Since its early development way back in 2002, the HDMI cable has become immensely popular, simplifying audiovisual connections worldwide. Even better, these humble cables have kept up with the times, with the launch of HDMI 2.1 supporting 8k and higher resolution with room to spare. It’s no wonder why the PS5 ships with this industry standard!
However, when your PlayStation 5 HDMI is not working, all the glitz of modern tech just turns into frustration. How do you troubleshoot your connection and get back to your gameplay?
Let’s take a look at why HDMI errors happen, the basics of troubleshooting, and a few more in-depth console checks worth trying.
Is Your HDMI the Problem?
First things first: is the HDMI port the culprit behind your current problems? Here are a few things you might notice if something goes wrong with your HDMI connection:
- A black TV screen
- A “No Input,” “No Display Detected,” or “No Signal” message
- A blurry or pixelated video
- Audio distortion
In rare cases, HDMI connection issues can also result in a frozen screen.
In addition, if something is wrong with the PS5 HDMI port, the LED on your console might turn blue for a while before starting up, and it may also shut down right away. This blue light is an indicator of internal issues.
What Causes PlayStation 5 HDMI Port Issues?
If your HDMI port is to blame, there are a few possible causes.
Dirt and debris are among the most common culprits behind PlayStation 5 HDMI port issues. If any substance builds up inside your HDMI port, it may disrupt your video and audio connection.
Bent, broken, missing, or damaged HDMI cable pins can also cause problems. If you struggle to plug in your HDMI, the pins may be misaligned, creating connection errors.
In some cases, the HDMI port itself may have gotten damaged. In addition, the HDMI chip on your console’s motherboard may not be working, which may be the case if the chip itself is faulty or your entire system is overheating.
Software issues like outdated firmware can cause connection and compatibility glitches between your console and screen.
Last, the issue may not have anything to do with your PS5 at all! Faulty HDMI cables, monitor settings, or outdated firmware can wreak havoc on your connection.
Troubleshoot the Connection
The best place to start troubleshooting is with each part of your HDMI connection.
Check the settings on your TV or monitor to make sure they’re compatible with your PS5’s output. Make sure you’re using the right input source or you’re on the right channel. If you have a Smart TV, check for firmware updates to confirm you’re using your system’s latest version.
Next, check the HDMI cable itself. Look for fraying, damage, bends, or breaks.
It’s always a good idea to use the HDMI 2.1 cable that came with your PS5, as it’s an ultra-high-speed version of HDMI. If this cable isn’t working, switch to a different cable to see if something is wrong with the cord itself.
Take a look at your HDMI port. If you see dust, debris, or any foreign objects inside, clear it away.
You can grab a compressed air duster if you’re struggling to clean the port. A cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol can also do the trick.
Check Your Console
If the connection isn’t faulty, it’s time to look at your console. Restart it, if you haven’t already done so, by turning it off and unplugging the power cord for a minute before plugging it back in. This can sometimes fix small software issues.
To rule out other software bugs, you should update your console as well, as the latest updates may patch any glitches you’re experiencing. To do this, go into your settings and select System > System Software > System Software Update.
If you’ve set up HDR (High Dynamic Range) on your PS5, note that this setting can sometimes affect your HDMI connection. To rule this out as a culprit, go into your settings and select Screen and Video > Video Output > HDR. Toggle the setting off.
Next, try booting in Safe Mode for further troubleshooting.
To do this, turn off your PS5, then press and hold the power button for a few seconds until you’ve heard two beeps. Press the PS button on your controller, then select the option Change Video Output from the safe mode menu. Selecting HDCP 1.4 Only from the settings can sometimes help address small PlayStation 5 video issues, so restart your console to see if this has helped.
As a last resort, you can also reset your PS5. This restores all of the system’s default settings, but it also deletes your save data. You can back up these files if you subscribe to PlayStation Plus, but you’ll be out of luck otherwise.
Get Professional PlayStation 5 Repairs
If all else fails, expert help may address whatever issues are plaguing your HDMI connection.
As long as you’ve bought your PS5 within the past year, your system is likely still under Sony’s warranty. Contact them for repairs through their support portal, as they’ll often be able to fix the issue for free.
If you bought your PS5 a while ago, you’ll need to contact a third-party expert for your repairs. Experienced technicians can address hardware and software issues affecting your connection and other common errors, and they can also help walk you through any of the steps above if you’re struggling to find the root cause of your problem.
They’re also your best bet if you need an HDMI port replacement: this is tricky work that requires micro-soldering equipment. Though you can find repair kits for HDMI ports online, we don’t recommend trying a DIY job!
Get Help When a PlayStation 5 HDMI Port Is Not Working
The PS5 is an advanced piece of modern engineering, but that doesn’t mean its ports are always error-free. If your PlayStation 5 HDMI is not working, troubleshooting the connection can get frustrating fast.
That’s where the team at Fruit Fixed comes in. Whether you’re wading through software bugs or you need a PlayStation 5 HDMI port replacement, our repair experts can tackle the job and get you back to your favorite games in no time. To learn more, bring your device to one of our locations or start a console repair today.
