Connect your PS4 with an HDMI cable, then turn both devices on

Your PS4 connects to a TV using a single cable — the HDMI cable that came in the box. One end plugs into the PS4's HDMI port on the back, the other end plugs into any HDMI port on your TV. Turn on the TV, turn on the PS4, and you're done. The picture should appear on screen within 10 seconds.

If you don't see a picture, the TV may be set to the wrong input. Most TVs have an Input or Source button on the remote or the TV itself. Press it and select the HDMI port number where you plugged in the cable — usually HDMI 1, HDMI 2, or HDMI 3. The port number is printed next to each HDMI slot on the back of the TV.

Key Takeaways

  • The HDMI cable that came with your PS4 is the only cable you need to connect to the TV.
  • Plug one end into the PS4's HDMI port on the back, and the other end into any HDMI port on your TV.
  • If you see no picture, press the Input or Source button on your TV remote and select the matching HDMI port number.
  • You do not need a separate power cable for the HDMI connection — the TV and PS4 power independently.

Where to find the HDMI port on your PS4

The HDMI port is on the back of the PS4, toward the right side when you're looking at the console from behind. It's a rectangular slot about the size of your thumb. The HDMI cable connector is flat and wide, and it only fits one way — if it doesn't slide in smoothly, flip it over and try again.

Push the cable in until you hear or feel a small click. The cable should not be loose or wobbling. If the port feels damaged or the cable won't stay in, the HDMI port may need repair, but this is rare on new consoles.

Which HDMI port on your TV to use

Most TVs have between two and four HDMI ports, usually on the back or side. Any of them will work for your PS4. If your TV is already using one HDMI port for a cable box, streaming device, or sound system, just use a different one.

Some TVs label one HDMI port as "HDMI ARC" or "eARC" — these are for sound systems and are not necessary for a PS4. A regular HDMI port works perfectly. Write down which port number you used (HDMI 1, 2, or 3) so you can switch back to it later if you change inputs.

Switching between HDMI inputs on your TV

Every time you want to use your PS4, the TV needs to be set to the correct HDMI input. Look for a button on your TV remote labeled Input, Source, or HDMI. Press it, and a menu will appear showing all available inputs — Cable, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, and so on.

Use the arrow buttons on the remote to highlight the HDMI port where your PS4 is plugged in, then press Enter or Select. The PS4 picture should appear within a few seconds. If you're not sure which port, try each one until you see the PS4 home screen.

What to do if you see no picture

First, check that both the TV and PS4 are powered on. The PS4 has a white light on the front when it's on. If the light is off, press the power button on the console or the controller.

Next, make sure the TV is set to the correct HDMI input. Press the Input or Source button on the remote and select the port number where you plugged in the cable. If you still see no picture, try unplugging the HDMI cable from both the PS4 and TV, waiting 10 seconds, and plugging it back in firmly.

If the picture still doesn't appear after these steps, try a different HDMI port on the TV. Some ports occasionally malfunction. If a different port works, use that one going forward. If no HDMI port on the TV shows the PS4, the HDMI cable itself may be damaged — try borrowing a cable from a friend to test, or contact PlayStation Support for a replacement.

Using a soundbar or external speakers

If you want sound from a soundbar or external speakers, you have two options. The simplest is to plug the soundbar into the TV using its own HDMI or optical cable — the TV will send sound from the PS4 to the soundbar automatically. You don't need to change anything on the PS4.

Alternatively, some soundbars have their own HDMI port. You can plug the PS4 into the soundbar's HDMI input, then plug the soundbar into the TV's HDMI input. This sends both picture and sound through the soundbar to the TV. Check your soundbar's manual to see if it supports this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special HDMI cable for PS4?

No. The HDMI cable that came with your PS4 works fine. Any standard HDMI cable will work — you don't need an expensive one or a cable labeled "4K" or "gaming". A basic HDMI cable costs a few dollars if you need to replace yours.

Can I use the same HDMI port for multiple devices?

Yes, but only one device at a time. If your TV has four HDMI ports and you have a cable box, streaming device, and PS4, you can plug all three in and switch between them using the Input button. You just can't use two at the same time on the same port.

Why does my TV say "No Signal" when the PS4 is on?

The TV is set to the wrong input. Press the Input or Source button on your remote and select the HDMI port number where the PS4 cable is plugged in. If you're not sure which port, try each one. If all ports show "No Signal", the HDMI cable may be loose or damaged.

Can I connect PS4 to a TV without HDMI?

Older PS4 models do not have other video connection options. You must use HDMI. If your TV doesn't have HDMI ports, you would need an HDMI-to-composite converter, which is uncommon and not recommended. Most TVs made in the last 15 years have at least one HDMI port.

Does the PS4 need to be plugged in near the TV?

No. The PS4 can be in another room or far away from the TV, as long as you have a long enough HDMI cable. HDMI cables work reliably up to 50 feet, though cables longer than 25 feet are less common. You can buy extended HDMI cables online or at electronics stores.