The ROG Ally made a significant impact in 2023 as a formidable alternative to the Steam Deck, primarily due to its ability to run on a Windows operating system, granting access to a broader range of games. The following year introduced the ROG Ally X, which not only enhanced the internal components but also improved comfort and cooling. While portability remains the ROG Ally's standout feature, the ability to connect it to a TV or gaming monitor for a more relaxed gaming experience is a major plus. Both models of the ROG Ally can be easily connected to external displays. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to connect your ROG Ally to a TV or monitor, complete with step-by-step instructions and recommendations.
How to Connect With an Adapter
Connecting your ROG Ally to your TV or monitor is straightforward, and using an adapter is a compact and efficient solution. Whether you choose a small dongle-style adapter, a direct cable, or the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock, there are various options to suit your needs.
What You'll Need
ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock - This dock supports HDMI 2.0, USB Type-A, and USB Type-C, making it an excellent choice for connecting and charging your ROG Ally. You can find it at Best Buy. ASUS has streamlined the process of connecting the ROG Ally to a TV with this dock, which is the most space-efficient option. All you need is a USB-C and HDMI cable to set it up. The Charger Dock also includes a USB-A port for connecting peripherals like a mouse or keyboard.
Alternatively, a third-party USB-C to HDMI adapter can be directly connected to the ROG Ally's USB-C port. From there, attach an HDMI cable to the adapter and your TV or monitor. For a more streamlined approach, you can opt for a USB-C to HDMI cable that directly links your ROG Ally to your TV or monitor, eliminating the need for additional adapters.
It's important to mention that some USB-C to HDMI adapters come with a passthrough USB-C port for charging. If your adapter has this feature, you'll need an additional USB-C cable and your power adapter to keep your ROG Ally charged during use.
How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Insert a USB-C to HDMI adapter (or cable) into the ROG Ally's USB-C port on the top of the device. If using the ROG Gaming Charger Dock, connect one end of a USB-C cable to the ROG Ally's USB-C port and the other end to the USB-C charging port on the Charger Dock.
2. Attach an HDMI cable to the adapter (or Charger Dock) and plug the other end into an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor. If you're using a direct USB-C to HDMI cable, connect the HDMI end to your TV or monitor.
3. (Optional) If your USB-C adapter has a passthrough USB-C port for charging, connect your ROG Ally's power adapter to this port to supply power during gameplay.
4. Turn on your ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
5. Switch the input on your TV or monitor to the appropriate HDMI channel to view your ROG Ally's display.
How to Connect With a Docking Station
For a more seamless experience reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch, consider using a docking station. While the ROG Ally doesn't have an official docking station beyond the ROG Gaming Charging Dock, numerous third-party options are available. These docks not only connect your ROG Ally to a TV or monitor but also charge it simultaneously.
What You'll Need
Our Top Pick: JSAUX Docking Station HB0603 - This dock delivers 100 watts of power for rapid charging and comes with multiple ports. Its lightweight and compact design also doubles as a stand. You can find it at Amazon. Basic docks for the ROG Ally typically feature an HDMI port and a USB-C passthrough charging port. For those seeking more functionality, advanced docks offer additional USB ports for peripherals, external hard drive support, Ethernet ports for stable wired internet connections, SD card slots for expanded storage, and even a Display Port for connecting an additional monitor. Smaller, portable docks are ideal for travel and can easily connect to larger displays on the go. Many docks compatible with the Steam Deck are also suitable for the ROG Ally.
How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place your ROG Ally into the docking station.
2. Connect the USB-C power cord to the ROG Ally's USB-C port on the top of the device.
3. Attach your ROG Ally's power adapter to the USB-C charging port on the docking station.
4. Plug an HDMI cable into the HDMI port on the docking station, and connect the other end to an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor.
5. Power on your ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
6. Switch the input on your TV or monitor to the correct HDMI channel to see your ROG Ally's display.
You'll Also Need a Controller
While you can connect a mouse and keyboard to your ROG Ally's docking setup, a wireless controller often provides the most comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience on a larger screen. The ROG Ally supports any Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller. Here are some top recommendations that work well with both the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck:
Our Top Pick: Sony DualSense - Available at Amazon, Best Buy, and Target.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller - Available at Amazon and Best Buy.
8BitDo Ultimate Controller - Available at Amazon.
GuliKit KingKong 3 Max Controller - Available at Amazon.
PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller - Available at Amazon.
These include first-party options like the PS5's DualSense, the Xbox Wireless Controller, or the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, along with a variety of third-party controllers. Some controllers use a 2.4GHz wireless connection with a USB adapter, offering lower latency and better range than standard Bluetooth controllers. For a simple plug-and-play experience, you can also use a wired USB controller if you're close enough to your ROG Ally or docking station.