The ROG Ally made a significant impact in 2023, offering a compelling alternative to the Steam Deck with the advantage of running on a Windows operating system, which grants access to a wider array of games. The following year brought the ROG Ally X, enhancing not only the internal components but also improving the device's ergonomics and cooling system for a more comfortable gaming experience.
While the ROG Ally excels in portability, it also offers the flexibility to connect to a TV or gaming monitor for a more immersive gaming session from the comfort of your couch. Both the original ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X support connection to external displays, allowing you to enjoy your games on a larger screen. Below, you'll find a comprehensive guide on how to connect your ROG Ally to a TV or monitor, complete with detailed instructions and recommendations.
How to Connect With an Adapter
There are several ways to connect your ROG Ally to a TV or monitor, but using an adapter is a straightforward and space-efficient solution. You can choose from a compact dongle-style adapter, a direct cable, or the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock, each offering its own set of advantages.
What You'll Need
ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock
Supports HDMI 2.0 with USB Type-A and USB Type-C for ROG Ally. See it at Best Buy. ASUS has streamlined the process of connecting the ROG Ally to a TV with the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock, which also serves as a charger for your device. All you need is a USB-C and HDMI cable to get started. The Charger Dock also includes a USB-A port, allowing you to connect peripherals like a mouse or keyboard.
Alternatively, you can use a third-party USB-C to HDMI adapter, which connects directly to the ROG Ally's USB-C port. Attach an HDMI cable to the adapter and then to your TV or monitor. For a seamless one-cable solution, consider a USB-C to HDMI cable that connects directly from your ROG Ally to your display without any additional steps.
It's important to note that some USB-C to HDMI adapters come with a passthrough USB-C port, enabling you to charge your ROG Ally while it's connected to an external display. If your adapter features this passthrough port, 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
- 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.
- 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 display.
- (Optional) If your USB-C adapter includes a passthrough USB-C port for charging, connect your ROG Ally's power adapter to this port to provide power.
- Power on the ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
- Switch your TV or monitor's input to the correct HDMI channel 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 does not have an official docking station beyond the ROG Gaming Charger Dock, numerous third-party options are available. These docks allow you to place your ROG Ally in a stand, connect it to your TV or monitor, and charge it simultaneously.
What You'll Need
JSAUX Docking Station HB0603
2100 watts of power for fast charging and multiple ports are featured in this lightweight, compact dock that also serves as a stand. See it at Amazon. Basic docks for the ROG Ally usually come with an HDMI port and a USB-C passthrough charging port to keep your device powered while connected to an external display. For a more comprehensive setup, consider docks with additional USB ports for peripherals like a mouse and keyboard, external hard drives, Ethernet ports for a stable wired internet connection, SD card slots for expanded storage, and even a Display Port for connecting an additional screen. Smaller, portable docks are ideal for travel and connecting to larger displays on the go. Many docks compatible with the Steam Deck will also work with the ROG Ally.
How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place your ROG Ally into the dock.
- Connect the USB-C power cord to the ROG Ally's USB-C port on the top of the enclosure.
- Attach your ROG Ally's power adapter to the USB-C charging port on the dock.
- Connect an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the dock and the other end to an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor.
- Power on the ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
- Switch your TV or monitor's input to the correct HDMI channel to view your ROG Ally's display.
You'll Also Need a Controller
While you can use a mouse and keyboard with your ROG Ally's docking setup, a wireless controller often provides a more comfortable and intuitive gaming experience on a larger screen. The ROG Ally supports any Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller. Below are our top recommendations for controllers that are compatible with both the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally.
Sony DualSense
See it at Amazon. See it at Best Buy. See it at Target.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller
See it at Amazon. See it at Best Buy.
8BitDo Ultimate Controller
See it at Amazon.
GuliKit KingKong 3 Max Controller
See it at Amazon.
PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller
See it at Amazon.
These include first-party options like the PS5's DualSense, the Xbox Wireless Controller, or the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, as well as a variety of third-party controllers. Some controllers use a 2.4GHz wireless connection with a USB adapter, which typically offers lower latency and better range compared to standard Bluetooth controllers. For a simpler setup, you can opt for a wired USB controller if you're close enough to your ROG Ally or docking station for a plug-and-play experience.
