between 2015 and 2018 typically support HDMI 2.0, while most TVs made after 2018 include at least one HDMI 2.1 port. However, the PS5 works with both standards—you'll just experience different performance levels depending on your TV's capabilities.

You should also check that you have adequate space around your TV and PS5 console for proper ventilation. The PS5 requires airflow on multiple sides to prevent overheating. The console should not be placed in an enclosed cabinet without ventilation holes. Additionally, verify that your TV supports at least 1080p resolution and a 60 Hz refresh rate for basic gameplay, though 4K at 60 Hz or higher provides the best experience.

Verify your TV was manufactured within the last 10 years
Locate your TV's manual or search online for your specific TV model's specifications
Check that your TV's HDMI ports are not blocked or damaged
Measure the space where you plan to place your PS5 to ensure proper ventilation
Confirm you have access to a power outlet near your TV setup

Takeaway: Before connecting anything, verify your TV has working HDMI ports and adequate space for the PS5 console, and confirm that your power setup can accommodate both the TV and the PS5 without using extension cords if possible.

Step-by-Step Connection Process

Connecting your PS5 to your television is a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. Start by ensuring both your PS5 console and television are completely powered off before making any connections. Locate the HDMI port on the back of your PS5 console—it is clearly labeled and is the only HDMI port on the system. Locate an available HDMI input port on your television, preferably one labeled as HDMI 3 or HDMI 4, as HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 are often used by cable boxes or other devices in many households.

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Take the HDMI 2.1 cable included with your PS5 and insert one end firmly into the HDMI port on the PS5 console. The connector should slide in smoothly without forcing it—if it feels stuck, verify you are inserting it in the correct orientation. The HDMI connector has a distinctive shape with a trapezoidal plug, and there is only one way it fits correctly. Next, insert the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on your television. You should hear or feel a slight click when the connector is fully seated in both ports.

After connecting the HDMI cable, connect the power cord to the PS5 console. The power port is located on the back of the console and is clearly marked. Plug the power cord into a wall outlet or power strip. You do not need to plug in the console immediately—you can set up the physical connections first and then power on both devices. Once the HDMI cable and power cord are connected, you can turn on your television and then turn on your PS5 console using the power button on the front of the system.

Power off both the PS5 and TV before connecting cables
Insert the HDMI cable firmly into both the PS5 and TV ports until you feel it click
Connect the power cord to the PS5 and plug into a nearby outlet
Turn on the TV first, then turn on the PS5
Use the TV remote to select the correct HDMI input if the PS5 image does not appear

Takeaway: The physical connection process takes just a few minutes and requires only inserting the HDMI cable firmly into both devices and plugging in the power cord, with no additional software or configuration needed for the basic video connection.

Selecting the Correct HDMI Input on Your Television

After connecting the HDMI cable and powering on both devices, your TV may not automatically display the PS5 screen. Most televisions have multiple HDMI ports, and you need to tell your TV which HDMI input to display. This is done using your television's remote control. Look for a button on your TV remote labeled "Input," "Source," "HDMI," or sometimes shown as an icon that looks like overlapping rectangles or a television with an arrow. This button is typically located near the navigation controls on the remote.

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Press the Input or Source button on your TV remote. Your television will display a menu showing all available inputs, which may include "HDMI 1," "HDMI 2," "HDMI 3," "HDMI 4," "Component," "AV," and other options depending on your TV model. Each HDMI port is numbered, and you need to select the HDMI port where you connected the PS5 cable. If you connected the cable to HDMI 3, you would select "HDMI 3" from the menu. Use your remote's arrow buttons to highlight the correct HDMI input and press Enter or OK to select it.

Once you select the correct HDMI input, your TV should display the PS5 startup screen. The PS5 will go through an initialization process the first time you power it on, including a system setup where you create or sign into a PlayStation Network account, adjust system settings, and configure your internet connection if you want to download games or play online. If you still see "No Signal" or a blue screen after selecting the correct

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.