Microsoft needs to make a feature where you can just boot your PC like a console into a simplified controller compatible desktop. Since people have games downloaded across different launchers (epic, steam, GOG, EA, Uplay) it is a hassle having to use the mouse to get started every time.
You can do this if you setup auto login on your windows user and then set steam to open up in big picture mode automatically and having steam run at boot
You can skip a lot of this by just using steam. You can set big picture mode to activate by tapping twice the xbox button and you can select the TV as video input automatically. All this in steam configuration menu. And if you want use your PC just as a console you can select to boot directly in steam big picture.
Great video! I had pretty much given up on PC couch gaming because it’s way more complicated to get the right setup than it should be, but your trick with unplugging and plugging in the HDMI cable to the TV to create two “modes” finally fixed the issues I was running into. I also use Playnite instead of steam big picture because it has more customization options and is able to hold my entire library regardless of launcher, if you haven’t yet I recommend checking it out. I also use a program called JoyXoff to bind KBM features to my Xbox controller so I don’t even need a keyboard or mouse at all on the couch! Thanks again!
So happy it helped! It was SO frustrating trying to game on my TV without that trick. I tried playnite for a short time but decided Steam was best for me since honestly all my games are in Steam. I'll check out JoyXoff!
As someone who prides themselves on being a tech wiz, I've NEVER thought about making the tv the main display. Its solves every issue I had with switching between desktop and tv gaming
No way!! I'm so glad! I had the exact same experience haha. I just posted a new video that shows how to use external buttons to switch displays, check it out!
I also went this way. To have my pc as console like as possible i did these steps. 1. Added all non steam games to my steam library. 2. Used steamgriddb and their plugin to get all covers, banners and logos. (Actually kinda fun) 3. Get Controller companion on steam 4. Set steam to autostart and to launch in big picture mode. 5. In windows settings set it to skip the login screen. Now if you turn on your pc you can sit back on the couch with nothing more than your controller, your pc will boot directly into steam big picture where you will find and thanks to controller companion will be able to start all your games even if they have other launchers.
This is actually a really helpful video from a small channel, with damn good quality content, I didn't even expect it to be this comforting to watch your video!
Here's a quick tip to save you money and have less cable management to deal with. You will have to rearrange your living room for this. Pick a corner of the room and put your entertainment center at an angle in the corner to where you have a gap behind the entertainment center. You can use that extra space you just made to hide your gaming PC behind the TV. If your entertainment center has enough space to put your PC on it under the TV, then that is recommended first. There is no need to have long cables across your living room, especially if your WIFI router is right next to your TV, which most modern home living rooms should have set up anyway. It's just better to have your PC on your entertainment center just like a console to show off while you game.
I use Monitor Profile Switcher and SoundSwitch. They allow me to set Hotkeys for switching Audio and Monitor settings. Works quite well. No plugging and unplugging required. Have you used those before?
Thank you! I made a new one detailing how you can use buttons instead of plugging and unplugging. But the plugging and unplugging is software-free, so no bugs haha
Thought I'd add another tip if you're not a fan of the unplugging and plugging. Get an HDMI switcher. I already had one so I thought I'd try but I can just press a button on the switcher and it'll act the same as plugging and unplugging, very convenient and I also don't have to even open the inputs up on my tv
Oh that’s a good idea! I’ve been using software since making this video and I still think physically changing the inputs is better, I’ll have to try it! The worst part of having the tv always plugged in is Windows flips out when you turn the tv on and off which I do much more often than a monitor, I think this would fix that
I run into an issues where on a dual display setup, my monitor freeze for a second. Here is the setup: Monitor 1 is a 2k@165hz display port connected. Monitor 2 is a 4k TV @144hz (120hz) hdmi 2.1 connected (samsung s95c) When monitors are set at extended or clone, everything is ok. As soon as I set "show only monitor 1" (that is the display port connected one, I get this one second freeze, mouse cursor dissapear. Also in geforce settings or windows display screen it it looks like the pc loose connection to the TV. How can I solve this?
There is a program called Monitor Profile Switcher. You can save each monitor configuration to it, make a hotkey for each of them, and then you can edit the Steam desktop config to bind those hotkeys to a controller button configuration. So for me, when I press Select and Y, it switches to TV mode. When I press Select and A, it switches to desktop mode. That way you don't have to unplug the TV, just sit on your couch and press the button combo on your gamepad
This was doable when I lived in an apt. Now my office and media room are at opposite corners of the house. I'd probably need an HDMI extender & goodness knows what else to make this worthwhile.
Bro, your channel is so underrated! Tech tips for quality of life gaming is so nice. People like you deserve more praise! Just wanted to let you know :). Great voice and presentation too!
hey man if you use monitor profile switcher it is a program that does what you are manually doing with unplugging the hdmi. I have 2 profiles just like you said and a hotkey for each profile, I have 1 named Monitors and another named tv and just click the hotkey I want enabled
I just have my three screens plugged in at all times. I set one screen as extend and the other one just duplicates over to the tv. So if i need to play on the tv, i just turn off the monitors
I use Moonlight Sunshine with chromecast, turn on pc remotely and use a .bat script as app to shutdown pc, it feel great using chromecast controller to open games and turn on ps4 controller, I dont need interact with windows the only problem is that casting games to tv add a small latency.
