USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a type of connection that allows different electronic devices to be connected to each other to transfer data or supply power. On a TV, USB ports are used for several useful functions:
- Play multimedia content: You can connect a USB memory or external hard drive to the TV and play movies, music or view photos stored on these devices directly on your screen.
- Update TV software: Sometimes, to improve TV performance or add new features, manufacturers offer software updates. You can download these updates to a USB stick from your computer and then use the TV's USB port to install them.
- Connect devices: Some televisions allow you to connect accessories such as keyboards, mice or Wi-Fi antennas through USB ports, which can improve the experience of using your Smart TV, especially if you browse the internet or play video games.
- Record TV shows: On some TVs, you can connect an external hard drive via USB and use it to record TV shows, so you can watch them later at your convenience.
- Connect a ChromeCast or Fire TV Stick: HDMI dongles like the Chromecast or Fire TV need a USB connection to receive enough power to work. The manufacturers of these devices include a power adapter and USB cable so that we can connect it to a socket, But if you have a free USB port on your television, you can connect this device to the TV's USB and avoid taking up another socket and you will avoid having another cable hanging from the television.
It will depend on the use you are going to give to your television, normally 2 USB ports are enough and most users do not use them, it will depend on how many accessories you need to connect to the television taking into account that nowadays televisions usually already incorporate Bluetooth to wirelessly connect accessories and WiFi to have internet functionalities.
If you think that 2 USB ports will not be enough, you can check televisions with three USB ports.