Smart TVs with USB C: Top Picks for Modern Connectivity
The LG C4 OLED is the top pick for most people. It has a full USB C port with 4K 120Hz input, making it perfect for gaming and laptop use. The main limitation is its high price compared to other options.
USB C is becoming the universal connector for everything from laptops to phones. Yet most TVs still lack this port. If you want a TV that can connect to modern devices without adapters, you need one with USB C.
We searched current models and found a handful of smart TVs that include USB C. Some offer full video input, while others are limited to data or power. Our list covers a range of sizes, budgets, and features to help you choose.
The best picks, ranked
LG C4 42 Inch OLED evo 4K Smart TV
The LG C4 is a top-tier OLED TV with a full USB C port that supports 4K 120Hz input. Owners report crisp visuals and low input lag. It is ideal for connecting a gaming laptop or latest smartphone.
Pros
- Excellent picture quality with perfect blacks
- USB C supports high refresh rate and charging
- Great for gaming with low latency
Cons
- Expensive
- Burn-in risk if static images are shown for long
Samsung QN90D 43 Inch Neo QLED 4K Smart TV
The Samsung QN90D is a premium Neo QLED TV that features a USB C port with 4K 60Hz input. It gets very bright and has excellent reflection handling, ideal for living rooms with lots of light. Owners praise its color volume.
Pros
- Superb brightness and anti-glare
- USB C port for easy laptop connection
- Wide viewing angles
Cons
- No Dolby Vision support
- Can suffer from blooming in dark scenes
Sony BRAVIA XR X90L 55 Inch Full Array LED 4K Smart TV
Sony’s X90L offers a USB C port that supports 4K 60Hz input. It features cognitive processing that enhances details and upscaling. Owners report excellent motion handling and color accuracy for film watching.
Pros
- Outstanding upscaling of lower resolution content
- Accurate colors out of the box
- USB C port adds flexibility
Cons
- No 120Hz via USB C
- Limited peak brightness compared to QLED
LG B4 48 Inch OLED 4K Smart TV
The LG B4 is a more affordable OLED option that still includes a USB C port with 4K 60Hz input. It delivers deep blacks and vibrant colors. Owners find it great for mixed usage.
Pros
- Lower price than C4 but still OLED quality
- USB C port for modern connections
- Slim design
Cons
- Less bright than QLED models
- No 120Hz via USB C
Samsung Q80D 55 Inch QLED 4K Smart TV
The Samsung Q80D offers a USB C port with 4K 60Hz input. It has good brightness and impressive gaming features. Owners say it is a solid all rounder.
Pros
- Good contrast and brightness
- Low input lag for gaming
- USB C port included
Cons
- Not as bright as QN90D
- No HDMI 2.1 on all ports
TCL QM8 65 Inch Mini LED 4K Smart TV
The TCL QM8 is a Mini LED TV that includes a USB C port with 4K 60Hz input. It offers high brightness and good local dimming. Owners appreciate the large screen for the price.
Pros
- Very bright with good HDR performance
- Large screen affordable
- USB C port for modern devices
Cons
- Viewing angles could be better
- Smart interface can be buggy
Hisense U8K 55 Inch Mini LED 4K Smart TV
The Hisense U8K offers a USB C port with 4K 60Hz input and comes at a competitive price. It has good brightness and color. Owners say it performs well for the cost.
Pros
- Excellent value for features
- USB C port with video support
- Great HDR brightness
Cons
- Software has occasional glitches
- Upscaling not as strong as Sony
How to choose
How they stack up
| # | Model | Screen Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LG C4 42 Inch OLED evo 4K Smart TV | 42 inches | Gamers and laptop users | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Samsung QN90D 43 Inch Neo QLED 4K Smart TV | 43 inches | Bright rooms and HDR content | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | Sony BRAVIA XR X90L 55 Inch Full Array LED 4K Smart TV | 55 inches | Movie enthusiasts | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | LG B4 48 Inch OLED 4K Smart TV | 48 inches | Budget OLED buyers | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | Samsung Q80D 55 Inch QLED 4K Smart TV | 55 inches | Value performance | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | TCL QM8 65 Inch Mini LED 4K Smart TV | 65 inches | Large screen value | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Hisense U8K 55 Inch Mini LED 4K Smart TV | 55 inches | Budget friendly | 8.0 | Check price |
Common questions
Can I connect my laptop to a TV using USB C?
Yes, if the TV’s USB C port supports video input (DisplayPort Alt Mode). Many modern laptops have USB C that outputs video. Simply connect the cable and select the correct input.
Do all USB C ports on TVs support video?
No. Some TVs have USB C ports that are only for data or service. Always check the specifications. Look for ‘USB C with DisplayPort Alt Mode’ or ‘video input’.
What is the difference between USB C and USB A?
USB C is a newer reversible connector that can carry video, data, and power. USB A is the traditional rectangular port, usually data only on TVs. USB C is more versatile.
Can I use a USB C to HDMI cable to connect devices?
Yes, if your device outputs video via USB C. A USB C to HDMI cable or adapter can connect to an HDMI port on the TV. However, this does not require the TV to have USB C.
Do these TVs support charging through USB C?
Some do. Check the power delivery wattage. The models we listed support power delivery, but the wattage may vary. For laptops, you may need a separate charger if the TV doesn’t provide enough power.
Are OLED TVs worth the extra cost?
OLED TVs offer perfect black levels and superior contrast. They are ideal for dark rooms and movie watching. However, they can be more expensive and have burn-in risk. If you watch varied content, OLED is a great choice.
Can I use USB C to play 4K content from my phone?
Yes, if your phone supports video output via USB C. Many Android phones in DeX mode can output 4K. The TV must support 4K input through USB C.
What is the best smart TV platform?
It depends on preference. WebOS is user friendly, Tizen is smooth, and Google TV integrates with Android. All have major streaming apps. Consider your existing devices.
Do these TVs have multiple HDMI ports?
Yes, all these TVs have at least four HDMI ports. You can connect other devices like consoles and cable boxes.
Is 120Hz necessary for gaming?
For competitive gaming, 120Hz provides smoother motion. But not all consoles or PCs can output 120Hz. The LG C4 supports 120Hz via USB C, others are 60Hz. Consider your gaming setup.
The bottom line
The LG C4 OLED is the best overall smart TV with USB C for its full support of 4K 120Hz and exceptional picture quality. If you want a bright room TV, choose the Samsung QN90D. For a budget option, the Hisense U8K offers great value. Buy the LG C4 if you want the best experience with USB C.
Marcus Chen
Marcus covered consumer electronics for enthusiast tech publications for six years before joining ChoiceCrest. He specializes in translating manufacturer spec sheets into plain-language buying advice, with a focus on audio, computing accessories and smart-home gear.
