Connecting a Switch to a TV Without a Dock: How-to (with pictures)

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An easy-to-follow guide to using your Switch on TV without the Dock

Co-authored by Darlene Antonelli, MA Reviewed by Stan Kats

Last Updated: July 21, 2024 Fact Checked

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USB-C to HDMI Adapter

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What HDMI adapter should I use?

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Can I mirror my Switch to my TV wirelessly?

Did you forget to bring your Dock with you and you want to play hooked up to a TV? Luckily for you, there is a way that you can connect your Switch to a TV without the Dock. This wikiHow article shows you how to use your Switch with a TV without a Dock.

Things You Should Know

Use an HDMI adapter instead of a Dock to be able to play your Switch on your TV!
Plug the USB-C cables and HDMI into the adapter, then plug the HDMI into your TV.
Perfect wireless streaming isn't something you can do yet, but you can purchase dongles that enable you to stream without cables at the cost of low FPS and high latency.

Section 1 of 3:

USB-C to HDMI Adapter

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1
Purchase a USB-C to HDMI adapter. Not every HDMI adapter is suitable for your Switch. The two most reliable adapters are the RREAKA USB Type C to HDMI Digital AV Multiport Hub and the Switch HDMI Adapter Hub Dock.^{[1]
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- This adapter must have a USB-C power input, HDMI output, and USB-C connector to attach to the Switch. With a USB-C power input, you can connect your Switch to a charger you don't drain your battery while docked!
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Connect the USB-C and HDMI cables to the ports on your adapter. You can either use the original cables that are attached to your Dock, or you can purchase new ones.^{[2]
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- Fortunately, USB-C and HDMI cables run pretty cheap and are available at almost any retailer.
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That should be the USB-C cable that came with the adapter.^{[3]
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This cable is on the other end of the adapter.^{[4]
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5
Prop your Switch up so it's not lying flat. Letting it lie flat will block the air vents that prevent it from overheating.
- You could use a book to prop your Switch up from the desk. The air vents are on the bottom, so you can even hang it off the side of a table.
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Turn on your TV and Switch. You'll need to select the appropriate HDMI input to see your Switch on the screen.^{[5]
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- Your Switch should charge while it's connected like this! If your adapter has a USB 2 or 3 port, you might be able to plug in a controller.

Section 2 of 3:

What HDMI adapter should I use?

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There are a few requirements that HDMI adapters need to meet. They include:^{[6]
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- USB-C power input
- HDMI output
- USB-C output
that your Switch will charge while you play it, so you don't have to worry about a low battery warning in the middle of a boss fight.

Section 3 of 3:

Can I mirror my Switch to my TV wirelessly?

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You have only one option: Genki ShadowCast, which is a crowdfunded campaign. There aren't any ways that you can stream wirelessly from your Switch to your TV, and this is the closest you can get even though you still need to purchase the components.^{[7]
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- Yes, you can use AirPlay on iPhone, or cast with Chromecast, but none of these features are built-in on the Switch so you need to purchase the items in the crowd-funded campaign to stream without wires.