Can't get your laptop to show on the TV with an HDMI cable
The TV needs to be told to use the HDMI input instead of its normal input, and your laptop can also need to be told to send video to the TV. Start by switching the TV to the correct HDMI input using the remote. This fixes it most of the time.
When you plug an HDMI cable into a TV and a laptop, two things have to happen at once: the TV has to switch to the right HDMI input to watch it, and the laptop has to turn on video output to the TV. If either one isn't set right, you'll see nothing on the TV. We'll walk through both fixes.
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step — just tap, no typing needed.
Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Plugging the cable in but forgetting to switch the TV to that HDMI input. The cable needs to be plugged in AND the TV needs to be set to that input
- Trying a different HDMI port but not switching the TV input to match. If you plug into port 3, you have to switch the TV to HDMI 3
- Assuming the laptop is the problem when actually the TV just needs to be switched to the right input
Signs you need professional help
- You've switched to every HDMI input and the TV still says 'no signal'. The HDMI port can be broken The cable works in a different TV but not yours. Your TV's HDMI port needs replacing
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments — book your slot and we handle the rest.
Was this guide helpful?
Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only — no parts, no in-home visit needed.