For true PC gaming in the living room, skip the Xbox controller and opt for a Dualsense, then map mouse to gyroscope in Steam Input, with Left Trigger as the activator. Also, for mouse gaming, can look into Fragchuk controller with Logitech G502 wireless mouse. Map spacebar, R, T and any other buttons not mapped on Fragchuck to the mouse buttons. Can also buy an Azeron Cyborg and any mouse. Use a Couchmaster Cycon 2 (for couch) or Couchmaster Lapboard (for recliner).
this is some great info, I might have to go get a DualSense... my Dual Shock controllers were always less reliable on my PC, maybe DualSense gets it right. You should talk to Eric Bazinga, he's always talking about mouse input mapped to controllers, but his baby is the Steam Controller.
okay i bought a dual sense, but i think i misread what you're saying. I was thinking map the mouse to the gyro so I could use the mouse in windows, but it seems like it only makes you able to move the mouse in steam. Cause the major advantage for me would be that if i needed quick mouse output to change an audio setting or something i could use the controller as a mouse. Any way to do that?
I'd actually recommend any controller other than Xbox. One of the best things about using a controller on PC is Nintendo style gyro aim, which allows you to aim more fluidly/accurately by subtly tilting the controller, resulting in mouse-like precision. Usually gyro aim is exclusive to Nintendo systems, and there's no guarantee that the Switch game you want to play supports gyro, but on PC you can use Steam Input to get gyro in _any game you want._ Just set gyro to "Mouse-like Joystick" and you're done. You can leave it always on by default or choose a button input to turn gyro on/off or toggle it (e.g. in a shooter game you can set it so gyro only functions when aiming your gun with the left trigger). Xbox controllers flat-out don't have gyro functionality, they lack the necessary sensors. If you want a gyro aim controller, I'd recommend a Switch Pro Controller (similar layout to Xbox, plus no expensive dongle needed) or a DualShock 4 (if you want to keep your analog triggers; you could alternatively get a DualSense and use its fancy adaptive triggers). Or you can be a weirdo like me who uses a Steam Controller. If you've got a Switch or PS4 controller lying around I'd recommend pairing it to your PC and trying it out. Also, get some rechargeable AAs instead of a bunch of disposable ones. The environment (and more importantly, your wallet) will thank you. I'd recommend Panasonic Eneloop batteries since they last way longer than other brands. You can get 4 batteries plus the charger for $20 on Amazon. Really enjoyed your video btw, I like your style of humor.
Thanks man! Always appreciate your tips. I do have a Switch Pro controller and PS4 controller laying around, and definitely enjoy using my PS4 controller's gyro functionality to enter text on PS4, never thought u could use it to aim, I'll have to give it a try. You keep getting me to retry things I've given up on lol like using the PS4 controller on PC. Keep these tips coming!
@@itsdanielpaul No problem. If you want I'll help you set it up, Steam Input can be daunting to someone unfamiliar with it. Even I don't 100% know my way around it. But it'd be easier to help you troubleshoot over Discord. Ericbazinga#9215 Feel free to add me!
@@itsdanielpaul Wait, you don't have a Discord? Not saying you're required to, but Discord is pretty much synonymous with gaming, especially PC gaming. It's great for stuff like voice chat with your friends while gaming and just keeping in touch with them. You can also join servers for various groups (think of them kinda like subreddits), some of my favorites are servers dedicated to specific emulators. Super handy for troubleshooting. Plus it's all ad-free and free of tabloid news, politics, all that annoying shit that clogs up a traditional social media feed. Discord is very different from stuff like Facebook and Twitter, it's more like if DMs were turned into an entire social platform. I'd very much recommend making a Discord account just in general, it's a great way to keep in touch with friends, meet new people, and just chat. Anyway, if you prefer not to make a Discord, if you have a Reddit I can open up a DM for us there. If you don't have that then we can continue chatting here, but I don't get notifications for when you reply so using Discord or Reddit would be way more efficient. If we use Discord I can open up screen share and walk you through setting your controls up how you want.
bro this vidoe was amazing and exactly what I was looking for, upgraded my current pc instead of buying a ps5 or series x to have both the couch gaming experience and gaming PC Felt like watching someone with 1million subs man, nice quality video wish you the best
Thanks man! I appreciate and love to help fellow gamers! This was such a hair-puller for me, don't want others to go thru the hell of swapping computer monitors and a TV lol
What a good tutorial! I have one very capable 4k 60hz pc and 4k 120hz Vrr TV, and I really like to game on it! Even though the experience is not 100 %, the console simplistic style is good enough! The not so good part is if you have the new 2.1 gpu and 2.1 tv, your second display (tv) must be very close to the actual pc because hdmi 2.1 loose "power" after 5 meters of so of cable length!
ooo interesting, is that exclusively with HDMI 2.1 cables or does it happen with HDMI 2.0 also? I've never really experienced signal degradation on long cables before, but 4K 120Hz is a lot of data lol
@DANMAN! Gaming Yes ,I think signal degradation happens to 2.0 as well! Hdmi 2.1 needs to be very good quality type for 4k, 120hz ,HDR, dolby Vision etc.
exactly even with 5 feet it loses enough bandwidth to not be able to do 2.1 and he recommended a fake 2.1 cable at 30 feet lol. Might as well try and hook it up with string cause who knows if it's even able to do 2.0 at that point, let alone do 2.1 lol. Zeskit Hdmi 2.1 cables are 100 percent certified and the safest bet getting 2.1 cables that will carry the signal at long distances.
I have to be honest I usually play single player, but some of my favorites are Super Puzzle Fighter 2 Turbo, and Mortal Kombat 11. It's a short list, sorry!
I had problems with audio too. I think Vizio eArc does not work with PC, so I just extended the screen and plugged a second hdmi cable right into the sound bar to get atmos otherwise the pc only says I can get stereo with the sound system.
I'm a dad just trying to help my son play his PC games on his TV using his high-end gaming PC and remote controls (no keyboards) .What do I need, just wireless Xbox controllers and an HDMI run from PC to TV? I need a dongle I assume? His Samsung only has one HDMI input but we run everything through his receiver (note it's only 1080. Thank you so much
If you have a hdmi cable from your TV AND an HDMI cable from your monitor going into your PC, won't you need an HDMI splitter to accept both HDMI cables? My graphics card only has one HDMI slot.
