How to connect a GameCube to a modern TV
Most GameCubes only have the AV output (yellow, white and red), so use an AV to HDMI converter. Only early models have the extra digital port that the rare component cable needs.
Yes. You need a converter.
What you need
- Composite AV cable (yellow/white/red) Look for: 3 RCA male to 3 RCA male
- AV to HDMI converter Look for: AV to HDMI / RCA to HDMI / AV2HDMI
- HDMI cable Look for: High Speed HDMI (Ultra High Speed for 4K 120Hz)
Connect it like this
- GameCubeComposite AV (RCA) out
- Composite AV cable (yellow/white/red)
- AV to HDMI converterComposite AV (RCA) in, HDMI out. Needs power.
- HDMI cable
- TV (flat screen)HDMI in
What to know
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Cost
- About $28–$55 if you buy everything new
- Picture
- Standard definition
- Lag
- Minimal
- Extra power
- Yes, the converter needs USB or wall power
Why this works
Composite AV (RCA) is analog and HDMI is digital. A plain cable can’t bridge that. A powered AV to HDMI converter translates the signal.
Before you buy
- Direction matters. You need Composite AV (RCA) in and HDMI out. The HDMI to AV converter looks almost identical but works the other way. Check that the box says “AV to HDMI”.
- It makes the connection work. It does not make old video HD. Some converters show a black screen with copy-protected video such as streaming apps; if that happens, pick one whose listing says it supports HDCP.
Good to know
- Most retro consoles send 240p. Many cheap AV to HDMI converters and some modern TVs handle 240p poorly (flicker or dropouts).
- Many "HDMI only" TVs still have a small AV input hidden on the side. Press Input/Source on the remote and look for AV or Composite.
Your gear a little different? Answer a couple of questions about your own ports.
Check my exact setup