A TV’s USB port can often play personal photos, music and videos from a flash drive; some models also support software updates or recording and pausing live TV. The port’s capabilities—and which drives and files work—depend on the TV’s exact model and software. Check the manual before connecting storage or buying a drive.
Play photos, music and videos from a USB drive
Many TVs can browse files on USB storage. Sony’s BRAVIA 9 II and BRAVIA 7 II help guide, for example, describes connecting a drive, opening Media Player, selecting the device, then choosing a folder and file. Sony lists supported formats for photos, music, video, audio sampling rates and subtitles, but notes that a file may still fail to play even when its format is listed as supported. See Sony’s USB playback guidance for the covered models.
LG’s U.S. support guide likewise describes browsing and playing files through the TV’s input menu or Media Player. A USB flash drive is a straightforward way to view personal media on the big screen, provided the TV supports its file system and the media’s formats and codecs. Confirm compatibility in your TV’s manual before choosing a drive.
Check drive and file compatibility
Compatibility is not universal. LG’s 2026 support guidance, for its stated instructions, specifies a USB memory device of 32 GB or less or an external drive of 2 TB or less, and names FAT32 or NTFS. It also gives power requirements for external drives. These are LG instructions for their stated context, not limits that apply to every TV. Supported file extensions and codecs can vary by model. See LG’s USB media playback guide.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Check the TV’s supported file systems and drive capacity.
- Compare the media’s file format and codec with the model’s supported formats.
- Check connector and any stated power requirements rather than assuming every drive will work.
Record or pause live TV—if your model supports it
Some TVs support recording or time-shifting with a USB hard drive, but this is a model-specific feature. The Philips manual reviewed for this guide requires the drive to be formatted for the TV and warns that formatting erases its existing files. It also says the drive is formatted exclusively for that TV, so recordings cannot be used on another TV or a PC. This example does not establish that every TV, channel or region supports recording. Check your exact model’s manual before connecting a drive for this purpose. Philips TV manual.
Update TV software from USB
TCL’s Asia support FAQ identifies software upgrading, as well as sharing videos and pictures, as a purpose of TV USB ports. That does not mean every TV accepts updates over USB, nor does the FAQ provide a universal update procedure. Use the support instructions for your exact model and region; do not try an update file or method intended for another TV. TCL’s USB-port FAQ.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Use the TV’s menus to find USB media
Menu labels vary across brands, models and software versions. On the Sony models covered by its guide, the route is Home > Apps > Media Player; select the USB device, then the folder and file. LG’s instructions use the input menu or Media Player. If neither route appears on your TV, consult its manual for the correct path.
Remove storage safely
Do not unplug a drive while the TV is accessing it. Sony warns that disconnecting a USB cable during access can corrupt data; LG recommends using the TV’s eject option and warns that removal without ejecting can cause problems. Eject the device through the TV’s menu when that option is available, and keep a separate backup of important files—especially before setting up recording, which may require formatting.
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Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose storage for the job
For media playback, match the drive’s file system, capacity, connector and power needs to the TV, and check that the TV supports the files’ formats and codecs. For recording or time-shifting, first verify that the exact TV supports the feature and understand how its formatting affects existing data and whether recordings remain portable. USB version or capacity alone cannot establish compatibility.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can a TV USB port charge or power other devices?
Do not treat a TV’s USB port as a general-purpose charger or assume it can reliably power a streaming stick or other peripheral. The manufacturer guidance reviewed here does not establish a universal USB power output. LG’s drive-power instructions apply to its stated context; check your own TV’s documentation for any device you intend to power.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
