Having already configured a VLC-powered Google TV configuration with USB hard drives for a relative without the router or download speed needed for reliable streaming, I’m now trying to configure a similar setup for another relative with a non-smart TV and an even slower download speed.
The only requirements for such a device would be the ability to be controlled entirely with a remote, a USB-A or USB-C port compatible with USB hubs and media storage devices, and the reliable playback of videos of assorted codecs and file extensions. As Roku, FireTV, and Android/Google TV streaming sticks tend to be plastered with ads as a means of promoting content within their ecosystems, an alternative HDMI device that minimizes the number of button presses between turning on the TV and and reaching the navigation menu for videos on attached USB storage devices would be preferred.
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If you are gonna stream anyway I recommend a Plex/Jellyfin server.
Steam link or VLC is probably gonna be annoying to use and poor quality wise.
If OP actually wants a very simple way of playing a film from an actual USB drive, I would use a PI with VLC.
Eh. I can stream 4k 60fps games through Steamlink and have used it for movies too. It works perfectly.
Plus, you get a computer out of it too and can game.