This is a great tutorial! I’ve got everything but the audio working. When I play Spotify I’m getting audio to play through my TV, but I can’t get game audio working. Any idea why that might be?
You want to press a controller button, and you want that to turn the computer on? You definitely have to turn the computer on first, connect the TV, then you can press the console button and Steam Big Picture mode will come up.
Wouldn’t it be easier to duplicate one of the monitors as screen 3 instead of plugging in and unplugging (which wears out the wire) also you should be getting an active cable cause a super long passive cable will have issues with getting the signal to the tv at higher resolutions
So far I haven’t had any issues with my passive cable… how would issues manifest themselves? Also I made a new video with a new setup, no plugging or unplugging!
I seem to be having Screen Tearing Issues with my TV. I have a TCL 43inc 4k 60hz,, HDMI 2.1 cable, and all frame rates should line up at 60, but there still seems to be a tearing issue which can get annoying, I noticed turning on v-sync can help but the input lag is crazy. Did you have this problem? maybe I need a high refresh rate tv.
This is the only video i found on this matter. I am thinking to build a pc+oled tv or just an xbox+same tv.... and was thinking about pros and cons of both options.... tbh after watching your video i found out for me that pc setup as console is not an easy thing for a rookie like me )) i mean more hussle with all you do. Though Pc would bring more capabilities in terms of for example if you wanna play an old game that you like but in 4k etc etc.... i know new consoles have that backward compatibilities ... but that doesn't work always as fluent as on pc....Also pc games are cheap (but in this case you like spend much more money if you want to build an absolutely killing pc)..... tbh i have 2 questions to you if you don't mind answering would be awesome 1 - For example how much is the difference of picture graphics quality for your eye when comparing your pc and lets say series x or ps5 (though i don't like sony)??? 2 - Why you picked this setup instead of just buying a console and connecting it to your tv if you are a controller user type person ? interesting to hear your motivation and thoughts on that questions Sorry for my poor english , i am not a native speaker! .Your channel is great by the way
This is an awesome tutorial. Thank you for sharing this great setup! I would add - get HyperX ChargePlay Duo instead of batteries. It makes it way more comfortable and makes a nice compact stand for two controllers
you know how consoles are super optimized how do i make my pc run as fast as it because the chip inside an xbox is worse than the one in my pc when running windows but my pc cant run forza on windows at the same frame rate as the xbox chip in an xbox
I can gladly say, I have this setup now, but instead of Steam Big Picture I use PlayNite now, because Steam Big Picture Mode became a headache to work with.
I didn't understand that setting up the displays part. I got 1 monitor and 1 TV. So how do I set it up? And is there a way for me to do this without plugging and unplugging, since you mentioned that?
@@itsdanielpaul Just tried that, works great! The only problem I got now is the audio output. Is there an option to automatically switch to the tv speakers when I switch from my monitor to my TV?
Great vid, having one issue not sure if it's a windows 11 thing -- when i play on tv the screen will randomly go black at time for a few seconds but will come back in. not sure if anyone else has this problem but super annoying when playing games
Oh no! This sounds like the nvddlkm NVIDIA bug. I actually made a video about this. Open up event viewer and see if you see something that says “NVIDIA driver crashes and has been restarted” or something like that. I fixed mine when I turned off my rgb fan color control.
I like the Xbox 360 controller better than Xbox One controllers and it´s about 30 USD for an original refurbished controller where I live (in Sweden). It´s as compatible as the Xbox One controller and has all the same functions so, if you want a lower budget with the same result go for a 360 receiver and 360 controllers. Microsoft has stopped selling the receiver out of pure evil but there are third party versions that MS is trying to block the drivers for, a small and easy thing to fix but not plug and play cos the drivers aren´t signed by MS.
This was really helpful. It worked for sometimes using single monitor and TV but causing issues now. If I am using only monitor and TV is off, my monitor keep flickering until I remove TV hdmi cable. Is there any suggestion to fix it or should I buy HDMI extender ?
Windows is definitely most compatible with an XBOX controller so I would recommend that. But, I do use a PS4 controller also, it just gives me more problems, especially if I’m not using Steam.
I just hope steam deck would make pc gaming easier on TV. The dock functionality looks awesome, your guide is nice but windows loves to mess things up, something will break 3-4th time I’ll do this but I can trust Xbox/ps to work with just a button.
SO true. Windows has this habit of resetting the option of "press xbox button to open xbox game bar" so even when i turn it off, somehow it just turns on again. But i'm happy with bringing my mouse over to the couch to avoid that whole thing.
So here is the question of all questions: My gf uses her PS4 to play games as well as watching Netflix, Prime or UA-cam. I want to do that with a Pc as the "console". There are windows 10 apps for Netflix etc, but they are not usable with a controller afaik. Also Steam can only launch traditional programs, no windows 10 "apps". Is there a way to use a pc also as a multimedia console?
You're limited to app support. I use Plex's home theater app and it works fine with an Xbox controller, but really, a set top box like an nvideo shield is the way to go. It's super simple, has a mic in the remote so you don't have to type out a movie name for half a minute, and just works.
Do you play on 1920x1080 on your TV or 4K? I tried to play on 4K and it was capped at 30 fps. I checked Advanced Display Settings and it says 60 Hz but when I switch it to 3840 x 2160 on Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered or Ghost of Tsushima Directors Cut, it’s just capped at 30 fps. Are there any fixes to this? I use an RTX 2050 or 2060 and I use an HDMI 2.0. (Btw when I play it on 1920x1080 it is capped at 60 fps which should be.)
Can you use this if your pc is upstairs and your tv is downstairs? Im okay with drilling a hole for a hdmi cable but is there a work oround for the controller because i dont think my Bluetooth will connect from that far
I’m pretty sure you still need the dongle, but haven’t bought an XBOX controller since. The dongle does a bit more than standard Bluetooth I think is the reason.
