How to Connect a Switch to a MacBook

Connecting your Nintendo Switch to your MacBook allows you to enjoy your Switch games on the big screen. With just an HDMI cable and USB-C adapter, you can easily hook up your Switch to your Mac and turn your laptop into a makeshift Switch dock.

The process for connecting a Switch to a MacBook is straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for connecting your Switch to both USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 MacBooks. We’ll also provide tips on controllers, audio, and other considerations when gaming with your Switch on a Mac.

What You’ll Need

To connect your Nintendo Switch to a MacBook, you’ll need just a few items:

• Nintendo Switch console
• HDMI cable
• USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 adapter

The adapter you need will depend on the ports available on your MacBook model. Here’s a quick rundown:

• For USB-C MacBooks (2016 and later): You’ll need a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter. This allows you to connect HDMI and USB at the same time.
• For Thunderbolt 3 MacBooks (2016 and later): You can use a basic USB-C to HDMI adapter.
• For older MacBooks (2015 and earlier): You’ll need a USB-C to HDMI adapter plus a USB-C to USB adapter for the extra USB port.

As long as you have the proper adapter for your MacBook, connecting the Switch is a breeze.

Connecting the Nintendo Switch to a USB-C MacBook

If you have a 2016 or later MacBook Pro or MacBook Air with USB-C ports, follow these steps:

1. Power on your Nintendo Switch and wake your MacBook.
2. Plug the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on your Switch dock.
3. Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on the USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter.
4. Plug the USB-C connector on the adapter into an open USB-C port on your MacBook.
5. The Switch screen should now show up on your MacBook display!

The USB-C adapter allows you to connect both HDMI and USB at the same time. This gives you a port to charge your Switch while its connected and use wired controllers if desired.

Connecting the Nintendo Switch to a Thunderbolt 3 MacBook

For MacBooks with Thunderbolt 3 ports, the connection process is even easier:

1. Power on your Nintendo Switch and wake your MacBook.
2. Plug the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on your Switch dock.
3. Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the USB-C to HDMI adapter.
4. Plug the adapter into a Thunderbolt 3 port on your MacBook.

That’s it! The Switch screen will now display on your MacBook.

With Thunderbolt 3, you don’t need a multiport adapter since the port has enough bandwidth on its own. However, you won’t have an extra USB-C port for charging or wired controllers.

Tips for the Best Experience

Here are some tips to ensure the best gaming experience when using your Switch with a MacBook:

• Update your MacBook – Make sure you have the latest OS installed for maximum compatibility.
• Charge your Switch first – Docked play will drain the Switch battery faster, so start with at least 50% charge.
• Adjust resolution – For best graphics, set Switch to 1080p when docked. Lower resolutions can look pixelated on a large laptop screen.
• Use wired controllers– Wireless Joy-Cons can experience lag on Mac. Use the Pro Controller or wired controllers for optimal response.
• Enable handoff– Keep controllers paired to your MacBook for quick handoff between Switch screen and Mac.
• Adjust audio output – Switch audio can only output through HDMI when docked. You may need to change audio settings on your Mac.

With a little setup, your MacBook can become the ultimate portable Switch gaming rig. Just be sure to have the right adapters and follow these tips for smooth performance. Let us know if you have any other questions about connecting your Switch to a Mac!