The standard way to connect a Nintendo Switch to a TV is to put it in a dock. But what if you don't have a dock with you, or worse - what if your Nintendo Switch dock is broken? Is it possible to connect a Switch to a TV without a dock?
Luckily, this workaround allows you to connect your Nintendo Switch to your TV without a dock.
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You’ll need a USB-C to HDMI adapter to play your Nintendo Switch on your TV without a dock. To try this, you can buy a standard USB-C to HDMI adapter from Amazon. This adapter has three inputs, just like the back of the Switch dock, and a single USB-C output.
To connect your Nintendo Switch to your HDTV without using a dock, first disconnect the USB-C and HDMI cables from the back of the dock.
Then, mount the Switch on a stand or place it on a table near your TV. Connect the USB-C power cable and HDMI cable to the USB-C to HDMI adapter.
Now, connect that USB-C to HDMI adapter to your Nintendo Switch and select the correct channel on your TV. Once done, you can start playing your game.
You can use the Joy-Cons individually, connect them to the Joy-Con Grip, or use the Switch Pro Controller, just like normal. There won't be any difference in the experience, except for the lack of a Nintendo Switch dock.
As you can see, this is a relatively simple process. However, it won’t work with all USB-C to HDMI adapters. You’ll need to make sure you have an adapter that’s compatible with your Nintendo Switch.
Which USB-C to HDMI adapter should you get that's compatible with your Switch? The device you're looking for should have:
There are a lot of options available online. Not all of them are compatible with the Nintendo Switch. Some are completely incompatible, while others don't support 4K. Here are some of the best options.
RREAKA USB Type C to HDMI Digital AV Multiport Hub
The RREAKA Multiport Hub is a versatile travel dock that lets you quickly plug in your Nintendo Switch to switch to TV mode or charge one or two devices. It even supports GameCube adapters and fits easily into your bag.
GENKI Global Covert Dock 2 Charger for Nintendo Switch
A compact alternative to the Nintendo Switch dock, the GENKI Global Covert Dock packs a punch in a palm-sized package. 30-watt Gallium nitride (GaN) charging, along with two USB ports and an HDMI socket, makes this two-in-one dock and charger a seamless companion for gaming on TV with your Switch.
No matter which device you choose, make sure it is designed to replace the Nintendo Switch dock.
When the Nintendo Switch is in the official dock, it will be upright. With the USB to HDMI adapter on top, the Switch will rest on a table.
There are a variety of Nintendo Switch stands that can both make your Switch a beautiful piece of decoration and keep it upright when connected to your TV without a dock.
For a dock that fits both the Nintendo Switch, OLED, and Lite, Nintendo’s adjustable charging dock is an easy choice. It’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. There’s a spot for the console and an AC port for power. It also has a small adjustable dock, so you can keep playing your Switch while it’s charging.
This certified Nintendo Switch stand comes in black, Zelda, Pikachu, and Mario designs; HORI aims to add some color and personality to the otherwise bland Nintendo Switch stand crowd. There are even intentional design choices in the form of a USB-C cable slot and adjustable kickstand. While it’s plastic and not the most durable option, it’s compact, aesthetically pleasing, and affordable, so it’s a fair trade-off.
If you're playing Nintendo Switch games on your TV without a dock, a stand is a great option. However, you may find it more comfortable to keep the console upright instead of laying it flat.
Smartphones and tablets can be displayed on TVs, usually via Google Chromecast or Apple's AirPlay feature. There are a variety of wireless HDMI options, as TVs and media streaming devices now have the ability to capture and display.
But what about the Nintendo Switch? Unfortunately, the console doesn't support wireless connectivity or casting to a TV or monitor.
That said, the original Nintendo Switch dock isn’t the best solution. What if the dock breaks? It’s not the most sturdy piece of hardware. And it can be a pain to take it anywhere, especially to family gatherings during the holidays. So having the option to connect your Nintendo Switch to your TV without a dock is always a welcome one!
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