Nintendo Switch is among the most versatile gaming console around us. It has revolutionized the gameplay enabling users to stream action on their big screen. You can play all your favorite games in the handheld mode and then drop the Switch into your desk to enjoy the amazing vistas of Breath of the Wild on the TV.
Unfortunately, when the dock stops working or is damaged, gamers are stuck having their small console display. However, there are ways to bypass this issue and then continue gaming without counterfeiting the high resolution of the TV. Did you wonder how to connect a switch to TV without dock? Thankfully, it is quite possible to do so when you have the right gear. Keep reading to find out how.
How to Connect a switch to TV without Dock
Using one USB-C to an HDMI Adapter
If you wish to connect your Switch to the TV without a dock, you will need one USB-C to an HDMI adapter. Fortunately, purchasing these will set you back far less than shooting out for one official replacement dock. Using one of these adapters, users can connect Switch to their TV without a dock and simultaneously keep it powered.
The exact layout of the USB-C to the HDMI adapter will vary depending on the product you purchase. However, the method of using one is the same. You must note an important thing: usually, it is the case where you will need to use this official Nintendo Switch power supply to get the USB-C to the HDMI adapter to work correctly.
Connecting a switch to the TV without the dock:
- First, unplug the USB-C and HDMI cables from the Switch Dock
- Then you need to connect these two cables to the HDMI and USB-C ports on the USB-C to HDMI adapter that you have got
- Your adapter must have one built-in cable having one USB-C connector. At the bottom of the Switch, connect this to your USB-C port.
- If it isn’t ready yet, you need to connect the other part of the HDMI cable to the TV.
- You need to place the Switch at a proper angle with the use of the kickstand, or you may pop it up so that it’s back is not lying flat. When you place it back, it will block the air vents, thus keeping your Switch from overheating.
- You need to power your Tv and your Switch on and select the proper HDMI input for the TV.
- Now, play your Switch on the TV. As you play, your Switch will charge.
- You can also plug in one wired controller when the USB to HDMI adapter has a USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 port.
The type of USB-C to HDMI Adapter that must be used
Various USB-C to HDMI adapters are available for you to purchase. However, not all of these are suitable according to your needs. You should ideally find a product that states clearly that it is appropriate to connect a Switch to the TV.
You will need some of these key features:
- HDMI output
- USB-C power input
- USB-C output
A product having all of these features will ensure that you will be able to power the Nintendo Switch as you play it at the same time. This will mean that you will be fine with the battery running low when you are in the middle of taking on the final boss.
Below are some possible options with which the rest of the Switch users had success.
RREAKA USB-C to the HDMI Multiport Hub
This Multiport Hub includes a USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 port, also the HDMI output and USB-C output and input ports. This says that you can use it with one adapter when you wish to use one GameCube controller with the Switch. You will be able to receive full ramble support using both ports.
Switch HDMI Adapter Hub Dock
This has one 4K 60Hz output that is more than enough for the users’ needs considering that this Switch is capable of 1080p only, even when docked. Some have complained about overheating. So, ensuring that the Switch is not lying flat while you are playing is vital. This is because this will block your air vents on the back of the Switch. The built-in kickstand can be used, or if you prefer something more substantial, you can purchase one.
Switch Dock for the Nintendo Switch
This has been designed to mimic the display of your red or blue Joy-Con controller, so it is a great choice when you want one HDMI adapter that will go well with your Switch. This includes one USB 3.0 port.
Wirelessly connecting a Switch to the TV without a dock
Various devices allow users to mirror their devices wirelessly to their TV. AirPlay can be used to cast your Mac Screen, iPad, or iPhone to Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible TV. For example- you can use one Chromecast device also to mirror your computer or phone to your TV. However, there is no direct way to mirror your Switch wirelessly to your TV. However, it will lead to significant lag potentially. This is not exactly wireless, as it needs a wired connection between your computer and Switch. Connecting to your TV using USB-C to HDMI Adaptor will likely provide you with a better experience.
Wrapping up
Make the most of the Nintendo Switch. When you learn how to connect one Switch to your TV without the dock enables you to keep you playing your Switch on the TV even when you do not have the dock anymore, or you may prefer not to use it. Some available hubs will also allow you to use wired controllers with your Switch. So, you need not worry about the Joy-Con drift.
There are various others ways of enjoying your Switch without tying completely into your Nintendo ecosystem. When you have completed all the SNES and N64 games you wanted to play, and you are no longer interested in online gaming, you may cancel the Nintendo Switch subscription online. You may try jailbreaking the old Nintendo Wii to receive more life out of it. You may even ditch your Nintendo consoles completely and then use one emulator instead.
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.