The ROG Ally made waves in 2023 as an impressive alternative to the Steam Deck, providing access to a broader range of games through its Windows operating system. The subsequent release of the ROG Ally X last year not only enhanced its internal components but also improved its ergonomics and cooling, making it an even more appealing choice for gamers on the go. While the ROG Ally is renowned for its portability, it also offers the flexibility to connect to larger screens, allowing you to enjoy your favorite games on a TV or gaming monitor. Both ROG Ally models support connection to external displays, and below, you'll find a comprehensive guide on how to connect your device to a TV or monitor, complete with step-by-step instructions and our recommendations.

How to Connect With an Adapter

There are several ways to hook up your ROG Ally to a TV or monitor, but using an adapter is a straightforward and space-saving solution. You can choose from a small dongle-style adapter, a direct cable, or the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock, depending on your preference.

What You'll Need

ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock

0Supports HDMI 2.0 with USB Type-A and USB Type-C for ROG Ally.
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Asus has streamlined the process of connecting the ROG Ally to a TV. The official ROG Gaming Charger Dock is the most space-efficient adapter option, as it also serves as a charger for your device. All you need is a USB-C cable and an HDMI cable to get started. The Charger Dock also includes a USB-A port, allowing you to connect a mouse or keyboard.

For a third-party solution, a USB-C to HDMI adapter can be connected directly to the ROG Ally's USB-C port. Then, attach an HDMI cable from the adapter to your TV or monitor. Alternatively, a USB-C to HDMI cable offers a one-cable solution, directly connecting your ROG Ally to your TV or monitor.

Some USB-C to HDMI adapters come with a passthrough USB-C port to keep your ROG Ally charged while connected to an external display. If your adapter includes this feature, you'll need an additional USB-C cable and your power adapter to charge the internal battery 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 you're 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 one end of 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, simply 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 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 Charger Dock, which is more of an adapter, there are numerous third-party options available. These docking stations enable you to place the ROG Ally into a stand while connecting to a TV or monitor and charging simultaneously.

What You'll Need

JSAUX Docking Station HB0603

2100 watts of power for fast charging and numerous ports come with this lightweight, compact dock that also serves as a stand.
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The most basic docks for the ROG Ally include an HDMI port and a USB-C passthrough charging port to power the unit while connected to a TV or monitor. More advanced docks offer additional USB ports for peripherals like a mouse and keyboard, external hard drives, Ethernet ports for stable wired internet, SD card slots for expanded memory, and even a Display Port for connecting an additional display. Smaller, portable docks are perfect for traveling with the ROG Ally and connecting to larger screens 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 connect the other end to an available HDMI port on your TV or monitor.
5. Power on the ROG Ally, and 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 use a mouse and keyboard with your ROG Ally docking solution, the most comfortable and user-friendly option is a wireless controller. The ROG Ally supports any Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller. Below are our top picks for Steam Deck controllers, which are also compatible with the ROG Ally.

Sony DualSense

1
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Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller

4
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8BitDo Ultimate Controller

0
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GuliKit KingKong 3 Max Controller

1
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PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller

2
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This list includes 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 an included USB adapter, which typically offers lower latency and better range than standard Bluetooth controllers. For a simpler setup, you can also opt for a wired USB controller if you're close enough to your ROG Ally or docking station.