Connecting the Atari 2600 to a modern TV

The original Atari 2600 outputs video via an RF signal — designed for the antenna input of old CRT TVs. Modern TVs no longer have that port. There are two ways to solve this: an external RF-to-HDMI adapter (easy, no soldering) or a composite video mod (better image, requires some soldering).

What you need {#what-you-need}

Option A — RF-to-HDMI adapter (easiest)

RF-to-composite converter or an RF-to-HDMI converter
Note: quality varies widely — buy from a reputable brand

Option B — Composite video mod (better image, requires soldering)

Composite mod kit for Atari 2600
Soldering iron + solder
PH2 screwdriver to open the Atari

Option C — Atari 2600+ (latest model, plug-and-play HDMI)

Newly purchased Atari 2600+ — plays original cartridges and has HDMI built in

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Which option is right for me?

Want to play quickly without any fuss? Buy an RF-to-HDMI converter. Image quality is decent. Want the best image and don't mind soldering? Go for the composite mod. Want zero hassle? The Atari 2600+ is the most modern and straightforward option.

Option A — Connecting via RF converter

Connect the RF cable from the Atari 2600 to the converter
Connect the converter to your TV via HDMI or composite
Set the TV to the correct input
Turn on the Atari 2600 and set the correct RF channel on the converter (usually channel 3 or 4)

Note: channel setting

The Atari 2600 has a switch on the side for channel 2 or channel 3. Set the TV/converter to the same channel. If you don't get a picture, try the other channel.

Option B — Composite video mod

The composite mod replaces the RF signal with a composite video signal (yellow cinch). This gives noticeably sharper image than RF. The mod requires opening the console and soldering a few wires.

A full guide is beyond the scope of this page, but there are excellent video tutorials available online for the specific Atari 2600 model you have. Search for “Atari 2600 composite mod [your model]” for step-by-step instructions.

Option C — Atari 2600+ (no hassle)

The Atari 2600+ has HDMI built in and is compatible with original Atari 2600 cartridges. If you’d rather buy new than modify an old console, this is the easiest path.

Done

With an RF converter you can play the Atari 2600 on any modern TV. The image isn’t spectacularly sharp, but on a large TV you can adjust the display settings to a smaller portion of the screen for a crisper look. With a composite mod or the 2600+ the image is significantly better.

Questions or doubts? You’re not the first. We’re happy to help you through it.