How to Connect the Asus ROG Ally to a TV or Gaming Monitor

The ROG Ally, launched in 2023, emerged as a stellar competitor to the Steam Deck, thanks to its Windows operating system that opens up a broader range of gaming options. The subsequent release of the ROG Ally X last year brought enhanced internal components and improved ergonomics, making it even more comfortable to use with better cooling. While the ROG Ally's portability is a major draw, it's fantastic to have the option to connect it to a larger screen for a more immersive gaming experience. Both ROG Ally models support connection to external displays, allowing you to enjoy your games on a TV or gaming monitor. 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 a TV or monitor is straightforward with an adapter, which is a compact and efficient solution. You have several options, from a small dongle-style adapter to a direct cable or the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock.

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 simplified the process of connecting the ROG Ally to a TV with the official ROG Gaming Charger Dock. This dock is the most space-efficient option and serves as a charger for your device. All you need are a USB-C and HDMI cable, and you're set. The Charger Dock also includes a USB-A port, allowing you to connect a mouse and/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 to the adapter and 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 offer a passthrough USB-C port for charging the ROG Ally while connected to an external display. If your adapter has 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 display.
3. (Optional) If your USB-C adapter has a passthrough USB-C port for charging, connect your ROG Ally's power adapter to the passthrough port.
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 more Nintendo Switch-like experience, consider using a docking station. Although the ROG Ally doesn't have an official docking station beyond the ROG Gaming Charger Dock, numerous third-party options are available. These docks allow you to place the ROG Ally in 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 multiple ports are included with this lightweight, compact dock that also serves as a stand. See it at Amazon.

Basic docks for the ROG Ally typically feature an HDMI port and a USB-C passthrough charging port. 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 expanding internal memory, and even a Display Port for connecting an additional monitor. Smaller, portable docks are ideal for travel, enabling you to connect 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

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 a mouse and keyboard can be connected to your ROG Ally via a docking solution, a wireless controller often provides the most comfortable gaming experience on a larger screen. The ROG Ally is compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller. Here are some top recommendations, which also work well with the Steam Deck:

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 recommendations include first-party options like the PS5's DualSense, the Xbox Wireless Controller, or the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, as well as various third-party controllers. Some controllers use a 2.4GHz wireless connection with an included USB adapter, which can offer lower latency and better range than standard Bluetooth controllers. For those close to their ROG Ally or docking station, a wired USB controller provides a simple plug-and-play solution.