The Nintendo Switch Lite is a sleek little handheld console. It’s perfect for gaming on the go. But what if you want to play it on a big screen TV? Unlike the regular Switch, the Lite doesn’t support video output through the dock. So, can you get HDMI output from a Switch Lite? The answer: yes, with a mod!
This is called the Switch Lite HDMI mod. It’s a fun but advanced project for tech lovers and gamers. Let’s break it down into simple terms.
What is an HDMI mod?
An HDMI mod is a custom hardware modification. It allows you to connect your Switch Lite to a TV or monitor using an HDMI cable. That means you can play your handheld games on a big screen.
But there’s a catch — the Switch Lite was never built for this. So doing this mod means opening the console, soldering tiny wires, and installing custom chips. Not for the faint of heart!
Why doesn’t the Switch Lite support HDMI out?
Good question! Nintendo designed the Switch Lite as a handheld-only system. To keep size and cost down, they removed the internal dock hardware. This includes chips responsible for sending video signals over USB-C. Without those chips, HDMI just won’t work.
So, to make HDMI possible, you have to install new video output hardware yourself.
How does the HDMI mod work?
The HDMI mod works by tapping into the video signals directly on the Lite’s motherboard. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Disassemble the Switch Lite carefully.
- Identify the test points on the motherboard that carry video signals.
- Solder wires from those points to a small HDMI interface board.
- Install the HDMI board inside the case or in a separate shell.
- Connect your HDMI cable from the board to your TV. Boom — big screen gaming!
These mods come in different styles, but most use the same basic steps. Some people even build custom cases to make it all fit neatly.
What hardware do you need?
You’ll need quite a few tools and parts. Check this list below:
- Fine-tip soldering iron
- Flux and solder
- Tiny HDMI encoder board (FPGA or MIPI-to-HDMI)
- Wires and connectors
- Switch Lite triwing screwdriver
- Magnifying glass or microscope
- Patience — lots of it!
Many modders buy pre-made HDMI kits with instructions. That helps a lot if it’s your first time doing something this complex.
What’s happening inside the HDMI mod?
This part gets a little techy — but we’ll keep it simple.
The Switch Lite’s screen connects to the main board over a signal type called MIPI DSI. It’s a digital signal format for displays. To send that to an HDMI port, the mod uses a converter chip.
This chip takes the MIPI signal and converts it to HDMI format. That’s how your TV knows what to show. Think of it like a translator for video signals.
Sometimes, the mod also carries audio through HDMI. That way, you get both picture and sound on your TV.
Can you still use the Switch Lite screen?
Yes! Most HDMI mods let you keep the screen working at the same time as the TV output. That means the Switch becomes kind of like a mini Wii U — game on the screen, or the TV, or both!
But this can make the mod much harder. The signal gets split or duplicated. So the hardware needs to handle both outputs at once. Some kits can do it. Others only work with HDMI on, not both together.
Is it worth it?
Depends! Here’s a quick list of pros and cons:
Pros:
- Play games on a bigger screen
- Use standard HDMI cable
- Great DIY challenge for tech lovers
- Preserve handheld look while improving flexibility
Cons:
- Very difficult soldering work
- Risk of damaging the console
- Void any warranty
- Mods can be expensive
So, if you love tinkering — go for it! If you just want TV play, maybe buy a regular Switch instead.
Where can you learn more?
Many hobbyists share their HDMI mod builds online. You can find videos on YouTube and full guides on gaming forums or GitHub. Look for creators like “Luke Miani” or “Shank Mods” — they’ve tackled this project and posted results.
There are also stores that sell mod kits preassembled. Some even offer mod services if you mail in your console (not always safe, though, so do your research).
Tips for trying the mod
If you’re serious about doing the Switch Lite HDMI mod, here are some friendly tips:
- Practice soldering first — don’t make your Lite the first thing you work on.
- Use a microscope or magnifier — parts are tiny!
- Go slow — rushing makes mistakes.
- Label your screws and parts during disassembly.
- Watch videos before trying it live.
A mistake could brick the console. So make sure you’re comfy with the risks.
Cool ideas after the mod
Once your HDMI mod is done, the fun doesn’t stop!
- Mount your Switch Lite into a retro-style case
- Use it in arcade cabinets for custom builds
- Make a portable TV dock in your backpack
- Stream your games using a capture card
It turns your handheld into something totally new. That makes the project totally worth it for some users.
Final thoughts
The Switch Lite HDMI mod is one of the coolest, trickiest console mods out there. It gives you big-screen gaming from a handheld-only device. But it takes steady hands, good tools, and careful planning.
If you’ve never soldered before, this might be too advanced to start with. But if you want a fun project, and you love both gaming and tech, it’s a super cool hack to try.
Just make sure to do your homework — and don’t fry your favorite console!
Best of luck, modding master! Game on!