@@itsdanielpaul Oh ok, So if my laptop has xbox wireless builtin, Just connecting my controller should be fine right? At least that's one of the three ways that's mentioned on the xbox website.
What about a quick resume tutorial for PC. I've lived without title screens or worrying about saving before you shut down for 6 years and I don't want to go back to them
Very helpful video, thanks! Does anyone know if there's any loss on the controller-bluetooth end? I plan to try something like this but I'm not sure whether the distance from the source will produce any lag. My TV is in a different room, so there are walls in between and maybe about a 5/6 meter distance in a straight line (sorry, continental European here).
thank you! i think i might have mentioned it in the video, if you get a looooong USB cable and a bluetooth dongle, you can take the bluetooth into the other room with you! re: signal loss, it can def happen if the dongle is in the other room so i’d def recommend the extender usb
I will buy a dedicated PC just works with my TV so I don't have to plug and unplug or worry about using it as my daily driver. I would save the money difference with buying cheaper Steam games anyway comparing to PS5. Btw, does Xbox controller work well with Steam as good as a PS5 controller on a PS5?
Really helpfull, with the montiors especially drove me crazy on is it on the desk montiors or the t.v, have adapted idea slightly of discontenting the hdmi, have passed hdmi thourgh a spliter on powering on/ off the splitters power via a smart plug which in turn can be controlled by alexa.
I just made a new video that shows how to switch monitors with buttons, my next video is how to do it with Alexa using your computer, not a smart plug. That sounds like a good solution too, tho!
when i to tv, the refresh rate drop to 30hz while my tv is 60hz. so each time i switch. i have to change it to 60hz manually on windows setting. Any help !!!
That was happening to me at one point too! I feel like it randomly fixed itself, but I moved to NYC and can't even fit a big TV in my apartment so I just use my 32" monitor now. Did you ever figure it out?
Microsoft needs to make a feature where you can just boot your PC like a console into a simplified controller compatible desktop. Since people have games downloaded across different launchers (epic, steam, GOG, EA, Uplay) it is a hassle having to use the mouse to get started every time.
You can do this if you setup auto login on your windows user and then set steam to open up in big picture mode automatically and having steam run at boot
@@Elkooi I know I'm a bit late, but I use an application called PlayNite, which synchronizes all of your game libraries.
Try playnite
They would never do that because then who would buy their xbox
Microsoft have a LOT of features that needs to make including this.
"Does your ass yearn for the couch after ours in that 50 dollar office chair?"
Most beautifully-written question ever asked in history.
This video is super underrated! You've made all the pains of shifting gaming from the desktop to the couch as seamless as possible!
Thanks!! It was so frustrating I felt I had to share haha
You can skip a lot of this by just using steam. You can set big picture mode to activate by tapping twice the xbox button and you can select the TV as video input automatically. All this in steam configuration menu. And if you want use your PC just as a console you can select to boot directly in steam big picture.
lol I wish it was that easy. but the multiple monitor set up makes it a headache as I discovered over many months, unless you use this guide!
@@NickDrawzComix Yeah the og one is better than Bedrock but no one cares about it anymore it seems
@@itsdanielpaul killer video bro
@@itsdanielpaul it is that easy actually
just use big picture mode and a controller as a mouse and keyboard
Chimera OS now is a good choice
Great video! I had pretty much given up on PC couch gaming because it’s way more complicated to get the right setup than it should be, but your trick with unplugging and plugging in the HDMI cable to the TV to create two “modes” finally fixed the issues I was running into. I also use Playnite instead of steam big picture because it has more customization options and is able to hold my entire library regardless of launcher, if you haven’t yet I recommend checking it out. I also use a program called JoyXoff to bind KBM features to my Xbox controller so I don’t even need a keyboard or mouse at all on the couch! Thanks again!
So happy it helped! It was SO frustrating trying to game on my TV without that trick. I tried playnite for a short time but decided Steam was best for me since honestly all my games are in Steam. I'll check out JoyXoff!
hey, can you help me? I also use playnite. Do you know how to set xbox "home" button to display playnite when i click it? thx
As someone who prides themselves on being a tech wiz, I've NEVER thought about making the tv the main display. Its solves every issue I had with switching between desktop and tv gaming
No way!! I'm so glad! I had the exact same experience haha. I just posted a new video that shows how to use external buttons to switch displays, check it out!
Amazing tutorial. You definitely deserve more likes.
Thanks man!
I also went this way. To have my pc as console like as possible i did these steps.
1. Added all non steam games to my steam library.
2. Used steamgriddb and their plugin to get all covers, banners and logos. (Actually kinda fun)
3. Get Controller companion on steam
4. Set steam to autostart and to launch in big picture mode.
5. In windows settings set it to skip the login screen.
Now if you turn on your pc you can sit back on the couch with nothing more than your controller, your pc will boot directly into steam big picture where you will find and thanks to controller companion will be able to start all your games even if they have other launchers.
This is actually a really helpful video from a small channel, with damn good quality content, I didn't even expect it to be this comforting to watch your video!
You don't have to buy a 48 pack of batteries. Buy rechargeable ones or a play and charge kit.
Here's a quick tip to save you money and have less cable management to deal with. You will have to rearrange your living room for this. Pick a corner of the room and put your entertainment center at an angle in the corner to where you have a gap behind the entertainment center. You can use that extra space you just made to hide your gaming PC behind the TV. If your entertainment center has enough space to put your PC on it under the TV, then that is recommended first. There is no need to have long cables across your living room, especially if your WIFI router is right next to your TV, which most modern home living rooms should have set up anyway. It's just better to have your PC on your entertainment center just like a console to show off while you game.
