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You can use a handheld gaming PC as a TV-connected setup by running its USB-C video output through a compatible dock or hub to the TV, then connecting a gamepad and keyboard over Bluetooth or USB. The key compatibility check comes first: a USB-C port does not automatically support video output.
What you need before connecting everything
- A handheld whose USB-C port supports display output, such as DisplayPort Alt Mode.
- A compatible USB-C dock or hub with HDMI output. Check that it supports your handheld’s charging needs if you want to power the device while playing.
- An HDMI cable and an available HDMI input on the TV.
- A controller and keyboard that can connect by Bluetooth, USB, or a wireless USB receiver. A dock with USB-A ports is useful for wired devices and receivers.
ASUS says its ROG Bulwark Dock DG310 works over one USB-C cable with devices that support USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode and USB Power Delivery. That is a compatibility condition for this dock, not a guarantee that every handheld, dock, or USB-C connection will work the same way. Check the specifications for your exact handheld and accessory before buying.
Connect the handheld to the TV
- Connect the dock or hub to the handheld’s USB-C port.
- Connect the dock’s HDMI output to an HDMI input on the TV.
- If the dock supports power pass-through, connect an appropriate USB-C power adapter to the dock when you want to charge while playing. Confirm the dock’s power requirements and what it supplies to the handheld; some docks do not include a charger.
- Turn on the TV and select the HDMI input you used. The handheld’s screen should appear once the device and dock establish a compatible video connection.
ASUS’s ROG Ally setup guide recommends an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for a 4K TV. That is a model-specific recommendation; the cable, handheld, dock, and TV all need to support the display mode you intend to use.
Set the display mode and resolution
On a Windows handheld, choose whether the external screen duplicates the handheld display, extends the desktop, or becomes the only display. The available wording and controls can vary by device and Windows version. ASUS documents a Projection Mode workflow for the ROG Ally, whose default is to show only on the TV.
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- Upgraded 6-in-1 Docking Station: Features HDMI 2.1 4K@120Hz output for ultra-smooth, crystal-clear visuals, plus 100W PD charging, 3 fast USB A 3.0 ports, and a ultra-fast Gigabit Ethernet connection. Now supports ROG Ally X and Legion Go S, giving you more ways to enjoy a seamless big-screen gaming experience. NOTE: Not for ROG XBOX Ally / XBOX Ally X.
- 4K@120Hz HDMI Output (Upgraded): Experience double the refresh rate compared to the previous 4K@60Hz version. Whether you’re battling online or watching cinematic cut-scenes, enjoy buttery-smooth gameplay and reduced screen tearing on external monitors.
- Full-Speed 100W Charging: Supports up to 100W PD charging, easily powering your handheld in Turbo Mode. Keeps your gaming sessions uninterrupted — no need to worry about battery drain even during marathon play. Note: The ROG Ally's 30W Turbo Mode is fully supported, but a 100W charger is recommended.
- Gigabit Ethernet: Enhance your gaming with gigabit Ethernet for seamless online play, rapid updates, and quick file transfers. Enjoy lightning-fast downloads and uploads, eliminating lag and latency for uninterrupted sessions.
- Expanded Device Compatibility: Now works with Steam Deck LCD/OLED, ROG Ally / Ally X, Legion Go / Go S, and MSI Claw — making it your all-in-one solution across multiple handhelds. NOTE: Not for ROG XBOX Ally / XBOX Ally X.
For the ROG Ally, ASUS recommends 1920×1080 as a straightforward plug-and-play resolution and says to set the TV refresh rate to at least 60 Hz for a 60-fps display. These are setup recommendations for that handheld, not a promise that every game will render at 60 fps. A usable resolution, refresh rate, HDR mode, or VRR mode depends on the handheld, dock, cable, TV, and game together.
Connect a separate controller
Pair over Bluetooth
Put the controller into pairing mode, then open Bluetooth settings on the handheld, enable Bluetooth if needed, and select the controller from the available devices. Menu names differ across handhelds. For the original ROG Ally, ASUS also advises turning off its Embedded Controller in Command Center when using an external gamepad so a game does not select the built-in controls instead.
Rank #2
- 7-in-1 Docking Station for Handhelds: Level up your gaming setup with the JSAUX 7-in-1 dock: 4K@120Hz HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet, USB C PD charging, USB C 3.0, dual USB A 3.0, and an RGB-powered USB C port. The modular design lets you use the dock in two ways—fully assembled for docking, or detached as a standalone stand. A silicone pad is included to improve stability and support angles, and can be used or removed based on your setup preference.
- Next-Level 4K Gaming Performance: Supports 4K@120Hz or 1080p@240Hz via HDMI 2.1, along with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), HDR, and QFT (Quick Frame Transport). Enjoy smoother gameplay, faster response, and a more immersive visual experience.
