Does a Console Come With an HDMI Cable? What to Expect

What comes in the box

When you buy a home console, the box usually contains the console itself, a controller, a power cable, and an HDMI cable. The HDMI cable connects the console to your TV or monitor. The exact cable included varies by model and bundle, so it's worth reading the listing's bullet list or the maker's page before you buy.

For example, the PlayStation 5 page lists the console and its features but does not specify the HDMI cable version. The Xbox Series X page mentions the console's capabilities but also does not state the cable version. In both cases, the cable is included, but the version is not always stated. If you want a home console with a cable, see our best home consoles guide for a range of options.

• Home consoles: typically include an HDMI cable.
• Handheld consoles: may include a cable for TV mode, but not always.
• Handheld gaming PCs: often do not include an HDMI cable.
• Bundles: may include extra cables or accessories, but check the list.

Which consoles include an HDMI cable

The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are home consoles, and they come with an HDMI cable in the box. The Nintendo Switch 2, which is a hybrid console, can connect to a TV, and its page mentions connecting to a TV, but it does not explicitly state whether an HDMI cable is included. The Steam Deck page does not mention an HDMI cable at all, which suggests it is not included.

If you are buying a handheld gaming PC like the Steam Deck, plan to use your own HDMI cable if you want to connect it to a TV. For home consoles, the cable is almost always there, but the version may vary. For a look at digital-only options that still include a cable, check our best digital edition consoles guide. If you are leaning toward a hybrid, compare Nintendo Switch consoles.

HDMI cable versions explained

HDMI cables come in different versions, such as HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1. The version affects the maximum resolution and refresh rate the cable can carry. For example, HDMI 2.1 supports higher bandwidth, which is needed for features like 4K at 120Hz, but the exact support depends on the console and TV.

The maker pages for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X do not state the HDMI cable version included. So, you cannot assume the cable is the latest version. If you need a specific version for your TV, check the listing or contact the seller. To understand why the version matters, see our HDMI version importance guide.

In general, any HDMI cable will work for basic connection, but for advanced features like high refresh rates, you may need a cable that supports the required bandwidth. The console's output resolution and the TV's input capabilities determine what you need. If you are comparing HDMI 2.0 and 2.1, our HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1 guide breaks down the differences.

What to check before buying

Before you buy a console, read the listing's bullet list to see if an HDMI cable is mentioned. If it is not, check the maker's page or ask the seller. For bundles, the included items are usually listed, so you can see if a cable is part of the package.

Also consider the length of the cable. A short cable may not reach your TV if the console is placed far away. The listing may state the cable length, but if not, you can buy a longer one separately. If you plan to use a console with a monitor, our ports and connectivity guide can help you plan the hookup.

If you are buying a refurbished or used console, the cable may not be included. In that case, you can use any standard HDMI cable you have at home. For replacement options, see our HDMI cable replacement guide.

What if the cable is missing

If your console does not come with an HDMI cable, or if you need a different length, you can buy one separately. Any standard HDMI cable will work for basic connection. For features like 4K at high refresh rates, make sure the cable supports the required bandwidth.

The console's HDMI port is standard, so you can use any cable that fits. If you are unsure, check the console's specifications on the maker's page or the listing.

Handheld consoles and TV mode

Handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch 2 can connect to a TV, but the included cable may not be stated. The Nintendo page mentions connecting to a TV, but it does not list the cable in the box. If you plan to use TV mode, check the listing or be prepared to buy a cable.

Handheld gaming PCs, such as the Steam Deck, are designed primarily for portable play. They may not include an HDMI cable, and connecting to a TV may require a dock or adapter. The Steam Deck page does not mention an HDMI cable, so assume it is not included. For a closer look at this category, compare handheld gaming PCs.

How to connect your console

To connect your console to a TV, plug one end of the HDMI cable into the console's HDMI port and the other end into an available HDMI port on your TV. Then, select the correct input on your TV. This is a standard process for all consoles.

If you are using a handheld console in TV mode, you may need a dock or a direct cable connection, depending on the model. The maker's page or the listing will tell you what is needed. For a list of console bundles that may include a cable, see our console bundles guide.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Does the PlayStation 5 come with an HDMI cable?

Yes, the PlayStation 5 includes an HDMI cable in the box, but the version is not specified on the maker's page.

Does the Xbox Series X include an HDMI cable?

Yes, the Xbox Series X comes with an HDMI cable, but the version is not stated on the official page.

Does the Nintendo Switch 2 come with an HDMI cable?

The Nintendo Switch 2 page does not explicitly state whether an HDMI cable is included, so check the listing or be prepared to buy one.

Does the Steam Deck include an HDMI cable?

The Steam Deck page does not mention an HDMI cable, so it is likely not included. You will need to use your own.

What HDMI cable version do I need?

The version you need depends on your TV and the features you want. For basic connection, any cable works, but for high refresh rates, you may need a cable that supports the required bandwidth.

Can I use any HDMI cable with my console?

Yes, any standard HDMI cable will work for basic connection. For advanced features, make sure the cable supports the required bandwidth.