I use Monitor Profile Switcher and SoundSwitch. They allow me to set Hotkeys for switching Audio and Monitor settings. Works quite well. No plugging and unplugging required.
Have you used those before?
This is EXACTLY what i was looking for! i didnt expect to find a full from 0 to 100 guide on this topic!
This video is actually useful. Thanks for making it :)
thank you!! I really like this setup haha
Those Hdmi extenders are an awesome idea. Will protect the ports while making switching easier. Great tip
You're the best! Thank you very much, you convinced me to stay at PC Gaming since now I can hang on the couch and play my games from there
Super underrated Video, some super helpful tips in here thx!
Thank you! I made a new one detailing how you can use buttons instead of plugging and unplugging. But the plugging and unplugging is software-free, so no bugs haha
Very very well made video I’m surprised you don’t have more subscribers. I liked and subbed happy new year!
Coming this week, a sequel to this video! Hope you like it!
@@itsdanielpauldoes the wireless adapter have a good range?
Thought I'd add another tip if you're not a fan of the unplugging and plugging. Get an HDMI switcher. I already had one so I thought I'd try but I can just press a button on the switcher and it'll act the same as plugging and unplugging, very convenient and I also don't have to even open the inputs up on my tv
Oh that’s a good idea! I’ve been using software since making this video and I still think physically changing the inputs is better, I’ll have to try it! The worst part of having the tv always plugged in is Windows flips out when you turn the tv on and off which I do much more often than a monitor, I think this would fix that
I wish I saw this a year ago. It takes me 5-10 mins to set it up then another 3 to revert it back. This is the easy way I was looking for.
It's so weird, right? You'd think they'd have it figured out by now.
This is extremely high quality, thank you very much
Damn bro this production quality!
You are underrated af!
ok the cable extension part is really smart, I'm totally trying this😃
I run into an issues where on a dual display setup, my monitor freeze for a second. Here is the setup:
Monitor 1 is a 2k@165hz display port connected.
Monitor 2 is a 4k TV @144hz (120hz) hdmi 2.1 connected (samsung s95c)
When monitors are set at extended or clone, everything is ok. As soon as I set "show only monitor 1" (that is the display port connected one, I get this one second freeze, mouse cursor dissapear. Also in geforce settings or windows display screen it it looks like the pc loose connection to the TV.
How can I solve this?
There is a program called Monitor Profile Switcher. You can save each monitor configuration to it, make a hotkey for each of them, and then you can edit the Steam desktop config to bind those hotkeys to a controller button configuration.
So for me, when I press Select and Y, it switches to TV mode. When I press Select and A, it switches to desktop mode. That way you don't have to unplug the TV, just sit on your couch and press the button combo on your gamepad
Yes, I tried that too but software is too buggy and doesn't always work
this is for the extension thing if you turn off the tv the other monitors turn back on as well, this is just an fyi hope it helps
6:54 I'm high asf wondering why you'd need to press the windows key and pee at the same time 😭
Okay if you’re still high watch this video, it’s relevant 😝 start at 2:17
ua-cam.com/video/vZIpUZ9ieAU/v-deo.htmlsi=_uEM5F0qgAZKD_Rw
Dope T-Shirt …Sierra had their time in gaming!
This was doable when I lived in an apt. Now my office and media room are at opposite corners of the house. I'd probably need an HDMI extender & goodness knows what else to make this worthwhile.
Try moonshine
No need to use the keyboard and mouse. Just put your pc into automatic steam picture mode. You can also use a ps5 controller by bluetooth.
Bro, your channel is so underrated! Tech tips for quality of life gaming is so nice. People like you deserve more praise! Just wanted to let you know :). Great voice and presentation too!
thanks so much! i never thought of it like that. if you have any suggestions for videos you wanna see i’m all ears! ❤️
hey man if you use monitor profile switcher it is a program that does what you are manually doing with unplugging the hdmi. I have 2 profiles just like you said and a hotkey for each profile, I have 1 named Monitors and another named tv and just click the hotkey I want enabled
Thanks for the tip! This is super useful
I just have my three screens plugged in at all times. I set one screen as extend and the other one just duplicates over to the tv. So if i need to play on the tv, i just turn off the monitors
Such a pro grade tutorial, and you definitely deserve a million subs!
Well, I am adding my share here at least, Liked and Subscribed... Kudos man!
I use Moonlight Sunshine with chromecast, turn on pc remotely and use a .bat script as app to shutdown pc, it feel great using chromecast controller to open games and turn on ps4 controller, I dont need interact with windows the only problem is that casting games to tv add a small latency.
For true PC gaming in the living room, skip the Xbox controller and opt for a Dualsense, then map mouse to gyroscope in Steam Input, with Left Trigger as the activator. Also, for mouse gaming, can look into Fragchuk controller with Logitech G502 wireless mouse. Map spacebar, R, T and any other buttons not mapped on Fragchuck to the mouse buttons. Can also buy an Azeron Cyborg and any mouse. Use a Couchmaster Cycon 2 (for couch) or Couchmaster Lapboard (for recliner).
this is some great info, I might have to go get a DualSense... my Dual Shock controllers were always less reliable on my PC, maybe DualSense gets it right. You should talk to Eric Bazinga, he's always talking about mouse input mapped to controllers, but his baby is the Steam Controller.
okay i bought a dual sense, but i think i misread what you're saying. I was thinking map the mouse to the gyro so I could use the mouse in windows, but it seems like it only makes you able to move the mouse in steam. Cause the major advantage for me would be that if i needed quick mouse output to change an audio setting or something i could use the controller as a mouse. Any way to do that?
