Here's what you should and shouldn't plug into a TV USB port

Source: Engadget

Modern smart TVs often include one or more USB ports—typically USB‑A or, on newer models, USB‑C—located on the side or back of the set. These ports have been standard since the early 2000s and are now found on virtually every smart TV. They can power accessories (like the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD) and enable a variety of useful functions, though capabilities can vary between makes and models.

Watch and listen to stuff without the internet

Smart TVs usually need an internet connection for streaming, but a USB port lets you enjoy local media when the internet is down.

• Video playback – Load movies and TV shows onto a USB flash drive. Most modern TVs accept drives up to 2 TB or larger. Ensure the drive is formatted as FAT32, exFAT, or NTFS, and use common video containers such as MP4, AVI, or MKV.
• Music playback – Store songs on a USB drive and play them directly from the TV. Supported audio formats typically include MP3, WAV, and AAC.

Design a light show

USB‑powered LED light strips can be connected to the TV to provide ambient lighting that syncs with on‑screen content. Some strips include algorithms that adjust colors and intensity based on what’s playing, enhancing immersion for movies and games.

Plug in a microphone

Connecting a USB microphone enables:

• Voice‑assistant control (Alexa, Google Assistant, Bixby, etc.) when the remote lacks a mic.
• Improved audio quality for video calls.
• Access to karaoke apps for a quick party setup.

If you’re feeling bold

Turn the TV into a picture frame

Load image files (JPEG or PNG) onto a USB stick, plug it in, and the TV can display them as a slideshow or loop a single picture. Keep in mind:

• Regular TVs consume more power than dedicated art displays and may be prone to burn‑in on OLED panels.
• For continuous use, consider turning the TV off when not in the room or using a TV designed for always‑on mode (e.g., Samsung The Frame).

Charge up gadgets (but be prepared to wait)

TV USB ports can charge phones, tablets, or accessories, but charging speed depends on the port version:

• USB 2.0 – 5 V @ 500 mA; a phone may take ~7 hours, a laptop ~20 hours.
• USB 3.0 – Higher current, noticeably faster charging.

These ports are best suited for low‑power devices rather than primary charging solutions.

Some USB‑powered devices won’t work

Devices that require drivers—such as USB printers, optical drives, and scanners—generally aren’t recognized by smart TVs. While a few optical drives are marketed for TV use, compatibility is limited. Some Android TVs allow sideloaded apps that can interface with printers, but setup can be cumbersome.