Having the ability to play your Nintendo Switch on the TV or in handheld mode has always been a game changer – however, what happens if you want to play your Switch on the TV but you do not have your dock with you?
Well, there is a way to connect your game’s console to the TV without its dock. This is also really useful if your dock breaks. It means that you can still go on playing your beloved Nintendo Switch on the big screen without having to wait for a new (or second-hand) dock to arrive.
If you are wondering how to connect Switch to a TV without a dock, then you have come to the right place. So, let’s go!
Can You Connect A Nintendo Switch To TV Without Its Dock?
If you find yourself without a dock, whether it is broken or you left it at home, you will be happy to know that you can use a Nintendo Switch on the TV without its dock.
In fact, the process is a lot more simple than you might think. While you will need a piece of extra equipment, there is a good chance that you might already have it to hand – say, for a laptop.
One way of being prepared for situations like this is by purchasing a regular USB-C to HDMI adapter and keeping it in your Nintendo Switch case. It has the same configuration inputs as your Nintendo Switch dock, plus an output which is the USB-C.
Why Might You Want To Connect Your Nintendo Switch To TV Without Its Dock?
The Nintendo Switch dock is very useful. Not only does it allow you to play your Switch on the TV, but you can also use the dock to charge the game console. Both of these are key reasons why the dock exists in the first place.
However, depending on how the dock is looked after, it can break. Unless you are willing to find one second-hand online or are going to fork out for an unnecessary new Nintendo Switch, then you will need to find another way to play the Nintendo Switch on the TV.
It is fun to play the Switch on the TV too, whether you are playing a game alone, or want to enjoy some MarioKart with your friends who are in the same room as you and do not have their own Nintendo Switch consoles to hand.
However, you may also have your Nintendo Switch with you while on vacation, and realize that you can play it on the TV in the hotel room. Instead of carrying around a hefty dock (it does take up a lot of room), you can just use a small adapter instead.
Also, you can rest the Nintendo Switch on a stand too, rather than hiding away inside the dock. This allows you to show off your limited edition Switch.
How Does A Nintendo Switch Usually Connect Up To A TV?
If you take a look at your Nintendo Switch dock, you will see that once you open a plastic ‘door’, you will find the input for the USB-C connection to allow for power to the Switch and its dock, an HDMI output, and the USB 3.0 port.
All of the data and the power that travels to and from the Nintendo Switch is via USB-C. The USB-C port that connects your Nintendo Switch every time it is docked is what keeps the battery of the console charged, but it also drives the data (such as video) to the TV via the HDMI output.
You can mimic this by using an external adapter to act as the Nintendo Switch dock.
Step-By-Step Guide: How To Connect Switch To TV Without A Dock?
In order to connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV without an official dock, you will need to purchase a simple USB-C to HDMI adapter. This will ensure that you get to play your Nintendo Switch on a TV no matter where you are.
Once you have a simple adapter, follow the steps below in order to play a Nintendo Switch on the TV without having to use a dock:
Step 1
You will need to have the cables that are normally attached to the dock. These are HDMI and USB-C cables. Remove these from the dock.
Step 2
If you have a stand suitable for a Switch, then place it onto it. Otherwise, just leave your Nintendo Switch lying down.
Step 3
Now you are ready to connect the Nintendo Switch to the adapter. Connect both the HDMI and USB-C power cables to the adapter
Step 4
Once the cables are in, you should then connect the adapter to your Switch. This will be the usual place at the bottom of the game console.
Step 5
As usual, you will want to make sure you are on the correct channel for playing your gaming device on the HDTV.
Step 6
Once you find the channel that is connected to your Nintendo Switch, you are ready to start enjoying your games.
Are There Any Changes To Using A Nintendo Switch On The TV Without Its Dock?
You will find that there are no changes to playing your Nintendo Switch via an adapter. In fact, the experience is the exact same. The only difference is how you present your Nintendo Switch.
For example, you can place the Switch on a dedicated stand, or have it lying flat on the TV unit – or something similar.
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself in a situation where you want to play your Nintendo Switch on a TV but either do not have your dock, or it has broken, then there is something you can do.
All you need is a dedicated adapter that will allow you to use the same inputs and outputs as the Switch dock.
Even if you aren’t in this situation, you can always be prepared!
