If your PS4 powers on but the TV shows a black screen, first check the selected HDMI input and cable. Then connect the console directly to the display, power-cycle both devices, and use Safe Mode to reset the resolution. A black screen can have several causes, so work through these checks in order rather than assuming the console is faulty.
1. Check the TV input and HDMI connection
Make sure the TV or monitor is on and displaying the HDMI input used by the PS4. Reseat the HDMI cable at both ends, then try another HDMI port on the display. If available, test with a known-good compatible cable; PlayStation recommends a high-speed or premium high-speed HDMI cable when using one other than the cable included with the console. PlayStation’s picture and sound troubleshooting covers these connection checks.
2. Connect the PS4 directly to the display
Temporarily remove any sound bar, home-theater receiver, capture device, or other intermediary from the video path. Connect the PS4’s HDMI cable directly to the TV or monitor. If the image returns, reconnect the removed equipment one item at a time to identify where the signal is being interrupted. PlayStation recommends testing a direct connection.
3. Fully power-cycle the display and console
- Turn off the PS4 and the TV or monitor completely.
- Disconnect the power cables from both devices and wait 20 minutes.
- Reconnect the power cables, turn the display on, then turn on the PS4.
PlayStation also advises checking that the display or audio device has current firmware. See its picture and sound troubleshooting steps.
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4. Reset the PS4 display resolution in Safe Mode
If the regular startup still produces no picture, Safe Mode’s Change Resolution option can reset the output to 480p. To enter Safe Mode:
- Turn the PS4 off by holding its power button until it shuts down.
- Hold the power button again. Release it after the second beep, which comes about seven seconds after the first.
- Connect the controller to the console with a USB cable and press the PS button.
- Select Change Resolution. The console restarts at 480p; after the picture returns, adjust the display settings as needed.
PlayStation describes this option as changing the display resolution to 480p when the console restarts. Follow the official Safe Mode instructions.
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5. Check the PS4 Pro HDCP setting, then seek repair if needed
For PS4 Pro connected to a 4K display chain
This specific compatibility check applies to PS4 Pro. If a 4K TV does not support HDCP 2.2, the console may fail to show an image during 4K games or 4K streaming. In Safe Mode, choose Set HDCP Mode > HDCP 1.40 Only. This setting may limit output to 1080p. Details are in PlayStation’s Safe Mode guide.
If none of the checks restore the picture
Use PlayStation Repairs for the next diagnostic step. These checks cannot determine remotely whether the HDMI port or another component is damaged.
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If Safe Mode itself does not appear
Check that the HDMI cable is properly connected and try another USB, HDMI, or power cable if available. PlayStation’s Safe Mode troubleshooting guidance also recommends a 20-minute power cycle before trying to enter Safe Mode again.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Be careful with other Safe Mode options
Safe Mode options do not all have the same effect. Restore Default Settings does not delete content from console storage, while Rebuild Database scans the drive and creates a new content database. Initialize PS4 deletes all user data; Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software) deletes all user data and removes PS4 firmware. Read the on-screen description before selecting an option, and back up data before choosing one that erases it. See PlayStation’s Safe Mode option descriptions.
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