- Magnetic RGB Cooling Fan: The included magnetic RGB fan is custom-designed for the ROG Ally (X), aligning precisely with its air intake for efficient cooling. It attaches securely and is easy to remove when not needed. NOTE: Due to variations in intake placement on other handheld devices, cooling efficiency may be reduced when used with non-ROG Ally models.
- Dynamic RGB Lighting & DIY Custom Card Slot: The dock base offers 5 RGB lighting modes—Monochromatic, Breathing, Chasing, Gradient, and Stacking—while the fan features a 7-color gradient mode. Personalize your setup by adding a custom front card (3.00 x 1.13 x 0.01 inches / 76.3 x 28.7 x 0.3 mm). Just pop off the cover, insert your card, and snap it back.
- Wide Compatibility & Turbo Mode Support: Compatible with ROG Ally X, ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Legion Go and Legion Go S. Fully supports 30W Turbo Mode on ROG Ally and Ally X. NOTE: 30W Turbo Mode requires a 100W PD charger to be plugged in (not included) and will not function without it.
Use a wired controller or wireless receiver
Plug a wired controller or its wireless USB receiver into a USB-A port on the dock. If the controller connects but does not control the game, check that the game supports the controller and that the handheld is recognizing the right input device. On an original ROG Ally, check the Embedded Controller setting as well.
ASUS says the ROG Ally supports up to four controllers. Do not assume that limit or its controller settings apply to another handheld; verify the device and game’s own support.
Rank #3
- Upgraded 5-in-1 Docking Station: Features HDMI 2.1 4K@120Hz output for ultra-smooth, crystal-clear visuals, plus 100W PD charging, dual USB A 2.0 ports, and a reliable Ethernet connection. Now supports ROG Ally X and Legion Go S, giving you more ways to enjoy a seamless big-screen gaming experience. NOTE: Not for ROG XBOX Ally / XBOX Ally X.
- 4K@120Hz HDMI Output (Upgraded): Experience double the refresh rate compared to the previous 4K@60Hz version. Whether you’re battling online or watching cinematic cut-scenes, enjoy buttery-smooth gameplay and reduced screen tearing on external monitors.
- Full-Speed 100W Charging: Supports up to 100W PD charging, easily powering your handheld in Turbo Mode. Keeps your gaming sessions uninterrupted — no need to worry about battery drain even during marathon play. Note: The ROG Ally's 30W Turbo Mode is fully supported, but a 100W charger is recommended.
- Reliable Wired Ethernet: Enjoy a stable and consistent network connection with the built-in RJ45 port, ensuring low-latency performance for smooth online gaming and streaming.
- Expanded Device Compatibility: Now works with Steam Deck LCD/OLED, ROG Ally / Ally X, Legion Go / Go S, and MSI Claw — making it your all-in-one solution across multiple handhelds. NOTE: Not for ROG XBOX Ally / XBOX Ally X.
Connect a keyboard
Bluetooth keyboard
Put the keyboard into pairing or discovery mode, open the handheld’s Bluetooth settings, and scan for it. On ASUS ROG handhelds, the documented path is Armoury Crate > Settings > Connection > Bluetooth. Select the keyboard when it appears, then use it for text entry, desktop navigation, or other supported tasks.
USB keyboard
Connect a USB keyboard to a USB-A port on the dock. This can be a convenient alternative if Bluetooth pairing is unavailable or unreliable. Check that the dock has a free port, especially if a controller receiver or other USB device is already connected.
Rank #4
- Adjustable Stand for Tailor-Made Comfort: The docking station has a stand composed of two foldable panels. Therefore, the back panel no longer blocks the heat dissipation outlet of the gaming consoles, greatly enhancing the heat dissipation effect.
- 10Gbps Fast Transmission: This USB C Dock has two USB 3.2 Gen 2 interfaces (1A1C) with a transmission rate of up to 10Gbps. It supports external mobile hard drives and USB flash drives and can transfer game files at high speed. There are also two USB-A 2.0 interfaces that support keyboard, mouse, gamepad receivers, etc., effectively reducing delays and interference.
- Ultra-clear Screen Projection: The Steam deck dock supports up to 4K (3840x2160) @60Hz, backward compatible with 4K@30Hz, 2K (2560x1440) @60Hz, 1080P (1920x1080) @120Hz.At the same time, it supports high brush resolutions such as 2K@144Hz, 2K@120Hz, 1080P@240Hz, and 1080P@144Hz.
- PD 100W Fast Charging: Supporting up to 100W power delivery, this docking station ensures your Type-C game device charges at maximum speed. Perfectly supports ROG Ally 30W Turbo mode to unleash surging performance.Note: Steam Deck max charging speed is 45W, while ROG Ally reaches 65W.
