Nothing could be more entertaining than playing Nintendo games. Agreed?
Yes, that is true. For the game lovers like me. The games have an irresistible appeal. And playing them on large screens brings enjoyment. But what if you do not have a large screen?
In that case, you can connect your laptop. It will help you get a comparatively larger screen. But do you know how to connect Nintendo switch to laptop?
Usually, people play these types of games on the television screen. Playing on a laptop will also render the same amusement.
In this post, I will explain the process of connecting your laptop to Nintendo.
Brief about Nintendo
Nintendo is a gaming platform that originated in Japan. You can play a wide variety of games on this platform. But you will need a large screen for playing the games.
Under this platform, you will have various types of games. The most popular gaming genres include strategic games, action games, and adventures. All the forms are highly popular among game lovers across the world.
Nintendo Switch
Though the name suggests it as a switch, it is a gaming console. And the Nintendo Switch plays a key role. Released in 2017, it has gained great popularity among global gamers.
It is a decent device for home gaming. You can connect the console with a television set. And enjoy the games.
How to Connect Nintendo Switch to Laptop?
This is the core of our discussion. In this phase, I will explain step by step to connect your laptop with the Switch.
You will need
You will need the following elements. Usually, a laptop is not for gaming purposes. But you can make it so. To convert your laptop into your gaming screen, you will need the items below.
- A Nintendo Switch
- An HDMI cable
- Nintendo Dock
- Video Capturing Card
- Video Capturing Software
- A laptop
The ways to connect Switch to the Laptop
Primarily, the Nintendo Dock connects the Switch with the television. As a result, you can see the game on the large display of television. And it needs to remain connected as long as you play the games.
Similarly, you need to connect the dock with the laptop.
Secondly, you will need a video capturing card. The card helps to stream the game into the screen. You can get any of the top-selling video capturing cards from the market. Or you can get the one that suits you the best. However, make sure the card is reliable and has HDMI ports.
Now, you will need the HDMI cable. The cable will share the video with your laptop. At the same time, it will share the audio. Interestingly, you can get an HDMI cable with the Switch. The manufacturer usually provides the cable for the users.
Related Article: How to Display Nintendo 3DS on TV
Related Article: How to Play PS4 on Laptop Screen With HDMI
Video Capturing Software
On the internet, a notable number of video capturing software is available. Some of them are premium while some are free. You can get anyone that suits you. Or also can have the free one – though they have some limitations.
The connection process
Check the steps below for the connection.
Step 1: Remove the Nintendo Switch from your TV
To do this, you have to disconnect the Nintendo Switch from your television. Ensure you switch the Nintendo Switch off before disconnecting. Now, disconnect it. Remove the connection safely from the television set.
Step 2: Connect your HDMI
Now, you have to connect your Switch HDMI cable. Connect it into the HDMI port of the capture card. You will find the connection ports easily. And make sure you connect on the right port on the right side. Usually, people make mistakes in this case.
Step 3: Launch the software and turn on your Switch
In the third step, you have to open the software of the game capture card on your laptop. The launching process is simple – like launching any other computer application.
After launching the software, turn on your Nintendo Switch. Press the Home button from your controller to switch it on.
Step 4: Connect with laptop
You are in the final stage. Connect your laptop with the video capture card. You can take support from a USB cable to connect them together. Your Nintendo Switch console menu will appear on the screen of your laptop.
You are done!
If you want to go full screen, you will find that icon on the top-right of the screen. Clicking on that will take you to the full screen.
Alternatives
It is expected that the process mentioned above will be functional. However, to some points, it may not work for everyone. Or in every laptop. In those cases, you can follow the strategy below.
- Change your laptop,
- Install Nintendo games on the laptop.
Related Article: How to Record Nintendo Switch Without Capture Card
Related Article: How to Turn Off Nintendo Switch While Docked
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I connect the Nintendo Switch to my iPad?
Well. That is not possible right now. An iPad may not allow the connection of Nintendo Switch. In fact, there are no HDMI ports in an iPad. You cannot also connect a video capture card.
Rather, you can download some similar games on the iPad. And enjoy playing those.
Do I need a smart TV to connect to Nintendo Switch?
Of course, you need a smart television set. Otherwise, you cannot connect your Nintendo Switch to the television. The key benefit is that you can use your smart TV for various purposes.
But the other ordinary television sets do not provide the same features. They are only capable to transmit audio-visual content. And you have to watch those only. On the other part, a smart television allows you to explore the internet. Also, you can use it in many more ways.
Can I connect Nintendo Switch without an HDMI to my laptop?
Simply, the answer is NO. You cannot connect the Nintendo Switch without an HDMI. Moreover, the HDMI should come with both IN and OUT ports. Otherwise, you cannot have the benefits at all.
Last words
Nintendo Switch is the part and parcel of the daily life of gamers. Now, you know how to connect Nintendo switch to laptop. So, I can bet you can easily play the games on your laptop. You need no regrets when you are out of the home.
Use the laptop screen and enjoy the thrilling games.
And let me know for any further tips in this case. Use the comment box below to share your thoughts.
Cheers!