Do you travel a lot but don't want to lug around your Nintendo Switch dock everywhere you go? Or maybe you just forget to bring the dock along sometimes? Thankfully, it's still possible to stream your games on a bigger TV screen without using a dock.
Without a dock for the Nintendo Switch, you will need a compatible USB-C to HDMI adapter to connect your device to a TV. Plug the HDMI cable into the adapter and the TV, and use the USB-C port for the Switch. You can also connect the Pro Controller to your adapter via a USB port.
While the adapter setup might seem relatively simple, you still need to make sure that the connection is seamless so that everything functions properly. Also, be careful not to purchase an adapter that isn't compatible with your Switch and the TV you wish to use. Let's dive into everything you need to know to complete the Switch to TV connection without a dock.
Why Would I Need to Connect My Nintendo Switch to a TV Without the Dock?
Nintendo Switch has gained popularity among gamers because of its portability and the possibility to connect it to a TV using a dock. With the Nintendo Switch Dock (on Amazon), it's a breeze to play games on a much bigger screen.
However, things get a bit trickier when you want to connect a TV to the Nintendo Switch without the standard dock. Nonetheless, there are a few reasons why you might need or want to do that:
Your Dock Is Broken
With a working dock, there is no need to worry about connecting the console to a TV. But the scenario changes when you lose your dock or can't find it. Also, what if the dock falls and breaks?
After all, the dock isn’t a very robust piece of technology. It's lightweight and relatively small in size, which means it's not impossible that it gets lost among your many other devices.
You Forget to Bring the Dock on Vacation
You probably don't want to imagine this one, but there are times when you desperately want to play your Switch, but the dock is nowhere to be found.
For instance, on a holiday trip. Imagine that you check into a hotel room and find a massive TV screen ready for use.
With such an opportunity, it would be crazy to play your Switch on its tiny screen. You would certainly need to search for an alternative solution.
You Purchased the Switch Without a Dock
Of course, it's possible that you purchased your Switch without a dock. In such a case, you would certainly like to find another way to connect to your TV. After all, it's always nice to play on a larger screen.
How to Connect a Nintendo Switch to a TV Without the Dock
Now that you know what can trigger the need to connect your console to a TV without a dock, how do you do it?
Here are the steps you can follow to complete the connection successfully:
- The first thing you'll need apart from the basics (your console and a TV) is a USB-C to HDMI adapter. This adapter comes with three inputs that are similar to what you find on the Nintendo Switch’s dock. In addition, there is one USB-C output.
- Use one end of your HDMI cable to connect to your TV and the other end should go into the adapter.
- Make sure the power supply is properly connected to the adapter too. To do so, connect the power cable to a power outlet and insert the other end into the adapter. This will keep the Switch charged constantly and prevent unwanted breaks in gameplay.
- In case you want to use the Pro Controller, you can plug that into the adapter too. Its cable will go into the adapter's USB port.
- Bring your Nintendo Switch close to the setup, near the adapter and the TV. Either you can place it flat on the table or mount it on a stand.
- Next comes the connection between the adapter and the Switch. Use the cable to connect the Nintendo Switch’s port and the adapter.
- Tune to the correct HDMI channel on your TV to start playing. Right after you turn on the TV, the console will switch to TV mode.
👉 Related Reading: How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones To Nintendo Switch
USB-C to HDMI Adapters That Are Compatible With the Switch
While there are many USB-C to HDMI adapters on the market, not all of them work with the Nintendo Switch. It is therefore imperative to find a USB-C to HDMI adapter that is compatible with the console.
Among the many choices out there, some are completely incompatible with the Switch, and others fail to support 4K. So here are some recommendations that will work to connect your Switch to a TV.
RREAKA Multiport Hub
A portable USB to HDMI adapter, the RREAKA Multiport Hub (on Amazon) is a multipurpose docking station that enables various devices, including Nintendo Switch, to be connected. It doesn't require any additional installation or application to work. Designed with aluminum alloy, this lightweight adapter is fit for travel.
You can also use this adapter with a GameCube adapter, and it has fast PD charging that supports up to 60W of power.
The adapter hosts an HDMI port, USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, and a USB-C port along with the power outlet.
Switch HDMI Adapter Hub Dock
The minimalistic design of the Switch HDMI Adapter Hub dock makes it very easy to bring along on any adventure. Plus, its robust case is made using aluminum alloy, which helps dissipate heat and keep the overall setup cooler for longer durations.
This hub comes with a three-in-one multiport design. It facilitates 4K HDMI high-speed transfers of up to 5 Gbps. This is ten times faster than the standard USB 2.0, which is limited to 480 Mbps speed.
Furthermore, the adapter is compatible with almost all HD TVs, projectors, and various other devices that host an HDMI Port.
Can You Connect the Nintendo Switch to Your TV Wirelessly?
Unfortunately, no. At this time, it's not possible to connect the Nintendo Switch wirelessly to the TV. If you wonder if mirroring using Chromecast could help, you're in for a disappointment.
While Chromecast is the perfect solution to mirror phone screens on the TV, the function is not available for Nintendo Switch at the moment. As a result, you still need to work your way through the hectic setup process and deal with the clutter of cables in order to connect the Nintendo Switch to a TV.
After you connect your Switch via a wired method, or through the dock, note that you may want to also set the Nintendo Switch console to use your 5GHz wireless band if available, to reduce congestion on your WiFi system, because nothing can make a home theater less satisfying than a game suddenly stuttering to a halt!
