Connecting the PlayStation 1 to a modern TV via HDMI
The original PlayStation outputs composite or S-Video by default. That’s fine for a CRT TV, but blurry on a modern flatscreen. With an HDMI adapter you can bring the image to an acceptable level — and with the XStation optical drive emulator you can also play directly from an SD card.
What you need {#what-you-need}
Option A — External HDMI upscaler (plug-and-play)
- HDMI adapter for PS1 (several brands — check the connector for your specific model)
- HDMI cable
Option B — Component cable + converter
- PlayStation component cable
- Component-to-HDMI converter
Option C — PS1Digital (internal mod, best quality, advanced)
- PS1Digital internal HDMI mod (requires soldering and electronics knowledge)
🔗 [Affiliate link — Amazon: search term “PS1 PlayStation 1 HDMI adapter upscaler”] 🔗 [Affiliate link — AliExpress: search term “PlayStation 1 HDMI adapter PS1”]
Tip: SCART RGB for the best analogue image quality
The PS1 delivers an excellent RGB signal via SCART. With a good SCART RGB cable and a SCART-to-HDMI upscaler (like the RetroTINK 2X) you get a sharp, colour-accurate image. This is the best balance between quality and cost for most people.
Connecting via external HDMI adapter
- Connect the HDMI adapter to the AV Multi-out connector on the back of the PS1
- Connect an HDMI cable between the adapter and your TV
- Select the correct HDMI input and turn on the PS1
Connecting via SCART RGB + upscaler
- Connect a SCART RGB cable to the AV Multi-out connector of the PS1
- Connect the SCART end to a SCART-to-HDMI upscaler
- Connect the upscaler to your TV via HDMI
- Turn on the PS1
Connecting via composite (fallback option)
The PS1 comes with a composite cable (yellow connector + red/white audio). Works on virtually any TV but gives the worst image quality.
Note: PSone vs original PS1
The PSone (the compact model from 2000) and the original large PS1 use the same AV Multi-out connector — a cable for one model works on the other. Only the power supply is different.
Done
With a SCART RGB cable or an HDMI adapter the PS1 looks significantly better on a modern TV. The 3D graphics retain the typical PS1 look — but that’s part of the charm. The 2D sprite games look particularly sharp via RGB.
Questions or doubts? You’re not the first. We’re happy to help you through it.