TCL 32S325 32 Inch Roku Smart LED TV review for great budget entertainment

Description

Design and Build Quality: A Compact and Sleek Option

The TCL 32S325 32 Inch 720p Roku Smart LED TV has a design that feels modern yet understated. Its flat-screen and slim profile make it a great fit for smaller spaces like bedrooms or dorm rooms. At just 8.6 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to move or mount on the wall. I personally found the 28.8-inch width and 3.1-inch depth without the stand ideal for tight spaces. The black finish adds a touch of sophistication, though it does attract dust a bit more than I’d like. The stand, while sturdy enough for its size, has a 21.3-inch separation distance, so you might need a wider surface to place it securely.

Performance and Picture Quality

For a 720p HD resolution, this TV delivers a surprisingly crisp and vibrant picture. Watching movies, I noticed the direct-lit LED technology really enhances the overall brightness and clarity. However, if you’re accustomed to 4K resolution, you might find the detail lacking, especially for larger viewing distances. The 1.78:1 aspect ratio is pretty standard, and the colors appeared well-balanced during my testing. I streamed a variety of shows, from animated series to darker dramas, and the dual-band Wi-Fi ensured smooth playback with minimal buffering.

Smart Features and Roku Integration

The standout feature here is the built-in Roku interface, which honestly feels like a game-changer for a TV in this price range. Navigating through 500,000+ movies, TV episodes, and streaming channels was effortless, thanks to the intuitive user interface. Pairing it with my Alexa and Google Assistant devices was a breeze, making voice control an option I quickly grew used to. I particularly enjoyed the seamless transition between apps like Netflix and YouTube, which felt as snappy as some higher-end models. However, I did notice that the TV’s 5-watt output speakers fall short when it comes to bass-heavy audio, so a soundbar might be a worthy addition.

Inputs and Connectivity Options

With 3 HDMI 2.0 ports (one supporting HDMI ARC), this TV allows for a good range of connectivity. I was able to hook up my gaming console, Blu-ray player, and a streaming stick without any hassle. The USB port is a nice touch, especially for those who like to play media directly from a flash drive. I tested the USB compatibility with various formats like MP4, MOV, and MKV, and everything worked smoothly. The inclusion of a headphone jack feels like a thoughtful addition for private listening, though I wish it were paired with Bluetooth support for wireless headphones.

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight design fits well in smaller spaces.
• Roku integration offers access to a massive library of streaming content.
• Multiple connectivity options, including 3 HDMI ports and a USB media player.
• Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures smooth streaming with minimal lag.
• Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, adding convenience for smart home users.

Areas of Concern

• 720p resolution may not satisfy those used to 4K displays.
• Audio quality is adequate but underwhelming for larger rooms or bass-heavy content.
• No Bluetooth support, which limits wireless audio options.
• Dust-prone black finish requires frequent cleaning to maintain its sleek appearance.

Competing Products

In the same category, the Insignia 32-inch Smart HD Fire TV offers a similar feature set but integrates Amazon Fire TV instead of Roku. While both deliver comparable picture quality, the Fire TV interface might feel more intuitive if you’re already in the Amazon ecosystem. On the other hand, the Vizio D-Series provides Full HD 1080p resolution at a slightly higher price, which might make it more appealing for those prioritizing picture detail. However, the TCL model’s lightweight design and ease of setup make it a more user-friendly choice for casual users.

Budget-Friendly

The price-to-quality ratio of this TV is where it truly shines. While it’s not a premium model, its combination of smart features, solid performance, and user-friendly design makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet capable TV. If you’re someone who doesn’t need 4K resolution or advanced audio features, this TV is worth every penny for what it brings to the table.

Additional information