I'd actually recommend any controller other than Xbox. One of the best things about using a controller on PC is Nintendo style gyro aim, which allows you to aim more fluidly/accurately by subtly tilting the controller, resulting in mouse-like precision. Usually gyro aim is exclusive to Nintendo systems, and there's no guarantee that the Switch game you want to play supports gyro, but on PC you can use Steam Input to get gyro in _any game you want._ Just set gyro to "Mouse-like Joystick" and you're done. You can leave it always on by default or choose a button input to turn gyro on/off or toggle it (e.g. in a shooter game you can set it so gyro only functions when aiming your gun with the left trigger). Xbox controllers flat-out don't have gyro functionality, they lack the necessary sensors.
If you want a gyro aim controller, I'd recommend a Switch Pro Controller (similar layout to Xbox, plus no expensive dongle needed) or a DualShock 4 (if you want to keep your analog triggers; you could alternatively get a DualSense and use its fancy adaptive triggers). Or you can be a weirdo like me who uses a Steam Controller. If you've got a Switch or PS4 controller lying around I'd recommend pairing it to your PC and trying it out.
Also, get some rechargeable AAs instead of a bunch of disposable ones. The environment (and more importantly, your wallet) will thank you. I'd recommend Panasonic Eneloop batteries since they last way longer than other brands. You can get 4 batteries plus the charger for $20 on Amazon.
Really enjoyed your video btw, I like your style of humor.
Thanks man! Always appreciate your tips. I do have a Switch Pro controller and PS4 controller laying around, and definitely enjoy using my PS4 controller's gyro functionality to enter text on PS4, never thought u could use it to aim, I'll have to give it a try. You keep getting me to retry things I've given up on lol like using the PS4 controller on PC. Keep these tips coming!
@@itsdanielpaul No problem. If you want I'll help you set it up, Steam Input can be daunting to someone unfamiliar with it. Even I don't 100% know my way around it. But it'd be easier to help you troubleshoot over Discord. Ericbazinga#9215 Feel free to add me!
@@ericbazinga ah nice! i was just gonna ask how to make it work lol I'll have to sign up for discord now haha
@@itsdanielpaul Wait, you don't have a Discord? Not saying you're required to, but Discord is pretty much synonymous with gaming, especially PC gaming. It's great for stuff like voice chat with your friends while gaming and just keeping in touch with them. You can also join servers for various groups (think of them kinda like subreddits), some of my favorites are servers dedicated to specific emulators. Super handy for troubleshooting. Plus it's all ad-free and free of tabloid news, politics, all that annoying shit that clogs up a traditional social media feed. Discord is very different from stuff like Facebook and Twitter, it's more like if DMs were turned into an entire social platform. I'd very much recommend making a Discord account just in general, it's a great way to keep in touch with friends, meet new people, and just chat.
Anyway, if you prefer not to make a Discord, if you have a Reddit I can open up a DM for us there. If you don't have that then we can continue chatting here, but I don't get notifications for when you reply so using Discord or Reddit would be way more efficient. If we use Discord I can open up screen share and walk you through setting your controls up how you want.
I recently got a hdmi splitter and hdmi switcher and a book shelf to do something like this with 3 systems pc ,xbox and wii
That entire first 20 seconds is everything I have an issue with looool
Just what I needed, thanks!
bro this vidoe was amazing and exactly what I was looking for, upgraded my current pc instead of buying a ps5 or series x to have both the couch gaming experience and gaming PC
Felt like watching someone with 1million subs man, nice quality video wish you the best
Thanks man! I appreciate and love to help fellow gamers! This was such a hair-puller for me, don't want others to go thru the hell of swapping computer monitors and a TV lol
Plug in the PC into a TV with a long HDMI cable, open Steam and go into big picture mode, plug in your controller and you're good to go.
So you don't need a pc monitor? Asking as someone who wants to buy a gaming pc for the first time and to use it like a console.
Im gonna try this when i get a new room.
If this works like it does for you then you're awesome :D
What a good tutorial! I have one very capable 4k 60hz pc and 4k 120hz Vrr TV, and I really like to game on it! Even though the experience is not 100 %, the console simplistic style is good enough! The not so good part is if you have the new 2.1 gpu and 2.1 tv, your second display (tv) must be very close to the actual pc because hdmi 2.1 loose "power" after 5 meters of so of cable length!
ooo interesting, is that exclusively with HDMI 2.1 cables or does it happen with HDMI 2.0 also? I've never really experienced signal degradation on long cables before, but 4K 120Hz is a lot of data lol
@DANMAN! Gaming Yes ,I think signal degradation happens to 2.0 as well! Hdmi 2.1 needs to be very good quality type for 4k, 120hz ,HDR, dolby Vision etc.
exactly even with 5 feet it loses enough bandwidth to not be able to do 2.1 and he recommended a fake 2.1 cable at 30 feet lol. Might as well try and hook it up with string cause who knows if it's even able to do 2.0 at that point, let alone do 2.1 lol. Zeskit Hdmi 2.1 cables are 100 percent certified and the safest bet getting 2.1 cables that will carry the signal at long distances.
Great video!!!! You earned a like and a sub , Im glad I have a gaming laptop so portability is a breeze
Thank you so much!!!
Nice video, very detailed! ❤️
Thank you! 😊
Any good PC/steam couch co-op games to play together with family/friends?
I have to be honest I usually play single player, but some of my favorites are Super Puzzle Fighter 2 Turbo, and Mortal Kombat 11. It's a short list, sorry!
Halo MCC with a mod
Do any of you sit on the couch with a lap desk and game with a mouse and a keyboard using the living room TV as a display?
I had problems with audio too. I think Vizio eArc does not work with PC, so I just extended the screen and plugged a second hdmi cable right into the sound bar to get atmos otherwise the pc only says I can get stereo with the sound system.
Thanks dude , you helped me a lot
No problem! I just released a new one showing how you can use buttons to switch monitors, it's pretty cool!
@@itsdanielpaul can you link me the video please?
@@itsdanielpaul and do you open steam in big picture mode , before switching to tv ? is not that more convenient ?