- Widely Compatible: This handheld gaming dock is widely compatible with gaming consoles such as Steam Deck, ROG Ally, ROG X, ROG Xbox Ally, LEGION Go and MSI Claw A1M. Also it is widely compatible with various USB-C devices to meet a variety of needs,like iPad Pro/Air, Surface Pro8 & Go 3. Not compatible with Swith 2
How to choose a dock
Compare docks against your handheld’s requirements rather than relying on a port label or a maximum output figure alone.
| Check | What to verify | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Video support | Whether the handheld’s USB-C port supports display output, such as DisplayPort Alt Mode. | A USB-C connector without video support will not provide the standard USB-C-to-HDMI dock connection. |
| Power | Whether the dock passes through enough USB-C power for the handheld, and whether a suitable charger is included or must be purchased separately. | Power needs differ by handheld and dock. ASUS recommends a 100W-or-higher USB-C PD charger for the DG310 to reach its full 80W output; that requirement is specific to that dock. |
| Display capability | The resolution, refresh rate, HDR, or VRR modes supported by the handheld, dock, cable, and TV as a combination. | A dock’s advertised maximum does not establish the mode the entire setup can deliver. |
| Ports | How many USB-A ports are available for a wired keyboard, controller, or wireless receiver; whether Ethernet or other connections are useful to you. | Bluetooth can reduce the need for USB ports, but wired connections and receivers occupy them. |
| Fit and intended devices | Whether the dock physically supports or stands securely with your handheld, in addition to whether its ports are compatible. | Some docks are shaped for specific handhelds even if their USB-C ports can connect to other devices. |
For concrete examples, ASUS lists the ROG Bulwark Dock DG310 with HDMI 2.1, three USB 3.2 Gen 1 USB-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet, USB-C power input, and up to 80W delivery over its host cable. ASUS lists output support up to 4K at 144 Hz or 8K at 30 Hz, subject to the connected device, cable, and display; its charger is not included. Lenovo lists its Legion Go USB-C Dock with HDMI 2.0 supporting 4K and USB-C power pass-through up to 45W to the Legion Go. These are specifications for the named accessories, not universal recommendations or guarantees for other handhelds.
Best Value
- Ultimate 4K@120Hz Visual Fidelity: The steam deck dock helps experience incredibly smooth and immersive gaming or movie playback with HDMI 2.1 output, supporting up to 4K@120Hz, VRR, FreeSync, and G-Sync. Eliminates screen tearing and lag, providing a highly responsive and visually stunning experience on compatible displays.
- 100W PD Charging & Stable Power Management: This usb c dock power your host device (up to 85W) and the dock simultaneously with 100W PD 3.0 fast charging. Built-in comprehensive circuit protection (TVS, ESD, Over-Current) ensures safe and stable operation, protecting your valuable equipment from voltage spikes and surges.
- Extensive Connectivity for Gaming & Work: The steam deck docking station expands your setup with 2x USB-A 3.0, 1x USB-C 3.0 data port (all 5Gbps), and a Gigabit Ethernet port. Connect peripherals like storage, keyboards, and get a stable, high-speed wired internet connection for seamless online gaming and uninterrupted work.
- Broad Compatibility with Consoles & Systems: Designed for gaming handhelds like Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Rog Xbox Ally, Rog Xbox Ally X, Region Go, and also fully compatible with laptops, PCs, Macs, and phones. It's plug-and-play across Windows, macOS, Linux, and SteamOS, requiring no drivers for immediate use. Not compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.
- Compact Foldable Design with Robust Build: This usb c hub features a space-saving foldable stand made from aluminum alloy and PC+ABS, making it highly portable. The clever design provides a stable base for your handheld while keeping a minimal footprint on your desk, perfect for on-the-go gamers and professionals.
Troubleshoot a missing picture or unresponsive controls
The TV shows no picture
- Confirm the TV is set to the HDMI input connected to the dock.
- Check that the HDMI cable and USB-C connections are secure and that the dock has power if required.
- Verify that the handheld’s USB-C port supports video output.
- If available, try a different HDMI cable or display. Connecting another USB-C device to the dock can help narrow down whether the problem is in the dock, display, or peripheral path.
Steam notes that it cannot provide official support for every display-peripheral combination, so third-party dock compatibility should be checked for the specific handheld.
The image appears at the wrong resolution or refresh rate
Review the handheld’s external-display settings and select a mode supported by every part of the chain: handheld, dock, cable, and TV. A dock specification alone does not guarantee that the connected TV will receive the listed maximum mode.
The external controller does not control the game
- Pair the controller again or connect its wireless receiver or cable through the dock.
- Check that the game supports the controller and that the handheld recognizes it.
- If using the original ROG Ally, turn off its Embedded Controller in Command Center when using the external gamepad.
The keyboard will not pair
Put it back into discovery mode, confirm Bluetooth is enabled on the handheld, and scan for it again in Bluetooth settings. If pairing still fails, connect a USB keyboard through the dock if a compatible port is available.
Quick Recap
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