gaming-console Devices

Nintendo 64 (1996)

This iconic 64-bit console uses a proprietary AV Multi Out connector for composite and S-Video, supporting up to 480i resolution. For modern TVs, you'll need a third-party adapter to get a usable picture — the original composite cable looks noticeably soft and blurry on contemporary displays. The four built-in controller ports made local multiplayer the system's signature feature, with support for controller Paks and Rumble Paks for expanded functionality. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo AV Famicom (New Famicom, 1993)

The redesigned AV Famicom adds proper composite video output to Japan's Famicom, replacing the RF-only connector on the original model. The detachable controllers and superior video quality made this the preferred retro way to play Famicom games before HDMI adapters became common. The cartridge slot remains a top-loader, and power consumption stays around 3.6W. Below is the full connector layout.

Nintendo Entertainment System (NES, 1985)

The original Nintendo Entertainment System uses a 72-pin proprietary cartridge slot and connects via RF output on the front panel. For composite video on modern TVs, you'll need an aftermarket adapter cable — the RF output produces muddy, dim picture quality that wastes the NES's actual capabilities. The four controller ports on the bottom accept standard NES controllers or a four-player multitap for local multiplayer gaming. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo Family Computer (Famicom, 1983)

Nintendo's original Family Computer connects exclusively through RF or, on later models, a proprietary connector for composite video. The two integrated controllers are hardwired to the console — you'll need a multitap to add more controllers for multiplayer. Cartridges load from the top-loading slot, and the system draws about 3.6W of power. Below is the full connector layout and everything you'll need.

Nintendo GameCube (DOL-001, 2001)

Nintendo's GameCube connects via the same proprietary Multi AV Out port found on the N64, supporting composite, S-Video, and RGB. For modern TVs, you'll want a third-party HDMI or component adapter cable — native composite output looks soft on contemporary displays. The three USB 2.0 ports on the front accept GameCube controllers, with support for memory cards in the two dedicated memory card slots on the bottom. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo GameCube (DOL-101, 2004)

Nintendo's GameCube connects via the same proprietary Multi AV Out port found on the N64, supporting composite, S-Video, and RGB. For modern TVs, you'll want a third-party HDMI or component adapter cable — native composite output looks soft on contemporary displays. The three USB 2.0 ports on the front accept GameCube controllers, with support for memory cards in the two dedicated memory card slots on the bottom. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo NES-101 (Top Loader, 1993)

This redesigned NES Top Loader swaps the cartridge slot to a front-loading design and adds a composite video output jack, eliminating RF entirely. The composite output delivers noticeably sharper picture than the original NES, though you'll still want a modern HDMI converter for display on contemporary TVs. The controller ports remain on the bottom with support for a four-player multitap. Here's every port and cable you'll need.

Nintendo Switch (Original, 2017)

Nintendo's original Switch blends handheld and home gaming through a hybrid docking design—the portable device connects to a dock via USB-C for TV output. The USB-C port handles charging at up to 39W, video output via USB 3.1 Alt Mode, and data transfer. Two Joy-Con controllers attach magnetically to the sides or dock in the controller grip for traditional gamepad play. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo Switch 2 (2025)

Nintendo's next-gen console brings a massive connectivity leap with two USB-C ports, 4K@60Hz docked output, and built-in Gigabit Ethernet in the dock. The bottom USB-C port supports USB 3.2 data speeds and DisplayPort Alt Mode for direct video output without the dock, plus USB Power Delivery up to 60W. The dock's HDMI port supports 4K@60Hz with HDR — a huge upgrade from the original Switch's 1080p limit. Note that the HDMI version is debated: teardowns suggest HDMI 2.1 hardware, but Nintendo's official specs only confirm 4K@60Hz output.

Nintendo Switch 2 (Standard, 2025)

Nintendo's Switch 2 improves the hybrid docking design with faster performance and a larger screen, maintaining the same USB-C port design for charging and video output. The USB 3.1 Alt Mode supports up to 15W USB Power Delivery; dock attachment uses the same connector as the original Switch for backward compatibility with many third-party docks. Two redesigned Joy-Con controllers attach magnetically and include enhanced haptic feedback. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo Switch Lite (2019)

The Switch Lite is a 100% handheld-only redesign that drops the hybrid docking feature, cutting weight and cost but losing TV connectivity. The USB-C port handles charging at up to 18W and data transfer, though it can't output video directly like the standard Switch. Two Joy-Con controllers attach magnetically but don't detach for tabletop play. Below is the full connector layout.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model (2021)

The Switch OLED model retains the hybrid docked-handheld design but adds a vibrant OLED screen, improving picture quality without changing port specs. The USB-C port handles power delivery up to 39W, video output via USB 3.1 Alt Mode, and data — a single cable replaces the proprietary dock connector. Two removable Joy-Con controllers attach magnetically to the sides or dock in the included controller grip. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo Switch V2 (Enhanced Battery, 2019)

The enhanced Switch V2 keeps the original hybrid design but improves battery life, pushing run-time from 6.5 to roughly 9 hours on a charge. The USB-C port remains the hub for charging, TV docking, and data transfer at USB 2.0 speeds; power delivery tops out at about 39W. Two Joy-Con controllers attach magnetically and work wirelessly or docked in the included grip. Here's the complete port breakdown.

Nintendo Wii (Original, 2006)

Nintendo's Wii connects through a proprietary AV Multi Out port supporting composite, S-Video, component video, and RGB—SCART (in PAL regions). The console includes two controller ports on the front for Wiimotes and nunchuk attachments, plus a single SD card slot for expanded storage. Power consumption is about 13W under typical load. Here's the complete port breakdown and cable requirements.

Nintendo Wii Family Edition (2011)

Nintendo's Wii connects through a proprietary AV Multi Out port supporting composite, S-Video, component video, and RGB—SCART (in PAL regions). The console includes two controller ports on the front for Wiimotes and nunchuk attachments, plus a single SD card slot for expanded storage. Power consumption is about 13W under typical load. Here's the complete port breakdown and cable requirements.

Nintendo Wii Mini (2012)

The Wii Mini drops online and component video connectivity, keeping only the proprietary AV Multi Out port for composite and S-Video. The internal memory shrinks to 512MB, and it draws about 10W of power. Two Wii controller ports remain on the front, with a single expansion port for nunchuk attachments. Below is the full connector layout.

Nintendo Wii U (2012)

The Wii U splits output between its TV and tablet-like GamePad, both connected wirelessly—the TV connects via HDMI for up to 1080p video. Two USB 2.0 ports on the back handle external storage for games and media; the system draws about 40W under gaming load. Four controller ports on the front accept Wiimotes, classic controllers, and GamePad docking, with an SD card slot for additional storage. Here's the complete port breakdown.