Amazing!! thank you!!
Would be nice if you could include Dualshock 3/4 instructions as well... but great video man, thanks!
I'm a dad just trying to help my son play his PC games on his TV using his high-end gaming PC and remote controls (no keyboards) .What do I need, just wireless Xbox controllers and an HDMI run from PC to TV? I need a dongle I assume? His Samsung only has one HDMI input but we run everything through his receiver (note it's only 1080. Thank you so much
Another good keyboard and mouse are the logitech go pop mouse and keyboard due to it having multi device support.
The ones I mention also have multi device support up to three!
If you have a hdmi cable from your TV AND an HDMI cable from your monitor going into your PC, won't you need an HDMI splitter to accept both HDMI cables? My graphics card only has one HDMI slot.
Alienware used to make a gaming PC console just for this reason. But as far as I know, they stopped making it. It was called the "Alienware Alpha".
This is a great tutorial! I’ve got everything but the audio working. When I play Spotify I’m getting audio to play through my TV, but I can’t get game audio working. Any idea why that might be?
Could you use a hdmi switcher with wireless remote instead of manually plugging in?
Hopefully this helps me get my consolized office pc to turn on with the controller turning on.
You want to press a controller button, and you want that to turn the computer on? You definitely have to turn the computer on first, connect the TV, then you can press the console button and Steam Big Picture mode will come up.
Wouldn’t it be easier to duplicate one of the monitors as screen 3 instead of plugging in and unplugging (which wears out the wire) also you should be getting an active cable cause a super long passive cable will have issues with getting the signal to the tv at higher resolutions
So far I haven’t had any issues with my passive cable… how would issues manifest themselves? Also I made a new video with a new setup, no plugging or unplugging!
I seem to be having Screen Tearing Issues with my TV. I have a TCL 43inc 4k 60hz,, HDMI 2.1 cable, and all frame rates should line up at 60, but there still seems to be a tearing issue which can get annoying, I noticed turning on v-sync can help but the input lag is crazy. Did you have this problem? maybe I need a high refresh rate tv.
Wouldn't it be easier to just use a steam link? Assuming you have a decent home network, ofc
Believe me I tried and it’s crap lol
Oh this ia cool idea I wana try it also with using my Huion and having the TV as a Monitor too to see my art work super huge ^^
Great video thanks
This is the only video i found on this matter. I am thinking to build a pc+oled tv or just an xbox+same tv.... and was thinking about pros and cons of both options.... tbh after watching your video i found out for me that pc setup as console is not an easy thing for a rookie like me )) i mean more hussle with all you do. Though Pc would bring more capabilities in terms of for example if you wanna play an old game that you like but in 4k etc etc.... i know new consoles have that backward compatibilities ... but that doesn't work always as fluent as on pc....Also pc games are cheap (but in this case you like spend much more money if you want to build an absolutely killing pc)..... tbh i have 2 questions to you if you don't mind answering would be awesome
1 - For example how much is the difference of picture graphics quality for your eye when comparing your pc and lets say series x or ps5 (though i don't like sony)???
2 - Why you picked this setup instead of just buying a console and connecting it to your tv if you are a controller user type person ? interesting to hear your motivation and thoughts on that questions
Sorry for my poor english , i am not a native speaker! .Your channel is great by the way
This is an awesome tutorial. Thank you for sharing this great setup!
I would add - get HyperX ChargePlay Duo instead of batteries. It makes it way more comfortable and makes a nice compact stand for two controllers
you know how consoles are super optimized how do i make my pc run as fast as it because the chip inside an xbox is worse than the one in my pc when running windows but my pc cant run forza on windows at the same frame rate as the xbox chip in an xbox
What’s your gpu
and how much ram do you have also are you using ssd or hdd
I can gladly say, I have this setup now, but instead of Steam Big Picture I use PlayNite now, because Steam Big Picture Mode became a headache to work with.
I didn't understand that setting up the displays part. I got 1 monitor and 1 TV. So how do I set it up?
And is there a way for me to do this without plugging and unplugging, since you mentioned that?
Hi! Did you try "windows key + p"? That'll allow you to quickly switch between two screens, turning only one on a time.
@@itsdanielpaul Just tried that, works great!
The only problem I got now is the audio output.
Is there an option to automatically switch to the tv speakers when I switch from my monitor to my TV?
Great vid, having one issue not sure if it's a windows 11 thing -- when i play on tv the screen will randomly go black at time for a few seconds but will come back in. not sure if anyone else has this problem but super annoying when playing games
Oh no! This sounds like the nvddlkm NVIDIA bug. I actually made a video about this. Open up event viewer and see if you see something that says “NVIDIA driver crashes and has been restarted” or something like that. I fixed mine when I turned off my rgb fan color control.
Use of a meme as a thumb nail. Auto thumbs up in my book, and the video was good to. Cheers
But you still have a keyboard on side, , i have a chatpad on my xbox controler.. its amazing
any way to play non steam games without having to start the game with a mouse and keyboard?
Can u customize your boot screen itd be hularious to make the power sequence to be like Bradbox 780 with a cool logo
I like the Xbox 360 controller better than Xbox One controllers and it´s about 30 USD for an original refurbished controller where I live (in Sweden). It´s as compatible as the Xbox One controller and has all the same functions so, if you want a lower budget with the same result go for a 360 receiver and 360 controllers. Microsoft has stopped selling the receiver out of pure evil but there are third party versions that MS is trying to block the drivers for, a small and easy thing to fix but not plug and play cos the drivers aren´t signed by MS.
My usb dongle for the controller doesn't get recognized when I plug it into the extension cable
Huh! Are you using an old cable?
Im using one game launcher in xbox gamebar. It works fine. Faster than launching steam
This was really helpful. It worked for sometimes using single monitor and TV but causing issues now.
