Asus ROG Ally: Connect to TV or Gaming Monitor Guide

The ROG Ally, introduced in 2023 as a compelling alternative to the Steam Deck, offers gamers an expansive library of games thanks to its Windows operating system. The following year saw the launch of the ROG Ally X, which not only enhanced its internal components but also improved comfort and cooling, making it an even more attractive handheld gaming device. While its portability is a major draw, the ROG Ally also shines when connected to a TV or monitor for a more immersive gaming experience. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to connect your ROG Ally to a larger screen, 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 achieved through various methods, 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 different benefits to suit your needs.

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. This dock is the most space-efficient option as it also charges your device. All you need are a USB-C and an HDMI cable to get started. The Charger Dock additionally features a USB-A port for connecting peripherals like a mouse or keyboard.

Alternatively, using a third-party USB-C to HDMI adapter, you can plug it directly into the ROG Ally's USB-C port. Then, connect an HDMI cable from the adapter to your TV or monitor. For a one-cable solution, a USB-C to HDMI cable can be used to directly connect your ROG Ally to your TV or monitor.

Some USB-C to HDMI adapters come with a passthrough USB-C port, which allows you to charge your ROG Ally while it's 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 one end of the adapter (or Charger Dock) and plug the other end into a vacant HDMI port on your TV or monitor. If you're using a direct USB-C to HDMI cable, plug the HDMI end into your TV or monitor.
3. (Optional) If your USB-C adapter includes a passthrough USB-C port for charging, connect your ROG Ally's power adapter to the passthrough USB-C port to provide power.
4. Power on the ROG Ally; it should automatically detect and output the video signal.
5. Switch your input on the TV or monitor to the correct HDMI input to see your ROG Ally's display.

How to Connect With a Docking Station

For those who prefer a docking solution similar to the Nintendo Switch, numerous third-party docking stations are available for the ROG Ally. Although Asus doesn't offer an official docking station beyond the ROG Gaming Charger Dock, these third-party options can serve as a stand while connecting to your TV or monitor and charging the device.

What You'll Need

JSAUX Docking Station HB0603

2100 watts of power for fast charging and tons of ports come with this lightweight, compact dock that also serves as a stand. See it at Amazon

Basic docks for the ROG Ally typically include an HDMI port and a USB-C passthrough charging port. More advanced docks offer additional USB ports for peripherals, external hard drives, Ethernet ports for stable internet connections, SD card slots for expanding internal memory, and even a Display Port for connecting an additional screen. Compact and portable docks are ideal for gamers on the go, and many docks compatible with the Steam Deck can also be used 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 ROG Ally.
4. Connect an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the dock with the other end connected to a vacant 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 input on the TV or monitor to the correct HDMI input to see your ROG Ally's display.

You'll Also Need a Controller

While you can use a mouse and keyboard with your ROG Ally docking setup, using a wireless controller can offer a more comfortable gaming experience on a larger display. The ROG Ally supports any Bluetooth-enabled gaming controller. Below are our top recommendations for controllers that work well with the ROG Ally, similar to those suggested for 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 options include first-party controllers like the PS5's DualSense, the Xbox Wireless Controller, and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, as well as a range of third-party controllers. Some controllers use a 2.4GHz wireless connection with a USB adapter, which can provide lower latency and better range than standard Bluetooth controllers. For those sitting close to their setup, a wired USB controller offers a simple plug-and-play solution.