HDTV Cable for PlayStation and PS2: Do You Still Need It?

Quick answer

If your PS1 or PS2 is stuck on a modern TV with no usable retro inputs, the Hyperkin HDTV Cable is a simple, low-cost fix. It outputs 720p over HDMI with stereo audio, but it needs external USB power, so plan for that before you buy. If you already own a quality upscaler or a CRT, you probably do not need it.

What this cable actually does

The Hyperkin HDTV Cable for PS1 and PS2 converts the console's video signal to 720p and sends it through HDMI, with stereo audio carried on the same cable. It is a plug-in adapter, not a full upscaler with picture adjustments. The cable is 7 feet long, which is enough for most living room setups without an extension. The one catch is power: the cable requires a 5V 1A USB source, and the included 6-foot Micro cable must be connected to the Micro port on the cable and to that USB source. No USB power adapter is included.

How to connect a PS2 to a modern TV with this cable

Connect the PlayStation AV plug to the console, plug the HDMI end into your TV, then connect the Micro cable to the cable's Micro port and the other end to a 5V 1A USB power source. If you skip the power step, you will not get a picture. Once powered, select the correct HDMI input on your TV and set the console to output the right video mode. Because the cable outputs 720p, your TV does the final scaling to its native panel resolution. That is normal for this type of adapter and is usually fine for casual play.

Where the picture quality actually comes from

The cable sets the output resolution, but your TV's scaler and processing handle the rest. On a modern 4K set, a 720p signal will be upscaled by the TV, and results vary by brand and model. If you are chasing the sharpest possible PS2 image, a dedicated upscaler with more control will usually beat a simple cable. If you just want to play without hunting for a CRT, this cable removes the biggest barrier. That is the honest trade-off: convenience and cost versus maximum image control.

Recording or streaming your PS2 gameplay

If your goal is to capture footage rather than just watch it, you need a capture device in the chain. The Old Skool HD Video Capture Card accepts a console or other device and passes it through to your computer for streaming or recording. It supports up to 4K input, outputs up to 1080p, and can do 60 fps at 720p or 30 fps at 1080p. It works with common software such as VLC, OBS, and ACAP, and it needs no external power. One practical note from the catalog: to capture audio in OBS you must specify the audio source correctly, so budget a few minutes for that setup step.

When a different cable or setup makes more sense

If you already own a CRT television, the HDTV cable is unnecessary because the console's native output looks right on that display. If you own a high-end upscaler, adding this cable may not improve anything and could add an extra conversion step. If you want the absolute cleanest signal and are willing to spend more, research dedicated component or RGB solutions for your specific console revision. The HDTV cable is a targeted fix for one problem: no usable retro input on a modern TV.

Decision rules for buying a PS2 HDTV cable

• Rule 1: No retro inputs on your TV: If your modern TV lacks composite or component inputs and you want to play PS1 or PS2 games on it, the Hyperkin HDTV Cable is a direct, low-cost solution. Buy it. Check your TV's input panel first.
• Rule 2: You already own a CRT or a quality upscaler: If you have a working CRT or a dedicated upscaler you are happy with, this cable adds little. Skip it and put the money toward games or a capture card instead. Do not buy a fix for a problem you do not have.
• Rule 3: You want to stream or record: Pair the HDTV cable with the Old Skool HD Video Capture Card to get gameplay into OBS or VLC. Remember to set the audio source in OBS or you will get silent footage. Budget for the capture card if recording is the goal.
• Rule 4: You need the absolute sharpest image: A simple 720p cable relies on your TV's scaler. If you want fine control over the picture, research a dedicated upscaler instead of expecting this cable to match one. Match the tool to your priority: convenience or maximum quality.

Product facts that affect your decision

• HDTV Cable for PlayStation and PlayStation 2: Supports 720p resolution with crisp stereo audio over a 7 ft. cable, and requires external 5V 1A USB power via the included 6 ft. Micro cable. You get a one-cable HDMI solution, but you must have a USB power source nearby or the cable will not work.
• HD Video Capture Card - Old Skool: The Old Skool HD Video Capture Card supports up to 4K input, 1080p output, 60 fps at 720p or 30 fps at 1080p, works with VLC, OBS, and ACAP, and needs no external power. If you want to record or stream rather than just play, this is the missing piece, and it does not add another power brick to your setup.

Who should buy this cable

Best for

• Players with a PS1 or PS2 and a modern TV that has no composite or component inputs
• Anyone who wants a simple, single-cable HDMI connection with stereo audio
• Retro gamers who want to play on the living room TV without moving a CRT into the room

Not for

• Owners of a working CRT television who are happy with the original picture
• Players who already own a dedicated upscaler and want maximum image control
• Anyone unwilling to connect the cable to a 5V 1A USB power source