The usual way to connect a Nintendo Switch to your TV is to place it in the dock. But what if you don’t have the dock with you? Or worse — what if your Nintendo Switch dock breaks? Can you connect a Switch to your TV without the dock?
Yes, you can. This workaround lets you hook up your Nintendo Switch to a TV without the dock.
How to Connect Nintendo Switch to a TV Without the Dock
You need a USB-C to HDMI adapter to play with your Nintendo Switch on a TV without the dock. To try this out, you can order a standard USB-C to HDMI adapter from Amazon. It has three inputs, just like the back of the Switch’s dock and a single USB-C output.
To connect your Nintendo Switch to your HDTV without using the dock, first disconnect the USB-C and HDMI cables from the back of the dock.
Then, mount the Switch on a stand or lay it flat on a table near the 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 the Nintendo Switch and select the correct channel on your TV. Once this is done, you can start playing games
You can use the Joy-Cons individually, connected to the Joy-Con Grip, or use a Switch Pro Controller, just as you would normally. There should be absolutely no difference to the experience, other than the absence of the Nintendo Switch dock.
As you can see, this is a relatively straightforward process. However, it won’t work with all USB-C to HDMI adapters. You need to make sure you have an adapter that is compatible with the Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo Switch Compatible USB-C to HDMI Adapters
Which Switch-compatible USB-C to HDMI adapters should you use? The device you’re looking for should have:
- USB-C input for power.
- Standard HDMI output.
- Optional USB 3.0 port.
- A USB-C connector.
A ton of options are available online. Not all of these are suitable for the Nintendo Switch. Some are completely incompatible, while others don’t support 4K. Here’s a look at some of the best choices.
RREAKA USB Type C to HDMI Digital AV Multiport Hub
The RREAKA Multiport Hub does its name justice by being a multipurpose travel docking station, which you can quickly plug the Nintendo Switch into for TV mode, or charge a device or two. It even supports the GameCube adapter, and since it fits so easily in a bag, you have all the more reason to boot up Super Smash Bros. with a buddy.
RREAKA USB Type C to HDMI Digital AV Multiport Hub
The RREAKA USB Type C to HDMI Digital AV Multiport Hub is the perfect adapter companion for your Nintendo Switch. This plug-and-play solution circumvents the need for a dock by giving your Switch all the ports required for a TV gaming sesh.
- Lightweight and compact
- Four USB ports, one HDMI port
- Supports 4K resolution
- Not as durable as other options
GENKI Global Covert Dock 2 Charger for Nintendo Switch
A compact replacement for the Nintendo Switch dock, the GENKI Global Covert Dock packs a powerful punch into its palm-sized exterior. 30-watt Gallium nitride (GaN) charging alongside two USB ports and an HDMI socket makes this two-in-one dock and charger a smooth operator when it comes to TV gaming on the Switch.
GENKI Global Covert Dock 2
If you always felt the original dock was too big or cumbersome, the GENKI Global Covert Dock 2 is tucked away and out of mind. You still retain the ability to charge and connect to USB.
- Has USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI
- Smaller than the brick end of the original Switch charger
- 45W power delivery
- So easy to go on the road with
- No Ethernet port
- Only one USB-A port
Whatever device you choose, ensure it is intended for replacing the Nintendo Switch dock.
What About Standing Your Nintendo Switch?
When the Nintendo Switch sits in the official dock, it is upright. With the USB to HDMI adapters above, the Switch will lay on the table.
Various Nintendo Switch stands are available that can both present your Switch as an amazing centerpiece, and be called upon to keep it upright when connected to a TV without the dock.
Nintendo Adjustable Charging Stand
For a stand that caters to both the Nintendo Switch, OLED, and Lite, the Adjustable Charging Stand from Nintendo is an easy pick. It’s so tiny it fits in the palm of your hand. There’s a place for the console and an AC port for power. It also has a small adjustable stand, so you can keep playing your Switch even while it’s charging.
Nintendo Switch Adjustable Charging Stand
Simple, lightweight, and portable, the Nintendo Switch Adjustable Charging Stand is a solid choice for trips, when bringing the docking station isn’t an option.
- Small, compact, and easily portable
- Adjustable stand for changing angle
- Charges while you play
HORI Compact PlayStand
A licensed Nintendo Switch stand available in black, Zelda, Pikachu, and Mario designs; HORI aims to add color and personality to a sea of usually bland Nintendo Switch stands. There are even conscious design choices in the form of a divot for a USB-C cable and an adjustable stand. Although it’s plastic, and isn’t the most durable option, it’s compact, aesthetically pleasing, and affordable, so it’s a reasonable trade-off.
HORI Compact Playstand
The HORI Compact PlayStand helps you go hands-free when playing your favorite Nintendo Switch titles. Not only is it functional, but its Nintendo-themed finish options add an element of style that makes this gadget stand out from the sea of black and grey competitors.
- Adjustable angle
- Nintendo-themed exterior options
- Folds for easy storage
- Not as sturdy as other stands
If you’re playing Nintendo Switch games on your TV without the dock, a stand is entirely optional. However, you may feel more comfortable with the console upright rather than laid down.
Can You Cast Your Nintendo Switch to TV?
You’re probably aware that smartphones and tablets can be displayed on TVs, usually by way of Google Chromecast or Apple’s AirPlay feature. Various wireless HDMI options are available, considering nowadays TVs and media streaming devices are capable of capturing and displaying.
But what about the Nintendo Switch? Unfortunately, the console does not support a wireless connection or casting to a TV or monitor.
It just goes to show that the original dock for the Nintendo Switch isn’t the end-all-be-all. What if the dock is broken? It’s not the strongest piece of hardware. And taking it anywhere, especially to family gatherings during holidays, you don’t want to lug a big piece of plastic along. Having an option to connect the Nintendo Switch to a TV without a dock is always welcomed!
