The ROG Ally made waves in 2023 as a formidable competitor to the Steam Deck, thanks to its Windows operating system, which grants access to a broader range of games. The following year saw the launch of the ROG Ally X, which not only enhanced the internal components but also improved the ergonomics and cooling system, making it more comfortable to use. While the ROG Ally's primary appeal is its portability, the ability to connect it to a TV or gaming monitor for a more relaxed gaming experience is a significant advantage. Both the original ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X can be easily connected to an external display, allowing you to enjoy your games on a larger screen. Below is 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 a TV or monitor can be done in several ways, but using an adapter is a straightforward and space-efficient method. Whether you choose a compact dongle-style adapter, a direct cable, or the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock, there are numerous options to fit your needs.
What You'll Need
ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock
0Supports HDMI 2.0 with USB Type-A and USB Type-C for ROG Ally. See it at Best Buy. ASUS has simplified the process of connecting the ROG Ally to a TV with the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock. This dock is the most space-saving adapter option and also serves as a charger for your device. You'll only need a USB-C and HDMI cable to get started. The Charger Dock also features a USB-A port for connecting a mouse or keyboard.
Alternatively, you can use a third-party USB-C to HDMI adapter, connecting it directly to the ROG Ally's USB-C port. Then, attach an HDMI cable from the adapter to your TV or monitor. For a one-cable solution, consider a USB-C to HDMI cable that connects directly from your ROG Ally to your display.
Some USB-C to HDMI adapters come with a passthrough USB-C port, allowing you to charge your ROG Ally while playing. If your adapter includes this feature, you'll need an additional USB-C cable and your power adapter to keep the internal battery charged during gameplay.
How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Plug a USB-C to HDMI adapter (or cable) into the ROG Ally's USB-C port on the top of the enclosure. 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. Connect 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 using a direct USB-C to HDMI cable, simply plug the HDMI end into 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 it to provide power.
4. Power on the ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
5. Switch your TV or monitor to the correct HDMI input to view your ROG Ally's display.
How to Connect With a Docking Station
For a setup reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch, consider using a docking station. Although the ROG Ally doesn't have an official docking station beyond the ROG Gaming Charging Dock (which functions more like an adapter), there are many third-party options available. Docking stations provide a stand for the ROG Ally while facilitating connections to your TV or monitor and allowing simultaneous charging.
What You'll Need
JSAUX Docking Station HB0603
2100 watts of power for fast charging and multiple ports come with this lightweight, compact dock that also serves as a stand. See it at Amazon. The most basic docks for the ROG Ally include an HDMI port and a USB-C passthrough charging port to keep the device powered while connected to your display. For more advanced needs, there are docks with additional USB ports for peripherals like mice and keyboards, external hard drives, Ethernet ports for stable wired internet connections, SD card slots for expanding internal memory, and even Display Ports for additional screens. Smaller, portable docks make it easy to travel with the ROG Ally and 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 dock.
2. Connect the USB-C power cord to the ROG Ally's USB-C port on the top of the enclosure.
3. Connect your ROG Ally's power adapter to the USB-C charging port on the dock.
4. Attach an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the dock and the other end to an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor.
5. Power on the ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
6. Switch your TV or monitor to the correct HDMI input to view 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 solution, using a wireless controller provides the most comfortable experience when playing on a larger screen. The ROG Ally supports any Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller. Below are our recommendations for the best controllers, which are compatible with both the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally.
Sony DualSense
1See it at Amazon. See it at Best Buy. See it at Target.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller
4See it at Amazon. See it at Best Buy.
8BitDo Ultimate Controller
0See it at Amazon.
GuliKit KingKong 3 Max Controller
1See it at Amazon.
PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller
2See it at Amazon. This includes first-party options like the PS5's DualSense, the Xbox Wireless Controller, or the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, as well as numerous third-party controller choices. Some controllers use a 2.4GHz wireless connection with an included USB adapter, which typically provides lower latency and better range than standard Bluetooth controllers. Additionally, you can opt for a wired USB controller for a simple plug-and-play solution if you're close enough to your ROG Ally or docking station.
