You’re getting ready to play Grand Theft Auto V on your PS4 when something goes terribly wrong.
You try to hook your Playstation to your TV, but the HDMI port isn’t working.
Suddenly you get a glimpse of your Playstation’s USB ports.
What are they for? Can you use it to connect your PS4/PS5 to your TV?
Keep reading to find out!
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What Is the Playstation USB Port For?
A Playstation’s USB port serves several purposes.
Your Playstation’s USB port may seem out of place, but it serves a few different functions which can enhance your user experience and allow you to connect accessories.
1. Update Games via a USB
Updating games on your Playstation can be difficult, especially if you have a weak internet connection.
Luckily, there is a way to update games by downloading the update on a USB and installing it manually. This allows you to update games without connecting your Playstation to a speedy internet connection, which can be a lifesaver.
However, you must ensure you only download updates from the game’s official distribution websites so you don’t install malware on your Playstation and computer, or pirate any content.
Watch the video below to learn how to update games on your Playstation via a USB.
2. Attach an External Hard Drive
Has your Playstation run out of storage, making it impossible to download and use new games?
If so, you can use an external hard drive to extend your device’s storage. Hard drives plug into your Playstation’s USB ports, allowing you to transfer data between your PS4/PS5 and external storage device.
However, you will need to make the hard drive compatible with your Playstation in its settings.
You can even play games on your Playstation that are saved on your hard drive or transfer them to another Playstation unit, like if you want to play one of your games at your friend’s house.
Your hard drive must be at least 250GB to work with your Playstation since game files tend to be very heavy.
3. Connect External Accessories via a USB Dongle
Accessories like headsets, keyboards/mice, and controllers can all be hooked to your Playstation via a USB port.
If you prefer a wired connection, you can connect them via their attached USB cable.
However, there are many accessories that have USB dongles, allowing you to use them wirelessly without experiencing the increased lag time that Bluetooth devices offer.
This means you can have a completely wireless experience without sacrificing your fast response time.
Just turn on your accessory, plug the USB dongle into the USB port, and you’re good to go. Note that every accessory’s instructions may differ slightly.
You can even use a USB hub/splitter, which will allow you to connect multiple accessories to one USB port.
If you’re interested in using wireless accessories for your Playstation, watch the video demonstrating the process below.
4. Play Movies Downloaded on a USB
You’re finished playing games for the night and want to watch a movie instead.
Lucky for you, you can use your PS4 to play movies from your USB.
First, download your movies of choice on your flash drive, then plug them into your PS4 to play them on the connected device.
This is a great alternative to streaming since it can be done offline and you don’t have to worry about the film buffering from a slow Wi-Fi connection.
Just be mindful of where you download your films from to avoid putting any nasty viruses on your Playstation, TV, or computer. Also, please do not download any content illegally, as this is considered piracy and is illegal.
Can I Use the PS USB Port To Output Videos to a TV or Projector?
No, you can not use a Playstation’s USB port to output videos to a TV or projector.
Although you can use a USB to HDMI converter for your computer, you can not use one for your Playstation.
Playstation’s USB ports do not support video output.
Instead, they can only be used to transmit data and files, and connect wireless accessories via USB dongles.
The HDMI Port in My PlayStation Is Damaged, What Should I Do Instead?
You can play your Playstation without an HDMI port using the PS Remote Play app.
Although you may not be able to use your Playstation on your TV without the HDMI port, you can play games on other devices using the PS Remote Play app.
This handy app allows your PC, Macbook, Android smartphone or tablet, iPhone, and iPad wirelessly connect to your PS4/PS5. So, you can play the games you love even if your HDMI port is completely unusable.
You can also connect your controller to your device for an optimal gaming experience.
Ensure your Playstation is connected to power and turned on. Then, ensure it’s connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your device.
Step 1: Install PS Remote Play App
Install the PS Remote Play app on your device from the official PS Remote Play website.
Make sure to download the correct app for your Playstation generation (4 or 5) and device.
Complete the installation process and open the app.
Step 2: (Optional) Adjust the Screen’s Resolution and Frame Rate
Once installed, you will see the option to adjust your screen’s resolution and frame rate. Bear in mind that you must have a strong internet connection for high screen resolutions and fast frame rates.
Using these high-quality gaming settings may cause your game to lag if you don’t have high-speed internet.
Step 3: Sign Into Your Account
Sign into your Playstation account. Make sure you sign into the same account you use on your Playstation device.
Step 4: Connect to Your Playstation
Once you’re signed in, press Start to connect your device to your Playstation.
Once connected, you will hear your Playstation make a pinging sound. You will then see your Playstation’s screen pop up on your device.
Step 5: Connect Your Controller to Your Device
Now you’re ready to connect your controller to your device.
If you’re using a PC or MacBook, you can connect your controller via Bluetooth, a wireless USB connection, or a wired USB connection.
On tablets or phones, you will only be able to connect your controller via Bluetooth.
To do this, turn on your controller and enable pairing mode by pressing the PS and Share buttons simultaneously.
Then, go to your device’s Bluetooth settings and click on your controller’s name from the list.
Note that Bluetooth connections tend to have higher latency than wired or wireless USB connections.
To learn more about what the PS Remote Play app is and how to use it, watch the video below.
Wrapping Things Up
Unfortunately, you can not use a USB-to-HDMI adapter on your Playstation and you will probably have to fix the port to connect it to a TV.
Check your Playstation warranty policy to see if they will cover the cost of repairing your HDMI port.
Your Playstation’s USB ports are for transmitting data and connecting to accessories, either with a USB cable or a USB dongle. They are not for video output.
In the meantime, you can still play your Playstation on your computer, phone, or tablet using the PS Remote Play app.
What’s your experience with your Playstation HDMI port breaking? Did you know that you can still play your Playstation without an HDMI port using the PS Remote Play app?
Let us know in the comments below!
Yesenia Achlim is a technical copywriter and editor with a focus on AV equipment. She aims to break down complicated topics and make technology accessible, no matter your technical expertise. When she’s not teaching you how to replace a projector lamp, you can find her reading and baking.