The Nintendo Switch is an incredible console, no doubt. Its versatility is top-notch, but some say it’s a hybrid console.
It serves as both a handheld gaming console and a regular TV console. Connect these consoles to your Samsung TV and experience the thrills of 3D gaming on a whole new level.
However, the console, like any other device, is susceptible to faults and malfunctions now and then.
When your Nintendo switch flickers when connected to a Samsung TV, it is likely because you’re using outdated software for your console. Or your HDMI cable is no longer functional. It’s also possible that the RGB range or display setting is incorrect.
Why is the Nintendo Switch flickering on my Samsung TV?

Nintendo switches will work perfectly when connected to a Samsung TV unless they encounter a few inconveniences.
Here are a few inconveniences that can frustrate a gamer:
#1. The Software in Use is Outdated
A Nintendo Switch will flicker when the current system has expired. In addition, the Tv display remains green even when the switch is docked; some users experience glitches while the TV is running.
These are indications that the system needs an update. Upgrades need to be performed automatically.
Often, the process is listed in the user manual that accompanies the switch when you purchase it. The entire process does not usually exceed 90 seconds.
#2. Incorrect RGB Range
RGB is an acronym for RED, Green, and Blue. The RGB range in a Nintendo console refers to the color proportions transmitted from the console to the TV.
The range of options available is full, limited, and automatic. Flashing will occur if your Samsung TV is not compatible with the RGB range of the Nintendo console.
#3. Lost Signal
Your Nintendo and Samsung setup needs a stable internet connection to function correctly. Without this, you will have flickering to deal with.
In addition, there might be limiting or disruptions your internet connection. For example, the wifi might be limited, or the gadget’s connectivity to the internet has been hampered.
#4. Faulty HDMI cable
The HDMI cable plays an essential role in the entire functioning of the setup; any minor fault with it will trigger flickering.
Sometimes, the problem might be an improper connection, and you only need to adjust the cables. Other times, the cable might be damaged and need a replacement.
It would help if you opted for shorter cables. Longer cables interfere with the TV signal, leading to flickering.
#5. Faulty Switch dock
The most common reasons for a faulty dock are improper configuration and insufficient power.
Whatever the case, you will find the dock’s light flickering. A faulty dock will affect the HDMI cable and the entire setup.
#6. Improper Gadget connection
If the gadgets are not correctly connected, you will find it hard to get the setup running. For example, flickering will occur if the HDMI cable is not correctly plugged into the Samsung TV.
Likewise, if the console is not properly connected, it would hinder the functioning of the entire setup and trigger the TV to flicker.
#7. Wrong Display Resolution
Your Samsung TV’s resolution and the console must be equal. Else flickering will occur.
When the resolutions of both devices are incompatible, they might interfere with each other’s functioning, which is the primary trigger for flickering. If the display isn’t flickering, the images shown will be blurry.
How Do I fix the Flickering Nintendo Switch on My Samsung TV?
Numerous reasons cause flickering, and each has different solutions. Here’s how to fix the causes of flickering mentioned above:
Fault | Solution |
---|---|
Outdated software | Run an update using the user manual provided |
Incorrect RGB range | Set the range to ‘Limited.’ |
Lost Signal | Check for factors hindering connectivity; turn wifi off/on |
Faulty HDML cable | Ensure they are properly connected; Replace the cable if damaged |
Faulty switch dock | Unplug all cables from the dock. |
Improper gadget connection | Check for cables not properly connected, |
Wrong display resolution | Go to settings; Click TV output; Adjust the resolution. |
How Do You Get the Nintendo Switch to Work on a Samsung TV?
You shouldn’t fret when your TV doesn’t detect the Nintendo switch. First, ensure that the fault is not because of improper connection.
Once you’ve confirmed the fault isn’t from the connection, you should try the methods listed below:
- Restart the console: For most gadgets, a simple reboot is all the troubleshooting effort required to get them running perfectly.
- Check if the TV has multiple HDMI ports (Samsung TV models all have 3 HDMI ports); remove the cable from the current port and connect it to another. This should resolve the issue. If it doesn’t, try out the following method.
- Disconnect the switch from the dock; change the console settings to ‘Handheld.’
- Go to the home menu, click the system setting option, and select TV output. Next, locate the TV resolution tab and change the current resolution (to a higher resolution).
- Then, reconnect the switch to the dock and check if the issue has been rectified.
- Alternatively, you could try turning the ‘Match power state off.’
- If you have another Samsung TV, you could incorporate it into the setup and disconnect the correct one; this also goes for an HDMI cable.
When all of these measures fail, your next available option would be to contact a technician or reach out to Nintendo’s online support system for a more detailed troubleshooting guide.
Other Common Problems with Nintendo switch TV Display.
Unfortunately, flickering is not the only Nintendo switch malfunction you would have to deal with.
Here are a few other problems you could encounter during the setup:
#1. Frozen displays
Flickering isn’t the only malfunction that can affect the TV’s display. Some switch users have reported that they encounter periodic flashes that cause the screen displays to freeze.
In addition, screeching whistles sometimes follow these flashes. However, it only takes a hard reset to stop these random freezes.
#2. Joycon Malfunctions
The console’s joycon will likely develop a few frustrating faults when the setup runs for a prolonged period. The most common malfunction is random disconnections.
The disconnections disrupt the smoothness of your gaming experience. Furthermore, the longevity of the joycon’s controllers is not guaranteed to exceed two years.
The controllers will drift apart due to constant usage. You’ll have two options; send the joy-cons to Nintendo to repair or buy new joy-cons.
#3. Console malfunctions
The console itself is not malfunction-free; it has many of them you should look out for.
For example, if the consoles stay connected to the dock for a prolonged period, they are likely to bend backward. This would make it difficult to disconnect them from the docks.
Also, many Nintendo users confirm that cracks appear on the consoles after some time, even when there are no factors to cause these cracks.
#4. Short battery span
The limited battery life of the consoles makes it difficult to enjoy the thrills of the setup if there is a power outage.
These consoles will need to be recharged after a few hours. However, switch charging options allow you to utilize the setup longer than usual.
How to Connect Nintendo Switch to Samsung TV?
Nintendo consoles are compatible with all models of Samsung TVs. If you have both gadgets, nothing stops you from enjoying the fantastic combo offers.
Everything you need for the setup is in the switch box. Here’s how to connect your Nintendo Switch to a Samsung TV:
- First, open up the dock of the switch
- Locate the top terminal with an ‘AC adapter label; connect one end of the USB cable to this adapter and fix the other end into a power outlet.
- Locate the lower terminal of the dock with an ‘HDMI out’ label and connect one end of the HDMI cable to this port.
- Connect the other end of the cable to your TV’s port.
- Close the dock of the switch.
- Remove the Joy-con controllers.
- Set the console to face the front panel of the dock.
- Connect the console to the dock.
- Power on the TV.
- When the TV displays, select the correct HDMI input.
- Give it a few seconds to configure.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo-Samsung combo is an excellent choice for all gamers looking to enjoy the thrills of 3D gaming with some added flair.
Unfortunately, it is not unusual for setups like these to develop slight malfunctions during operation; flickering is the most common malfunction most gamers face.
Luckily these issues can be quickly resolved without the help of professional technicians.