📺 Can the R36S Connect to a TV? (Full HDMI & AV Output Guide)
If you’ve been enjoying your R36S handheld console and wondering “can the R36S connect to a TV?” — the short answer is:
👉 Yes, but it depends on your version.
Not all R36S consoles include TV-out capability by default.
Let’s break down which models support it, how to connect your R36S to a TV, and what you’ll need for the best possible experience.
🕹️ Quick Answer: Does R36S Have TV Output?
The standard R36S model does not have native HDMI or AV-out support.
However, certain upgraded versions (R36S+, R36S Pro, R46 Pro) and custom firmware builds do allow screen mirroring or wired video output via adapters.
Here’s a quick overview:
|
Model |
TV Output Support |
Type |
|---|---|---|
|
🎮 R36S (Standard) |
❌ No built-in video out |
– |
|
⚙️ R36S+ / Pro Version |
✅ Yes (USB-C to HDMI or OTG AV cable) |
HDMI (720p) |
|
🧠 R46 Pro / R36S Wi-Fi Edition |
✅ Full HDMI output supported |
Mini HDMI / Type-C |
💡 If your console doesn’t have “HD Output” or “TV Mode” in the settings menu, it’s likely the base version without external display capability.
🔌 How to Connect the R36S to a TV (HDMI Method)
If you have an R36S+ or R36S Pro, you can connect it directly to your TV using a USB-C to HDMI adapter.
🧩 What You’ll Need:
✅ USB-C to HDMI adapter (with power pass-through)
✅ HDMI cable
✅ R36S+ / R36S Pro handheld
✅ TV or monitor with HDMI input
⚙️ Step-by-Step Setup:
Power off your R36S.
Plug the USB-C HDMI adapter into the R36S charging port.
Connect the adapter’s HDMI cable to your TV.
Power on your TV and select the correct HDMI input.
Turn on the R36S — you should see the screen mirrored on your TV!
🧠 Pro Tip: Some adapters need external power. If the image doesn’t show, connect a USB power cable to the adapter’s second port.
🎧 Audio Output Notes
When connected via HDMI, the R36S automatically routes audio through your TV speakers.
However, if you prefer external sound (like a soundbar), just connect your TV’s audio output to your speaker system — or use Bluetooth audio if your R36S supports it (JELOS firmware only).
🧰 How to Connect via AV Cable (Alternative Option)
Some versions or clones include an AV-out function (yellow, red, white RCA cable).
While the standard R36S usually lacks this feature, certain modified boards do include it.
To check:
Look at your R36S packaging — if it lists “AV OUT”, you’re in luck.
Plug in a 3.5mm-to-RCA cable (TRRS type) into the headphone jack.
Match colors (yellow = video, red/white = audio).
Switch your TV input to AV mode.
⚠️ Quality is lower (480p or less), but it’s nostalgic and works well for old CRT TVs.
🌐 Wireless Screen Casting (Experimental)
If your R36S runs JELOS firmware and includes Wi-Fi, you can try experimental screen sharing using Moonlight or RetroArch Netplay — but note that this isn’t true HDMI output.
🧠 Works for streaming from your PC to R36S, not the other way around.
⚙️ Requires advanced configuration and low-latency Wi-Fi.
So, while possible, it’s not an ideal solution for most players.
🔋 Can You Charge While Playing on TV?
Yes — if your USB-C to HDMI adapter supports power delivery (PD).
Simply connect your charger to the adapter’s power-in port while HDMI is plugged in.
This allows you to play extended sessions on the big screen without draining the battery.
🧠 Troubleshooting TV Connection Issues
|
Problem |
Cause |
Solution |
|---|---|---|
|
No signal on TV |
Adapter not powered / wrong model |
Use powered HDMI adapter |
|
Sound but no image |
Firmware doesn’t support display mirroring |
Verify JELOS / ArkOS version |
|
Flickering screen |
Faulty HDMI cable |
Replace with certified HDMI 2.0 cable |
|
Black bars on TV |
Resolution mismatch |
Set 4:3 or 16:9 ratio manually |
🕹️ Best TV Settings for R36S
For the clearest image:
Set TV aspect ratio to 4:3 for authentic retro look
Turn off image smoothing or “motion enhancement”
Choose “Game Mode” on your TV for lowest input lag
These settings make SNES and PS1 titles look sharper and more responsive.
🧩 Pro Tip: Using a Capture Card
If you want to record gameplay, connect your R36S (with HDMI output) to a USB capture card instead of a TV.
This lets you stream or record your retro gameplay directly to your PC using OBS or similar software.
🏁 Final Thoughts
So, can the R36S connect to a TV?
✅ Yes — if you own the R36S+, R36S Pro, or compatible HDMI-output model.
The base R36S handheld is designed mainly for portable gaming, but upgraded models make it easy to enjoy your favorite retro games on the big screen.
Whether through HDMI, AV-out, or a streaming setup, you can turn your handheld into a living room console in minutes — keeping all the nostalgia, but on a bigger stage.