If I am using only monitor and TV is off, my monitor keep flickering until I remove TV hdmi cable. Is there any suggestion to fix it or should I buy HDMI extender ?
Thanks for this method it’s great, just wondering this would not change in windows 11?
Would this work as well with a ps4 controller or should I buy an Xbox controller ?
plug hdmi into tv
Windows is definitely most compatible with an XBOX controller so I would recommend that. But, I do use a PS4 controller also, it just gives me more problems, especially if I’m not using Steam.
I just hope steam deck would make pc gaming easier on TV. The dock functionality looks awesome, your guide is nice but windows loves to mess things up, something will break 3-4th time I’ll do this but I can trust Xbox/ps to work with just a button.
SO true. Windows has this habit of resetting the option of "press xbox button to open xbox game bar" so even when i turn it off, somehow it just turns on again. But i'm happy with bringing my mouse over to the couch to avoid that whole thing.
I hate using Bluetooth headphones and I can't play loud all the time. Is there a way to route audio through the controller?
switching between game mode and desktop mode should you something like a on and off switch instead of plugging in and out
So here is the question of all questions:
My gf uses her PS4 to play games as well as watching Netflix, Prime or UA-cam. I want to do that with a Pc as the "console". There are windows 10 apps for Netflix etc, but they are not usable with a controller afaik. Also Steam can only launch traditional programs, no windows 10 "apps". Is there a way to use a pc also as a multimedia console?
You're limited to app support. I use Plex's home theater app and it works fine with an Xbox controller, but really, a set top box like an nvideo shield is the way to go. It's super simple, has a mic in the remote so you don't have to type out a movie name for half a minute, and just works.
Will dualsense controller work? And is it possible to use only a TV as a monitor without others?
Is the game resolution affected in any way when playing on tv? Are subtitles in smaller fonts?
You can just buy a rechargeable battery pack for your xbox controller.
Damn, i wish i saw this video before I bought an entire second PC to achieve the same thing
Honestly this minimizes headaches but a whole nother PC eliminates them lol
Do you play on 1920x1080 on your TV or 4K? I tried to play on 4K and it was capped at 30 fps. I checked Advanced Display Settings and it says 60 Hz but when I switch it to 3840 x 2160 on Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered or Ghost of Tsushima Directors Cut, it’s just capped at 30 fps. Are there any fixes to this? I use an RTX 2050 or 2060 and I use an HDMI 2.0. (Btw when I play it on 1920x1080 it is capped at 60 fps which should be.)
I quickly looked it up and it looks like the RTX 20 series only supports HDMI 2.0, which won't get you 4K 60fps, it only goes to 60fps for 1080p. :(
Can you use this if your pc is upstairs and your tv is downstairs?
Im okay with drilling a hole for a hdmi cable but is there a work oround for the controller because i dont think my Bluetooth will connect from that far
Yeah I think I mention in the video that you can get a USB bluetooth dongle and attach it to a very long USB cable and put it through the same hole.
@itsdanielpaul do you have a link of those? Because I can't find long USB cables with dongles
dude's staring directly into my soul
Strange question, if you're using windows, why does it not have built-in xbox wireless? Or is that just something windows didn't have 2 years ago?
I’m pretty sure you still need the dongle, but haven’t bought an XBOX controller since. The dongle does a bit more than standard Bluetooth I think is the reason.
@@itsdanielpaul Oh ok, So if my laptop has xbox wireless builtin, Just connecting my controller should be fine right? At least that's one of the three ways that's mentioned on the xbox website.
@@netheo6396 yeah, it's its built in, I could see that with a laptop
What about a quick resume tutorial for PC. I've lived without title screens or worrying about saving before you shut down for 6 years and I don't want to go back to them
You mean how to be able to exit a game but it saves your place?
@@itsdanielpaul Well like hibernate or sleeps just the game is what i think quick resume is.
Very helpful video, thanks! Does anyone know if there's any loss on the controller-bluetooth end?
I plan to try something like this but I'm not sure whether the distance from the source will produce any lag. My TV is in a different room, so there are walls in between and maybe about a 5/6 meter distance in a straight line (sorry, continental European here).
thank you! i think i might have mentioned it in the video, if you get a looooong USB cable and a bluetooth dongle, you can take the bluetooth into the other room with you! re: signal loss, it can def happen if the dongle is in the other room so i’d def recommend the extender usb
I will buy a dedicated PC just works with my TV so I don't have to plug and unplug or worry about using it as my daily driver. I would save the money difference with buying cheaper Steam games anyway comparing to PS5. Btw, does Xbox controller work well with Steam as good as a PS5 controller on a PS5?
The XBOX controller is definitely what Steam and PC prefers. I like using a PS5 controller too, but outside of Steam it's a headache to use.
Really helpfull, with the montiors especially drove me crazy on is it on the desk montiors or the t.v, have adapted idea slightly of discontenting the hdmi, have passed hdmi thourgh a spliter on powering on/ off the splitters power via a smart plug which in turn can be controlled by alexa.
I just made a new video that shows how to switch monitors with buttons, my next video is how to do it with Alexa using your computer, not a smart plug. That sounds like a good solution too, tho!
How can I turn off the controller? Im using the wireless adapter.
These display settings are not present in windows 11?
when i to tv, the refresh rate drop to 30hz while my tv is 60hz. so each time i switch. i have to change it to 60hz manually on windows setting. Any help !!!
That was happening to me at one point too! I feel like it randomly fixed itself, but I moved to NYC and can't even fit a big TV in my apartment so I just use my 32" monitor now. Did you ever figure it out?
@ saddly no 💔
any way i can reverse this, if i can't get a picture on my tv anymore?
hows your latency? I've recently done a similar setup, same HDMI cord too, but I am paranoid about latency from the adapter
No latency at all!