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To connect a computer to a TV with HDMI, plug an HDMI cable into the computer’s HDMI output and the TV’s HDMI input, then select that same HDMI input on the TV. If the computer has no HDMI port, first verify that its USB-C, Thunderbolt, or other video output supports the adapter and display mode you need.
What you need for a direct HDMI connection
- A computer with an HDMI video output.
- A TV with an available HDMI input.
- An HDMI cable that supports the resolution and refresh rate you plan to use.
Connect the cable to both devices, then use the TV remote’s Input or Source control to choose the HDMI number you used. The TV must be on that input for the computer’s picture to appear. HP’s general laptop-to-TV guidance also covers the direct cable connection: How to connect a laptop to a TV.
Choose how the computer screen appears
Windows 10 or Windows 11
Press Windows key + P and select the display mode:
- Duplicate: show the same image on the computer and TV.
- Extend: use the TV as additional desktop space.
- PC screen only: use the computer display alone.
- Second screen only: use the TV alone.
For additional display controls, open Settings > System > Display. Microsoft documents these options in its multiple-monitor guidance. Microsoft’s page notes that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025; the cited display instructions cover Windows 10 and 11.
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Open Apple menu > System Settings > Displays, select the connected TV, and adjust the available display settings. Apple’s Mac HDMI connection guide describes connection options and display settings.
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Chromebook
Open Settings > Device > Displays. Choose Mirror Built-in Display to show the same content on both screens, or configure the external display’s supported resolution and refresh rate. See Google’s Chromebook monitor instructions.
If the computer has no HDMI port
Identify the exact computer port and check the computer’s specifications before buying an adapter. A USB-C connector does not automatically support video: the computer’s port must provide video output, and the adapter and cable must support the resolution and refresh rate you want. Microsoft explains USB-C display compatibility and related connection issues in its USB-C troubleshooting guidance.
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- USB-C or Thunderbolt: use a compatible USB-C-to-HDMI adapter or cable only if that specific port supports video output.
- Mini DisplayPort or older Thunderbolt on a Mac: Apple lists Mini DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapter or cable options for compatible models. Check the Mac model’s specifications before choosing one.
- Dock or hub: confirm that it supports the required display mode; it is not necessary for a basic one-computer-to-one-TV connection.
Do not assume an adapter will work solely because its plug fits. Compatibility depends on the computer output, adapter or dock, cable, and TV input together.
Get sound through the TV
If the picture appears but sound still comes from the computer, choose the TV or HDMI device as the computer’s audio output. The TV must have speakers or be connected to an audio system; some displays have no built-in speakers.
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- Windows: open Settings > System > Sound > Output and select the HDMI/TV device. Microsoft provides further steps in its Windows sound troubleshooting guide.
- Mac: open System Settings > Sound > Output and select the HDMI device.
Fix common HDMI problems
The TV says “No signal”
- Check that the TV is set to the HDMI input the cable is plugged into.
- Unplug and firmly reconnect both ends of the cable, including the adapter if one is in use.
- If the connection uses USB-C, verify that the specific computer port supports video output.
- Open the computer’s display settings and check whether the TV is detected. On Windows, go to Settings > System > Display.
- If a hub or dock is involved, simplify the connection by connecting directly where possible; this helps isolate a dock or adapter compatibility issue.
The picture is cropped at the edges
Look in the TV’s picture-size, screen-fit, aspect-ratio, or overscan settings and choose a setting that fits the full computer image. Menu names vary by TV. Apple also recommends checking overscan or underscan settings on the TV or projector when available.
The image is unstable or the desired resolution is missing
Check the supported resolution and refresh rate for every part of the signal path: the computer output, adapter or dock, cable, and TV input. The connector shape alone does not establish support for a particular resolution, refresh rate, HDR mode, or audio format. Apple specifically advises checking adapter specifications; Microsoft notes that USB-C ports, devices, and cables may not support every connected feature.
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Choose a cable or adapter that fits the setup
- Both computer and TV have HDMI: use an HDMI cable rated for the display mode the devices support.
- Computer has USB-C but no HDMI: use a USB-C-to-HDMI adapter only after confirming that the computer port supports video and that the adapter supports the target mode.
- Older compatible Mac has Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2: check Apple’s model-specific connection guidance for a Mini DisplayPort-to-HDMI option.
- You need charging passthrough or extra ports: consider a hub or dock only if those extra functions are useful, and check its display specifications.
A higher-specification cable or adapter cannot add a display capability that the computer or TV does not support. Match the whole connection to the mode you intend to use rather than choosing by connector shape alone.
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