Do You Need a Special Type of TV to Use an Old 1990s Nintendo NES or SNES?

To use an old Nintendo console like the NES or SNES from the 1990s, you don't necessarily need a special type of TV. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to ensure the best possible gaming experience.

Connection Type

The NES and SNES typically use composite video connections, which involve a yellow RCA connector for video and red and white RCA connectors for audio. Most older TVs have these inputs, but many modern TVs may not have them. In such cases, you might need an adapter or a converter to make the connection work.

CRT TVs

If you're a die-hard fan of the retro gaming experience, many enthusiasts prefer using CRT (cathode-ray tube) TVs. CRTs are known for handling the lower resolutions of these consoles better, which can reduce input lag. However, not all modern TVs have the necessary inputs or the same performance standards as CRTs.

Modern TVs

Modern flat-screen TVs can also be used with the NES and SNES, but you might need some modifications:

If your TV lacks RCA inputs, you might need an RCA to HDMI converter. Some modern TVs can introduce latency, so you may need to set some specific configurations to reduce it.

Compatibility

It's crucial to ensure that your TV can handle the 60Hz refresh rate, which is the standard output rate of these consoles. Most modern TVs can handle this, but it's always a good idea to check if you experience any issues.

Technically, most new TVs will work, but some newer models might not have the right inputs, requiring adapters. These adapters can sometimes introduce additional lag, which can significantly affect gameplay, especially in fast-paced games or when using light guns.

One notable problem is that some newer TVs don't work with older games that use light guns, such as Freedom Force, Duck Hunt, or Lethal Enforcers. In these cases, you'll be limited to using a gamepad, which is an inferior solution.

Successfully Tested Retrotink Products

Recently, Retrotink has introduced a range of products that address these compatibility issues:

Retrotink 2X Pro M: This product takes composite or component signals and outputs an HDMI signal, making it easier to connect and play. It has been tested to be virtually frame equal in performance with a straight RF input, except for light gun games and SegaScope 3D games which rely on pixel-perfect timing. SCART2COMP: For light gun games or SegaScope 3D, this product takes SCART input and converts it to component, providing a better picture on a CRT TV. Some sub-pixel delay might be visible. SCART2HDMI: For all other games that don't require specific CRT TV technology, this product converts SCART to HDMI, making it compatible with a wide range of TVs.

The Retrotink 2X Pro M has been tested to be frame equal with a straight RF input, except for light gun games and SegaScope 3D games which require pixel-perfect timing. A competitor, the MTVBox, which performs NTSC RF to VGA conversion directly, has been observed to be a frame behind but at least as fast as a direct RF playthrough.

These products can also be used to play modern games with sub-frame ping. Simply plug a modern HDMI game into a CRT VGA monitor, as described earlier, without requiring the Retrotink product.

Overall, while you don't necessarily need a special TV, the Retrotink products offer a solution for those who want to enjoy the best possible experience with their old gaming consoles.