PS4 Media Player Cannot Read MP4 Files from USB

If you’re an avid PS4 user, you might have encountered the issue of your media player failing to read MP4 files from a USB. This can be frustrating, but there are ways to fix it.

Check for system updates: Make sure your PS4 is running the latest software updates. Go to the Settings menu and look for System Software Update.

PS4 Media Player Codec Incompatibility

If your PS4 Media Player is not reading MP4 files from your USB drive, it may be due to codec incompatibility. To solve this issue, you can try using an alternate video format, such as AVI or MKV, or convert your MP4 files to a supported format using a video converter tool like HD Video Converter Deluxe by EaseFab. Make sure your USB drive is formatted to FAT or exFAT file system and the video files are saved in a folder named “VIDEO” in the root directory of the drive. Also, make sure your PS4 is updated to the latest version to avoid any compatibility issues. If you are still having video player issues, try using a DLNA media server to stream the videos to your PS4. In case of an emergency, you can also try using a different USB drive or an external hard drive to play your movies or music on your PS4 Media Player.

The PS4 was designed as a gaming console, not a media player.

Reasons Why PS4 Cannot Play Certain MP4 Files

  • Check MP4 file compatibility.
    • Ensure the MP4 file is encoded with H.264/MPEG-4 AVC.
    • Check the resolution and frame rate of the MP4 file to ensure it is compatible with the PS4.
      Ensure the MP4 file is encoded with H.264/MPEG-4 AVC.
Check the resolution and frame rate of the MP4 file to ensure it is compatible with the PS4.
  • Check USB formatting.
    • Format the USB drive to FAT32 or exFAT.
    • Ensure the MP4 file is stored in the correct folder on the USB drive.
      Format the USB drive to FAT32 or exFAT.
Ensure the MP4 file is stored in the correct folder on the USB drive.
  • Update PS4 software.
    • Check for any available software updates for the PS4.
    • Install any updates and restart the PS4.
  • Try a different USB drive.
    • If the USB drive is not working, try using a different one.
    • Ensure the new USB drive is formatted correctly and the MP4 file is stored in the correct folder.
      If the USB drive is not working, try using a different one.
Ensure the new USB drive is formatted correctly and the MP4 file is stored in the correct folder.
  • Convert the MP4 file.
    • Use a video converter tool to convert the MP4 file to a format that is compatible with the PS4.
    • Ensure the converted file is stored in the correct folder on the USB drive.
      Use a video converter tool to convert the MP4 file to a format that is compatible with the PS4.
Ensure the converted file is stored in the correct folder on the USB drive.

How to Solve MP4 Not Playing on PS4 Error

To solve the MP4 not playing on PS4 error, there are a few solutions to try. First, ensure the file format is compatible with the PS4 media player. If not, try converting the MP4 file to a compatible format like MKV or AVI using a program like HD Video Converter Deluxe or EaseFab. If the file type is compatible, try reformatting the USB drive to FAT32 as the PS4 may not read other file systems. Another solution is to update the PS4 software to ensure compatibility with newer video formats and codecs. If all else fails, try streaming the MP4 file from a media server or DLNA device instead of playing it from a USB stick or external hard drive. With these solutions, you can resolve the MP4 not playing on PS4 error and enjoy your movies and videos on your console.


import ffmpeg

input_file = 'video.mkv'
output_file = 'video.mp4'

# Convert the input video file into an MP4 format
ffmpeg.input(input_file).output(output_file).run()

This code assumes that you have already installed the FFmpeg library on your system. To use this code, simply replace `input_file` with the path to your media file, and `output_file` with the desired output file name and location. Once the code is run, the output file should be compatible with the PS4 and able to be played on the device.

While this code may not directly solve the issue of the PS4’s inability to play certain media formats, it can provide a workaround solution for those who wish to play their media on the device.

