How do I connect an old game console to a new TV without red, white and yellow sockets?

Last checked November 14, 2026

VCR or DVDTV12:00ConverterRed, white, yellowHDMI cable

Short answer

Use an AV (RCA) to HDMI converter and an HDMI cable. Plug the console's red, white and yellow cable into the converter, and the converter into the TV's HDMI port.

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You also need

These go with the AV (RCA) to HDMI converter.

How to connect it

  1. Plug the console's red, white and yellow cable into the converter.
  2. Power the converter from a USB port.
  3. Connect an HDMI cable from the converter to the TV, and switch the TV to that input.

Check this first

  • RCA plugs are the round red, white and yellow ones: yellow carries the picture, red and white carry the sound.
  • It needs power from a USB port. A USB cable usually comes in the box; the TV's USB port or a phone charger works.
  • You also need an HDMI cable from the converter to the TV.
  • Use the device's own red, white and yellow cable. Yellow is the picture, red and white are the sound.
  • The picture is still standard definition, so it looks softer than modern HD on a big screen. The converter cannot add detail that is not there.
  • If your device has red, green and blue plugs (component video), choose a component to HDMI converter instead.

Questions people ask

What are the red, white and yellow plugs?

They are RCA plugs. Yellow carries the picture (composite video); red and white carry the right and left sound.

Is there a better picture option?

Retro gamers who want the sharpest picture use a dedicated upscaler, which costs a lot more. A basic converter is fine for casual play.

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