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Xbox Series X or S no signal: checks before a repair

An Xbox that powers on but shows nothing on the TV may have a cable, input or display setting problem rather than a broken HDMI port. Rule those out first.

1 min readBy the Wepairs team

A couple playing video games on a big-screen TV in a living room

When the Xbox light is on but the TV says no signal, the fault could be anywhere between the console's HDMI port and the TV's input. Start with the simple checks.

Cable and TV checks

  • Make sure the TV is set to the right HDMI input
  • Unplug and firmly reconnect both ends of the HDMI cable
  • Try the HDMI cable that came with the console
  • Try a different HDMI port on the TV
  • Test the console on a different TV or monitor

Display settings

If the Xbox was set to an output the TV cannot handle, you may see nothing. Microsoft's support pages describe how to start the console in a low-resolution mode using the buttons on the console. The button combination differs by model, so follow the steps for your console.

Signs of a damaged HDMI port

  • The HDMI plug feels loose or does not click in
  • Pins inside the port look bent or pushed in
  • The picture flickers or cuts out when the cable moves
  • No signal on any TV with any cable

A damaged HDMI port is a common, repairable fault. It needs careful soldering on the console board. We test the port and video output before quoting.

Further reading

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