Converting MP4 to PS4 Supported Format

Step Description
Step 1 Download and install a video converter software such as Handbrake or Any Video Converter.
Step 2 Add the MP4 file you want to convert to the video converter software.
Step 3 Select the output format as “MP4” and choose “PlayStation 4” from the device list.
Step 4 Adjust the video and audio settings to match the recommended specifications for PS4 playback.
Step 5 Click “Convert” to start the conversion process.
Step 6 Transfer the converted MP4 file to a USB drive and connect it to the PS4 to play the video using the Media Player app.

Transferring Converted MP4 Files to PS4

To transfer converted MP4 files to your PS4, follow these steps:

1. Connect your USB storage device to your computer and make sure it is formatted in FAT32 or exFAT file system.

2. Copy the MP4 video file from your computer to the USB storage device.

3. Connect the USB storage device to your PS4.

4. Open the PS4 Media Player app and select the USB storage device.

5. Select the MP4 video file you want to play and press play.

If you are still experiencing issues playing MP4 files on your PS4, it may be due to a codec issue. Try converting your MP4 video to a different format, such as MPEG-4 or XAVC S, using a video converter tool like 5KPlayer.

Additionally, make sure that your MP4 video file is not locked or copy-protected, and that it is encoded with codecs such as H.264, MP4 H.265 VP8, or AAC LC.

For further assistance with PS4 Media Player video player issues, contact PlayStation Support or consult the PS4 user manual.

Using DLNA or Plex Server to Play MP4 on PS4

If your PS4 media player cannot read MP4 files from a USB, you have a few options. One is to use DLNA, which allows you to stream media from other devices on your network. To do this, make sure your DLNA server is running and your PS4 and server are connected to the same network. Then, on your PS4, go to Media Player and select your DLNA server. You should now be able to play your MP4 files on your PS4. Another option is to use a Plex Server, which is a media server that organizes your media and streams it to your devices. To use Plex with your PS4, download the Plex app from the PlayStation Store and sign in to your Plex account. Finally, make sure your MP4 files are in a compatible format, such as MP4 H.264 AAC LC or MP4 H.265 VP8, and that they are not corrupted.

Common FAQs About Playing Media on PS4

  • What media formats are supported? PS4 Media Player supports a wide range of media formats including MKV, AVI, MP4, and more.
  • Why can’t my PS4 read MP4 files from USB? This issue may arise due to incompatible codecs or a corrupted file. Try converting the MP4 file to a supported format or re-downloading the file from a reliable source.
    What media formats are supported? PS4 Media Player supports a wide range of media formats including MKV, AVI, MP4, and more.
Why can't my PS4 read MP4 files from USB? This issue may arise due to incompatible codecs or a corrupted file. Try converting the MP4 file to a supported format or re-downloading the file from a reliable source.
  • Can I stream media from my PC to my PS4? Yes, you can use the Media Player app on your PS4 to stream media from a PC on the same network.
  • My media files are not showing up on the PS4 Media Player. Make sure that the media files are stored in the correct folder on the USB drive and that the file format is supported by the PS4 Media Player.
  • How do I adjust the settings for the PS4 Media Player? You can access the settings for the PS4 Media Player by selecting “Options” while playing a media file.

Best Workaround for PS4 Media Player Not Working

If your PS4 Media Player is not reading MP4 files from your USB, there is an easy workaround you can try. First, make sure that your USB is formatted to FAT32 or exFAT. Next, create a new folder on your USB and name it “VIDEO”. Move your MP4 files into this folder. Now, insert the USB into your PS4 and open the Media Player app. Select the USB drive and your MP4 files should be visible for playback.

If you are still experiencing issues with playback, it may be a codec issue. Try downloading a third-party media player like 5KPlayer, which supports various video formats including XAVC S and MKV. Another possible cause is that the PS4 Media Player may be locked to DVD/Blu-ray playback only. If this is the case, you can try inserting a DVD into your PS4 to unlock the player for other media types.

Hopefully, these tips help resolve your PS4 Media Player issue. If you need further assistance, reach out to PlayStation support or consult with a technical expert like Kaylee Wood.

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